In one of the more unique ways a show made it to the Broadway’s stage, 1997’s “Jekyll & Hyde,” was based on a 1990 concept album by Frank Wildhorn, and book by Leslie Bricusse which is based loosely on Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1886 novella, “The Strange Case Of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde.” The show has since starred names such as David Hasselhoff and Skid Row’s Sebastian Bach in the titular role.
In the song, “This Is The Moment,” Dr. Jekyll embraces the idea of using himself as his own test-subject, singing (in an incredibly sweeping ballad), “This is the moment when all I’ve done, all the dreaming, scheming and screaming, become one! This is the day, see it sparkle and shine, when all I’ve lived for becomes mine! For all these years, I’ve faced the world alone, and now the time has come to prove to them I’ve made it on my own! This is the moment, my final test. Destiny beckoned, I never reckoned, second best! I won’t look down, I must not fall This is the moment, the sweetest moment of them all!” Unfortunately, for Jekyll, this is also the moment that gives birth to the evil Mr. Hyde.
From Judas betraying Jesus with a kiss for 30 pieces of silver, to Peter denying Jesus as his rabbi publicly three times in a row on the night of Jesus’ arrest, the gospel narratives offer many accounts of this sort of “moment of truth” scenario. The scripture offer’s insight into Peter’s good intention and humanity, as he speaks to Jesus, “Lord, why can’t I follow you now? I’ll give up my life for you.” (John 13:37) It was Jesus, himself, who warned Peter of the gravity of the situation when he replied, “Will you give up your life for me? I assure you that you will deny me three times before the rooster crows.” (John 13:38) Of course, we can’t blame Peter, considering all of Jesus’ disciples fled in fear on that fateful night.
There will be times in our life when we are faced with monumental decisions. In truth, even the decision to wake up each morning and face the day and the world in a manner that reflects the unconventional wisdom of Jesus Christ, such as placing the needs and well being of others above ourselves, loving a God we can’t see or touch (physically), and practicing a sacrificial, selfless love of humility. And yet, every day, we have the opportunity to seize those moments and claim a way of life filled with faith, hope, and love despite any darkness that may present itself.
Dear God, when life presents us with a monumental moment of truth, or even during the mini-moments we face every day, give us the courage to resist our self-serving temptations, care for others, spread love, and honor you with all we say and do. Amen.
the harlequin complex 