Post by picklcom on Sept 8, 2007 11:52:57 GMT -5
a shot play/skit --
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Simon the ServAnt
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Characters (in order of appear-ants):
Narrator
Cornelius the Sarge-Ant (Roman Soldier)
Simon the Serv-Ant
James the Assist-Ant
John the Expect-Ant
Matthew the Account-Ant
Luke the Attend-Ant
Andrew the Obedi-Ant
Jesus the Triumph-Ant
Adam the Abund-Ant
Penny the Please-Ant
Ichabod the Ignor-Ant (a.k.a Barnabas the Brilli-Ant)
Mary the Repent-Ant
Scenes:
Street in Capernaum
House in Capernaum
Aunt Friendly Family RestaurAnt
House of Cornelius Revival
Act 1 - Scene 1 – Introduction/Street in Capernaum
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Projector: Display the “Ant” scriptures on the screen by the stage --
(can be read by the Narrator, off-stage)
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Go to the ant, you sluggard!
Consider her ways and be wise,
Which, having no captain,
Overseer or ruler,
Provides her supplies in the summer,
And gathers her food in the harvest.
How long will you slumber, O sluggard?
When will you rise from your sleep?
A little sleep, a little slumber,
A little folding of the hands to sleep—
So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler,
And your need like an armed man.
Proverbs 6:6-11 (New KJV)
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Curtain: Open curtain.
Spotlight: first on the Narrator, then to Cornelius the Sarge-Ant, standing mid stage,
with a scowl on his face
As each name is read, the spotlight moves to the next character as they enter–
Enter in Simon the Serv-Ant, James the Assist-Ant, John the Expect-Ant,
Matthew the Account-Ant, Luke the Attend-Ant, Andrew the Obedi-Ant
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NARRATOR
Praise the Lord! Good evening.
Who is the Greatest? Think about it….Is it the person next to you? How can you tell?
Which one of you is the greatest? Is greatness measured by how tall you are?
or how much money you have? Does your name or your title make your great?
Let’s watch the ants tonight and see what we can learn. Here we have Cornelius the
Sarge-Ant (sergeant). trying to keep the peace on the streets in Capernaum.
Next, we have Simon, the Serv-Ant (the servant); and
James the Assist-Ant (the assistant); and
John the Expect-Ant (the expectant)
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(suddenly interrupts the Narrator) Now, wait a second! My name isn’t John the Eleph-Ant:
my name is John! John the Expect--
NARRATOR
John the Expect-Ant—that’s what I said! Now hush just a minute.
(pauses) Ants these days! Anyway, next we have
Matthew the Account-Ant (the accountant); and
Luke the Attend-Ant (the attendant); and
Andrew the Obedi-Ant (the obedient).
Right now, the ants walked ahead of Christ the Triumph-Ant (the triumphant).
They are arguing about who is the greatest ant in the anthill. You can already
see how feisty one of them is!
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(pointing at himself, then clears his throat) I am John the Expect-Ant, the greatest ant!
JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
No way, Jose’! I am James the Assist-Ant—I am and always will be the greatest ant!
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The other ants join in the fray, arguing who is the greatest ant
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CORNELIUS THE SARGE-ANT
All right, all right already! (motions to the crowd with his sword),
let’s keep moving here! You don’t want me to call my Roman soldier
buddies, do ya? They can get real rough.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Uh, no sir, Cornelius, Sarge-Ant, sir--we were just havin’ a little
friendly brotherly discussion.
CORNELIUS THE SARGE-ANT
Well then, why don’t you be friendly somewhere else?
let’s get a move-on here! Move it, move it!
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SIMON the SERV-ANT: Song: Lead me Lord
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F/G G C F/C C C F Am/F# Gsus G
Lead me, Lord, I will follow. Lead me, Lord, I will go.
C C/E F G Am F C/G Gsus G C
You have called me, I will answer. Lead me, Lord, I will go.
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Curtain: close curtain
Spotlight: Turn off spotlight
Scene change: House in Capernaum
Spotlight: center stage
Curtain: open curtain
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Act 1 - Scene 2 – House in Capernaum
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Simon the Serv-Ant, James the Assist-Ant, John the Expect-Ant,
Matthew the Account-Ant, Luke the Attend-Ant and Andrew the Obedi-Ant
are all in the house (center stage), still arguing
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SIMON THE SERV-ANT
What are you ants still arguing about? What’s so important that you almost got us arrested?
Please stop this fighting--
ANDREW THE OBEDI-ANT
Oh so that’s the way it is now? just because “Simon says… stop”, we have to shut--
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The ants suddenly stop arguing as Simon interrupts Andrew--
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SIMON THE SERV-ANT
See, now look who’s coming! (loudly) Behold, Jesus the Triumph-Ant!
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Music: Majestic March
Enter in Jesus the Triumph-Ant, walking up the center aisle, then up onto the stage
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JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
Why were you arguing among yourselves on the road?
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But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest.
Jesus the Triumph-Ant sits down, and motions to the rest to also sit--
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JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT (continues)
If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.
Bring Adam the Abund-Ant to me.
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Immediately, Simon the Serv-Ant responded and exits to get Adam the Abund-Ant
Enter in Simon the Serv-Ant with Adam the Abund-Ant, and Adam enters and sits on Jesus’ lap.
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JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT (continues)
Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me;
and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent Me.”
(they hug)
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Exit Adam --
Then James the Assist-Ant and John the Expect-Ant,
walk up to Jesus the Triumph-Ant and say --
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JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
Teacher—
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(interrupts James) Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask.
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
Greatness is serving: What do you want Me to do for you?
JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
I want, I mean what we want is—
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(interrupts James again) Grant us that we may sit, one on Your right hand (he points to himself)
and the other on Your left (he points to James), in Your glory.
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink,
and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?
JAMES AND JOHN
We are able.
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
You will indeed drink the cup that I drink, and with the baptism I am baptized with
you will be baptized; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give,
but it is for those for whom it is prepared.
MATTHEW THE ACCOUNT-ANT
(walks up, speaking to James and John) Why are you both begging to be in charge?
This doesn’t sound right! What about me? (motions to the others)
What about the rest of us?
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The other ants join in the fray, arguing about who is the greatest ant
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JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
(He motions to the ants to be calm) Come over here, and gather around (they obey).
You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentile-Ants lord it over them,
and their Rulers exercise authority over them.
Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you
shall be your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all.
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give
His life a ransom for many. Again I say, if anyone desires to be first, he shall
be last of all and servant of all.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Lord, please forgive me –forgive us-- (bows down before Him) I understand.
(Jesus comforts him, and then Simon stands with the other ants)
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
(stands up, motioning to the audience) Who do men say that I, the son of man, am?
LUKE THE ATTEND-ANT
Well, some say, John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say Jeremiah
or one of the other prophets.
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
But--who do you say that I am?
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God. (kneels down on one knee)
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you,
but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock
I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give
you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in
heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Thank You, Jesus… (bows down on both knees) Thank You, Lord.
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
Simon, my friend, I have named you well….continue to be the Serv-Ant of all.
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SIMON the SERV-ANT: Song: May the words of my mouth
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Verse 1
C C/A
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart
F/D G F/G G
Be pleasing to You, pleasing to You.
C C/A
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart
F/D G C
Be pleasing to You, pleasing to You.
Verse 2
C/E F G C C/E F G C
You’re my Rock and my Redeemer. You’re the reason that I sing
F C Gsus G
I desire to be a blessing in Your eyes.
C/E F G C C/E F G C Every hour, every moment, Lord I want to be Your servant.
F C Gsus G
I desire to be a blessing in Your eyes.
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Curtain: close curtain
Spotlight: fade to black
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Act 2 - Scene 1 – Aunt Friendly Family RestaurAnt
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Set change: Aunt Friendly Family RestaurAnt
Spotlight: on Narrator
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NARRATOR
Several weeks later, Jesus the Triumph-Ant died on the cross, but three days
later, He was triumphant over death and rose again! Hundreds of people talked
to Jesus after His resurrection. After Jesus ascended up into heaven,
He poured out His Spirit on the disciples on the Day of Pentecost. On that day,
Simon Peter the Serv-Ant preached the salvation message, which we still
believe and obey today.
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On screen: Acts 2:38, 39
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NARRATOR (continues)
About a year later, the disciples were living in Greek communities,
working, teaching and preaching the Word of God. One place where
several of them worked was called Aunt Friendly Family RestaurAnt.
God blessed the disciples’ faithful work, and the church grew very rapidly!
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Curtain: open curtain
Spotlight: change to Penny the Please-Ant
Enter Mary the Repent-Ant and Ichabod the Ignor-Ant
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NARRATOR (continues)
On this particular day, Penny the Please-Ant (the pleasant) is greeting
customers, and in walks Mary the Repent-Ant (the repentant) and
Ichabod the Ignor-Ant (the ignorant).
PENNY THE PLEASE-ANT
(smiling big) A Please-Ant evening, folks!
Welcome to Aunt Friendly Family RestaurAnt!
(she walks out and hands them a menu) Seating for 2?
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
Arrrrgh…..!
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Oh, hi….Yes, a good evening to you, too! Uh, yes, it’s just the 2 of us.
PENNY THE PLEASE-ANT
Would you like underground or above ground seating? No rain tonight!
Good weather for ants--
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
Arrrrgh…..!
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Oh, above ground seating, please! We love the fresh air, don’t we dear?
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
Arrrrgh…..!
PENNY THE PLEASE-ANT
Here’s a perfect table. Have a please-ant meal!
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They walk to a table located front, center-stage.
Mary and Ichabod are seated, and Penny goes to the side--
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MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Icha, why do you keep acting that way?
you could have been a little less, well, Icha—
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
Arrrrgh…..!
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Mary and Ichabod remain at the table--
Enter James and John, walk up to Penny, off to the side
Spotlight: move to James, John and Penny
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JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
Penny, we appreciate all your help today. Thanks for coming in
on such short notice. Are you going to the--
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(interrupts James) Yeah, Penny, what James is trying to say is,
we need to leave now! We need to get ready for the service!
Are you going to the revival tonight? All the believers
will be there, and from what I hear, we’re going to have
dozens of new visitors!
PENNY THE PLEASE-ANT
I wouldn’t miss it! Since you two are both leaving, can Simon
and Andrew fill in waiting on the tables?
JAMES AND JOHN
Sure, I don’t see why not!
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
We do that a lot, don’t we?
JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
We must be more alike than we know!
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
Oh, brother!
JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
(kidding) Yes sir, brother sir, what can I do for you?
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(rolls his eyes) Let’s get out of here!
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Enter Simon and Andrew, walking up to Mary and Ichabod’s table
Spotlight: move to Mary and Ichabod
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SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Good Evening! My name is Simon the Serv-Ant, and I will be your
Food Consult-Ant. This is Andrew the Obedi-Ant, he’s in training….
Can I get you anything to drink?
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Sir, we are very thirsty. We are on our way to the revival
and stopped here for a bite to eat. I finally convinced Ichabod—
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
Arrrrgh…..!
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Stop that! I finally convinced Ichabod, my husband here to come with me.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Praise the Lord! That’s fantastic! So…what would you like to drink?
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
We are thirsty…very thirsty….for God’s righteousness. We both need
to be born again, as we have heard so many good things about.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
What is your name? I perceive that you already have repented, but Mr. Icha—
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Ichabod— and my name is Mary the Repent-Ant….
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Yes, Mr. Ichabod will have to hold on a just little bit….
(Simon pauses, looking toward heaven, praying softly, nodding…then)
Mary, Look on us. (She looks up at him, intently, and he gently places his hand on her forehead)
In the Name of Jesus Christ, I pray right now for Mary to receive Your gift, Lord:
Mary: receive ye the Holy Ghost! Yes! Praise God! Hallelujah!
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Hallelujah! (stands up and shouts) Hallelujah!
Praise God! (speaks in tongues)
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Mary and Simon continue to worship--
Spotlight: move to Andrew
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ANDREW THE OBEDI-ANT
(kneels down, looking Ichabod in the eye) Ichabod, Jesus loves you.
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
(starts crying) But how can He? I was there….I was one of
those who screamed Crucify Him! Oh Lord….Jesus…Lord, have mercy…
ANDREW THE OBEDI-ANT
(comforts Ichabod) And He does….He does have mercy.
His mercy endures forever…
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
I’m so sorry…..I’m so sorry, Jesus, Jesus!
(he buries his head in his hands)
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Simon walks over and lays his hand on Ichabod’s shoulder
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SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Ichabod, I have a word from the Lord for you: You will no longer be known as
Ichabod the Ignor-Ant. From this day forward, your name will be Barnabas the Brilli-Ant!
You will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and you will
lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.
BARNABAS THE BRILLI-ANT
Oh, thank you, thank you Jesus.
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
(walks over and bows down near Barnabas, crying) Thank You Jesus! Thank You Jesus!
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MARY and BARNABAS: Song: Lord Have Mercy
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Verse 1
Em C G D/F#
Jesus I’ve forgotten the words that You have spoken.
Em C G D/F#
Promises that burned within my heart have now grown dim.
Em C G D/F#
With a doubting heart I follow the paths of earthly wisdom.
Em C G Dsus D
Forgive me for my unbelief renew the fire again.
Verse 2
Am7 D/F# Gsus G G/B C D Em Am7 D/F# Gsus G C2 D G
Lord have mer----cy. Christ have mer-cy. Lord have mer--cy on-- me (2 times)
Verse 3
I have built an altar where I worship things of man.
I have taken journeys that have drawn me far from you.
But now I am returning to Your mercies ever flowing.
Pardon my transgressions help me love you again.
Verse 4
I have longed to know You and all Your tender mercies.
Like a river of forgiveness ever flowing without end.
So I bow my heart before You in the goodness of Your presence.
Your grace forever shining like a beacon in the night.
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Curtain: close curtain
Spotlight: Fade to black
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Act 3 - Scene 1 – House of Cornelius Revival
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Set change: House of Cornelius
Spotlight: on Narrator
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NARRATOR
Cornelius the Sarge-Ant was a soldier in what was called the Italian Regiment.
He was a devout ant and one who feared God with all of his household.
He gave alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always.
The Lord sent an angel to Cornelius and told him to invite Simon the Serv-Ant
to his house. At the same time, Jesus sent Simon a vision, of how he should
minister to the Gentiles.
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Curtain: open curtain
On Stage: Cornelius the Sarge-Ant, Penny the Please-Ant,
Barnabas the Brilli-Ant, Mary the Repent-Ant
and Adam the Abund-Ant
Enter Simon the Serv-Ant, James the Assist-Ant
John the Expect-Ant as the Narrator continues--
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NARRATOR (continues)
The following day Cornelius was waiting for them, and had called together
his relatives and close friends. As Simon he Serv-Ant was coming in,
Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him.
But Simon lifted him up, saying--
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Stand up; I am also just an ant, just like you.
You know how unlawful it is for a Jewish ant to keep company with or
go to one of another nation. But God has shown me that I should not call
any ant common or unclean. Therefore I came without objection as soon as
I was sent for. I ask, then, for what reason have you sent for me?
CORNELIUS THE SARGE-ANT
Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at three o’clock I prayed in my house,
and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer
has been heard, and your alms are remembered in the sight of God. Send therefore to
Joppa and call Simon here, whose last name is Peter the Serv-Ant. He is lodging in the
house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea. When he comes, he will speak to you.’
So I sent for you immediately, and you have done well to come. Now therefore,
we are all present before God, to hear all the things commanded you by God.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears
Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him. The word which God sent to the
children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ—He is Lord of all—
that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from
Galilee after the baptism which John preached:
how God anointed Jesus the Triumph-Ant of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and
with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by
the devil, for God was with Him.
And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews
and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree. Him God raised up
on the third day, and showed Him openly, not to all the people, but to witnesses
chosen before by God, even to us who ate and drank with Him after He arose
from the dead. And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify
that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead.
To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in
Him will receive remission of sins.
NARRATOR
While Simon the Serv-Ant was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell
upon all those who heard the word. And the Jewish ants who believed were
astonished, as many as came with Simon, because the gift of the Holy Spirit
had been poured out on the Gentiles also. For they heard them speak with
tongues and magnify God. Then Peter answered --
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
(to the audience) Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized
who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have? (to Cornelius) I command
all of you to be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
NARRATOR
Now all the ants there, having received the joy of the Holy Spirit, rejoice in the Lord and--
JAMES THE EXPECT-ANT
Hey fellow ants, let’s all go to the picnic! Ants love picnics!
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All the ants agree at the same time, saying yes let’s go! Yeah!
Then the ants quickly go off the stage, down the aisle when the Narrator stops them—
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NARRATOR
Simon! (holds up a copy of the script) Whoa…Hold on…Wait! Stop!
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
(turns around) What’s going on?
NARRATOR
Your song! What about your song!? You have to sing your song…
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Simon the Serv-Ant starts singing first (no music)…then the others join in…
then the music starts, and rejoicing they all sing!
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SIMON and the ANTS: Song: Rejoice!
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Chorus – (No Music)
D G2/B-D/B Bbmaj7 C
Rejoice in the Lord al-----ways and again I say and again I say
Rejoice in the Lord al-----ways and again I say and again I say Rejoice!
Intro
D D-D D-D D-C G2/B
D D-D D-D D-C (1 2 3 4)
Verse 1
D D D D D C G2/B D
Come bless the Lord come bless the Lord draw near to worship Christ the Lord
D D D D C G2/B
And bless His name His Holy name declaring He is good (repeat 1st time)
Gm7 Am7 Bbmaj7 C--C-C-C-C!
Oh that ANTS would praise Him oh that ANTS would praise Him!
Chorus
D G2/B-D/B Bbmaj7 C
Rejoice in the Lord al-----ways and again I say and again I say
D G2/B-D/B Bbmaj7 C D D! To Vs 1: D-D D-D D-C (1 2 3 4)
Rejoice in the Lord al-----ways and again I say and again I say Rejoice! To Bri: Dm-Dm Dm-Dm
F/D-Db-Eb/C A7-Dm11
Bridge
Dm11 Dm-Dm Dm------Dm Dm-Dm Dm------Dm
Oh that ANTS would praise His name praise His name to the ends of the earth
Dm11 Dm-Dm Dm------Dm Dm-Dm Bb/A – C/A
Oh that ANTS would praise His name praise His name to the ends of the earth
Dm11 Dm-Dm Dm------Dm F/D-E/Db-Eb/C A!
Oh that ANTS would praise His name praise His name to the ends of the earth
Dm11 Dm-Dm Bbmaj7 C
Oh that ANTS would praise His name Ending: and again I say . . . again I say
and again I say . . .again I say D
and again I say . . .again I say --(C-C-C-C) Rejoice!
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All the Ants leave…and the music stops, then we hear--
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(voice of) JESUS the TRIUMPH-ANT
Simon: well done, good and faithful Serv-ant; you were faithful over a few things,
I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord!
--end--
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Simon the ServAnt
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Characters (in order of appear-ants):
Narrator
Cornelius the Sarge-Ant (Roman Soldier)
Simon the Serv-Ant
James the Assist-Ant
John the Expect-Ant
Matthew the Account-Ant
Luke the Attend-Ant
Andrew the Obedi-Ant
Jesus the Triumph-Ant
Adam the Abund-Ant
Penny the Please-Ant
Ichabod the Ignor-Ant (a.k.a Barnabas the Brilli-Ant)
Mary the Repent-Ant
Scenes:
Street in Capernaum
House in Capernaum
Aunt Friendly Family RestaurAnt
House of Cornelius Revival
Act 1 - Scene 1 – Introduction/Street in Capernaum
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Projector: Display the “Ant” scriptures on the screen by the stage --
(can be read by the Narrator, off-stage)
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Go to the ant, you sluggard!
Consider her ways and be wise,
Which, having no captain,
Overseer or ruler,
Provides her supplies in the summer,
And gathers her food in the harvest.
How long will you slumber, O sluggard?
When will you rise from your sleep?
A little sleep, a little slumber,
A little folding of the hands to sleep—
So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler,
And your need like an armed man.
Proverbs 6:6-11 (New KJV)
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Curtain: Open curtain.
Spotlight: first on the Narrator, then to Cornelius the Sarge-Ant, standing mid stage,
with a scowl on his face
As each name is read, the spotlight moves to the next character as they enter–
Enter in Simon the Serv-Ant, James the Assist-Ant, John the Expect-Ant,
Matthew the Account-Ant, Luke the Attend-Ant, Andrew the Obedi-Ant
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NARRATOR
Praise the Lord! Good evening.
Who is the Greatest? Think about it….Is it the person next to you? How can you tell?
Which one of you is the greatest? Is greatness measured by how tall you are?
or how much money you have? Does your name or your title make your great?
Let’s watch the ants tonight and see what we can learn. Here we have Cornelius the
Sarge-Ant (sergeant). trying to keep the peace on the streets in Capernaum.
Next, we have Simon, the Serv-Ant (the servant); and
James the Assist-Ant (the assistant); and
John the Expect-Ant (the expectant)
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(suddenly interrupts the Narrator) Now, wait a second! My name isn’t John the Eleph-Ant:
my name is John! John the Expect--
NARRATOR
John the Expect-Ant—that’s what I said! Now hush just a minute.
(pauses) Ants these days! Anyway, next we have
Matthew the Account-Ant (the accountant); and
Luke the Attend-Ant (the attendant); and
Andrew the Obedi-Ant (the obedient).
Right now, the ants walked ahead of Christ the Triumph-Ant (the triumphant).
They are arguing about who is the greatest ant in the anthill. You can already
see how feisty one of them is!
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(pointing at himself, then clears his throat) I am John the Expect-Ant, the greatest ant!
JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
No way, Jose’! I am James the Assist-Ant—I am and always will be the greatest ant!
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The other ants join in the fray, arguing who is the greatest ant
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CORNELIUS THE SARGE-ANT
All right, all right already! (motions to the crowd with his sword),
let’s keep moving here! You don’t want me to call my Roman soldier
buddies, do ya? They can get real rough.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Uh, no sir, Cornelius, Sarge-Ant, sir--we were just havin’ a little
friendly brotherly discussion.
CORNELIUS THE SARGE-ANT
Well then, why don’t you be friendly somewhere else?
let’s get a move-on here! Move it, move it!
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SIMON the SERV-ANT: Song: Lead me Lord
-------------------------------------------------------------
F/G G C F/C C C F Am/F# Gsus G
Lead me, Lord, I will follow. Lead me, Lord, I will go.
C C/E F G Am F C/G Gsus G C
You have called me, I will answer. Lead me, Lord, I will go.
------------------------------------------------------------
Curtain: close curtain
Spotlight: Turn off spotlight
Scene change: House in Capernaum
Spotlight: center stage
Curtain: open curtain
------------------------------------------------------------
Act 1 - Scene 2 – House in Capernaum
------------------------------------------------------------
Simon the Serv-Ant, James the Assist-Ant, John the Expect-Ant,
Matthew the Account-Ant, Luke the Attend-Ant and Andrew the Obedi-Ant
are all in the house (center stage), still arguing
------------------------------------------------------------
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
What are you ants still arguing about? What’s so important that you almost got us arrested?
Please stop this fighting--
ANDREW THE OBEDI-ANT
Oh so that’s the way it is now? just because “Simon says… stop”, we have to shut--
------------------------------------------------------------
The ants suddenly stop arguing as Simon interrupts Andrew--
------------------------------------------------------------
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
See, now look who’s coming! (loudly) Behold, Jesus the Triumph-Ant!
------------------------------------------------------------
Music: Majestic March
Enter in Jesus the Triumph-Ant, walking up the center aisle, then up onto the stage
------------------------------------------------------------
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
Why were you arguing among yourselves on the road?
------------------------------------------------------------
But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest.
Jesus the Triumph-Ant sits down, and motions to the rest to also sit--
------------------------------------------------------------
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT (continues)
If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.
Bring Adam the Abund-Ant to me.
------------------------------------------------------------
Immediately, Simon the Serv-Ant responded and exits to get Adam the Abund-Ant
Enter in Simon the Serv-Ant with Adam the Abund-Ant, and Adam enters and sits on Jesus’ lap.
------------------------------------------------------------
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT (continues)
Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me;
and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent Me.”
(they hug)
------------------------------------------------------------
Exit Adam --
Then James the Assist-Ant and John the Expect-Ant,
walk up to Jesus the Triumph-Ant and say --
------------------------------------------------------------
JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
Teacher—
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(interrupts James) Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask.
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
Greatness is serving: What do you want Me to do for you?
JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
I want, I mean what we want is—
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(interrupts James again) Grant us that we may sit, one on Your right hand (he points to himself)
and the other on Your left (he points to James), in Your glory.
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink,
and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?
JAMES AND JOHN
We are able.
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
You will indeed drink the cup that I drink, and with the baptism I am baptized with
you will be baptized; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give,
but it is for those for whom it is prepared.
MATTHEW THE ACCOUNT-ANT
(walks up, speaking to James and John) Why are you both begging to be in charge?
This doesn’t sound right! What about me? (motions to the others)
What about the rest of us?
------------------------------------------------------------
The other ants join in the fray, arguing about who is the greatest ant
------------------------------------------------------------
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
(He motions to the ants to be calm) Come over here, and gather around (they obey).
You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentile-Ants lord it over them,
and their Rulers exercise authority over them.
Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you
shall be your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all.
For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give
His life a ransom for many. Again I say, if anyone desires to be first, he shall
be last of all and servant of all.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Lord, please forgive me –forgive us-- (bows down before Him) I understand.
(Jesus comforts him, and then Simon stands with the other ants)
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
(stands up, motioning to the audience) Who do men say that I, the son of man, am?
LUKE THE ATTEND-ANT
Well, some say, John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say Jeremiah
or one of the other prophets.
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
But--who do you say that I am?
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God. (kneels down on one knee)
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
Blessed are you, Simon, son of Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you,
but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock
I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give
you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in
heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Thank You, Jesus… (bows down on both knees) Thank You, Lord.
JESUS THE TRIUMPH-ANT
Simon, my friend, I have named you well….continue to be the Serv-Ant of all.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SIMON the SERV-ANT: Song: May the words of my mouth
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Verse 1
C C/A
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart
F/D G F/G G
Be pleasing to You, pleasing to You.
C C/A
May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart
F/D G C
Be pleasing to You, pleasing to You.
Verse 2
C/E F G C C/E F G C
You’re my Rock and my Redeemer. You’re the reason that I sing
F C Gsus G
I desire to be a blessing in Your eyes.
C/E F G C C/E F G C Every hour, every moment, Lord I want to be Your servant.
F C Gsus G
I desire to be a blessing in Your eyes.
------------------------------------------------------------
Curtain: close curtain
Spotlight: fade to black
------------------------------------------------------------
Act 2 - Scene 1 – Aunt Friendly Family RestaurAnt
------------------------------------------------------------
Set change: Aunt Friendly Family RestaurAnt
Spotlight: on Narrator
------------------------------------------------------------
NARRATOR
Several weeks later, Jesus the Triumph-Ant died on the cross, but three days
later, He was triumphant over death and rose again! Hundreds of people talked
to Jesus after His resurrection. After Jesus ascended up into heaven,
He poured out His Spirit on the disciples on the Day of Pentecost. On that day,
Simon Peter the Serv-Ant preached the salvation message, which we still
believe and obey today.
------------------------------------------------------------
On screen: Acts 2:38, 39
------------------------------------------------------------
NARRATOR (continues)
About a year later, the disciples were living in Greek communities,
working, teaching and preaching the Word of God. One place where
several of them worked was called Aunt Friendly Family RestaurAnt.
God blessed the disciples’ faithful work, and the church grew very rapidly!
------------------------------------------------------------
Curtain: open curtain
Spotlight: change to Penny the Please-Ant
Enter Mary the Repent-Ant and Ichabod the Ignor-Ant
------------------------------------------------------------
NARRATOR (continues)
On this particular day, Penny the Please-Ant (the pleasant) is greeting
customers, and in walks Mary the Repent-Ant (the repentant) and
Ichabod the Ignor-Ant (the ignorant).
PENNY THE PLEASE-ANT
(smiling big) A Please-Ant evening, folks!
Welcome to Aunt Friendly Family RestaurAnt!
(she walks out and hands them a menu) Seating for 2?
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
Arrrrgh…..!
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Oh, hi….Yes, a good evening to you, too! Uh, yes, it’s just the 2 of us.
PENNY THE PLEASE-ANT
Would you like underground or above ground seating? No rain tonight!
Good weather for ants--
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
Arrrrgh…..!
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Oh, above ground seating, please! We love the fresh air, don’t we dear?
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
Arrrrgh…..!
PENNY THE PLEASE-ANT
Here’s a perfect table. Have a please-ant meal!
-----------------------------------------------------------
They walk to a table located front, center-stage.
Mary and Ichabod are seated, and Penny goes to the side--
-----------------------------------------------------------
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Icha, why do you keep acting that way?
you could have been a little less, well, Icha—
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
Arrrrgh…..!
----------------------------------------------------------
Mary and Ichabod remain at the table--
Enter James and John, walk up to Penny, off to the side
Spotlight: move to James, John and Penny
----------------------------------------------------------
JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
Penny, we appreciate all your help today. Thanks for coming in
on such short notice. Are you going to the--
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(interrupts James) Yeah, Penny, what James is trying to say is,
we need to leave now! We need to get ready for the service!
Are you going to the revival tonight? All the believers
will be there, and from what I hear, we’re going to have
dozens of new visitors!
PENNY THE PLEASE-ANT
I wouldn’t miss it! Since you two are both leaving, can Simon
and Andrew fill in waiting on the tables?
JAMES AND JOHN
Sure, I don’t see why not!
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
We do that a lot, don’t we?
JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
We must be more alike than we know!
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
Oh, brother!
JAMES THE ASSIST-ANT
(kidding) Yes sir, brother sir, what can I do for you?
JOHN THE EXPECT-ANT
(rolls his eyes) Let’s get out of here!
----------------------------------------------------------
Enter Simon and Andrew, walking up to Mary and Ichabod’s table
Spotlight: move to Mary and Ichabod
----------------------------------------------------------
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Good Evening! My name is Simon the Serv-Ant, and I will be your
Food Consult-Ant. This is Andrew the Obedi-Ant, he’s in training….
Can I get you anything to drink?
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Sir, we are very thirsty. We are on our way to the revival
and stopped here for a bite to eat. I finally convinced Ichabod—
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
Arrrrgh…..!
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Stop that! I finally convinced Ichabod, my husband here to come with me.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Praise the Lord! That’s fantastic! So…what would you like to drink?
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
We are thirsty…very thirsty….for God’s righteousness. We both need
to be born again, as we have heard so many good things about.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
What is your name? I perceive that you already have repented, but Mr. Icha—
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Ichabod— and my name is Mary the Repent-Ant….
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Yes, Mr. Ichabod will have to hold on a just little bit….
(Simon pauses, looking toward heaven, praying softly, nodding…then)
Mary, Look on us. (She looks up at him, intently, and he gently places his hand on her forehead)
In the Name of Jesus Christ, I pray right now for Mary to receive Your gift, Lord:
Mary: receive ye the Holy Ghost! Yes! Praise God! Hallelujah!
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
Hallelujah! (stands up and shouts) Hallelujah!
Praise God! (speaks in tongues)
----------------------------------------------------------
Mary and Simon continue to worship--
Spotlight: move to Andrew
----------------------------------------------------------
ANDREW THE OBEDI-ANT
(kneels down, looking Ichabod in the eye) Ichabod, Jesus loves you.
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
(starts crying) But how can He? I was there….I was one of
those who screamed Crucify Him! Oh Lord….Jesus…Lord, have mercy…
ANDREW THE OBEDI-ANT
(comforts Ichabod) And He does….He does have mercy.
His mercy endures forever…
ICHABOD THE IGNOR-ANT
I’m so sorry…..I’m so sorry, Jesus, Jesus!
(he buries his head in his hands)
----------------------------------------------------------
Simon walks over and lays his hand on Ichabod’s shoulder
----------------------------------------------------------
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Ichabod, I have a word from the Lord for you: You will no longer be known as
Ichabod the Ignor-Ant. From this day forward, your name will be Barnabas the Brilli-Ant!
You will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and you will
lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.
BARNABAS THE BRILLI-ANT
Oh, thank you, thank you Jesus.
MARY THE REPENT-ANT
(walks over and bows down near Barnabas, crying) Thank You Jesus! Thank You Jesus!
------------------------------------------------------------------
MARY and BARNABAS: Song: Lord Have Mercy
------------------------------------------------------------------
Verse 1
Em C G D/F#
Jesus I’ve forgotten the words that You have spoken.
Em C G D/F#
Promises that burned within my heart have now grown dim.
Em C G D/F#
With a doubting heart I follow the paths of earthly wisdom.
Em C G Dsus D
Forgive me for my unbelief renew the fire again.
Verse 2
Am7 D/F# Gsus G G/B C D Em Am7 D/F# Gsus G C2 D G
Lord have mer----cy. Christ have mer-cy. Lord have mer--cy on-- me (2 times)
Verse 3
I have built an altar where I worship things of man.
I have taken journeys that have drawn me far from you.
But now I am returning to Your mercies ever flowing.
Pardon my transgressions help me love you again.
Verse 4
I have longed to know You and all Your tender mercies.
Like a river of forgiveness ever flowing without end.
So I bow my heart before You in the goodness of Your presence.
Your grace forever shining like a beacon in the night.
----------------------------------------------------------
Curtain: close curtain
Spotlight: Fade to black
----------------------------------------------------------
Act 3 - Scene 1 – House of Cornelius Revival
------------------------------------------------------------
Set change: House of Cornelius
Spotlight: on Narrator
------------------------------------------------------------
NARRATOR
Cornelius the Sarge-Ant was a soldier in what was called the Italian Regiment.
He was a devout ant and one who feared God with all of his household.
He gave alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always.
The Lord sent an angel to Cornelius and told him to invite Simon the Serv-Ant
to his house. At the same time, Jesus sent Simon a vision, of how he should
minister to the Gentiles.
------------------------------------------------------------
Curtain: open curtain
On Stage: Cornelius the Sarge-Ant, Penny the Please-Ant,
Barnabas the Brilli-Ant, Mary the Repent-Ant
and Adam the Abund-Ant
Enter Simon the Serv-Ant, James the Assist-Ant
John the Expect-Ant as the Narrator continues--
------------------------------------------------------------
NARRATOR (continues)
The following day Cornelius was waiting for them, and had called together
his relatives and close friends. As Simon he Serv-Ant was coming in,
Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him.
But Simon lifted him up, saying--
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
Stand up; I am also just an ant, just like you.
You know how unlawful it is for a Jewish ant to keep company with or
go to one of another nation. But God has shown me that I should not call
any ant common or unclean. Therefore I came without objection as soon as
I was sent for. I ask, then, for what reason have you sent for me?
CORNELIUS THE SARGE-ANT
Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at three o’clock I prayed in my house,
and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer
has been heard, and your alms are remembered in the sight of God. Send therefore to
Joppa and call Simon here, whose last name is Peter the Serv-Ant. He is lodging in the
house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea. When he comes, he will speak to you.’
So I sent for you immediately, and you have done well to come. Now therefore,
we are all present before God, to hear all the things commanded you by God.
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears
Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him. The word which God sent to the
children of Israel, preaching peace through Jesus Christ—He is Lord of all—
that word you know, which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, and began from
Galilee after the baptism which John preached:
how God anointed Jesus the Triumph-Ant of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and
with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by
the devil, for God was with Him.
And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews
and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree. Him God raised up
on the third day, and showed Him openly, not to all the people, but to witnesses
chosen before by God, even to us who ate and drank with Him after He arose
from the dead. And He commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify
that it is He who was ordained by God to be Judge of the living and the dead.
To Him all the prophets witness that, through His name, whoever believes in
Him will receive remission of sins.
NARRATOR
While Simon the Serv-Ant was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell
upon all those who heard the word. And the Jewish ants who believed were
astonished, as many as came with Simon, because the gift of the Holy Spirit
had been poured out on the Gentiles also. For they heard them speak with
tongues and magnify God. Then Peter answered --
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
(to the audience) Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized
who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have? (to Cornelius) I command
all of you to be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
NARRATOR
Now all the ants there, having received the joy of the Holy Spirit, rejoice in the Lord and--
JAMES THE EXPECT-ANT
Hey fellow ants, let’s all go to the picnic! Ants love picnics!
------------------------------------------------------------
All the ants agree at the same time, saying yes let’s go! Yeah!
Then the ants quickly go off the stage, down the aisle when the Narrator stops them—
------------------------------------------------------------
NARRATOR
Simon! (holds up a copy of the script) Whoa…Hold on…Wait! Stop!
SIMON THE SERV-ANT
(turns around) What’s going on?
NARRATOR
Your song! What about your song!? You have to sing your song…
------------------------------------------------------------
Simon the Serv-Ant starts singing first (no music)…then the others join in…
then the music starts, and rejoicing they all sing!
------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------
SIMON and the ANTS: Song: Rejoice!
---------------------------------------------------
Chorus – (No Music)
D G2/B-D/B Bbmaj7 C
Rejoice in the Lord al-----ways and again I say and again I say
Rejoice in the Lord al-----ways and again I say and again I say Rejoice!
Intro
D D-D D-D D-C G2/B
D D-D D-D D-C (1 2 3 4)
Verse 1
D D D D D C G2/B D
Come bless the Lord come bless the Lord draw near to worship Christ the Lord
D D D D C G2/B
And bless His name His Holy name declaring He is good (repeat 1st time)
Gm7 Am7 Bbmaj7 C--C-C-C-C!
Oh that ANTS would praise Him oh that ANTS would praise Him!
Chorus
D G2/B-D/B Bbmaj7 C
Rejoice in the Lord al-----ways and again I say and again I say
D G2/B-D/B Bbmaj7 C D D! To Vs 1: D-D D-D D-C (1 2 3 4)
Rejoice in the Lord al-----ways and again I say and again I say Rejoice! To Bri: Dm-Dm Dm-Dm
F/D-Db-Eb/C A7-Dm11
Bridge
Dm11 Dm-Dm Dm------Dm Dm-Dm Dm------Dm
Oh that ANTS would praise His name praise His name to the ends of the earth
Dm11 Dm-Dm Dm------Dm Dm-Dm Bb/A – C/A
Oh that ANTS would praise His name praise His name to the ends of the earth
Dm11 Dm-Dm Dm------Dm F/D-E/Db-Eb/C A!
Oh that ANTS would praise His name praise His name to the ends of the earth
Dm11 Dm-Dm Bbmaj7 C
Oh that ANTS would praise His name Ending: and again I say . . . again I say
and again I say . . .again I say D
and again I say . . .again I say --(C-C-C-C) Rejoice!
---------------------------------------------------
All the Ants leave…and the music stops, then we hear--
---------------------------------------------------
(voice of) JESUS the TRIUMPH-ANT
Simon: well done, good and faithful Serv-ant; you were faithful over a few things,
I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord!
--end--
