More information about

                                   BEST-LAID PLANS

MAIN POINT
More often than we expect, things we count on happening or plans we make just don't work out. We may be hit with bitter disappointments, crushing grief or painful setbacks. While we cannot consider those things good, sometimes we find elements within them that can be redeemed to benefit ourselves or others. In fact, God often helps us to do just that.

In this lighthearted sketch, a man, discovering that his plan to have the whole family together for supper isn't going to work out, salvages his preparations by switching the meal to a romantic dinner with his wife.

CHARACTERIZATION
Tom is a husband and father in his late 30s or early 40s. He usually doesn't pay much attention to what is going on at home but once in a while makes a special effort to be involved. He's resourceful and can change directions on the fly. He also enjoys getting credit for his efforts.

Karen is Tom's wife. She's the one who normally keeps the household on track, so she is pleasantly surprised and pleased by what seems to her to be a romantic gesture on Tom's part.

Lindsey, their daughter, is a typical teenage girl, active in high school activities.

DIRECTOR'S NOTES
1) The pot of spaghetti sauce doesn't have to be on a stove. You could have a bowl on the table. And, of course, you don't actually have to have sauce in it.

2) The five place settings are an important prop, and Tom's removal of the three that would have been for their children is symbolic of his adjusting his plans. You could get away without using the chairs and even without silverware, especially if you are performing in a small space, but try to have the plates.

3) Likewise, be sure to use the candlesticks and candles, as they are emblems of his revised plan. Tom never has to actually light the candles, however.

4) Karen never catches on that Tom is winging it. She is genuinely touched by his supposed thoughtfulness.

RELATED SCRIPTURES
In Romans 8:28, Paul states that in God, all things work together for good. James 1:2-4 talks about the values that can come from trials and difficulties. And in Genesis 50:20, Joseph explained how God brought benefit for many out of the "pit'' experience of Joseph's life.

RELATED THEMES
In addition to the theme of reaping good from bad situations, this script could also be used for the topics of marriage, romance or the pace of life.