ST. JOHN'S MESSIAH
SCRIPT
Act 1, Scene 1
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EPHESUS, ASIA MINOR - 115 A.D. - Evening
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A church service has just ended. Outside, Bishop Philip is greeting people as they are leaving. He seems distracted, however, looking here and there. Finally he spots a young man in the crowd and calls to him.
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BISHOP
Timothy. Timothy!
Timothy hurries over.
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BISHOP
Have you seen John?
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TIMOTHY
No. He didn't come.
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BISHOP
Didn't come? Are you sure?
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TIMOTHY
I'm positive. Nobody's seen him all day.
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BISHOP
He's never missed mass.
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TIMOTHY
Bishop, you don't think he...
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He can't bring himself to complete the sentence.
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BISHOP
Timothy, don't even think it.
He swore he wouldn't leave yet.
​
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Act 1, Scene 2
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JOHN'S ROOM - Evening
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A simple, though cluttered room furnished with a narrow bed, a table with a wash basin, and a cupboard filled with everything from dishes and cups to wine, bread, scrolls and clothing. A couple chairs and a large desk complete the decor. The shades are drawn on the room’s only window. John is at his desk...”unconscious.” He’s been working all day. His head lies heavily on the desktop. His breathing is imperceptible. At a hundred years old, John looks dead even on his best days. He is white-haired and gaunt, frail and bent. Yet his mind is clear as a bell.
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A knock is heard on the door. Then another. John doesn’t stir. A final knock is delivered, then a shout.
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BISHOP
(off-stage)
John! Are you in there? John!
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The door slowly opens as the bishop cautiously enters. When he sees John lying on his desk he rushes toward him.
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BISHOP
John. John. Oh, God, no.
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John’s eye opens, his head still in the same position. His brow furrows as he attempts to understand what exactly is happening. The bishop, standing behind him, starts to whimper.
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BISHOP
(continuing)
You promised you wouldn't die yet.
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JOHN
(his head still on the desk)
And you actually believe a man can keep such a promise?
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John slowly raises his head.
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BISHOP
John, what are you trying to do?
You nearly scared me to death!
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JOHN
I was trying to take a nap, Philip.
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BISHOP
You looked like you were dead.
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JOHN
I'm old. That's how I sleep these days.
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BISHOP
Why weren't you at mass?
You had us all worried.
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JOHN
I was working on this thing you made
me promise to finish before I die. Remember?
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BISHOP
It's called a gospel, John.
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JOHN
Yes, yes, I know what it is. That’s why I’m having
such difficulty with it. It’s important.
I don’t know if I have it in me.
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The Bishop pulls up a chair and sits next to John.
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BISHOP
Who better than you, my friend? You were
there. In fact, you were his most beloved.
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JOHN
How many times do I have to tell you, Philip,
I don’t know how or where that got started.
Not by any of the other disciples, I assure you.
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BISHOP
Maybe you leaked it yourself, eh John.
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John stands and walks to the cupboard. He moves very slowly as if every movement is painful and labored.
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JOHN
Would you like some wine, Philip?
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BISHOP
Is it that wine Thomas brought back from Damascus?
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JOHN
No, I'm saving that.
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BISHOP
Saving it? You're a hundred years old.
What could you possibly be saving it for?
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JOHN
My burial. I want you all to have some.
Thomas says it burns a little as it goes down.
It’ll be a good way to remember me.
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BISHOP
You'll be remembered, my friend. We don't
need any wine for that. A gospel would help, though.
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John pours the wine from a bottle into a goblet.
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JOHN
Y’know, I’ve been thinking, Philip. I don’t know
what I could add to all the gospels that have
already been written. Especially Mark’s
and my old friend, Matthew’s. And that doctor’s...
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BISHOP
Luke.
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JOHN
Yes, Luke.
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He hands the wine to the bishop.
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JOHN
(continuing)
Well-written documents, every one of them.
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BISHOP
True. But they're all so enmeshed in Jewish tradition.
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JOHN
And what's wrong with that, Philip?
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BISHOP
Nothing in and of itself. But as you’ve said yourself,
most of our converts are Greeks and Romans these days.
You’ve been living here in Ephesus for half a century now.
You’re practically Greek yourself.
You can write a gospel in a way they can understand it.
The world needs this gospel, John.
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John sighs, walks to the window, and peeks through the shade at the people outside. After a couple moments reflection, he walks back to the desk and sits next to the bishop.
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JOHN
Philip, look.
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John picks up the pen lying on his desk. His hand shakes uncontrollably.
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JOHN
I've waited too long. I cannot
physically write any more.
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The bishop gently takes the pen from John’s hand and sets it back on the desk.
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BISHOP
You don't have to, John. We found someone
to help you with it. Transcribe it for you.
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JOHN
Transcribe it? Who?
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BISHOP
Jacob.
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JOHN
Jacob? My Jacob?
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The bishop smiles broadly, tickled by this “brilliant” scheme he’s concocted. John peers at him for a couple long moments, trying to figure out what he’s getting at.
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JOHN
First of all, Jacob’s a very busy man. Second of all,
and I know you’re having a hard time accepting this, Philip,
I’d be dead by the time he could get here.
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BISHOP
Nonsense.
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JOHN
I swear, you people truly believe I will
live forever. Trust me, after ninety
every breath is a miracle.
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BISHOP
Do you think you can make it till tomorrow?
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JOHN
I will likely see at least another day, yes.
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BISHOP
Then you will likely see Jacob again too.
He'll be here tomorrow.
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JOHN
Tomorrow? How?
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BISHOP
We contacted him last month.
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JOHN
You contacted Jacob? Why?
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BISHOP
To tell him you need him.
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JOHN
What?!
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BISHOP
Well you do, John. And who would
you rather have helping you than Jacob?
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John gets up as quickly as a hundred-year-old man can get up. Clearly agitated, he begins pacing.
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JOHN
Anybody, Philip. I can't believe you would
drag Jacob here all the way from Egypt
without even asking me.
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BISHOP
We didn’t drag him, John. He was
planning to come anyway. He said
he wants to see you once more before you...
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Philip hesitates.
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JOHN
Die? You can say it, Philip.
I'm not near as afraid of it as you are.
In fact, I'm starting to savor the thought.
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Philip gets up and walks to John who is back by the window, looking out. He struggles to think of the right words to convince John that sending for Jacob was a good idea, that John needs him.
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BISHOP
John, forgive me for being blunt, but...
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JOHN
Forgive me for being blunt, Bishop, but if you don’t mind,
I really need to get some rest. People my age
can only take so much excitement in one day.
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Philip relents with a sigh.
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BISHOP
All right, my friend. I’m sorry if I caused
you any strife. That was certainly not
my intention. I thought you’d be pleased.
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John nods his head without turning to look at the bishop.
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BISHOP
Well, I’ll leave you alone now. Jacob will
be here first thing in the morning.
Try to get some sleep tonight.
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Philip walks to the door and opens it, then turns around.
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BISHOP
Oh, and John...
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John doesn't respond.
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BISHOP
Don't be afraid.
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JOHN
Afraid? Afraid of what?
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BISHOP
Imperfection. Remember, God’s writing this gospel.
You’re just holding the pen. It will be magnificent.
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The bishop departs. John stares at the door for a couple long moments, then walks to his desk, picks up his pen, and watches it as it shakes in his hand.
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JOHN
I'm holding the pen. Jacob's holding the pen.
(looking up)
You’re holding the pen. Who’s writing this thing
anyway? I swear, I don’t even know anymore.
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He walks to his bed and falls into it. His eyes stare intently at the ceiling.
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JOHN
Besides, how many different ways can you tell
this story? We already have Matthew’s version.
And Mark’s. And that doctor’s...
why can’t I remember his name?
(shaking his head, mumbling dejectedly)
Because I can’t remember anything anymore. And now
Jacob will be here in the morning. That’s not fair to him.
All the way from Alexandria. Look what a burden I’ve become.
What’s he supposed to transcribe anyway? I’ve got nothing
to say. I don’t even know where to begin. God, help me.
If you really want another gospel, you have to
at least show me where to begin.
​
His eyes grow heavy, then close. Music starts as a dream begins.
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Act 1, Scene 3
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HILLSIDE, OUTSIDE BETHLEHEM - 1 A.D. - Night
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A man and a woman are talking to two other couples.
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Start Song: THE ONE
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MAN 1
Have you heard the story about the virgin
down in Bethlehem who gave birth?
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WOMAN
To a son.
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MAN 1
And they say he's the one who will
lead our people to glory.
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WOMAN
They say he's the one who'll bring
Eden back to Earth.
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MAN 2
Last night I had a vision. A child was carried
from his cradle by a dove. That's right.
Well that child called to me and I made a decision.
And I followed him to a kingdom of love.
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They begin walking down the hillside toward a stable in the town. As they approach the stable, they join a large gathering waiting to see the newborn child inside. We hear a conversation between two people at the front of the line.
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WOMAN IN LINE
You can almost hear the quiet voices.
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MAN IN LINE
(peeking into the stable)
Kings and shepherds share the sight.
The Messiah's come!
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WOMAN IN LINE
The world rejoices.
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BOTH
On this very night!
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The door opens and they are ushered into the stable. The scene is inspiring – kings in their regal robes, astrologers from the Far East with their golden medallions and shimmering jewels, shepherds with their staffs, merchants and peasants, all bearing gifts, all paying homage to a child they believe is their savior, the savior of the world.
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Mary and Joseph, the child’s parents, stand next to a manger proudly showing their child to the procession passing through. The child in his mother’s arms is radiantly beautiful.
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CHORUS
So come, come join the celebration.
Behold the child whose eyes are like the morn'.
For in them shines the dawning of Salvation,
'Cause on this holy night the Messiah's born.
On this holy night the Messiah's born.
On this holy night He has come and he's the One.
He has come, He has come, and He's the One.
On this holy night He has come and He's the One.
He has come. He has come. And He's the One.
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During the CHORUS, a star above the stable throbs and then bursts, its light streaming down on the scene. Dancers enter and fill the stage. Angels, who appear as meteor-like streaks of light, fly continuously into the stable from above. Finally, a bright light begins to emanate from the stable itself, flooding the entire gathering (and our audience) in its awesome brilliance.
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Act 1, Scene 4
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JOHN'S ROOM- PRESENT - Morning
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John is asleep in his bed. A knock is HEARD on the door. He stirs, then awakens, and quickly realizes who it is.
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JOHN
(to himself)
Jacob!
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He struggles out of bed and ambles to the door as another knock is heard. When he opens the door he sees Jacob, the son of John’s adopted son, who has arrived to help him with his gospel. Jacob is in his early twenties, tall and handsome, long hair, kind yet playful eyes. He carries a knapsack full of scrolls.
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JOHN
(hugging him vigorously)
Jacob! Good to see you, my boy. I've missed you!
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JACOB
I've missed you too, Saba. So much.
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John invites him in. Jacob walks to the desk and puts down the knapsack as John peeks inside it.
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JOHN
What are all these?
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JACOB
This is everything that's been written about
Jesus, as far as I can tell.
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JOHN
(looking through the knapsack)
Where did you get them?
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JACOB
I've been collecting them for years.
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JOHN
(shaking his head disapprovingly)
With all these, why do we need another, Jacob?
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JACOB
Wait till you read them, you'll see.
There are three good ones, however.
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JOHN
Matthew's, Mark's, and...that doctor's...what's his name?
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JACOB
Luke.
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JOHN
Yes, Luke. Luke, Luke, Luke!
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Jacob looks at John quizzically. John shakes his head and waves his hand at him as if to say, “Never mind.” Jacob smiles, remembering how eccentric John always was... and apparently still is.
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JACOB
There's a publisher here in Ephesus who
wants to put theirs and yours all together...
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He reaches into the knapsack and pulls out a rustic, tattered, bound book.
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JACOB
(continuing)
...in a leaf book. Like the Greeks are starting
to use now. You've seen them.
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John takes the book from Jacob and examines it.
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JOHN
Four gospels in one book? What's the
point of that? Aren't they all the same?
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JACOB
They're all just a little different.
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JOHN
Then won't that confuse people?
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JACOB
A lot of people feel they all enhance each other.
Even when there are discrepancies.
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JOHN
And he wants to include my...unwritten gospel
in his book? At least he'll save on... leaves.
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JACOB
He says he'll wait for you to finish.
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JOHN
(sighing heavily)
Along with everyone else. I hope
nobody's holding their breath.
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JACOB
Actually they are, Saba. So if
you want to get started...
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Jacob starts to remove a blank scroll and a pen from his knapsack.
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JOHN
Wait, Jacob. What's the hurry? We've got
a lot of catching up to do. Sit down.
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John pulls out a chair for Jacob and brings another from across the room for himself. Both men sit down.
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JACOB
I'm sorry, Saba. But the bishop has me convinced
you're going to die any second.
And that if you do before finishing this gospel...
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JOHN
I know. The entire church will
collapse. The world will end...
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JACOB
Yeah, something like that.
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JOHN
(shaking his head, amused)
So, what have you been doing with
yourself, Jacob? I understand you've
become quite a wealthy man.
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JACOB
My uncle left me a good
business when he died.
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JOHN
That was what, two years ago now?
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JACOB
Yes.
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JOHN
And what are you planning to do with
your life? Make a fortune?
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JACOB
No, just live, Saba. Raise my son to be
a good man. Try to be a good man myself.
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JOHN
Noble endeavors, Jacob.
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JACOB
Nothing too exciting. Certainly nothing
like my father's ambitions.
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JOHN
Do I sense a little sarcasm in your voice?
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JACOB
He did what he had to do.
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JOHN
(becoming a bit indignant)
Yes, he did. As did Paul and Peter... and my brother.
And here we are, safe and comfortable in beautiful Ephesus,
about to tell a story that everybody assures me will
save the world from itself. So, we write, and others die.
And most of that world we’re trying so desperately
to save will never even know any of us existed.
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JACOB
So it's true, Saba. You have become a cynic.
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JOHN
It's called old age, Jacob. It's allowed.
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John stands with a groan and walks to the cupboard.
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JOHN
I suppose we should get started.
Would you like something to eat first?
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Jacob unrolls a blank scroll and straightens it out, preparing to write.
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JACOB
No thank you, Saba. I already had breakfast.
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JOHN
The problem is, I have no idea where to start.
How do I make my gospel different than all the others?
What can I say that hasn’t already been said?
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JACOB
Your personality will make your gospel different. Your insights.
Your experiences. You’ve had eighty years to reflect
on what exactly Jesus was trying to teach us.
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JOHN
Yet when I put pen to paper, my mind goes completely blank.
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JACOB
I'll help. I'll pull it out of you.
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JOHN
Sounds painful, boy.
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JACOB
It won’t hurt a bit. I promise. Okay, let’s
just start at the beginning. Tell me about
when he was born. I’ve heard so many stories.
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JOHN
So have I. You can include any version of that you like.
Or leave it out. It's up to you.
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JACOB
Okay. Then tell me about when you met him.
There are a lot of versions of that going around too.
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JOHN
First let me tell you what led up to that.
Jesus had been living in Nazareth with his mother,
living the simple life of a craftsman. He loved it there.
And everyone loved him. But something was missing.
Something was “calling” him and it wouldn’t leave him alone.
Then, on the morning after his big thirtieth birthday
bash - the whole town turned out for it - he heard that
call again and could no longer resist it. He packed a few
bags, arranged for his family to be cared for, and
set out on a mission he knew he had been
destined to since before he was even born.
He decided his first stop would be to visit his cousin, John,
a preacher whose pulpit was a distant spot on the Jordan River.
It took him all day to get there and when he did, he found a great
gathering of people from all walks of life, including my
brother and me, all listening, mesmerized,
to the crazed rantings of a man known simply as...
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JACOB
The Baptist.
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JOHN
(cryptically, his eyes distant)
The Baptist.
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Act 1, Scene 5
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THE JORDAN RIVER - 30 A.D. - Night
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Torches burn along the riverbank, casting an eerie ambiance as a large crowd listens to the apocalyptic preachings of John the Baptist. He wears only a tattered skin that barely covers anything. His beard is unkept, his hair long and matted.
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Start Song: THE BAPTIST
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BAPTIST
Doom hovers heavy. Soon you're gonna see God's wrath.
And every tree that doesn't bear good fruit is gonna be cut in half.
The storm is here already. You feel it everywhere.
And it'll destroy everything in its path.
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A few people approach The Baptist, awaiting his blessing. He pours water on their heads while mumbling incommunicable incantations. Suddenly he stops and looks up at the sky, his eyes raging.
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BAPTIST
(continuing)
Can't you see the clouds building?
Don't you hear the rolling thunder? And everybody running for shelter.
Hey, don't you know what's happening here?!
Can't you feel the rain falling? Don't you hear the wind calling?
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He points to a couple of Pharisees standing on the hillside.
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BAPTIST
(continuing)
You high and mighty better start crawling.
'Cause he's coming. He's coming. I tell you he's coming!
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The Baptist baptizes a couple more people, then turns his attention back to the crowd. As his discourse progresses, he becomes more and more animated, running up to people and screaming in their faces, flailing his arms, and shouting louder and louder. Some people embrace him. Others back off. Still others, like the Pharisees, walk away in disgust.
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BAPTIST
(continuing)
The time has come. You must repent.
The son of God's already been sent.
I'm just a lonely voice in the wilderness,
Trying to warn you to confess to every sin and wicked desire,
Or you will burn in the coming fire! The Lord has come!
His kingdom is at hand. It's time you understand,
Our Father will make him king of this land!
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I teach and pray about the Holy Spirit.
But I could preach all day and you'd never hear it.
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MAN IN CROWD
We need to know, are you the savior?
Are you the one who all our prophets told us would come?
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BAPTIST
Believe me you'll know when you see your Messiah.
I baptize with water, but he'll baptize with fire!
The Lord has come! His kingdom is at hand.
The angels obey his commands. So try to understand,
Our Father will make him king of this land.
Our Father will make him king of this land!
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Act 1, Scene 6
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JOHN'S ROOM - PRESENT - Morning
JACOB
(looking up from his writing)
And that's when Jesus was baptized?
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JOHN
Not yet, Jacob. He appeared and The Baptist got a
glimpse of him, but then, just as quickly as he was
there, he was gone. The Baptist told us he had seen him
and promised us he would return. My brother and
I waited for two weeks. But we couldn’t wait any longer.
We got a message that the man we left in charge of our
business had already wrecked one of our boats
and had ordered away two of our best men.
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JACOB
Where was Jesus?
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JOHN
He was already half way across the desert,
heading for a mountain peak known as Satan's Thone.
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As John continues his story, we see Jesus trudging his way across the hot desolate desert. He stops to take a drink from his wineskin. After squirting some water on his face, he looks up and suddenly notices his destination looming menacingly before him. He gazes upon it, a resolute expression fixed on his face.
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JOHN
For forty days, while we worried about our little boats
and our big important lives, he was wandering in the
desert alone, hardly sleeping, eating not a morsel of food,
preparing to do battle with the enemy of his father,
the enemy of us all. Preparing, Jacob, to fight for the soul
of all Mankind. And this enemy, whose name we all
know, had no idea what was heading his way.
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Act 1, Scene 7
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SATAN'S THRONE, A MOUNTAIN - 30 A.D. - Day
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Satan is standing on a ledge outside his castle, holding a pair of “high-tech” binoculars. They project an image directly to the big computer monitor. He is an unusual creature, displaying the contrasting attributes of a majestic animal and a repulsive insect. His body is human-like, muscular and hairy, though he has claws for fingernails and paws for feet. A pair of giant insect wings are attached to his back. His face looks like that of a lion’s, handsome and strong. But his head is hard, bulbous and large, like a locust’s, with antennae protruding lengthily from the top. Suddenly he sees something which grabs his attention. After a moment, he is joined by his two assistants, Lizzie and Temptra.
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Start Song: SATAN'S THRONE
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SATAN
Hmm, now what have we here? It's too good to be true.
A man all alone, what evil things I could do!
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LIZZIE
He looks so tired and hungry.
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SATAN
He’s practically mine. Keep on coming, son,
I need a closer inspection to see if you’re worthy
Of my collection; I’ve got some of the greatest souls of all time!
And I love each and every one of them!
The fisher, the baker, the priest, and cross maker;
They’re all the same to me. I sneak up behind ‘em;
I dazzle and blind ‘em; and offer them the whole world for free.
Yeah, they fall for it. Then I mention my small fee.
Ah, but we can worry about that later.
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Satan walks into his “Factory of Evil.” It’s decorated with weapons and torture devices of all kinds. Lining the walls are grotesque figures bathed in some kind of laser light, imprisoned in cages by shimmering force fields. Portraits of tortured faces hang from every wall. Ancient machines churn right alongside futuristic ones that purr and hum. Satan walks hurriedly to a large computer with a giant monitor and begins punching codes into a keyboard.
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SATAN
So what should I do? What should I become?
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LIZZIE
A monster from hell?
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SATAN
Yeah, that's always fun.
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TEMPTRA
But if you are more subtle he won't have a chance.
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SATAN
I don't know, should I seduce him or scare him to death?
Now, scarin's more fun...
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TEMPTRA
But seduction's your best bet.
No one ever escapes when they're under your trance.
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SATAN
Either way! Fisher, baker, priest or cross-maker,
They're all the same to me. I just sneak up behind 'em.
I dazzle and blind 'em. And offer them the whole world for free.
Hey, I can't help it if people are stupid.
Don't they know, there's always something in it for me.
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Satan notices his two assistants giggling as they stare into a big-screen monitor at the end of his computer console. Temptra is manipulating some controls as Lizzie looks on.
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LIZZIE
Get closer. I still can't see his face.
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Temptra brings the picture into complete focus. Jesus is seen in the monitor making his way up the mountain. When he stops for a rest, his hair blows in the wind as he looks up the mountain, his expression strong and resolute.
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LIZZIE
Ooh, I wouldn't mind having that one. I'm
getting tired of that stupid Centurian I own.
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TEMPTRA
This one's mine, Lizzie. You got those three Mongols
from that sleazy soul peddler last month. Remember?
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LIZZIE
Yeah but they won't even be born for another thousand years!
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SATAN
What are you two arguing about this time? Give me that.
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He takes the controls from Temptra and makes some adjustments while studying the monitor.
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SATAN
Hmm. I see why your claws are out. This one is different.
And this one is definitely mine.
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Lizzie gives Temptra a “ha-ha” look. Temptra is about to hit her.
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SATAN
Temptra, punch in these stats...
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Temptra quickly and obediently sits down at a console and begins inputting figures into a database.
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SATAN
Five-eleven. Long wavy hair. Good looking.
Deadly eyes. Probably a real ladies’ man.
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LIZZIE
(giggling)
They're always the easiest.
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Satan begins pacing as he ponders the situation.
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SATAN
You know what I'm wondering?
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TEMPTRA
Whether or not to gift-wrap him
when you give him to me?
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SATAN
I’m wondering what he’s doing way out here.
I guess he could be a shepherd. Lost a lamb. Lost his way.
Lost his mind. ‘Course if he lost his mind, I’d have it
in my inventory somewhere. Temptra, check the database.
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She runs a program as data scrolls by on the big-screen monitor. Satan makes an adjustment so that Jesus is again seen on the big monitor making his way up the mountain, climbing rocks, treading the path.
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SATAN
He is dressed like a shepherd. Sort of. But he seems
to be more than that. Much more. Temptra, what've you got?
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TEMPTRA
We don't have his mind. I'm checking for
souls now. No...no... can't find any...
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SATAN
I'm starting to get a really bad feeling about
this. You better check the Untouchables file.
​
TEMPTRA
Checking...
​
She suddenly jumps back from the console as if she’s been electrocuted.
​
TEMPTRA
Oh my God!!
​
SATAN
(cringing)
I told you NEVER to use that expression.
​
A bright red flashing light is emanating from the monitor, reflecting off Temptra’s face, as she sits with her eyes transfixed on it. Satan hurries over. His heart sinks in his chest.
​
SATAN
Oh...my...God.
​
The word, “MESSIAH” flashes brilliantly and boldly from the monitor. Satan walks slowly to the window and gazes downward.
​
SATAN
Well, I'll be damned. Look who's coming up my mountain.
​
Suddenly a look of rage comes over his face.
​
SATAN
(looking up to God)
We had a deal. He was NOT supposed to be here yet!
​
Satan begins pacing, mumbling to himself, shaking his head in disbelief. Then he hurries to the monitor and shoves Temptra out of the way as he begins frantically punching data into the computer. His fingers move so fast smoke comes out of the keyboard.
​
SATAN
Wait. Wait. No way...
​
He starts laughing joyously.
​
SATAN
(continuing)
This can't be true. No, You wouldn't...
​
He runs to the middle of the floor, again looking up to God.
​
Start Song: WELCOME TO MY WORLD
​
​
​
​
​
SATAN
Well, well your Majesty, have you no shame?
You call me a snake and now you're playing my game.
Send your own son to ambush me. What a clever plan.
But I got news for you, you made one mistake.
And I'm just amazed with so much at stake.
If my calculations are right, you made him a... man?
​
Fisher, baker, priest, or cross-maker;
They're all the same to me. I just sneak up behind 'em.
I dazzle and blind 'em, and offer them the whole world
For free. They can't resist!
And yet you send a mere mortal to fight me!
​
Oh, dear Messiah, welcome to my world.
Feel free to take a twirl around the place.
Sample everything you see. Here, nothing's ever too much,
And there's nothing you can't touch or taste.
So, dear Messiah, grab as much as you can.
You're a great and powerful man,
You're gonna love it here.
You can pick the fruit of every tree.
See how much you can eat.
Oh by the way,
The apples are especially sweet this time of year.
So, dear Messiah, welcome to my world.
You're gonna love it here!
​
He starts laughing so hard he wheezes. Then he stops suddenly and begins to reevaluate the situation.
​
SATAN
Wait a minute. This doesn't make any sense.
It's too easy. I mean, yeah he is just a man.
But he's not going to be just any man.
(looking up)
You have something up your sleeve, don't you?
​
He begins pacing again, thinking hard.
​
SATAN
Hmm. I probably have just one shot at this.
So I better take my... best...
​
He snaps his fingers as a look of realization comes over his face.
​
SATAN
And I know just where I'm going to hit him.
​
He runs to his computer and begins typing frantically.
​
SATAN
Uh-huh. Uh-huh. Soft smooth skin. Beautiful face, of course.
Long shapely legs. Exotic green eyes. I bet he’s a sucker for eyes.
Girls, come here, look at this one.
​
Temptra and Lizzie scamper over to the computer monitor.
​
SATAN
He won't be able to resist this.
Lizzy, go get the Changing Room ready.
​
Lizzy runs backstage and re-emerges rolling a small closet to center stage. It has a sign that says, CHANGING ROOM. Satan runs to it, opens its door, enters, and closes the door behind him.
​
SATAN
(from inside the closet)
Start her up, Temptra.
​
Temptra runs to the computer, punches a couple keys, and pulls a lever. The closet starts shaking, whirring, and smoking. After a few moments of this, the closet door bursts open and Satan falls out, flat on his nose, and lies motionless on the floor. Lizzy and Temptra stand immobile, staring, waiting.
​
LIZZIE
He's dead.
​
TEMPTRA
He can't die, you idiot. He's immortal.
​
LIZZIE
Oh yeah.
​
Satan slowly gets up. He has become transformed into a beautiful woman, dressed in the most alluring of clothes; catlike, seductive as HELL.
​
SATAN
(who will henceforth be called, SEDUCTRESS)
Now I know why I love inflicting pain on people.
It really hurts! Temptra, get on the scope.
See how close he is. How do I look?
​
Temptra shrugs indifferently. The Seductress walks to a mirror and primps. Temptra spots something on her monitor.
​
TEMPTRA
He just reached the cobra nests. He’ll be on the ledge
in... twelve minutes. And you might want to do
something with your voice. It sort of gives you away.
​
SEDUCTRESS
Right.
​
She clears her throat a couple times, and struggles to find her sexy voice, trying this and that. She finally gets it to where she wants it, then tries some singing exercises until it begins sounding sweet and sultry.
​
SEDUCTRESS
Hello… son of Gaw...
(chokes)
son of Gaw...
(chokes again)
son of... Him.
​
She walks to the monitor. As she struts toward it she arrives at full seductressness, voice and all.
​
SEDUCTRESS
Now I'm ready for you.
​
Act 1, Scene 8
​
MOUNTAIN PATH - Continuous
​
Jesus is past the cobra nests. Hundreds of the poisonous snakes slither behind him. He stops for a brief rest and takes a drink from his wine skin, then looks up toward the mountain top. The ledge where he will meet the Seductress is only a few hundred yards up. But just as he starts to continue his trek up the mountain, she steps out from behind a huge boulder.
​
SEDUCTRESS
(pretending to be startled)
Oh, you frightened me. I didn't
expect anyone to be here.
​
Jesus, surprised by her sudden appearance, looks at her inquisitively, but doesn’t speak.
​
SEDUCTRESS
You’re probably wondering what I’m doing up
here. I live up over that last ridge with my... sisters.
I take care of them. They’re... lepers.
​
Lizzie and Temptra suddenly step out from behind the boulder. They are obviously NOT lepers.
​
SEDUCTRESS
In fact, look, here they are now. And they're...
miraculously cured of their leprosy.
How did you do that?
​
Jesus remains silent but doesn’t take his eyes off her. Satan’s confidence wavers slightly because of Jesus’ strange unresponsiveness.
​
SEDUCTRESS
(purring)
I enjoy taking care of people, making them
feel good, giving them pleasure. And you look like
you've gone much too long without any pleasure at all.
(nuzzling up to him)
​
Start Song: SEDUCTRESS
​
​
​
​
​
SEDUCTRESS
You look so lost and lonely, no place to turn;
Out here miles from nowhere, the hunger must burn.
Oh, let me soothe those aching bones
Until the strength returns.
And then I'll teach you some things
You never dreamed you could learn.
​
Jesus gets up and walks to the edge of the cliff, looking at the plain below. The Seductress realizes that her attempts to seduce him have completely failed. Then Temptra whispers something in her ear. The Seductress looks pleased and relieved as she slithers toward Jesus.
​
SEDUCTRESS
I'll bet you're famished. How long since you've been fed?
But why should you starve yourself
When you could feast instead?
A man like you could turn these stones
Into a mountain of bread.
​
A nearby pile of stones becomes a mirage of steaming, fresh-out-of-the-oven bread. Starving, Jesus looks longingly at the bread. The Seductress rubs up against Jesus like a purring cat.
​
SEDUCTRESS
A man like you could have the whole world laid upon his bed.
You know what I mean? I think you do.
I mean, a man like you could have ten-thousand soldiers
At his command. Just worship me
And I'll put the whole world in the palm of your hand.
​
JESUS
I will worship you as soon as you start
Spreading love through this land.
​
Jesus grabs the Seductress’ wrist. She struggles to free herself but he tightens his grip.
​
JESUS
Satan, I'd know you anywhere.
You think you can fool me with those disguises;
I can smell the evil in the air;
And I've got a few of my own surprises.
​
He releases his hold on her wrist. The Seductress falls to the ground. Jesus walks to the edge of the cliff, his arms spread wide as the Seductress scurries away in fear.
​
JESUS
Satan, be gone, don't make me fight.
You are darkness; I am the light.
And I've been sent to conquer the night.
The sun is coming. The sun is coming.
The sun is coming!
​
Act 1, Scene 9
​
THE JORDAN RIVER, 30 A.D. - DAY
​
The Baptist stands in the river gazing at a small caravan on the hill just above him. It is King Herod and his wife, and their entourage, heading back to their palace from a trip to Rome. The royal couple are being carried in a covered litter. Servants and guards walk beside it. The Baptist begins shouting warnings of repentance to the depraved Herod. The king stops his entourage to listen, apparently amused by The Baptist’s rantings.
​
Start Song: MEANWHILE BACK AT THE JORDAN
​
​
​
​
​
BAPTIST
The time has come; you must repent.
The Son of God's already been sent.
I'm just a lonely voice in the wilderness,
Trying to warn you to confess to every sin
And wicked desire; or you will burn in the coming fire.
The Lord has come; His kingdom is at hand;
It's time you understand
Our Father will make him King of this land.
​
Disgusted, Herod’s advisor motions the driver to start the caravan moving. Herod, however, has other plans, and signals them to remain still.
​
HEROD
Now, John, you know I like you; I mean you no malice.
In fact, I'd like you to come and stay at the palace.
We've got plenty of room; you can have your own cell;
Preach all day, scream and yell.
But take time to pray about your fragile fate;
'Cause if my wife has her way,
She'll have your head on a plate!
(motioning to one of his guards)
Take him away; I'm so sick of this thing.
And arrest anyone following. Oh, and John,
We'll have no more talk about this king.
I'm the KING!!
​
Herod’s guards take The Baptist into custody. As they turn to escort him up the hill, however, they run into a man standing a few feet away from them in the river with a gourd in his hand, having seemingly appeared out of thin air. His body is shimmering with a brilliant glow that startles the guards so much that they fall back, releasing their hold of The Baptist. Jesus walks slowly to The Baptist and stands before him, the two men gazing into each other’s eyes.
​
BAPTIST
You're the one. It's really you.
(turning to the crowd)
This is God's Son. My mission is through.
​
Jesus dips the gourd into the water, kneels, and hands it to The Baptist, who takes it, but shaking his head, cannot bring himself to baptize the Son of God.
​
BAPTIST
You're the Christ. It's plain to see
It's you who should be baptizing me.
​
JESUS
But you're the one who's prepared the way.
Through you our Father baptizes me today.
​
BAPTIST
(pouring the water over Jesus' head)
Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away our sins
(to Jesus)
Now your mission begins.
​
HEROD
Guard, arrest both these men!
​
Herod’s guard move toward Jesus. But just as they grab his arm, a deafening thunderclap explodes from the blue sky. All three guards jump back in fear. Then a resounding voice is heard.
​
GOD (V.O.)
This is my beloved son. In whom I am well pleased.
​​
The entire crowd drops to its knees in fear. Herod, though frightened himself, stands his ground, and forces his servants and guards to get to their feet, though they seem more frightened by the voice than they are of him.
​​
The Baptist takes Jesus’ hands into his own and falls to his knees also. Herod, finally gaining control of his men, orders them to take The Baptist into custody, but allows Jesus to remain free. The two guards grab The Baptist and force him to his feet. Jesus gazes intensely into his eyes for a couple moments before the guards whisk him away.
​
Jesus watches as Herod’s entourage disappears, with John in custody. Then he turns to leave the Jordan himself. The followers, still on their knees and hiding their faces in their hands, begin to peek up to see what is happening. When they see that Jesus is leaving, they start to get up and cautiously follow him.
​
On the hillside where Herod’s entourage was stopped, people are seen running down the hill to catch up with the men and women already following Jesus on the desert plain below.
​
CURTAIN
(Intermission)
​
Act 2, Scene 1
​
KORAZIM PLATEAU, GALILEE, 32 A.D. - DAY
​
The stage is black. We hear John's voice in the darkness. Music swells in. Lights and video fade in.
​
JOHN (V.O.)
Jesus traveled throughout all of Syria, and multitudes
of people came to see him from Galilee and Jerusalem, and Judea,
and even from beyond the Jordan. And seeing their numbers
he felt great compassion for them. For they were tired and sorrowful,
and they seemed to have the weight of the entire world on their shoulders,
so he went out among them and touched them,
and taught them, and healed them.
​
When the lights come up, Jesus is speaking at a special venue that one of his supporters owns - a picturesque hillside with spectacular acoustics. It's a beautiful day. And thousands have come to see him.
​
Start Song: MEANT TO FLY
​
​
​
​
​
JESUS
You say it's so hard to find your way.
But you're following the right star. You've come so far.
And you're not that far away.
You say it's so hard to find your love.
But you're standing on a ledge. Your wings are spread.
Now you just need a little shove.
You're ready to fly. You're ready to fly.
​
But you say that it's so hard to find some peace.
That pain and strife are just part of this life.
And the misery will never cease.
You say that it's so hard to face your fears.
Yet though you might fall, you'd climb any wall,
If you believed Heaven's near.
You would fly! You would fly!
Don't you know you can fly!
​
But you say that's it's too hard to change your life.
But your prayers and dreams are like eagles' wings,
And they'll carry you across the sky.
And you will fly!
Just take that leap of faith and don't stop to question
How or why.
'Cause once you've seen this world from an angel's eyes
You will be shown what you've always known.
That you were meant to fly...
​
Act 2, Scene 2
​
JOHN'S ROOM, EPHESUS, PRESENT - NIGHT
​
Jacob is writing on a scroll. John is standing by the window looking out.
​
JOHN
Let's go for a walk, Jacob. It's a beautiful night.
​
John grabs his cloak from a hook and walks outside. Jacob quickly rolls up the scroll and sets it in its bag, then joins him outside. John is immediately approached by a man and woman who seem very excited to see him. They ask him to give a blessing to their son. Across the street a man and his friend see John.
​
MAN
Look, it's the master.
​
They run toward him. In a matter of seconds, John has a small, though growing crowd around him. He becomes increasingly fatigued as each person begins to demand his individualized attention. Finally, Jacob intervenes.
​
JACOB
John, isn't it time to take your medicine?
​
John looks at Jacob quizzically.
​
JACOB
Remember what the physician said about how your
heart could just stop without warning if you don't?
​
The crowd immediately ceases its chatter and looks to John for a response. At first he has no clue what Jacob is talking about. Then he realizes Jacob has set up his escape.
​
JOHN
Oh, right. Yes. My medicine. Okay. Well, I have to go now,
or my heart could just... It was good seeing you all again, though.
Well, good night.
​
John turns to leave. The people wish him a good night and disperse. John and Jacob walk silently and awkwardly back to the house and go inside.
​
JOHN
How my heart could just stop without warning?!
​
JACOB
You looked like you needed some help.
​
JOHN
Yes but did you have to “help” me with such a morbid image?
My heart could stop at any moment. It’s a strange notion
to live with, believe me. And now the entire town will be talking
about how I’m on the brink of death. Within a week the letters
will be coming in from every corner of the Roman Empire.
​
JACOB
(shaking his head in amusement)
I may have become wealthy, but Saba, you have
become famous. You can’t even walk out your own
door without being mobbed by your adoring public.
​
JOHN
I don't find it amusing, Jacob. It's a curse
and a sin. Don't joke about it.
​
JACOB
A sin?! Saba, you’re a legend.
They love you. How is that a sin?
​
JOHN
I don't know, Jacob. It just seems like it should be.
​
JACOB
You make everyone happy, Saba.
I wish you were happy yourself.
​
JOHN
You're a good boy, Jacob.
Anyway, I was going to tell you a story on our walk.
Grab your pen. This is a good one.
We had been living on the road non-stop
for two straight years. When we came into a town
it was an event. Sometimes we had a hundred people
traveling with us. Apostles. Disciples. Hangers-on.
But along with all that newfound fame came the
very trouble that both Jesus and his mother always
knew would find him, especially with those
whose authority he was constantly challenging.
And along with the trouble came the inevitable
violence. It first reared its ugly head
during Passover in the second year of the tour.
Jesus was staying with a friend in Gethsemane
just outside Jerusalem. I had gone to a house in the city to
prepare the Passover meal with a disciple named Stephen,
who as you might recall, was stoned to death
shortly after the Master was crucified.
He was born to be a martyr, that one, always
inciting the crowds and angering the Pharisees.
He reveled in it. I’m surprised he lived as long as he did.
​
Act 2, Scene 3
​
OUTSIDE JERUSALEM, 33A.D. - DAY
​
John, age 15, walks out of a house and sees Stephen, a fellow disciple, telling a small crowd about the first time he had met Jesus and of all the miraculous things that had happened since. A short distance away stand a couple Pharisees, one of them Caiaphas, the chief priest, and a few merchants, including Eli of Bethany, all obviously disturbed by Stephen’s enthusiastic tale. We hear John continue speaking over the scene.
​
JOHN (V.O.)
Anyway, when I completed the preparations I came
out of the house, and there was Stephen with
a dozen people gathered around him,
all hanging on his every word.
​
Start Song: The Time Has Come
​
​
​
​
​
STEPHEN
I was on my way to the holy land,
When by the road there appeared a man
Who said, Son, where are you going?
What are you hoping to find?
I said, To tell you the truth I don't really know,
But lately I've been feeling that I ought to go,
Because out there somewhere
Might be some peace of mind.
​
Well, he smiled at me and shook his head,
Touched my shoulder and softly said,
You're following a road when you
should be following your heart.
And there's so many things you gotta know
Before you even start.
​
Then he told me, The time has come
To open up your mind. Leave this world behind.
Follow the sun
(addressing Caiaphas)
Mighty soldier and righteous Pharisee,
Don't you know that we are one?
​
CAIAPHAS
He's right, the time has come to open up our minds
And stop acting like we're blind when it's plain to see
How these prophets come, then quickly disappear
And prey on our hopes and fears
While we continue to let them run free.
​
Caiaphas turns and makes a dramatic exit. Eli and the merchants remain, hoping to engage Jesus’ followers in an argument. A few more people wander over to see what is happening.
​
A woman in the crowd is seen being enticed by her friends to tell her story about Jesus. She refuses at first, but then buckles under the pressure of their unrelenting entreaties, and steps forward.
WOMAN WITH STEPHEN
For twenty years I lived in pain,
And then one day this Jesus came
And said, Woman, rise and walk home.
And I was free.
Eli and his supporters shake their heads and throw up their arms in disgust. Then a man near Stephen and John becomes inspired to tell his own story of his incredible encounter with Jesus.
​
MAN WITH STEPHEN
I was blind from the time I was born,
And then one day by the temple door,
Someone touched my eyes and I could see.
I watched him heal a hundred more
And then he smiled at me. And he told me,
The time has come to open up your eyes,
Let your spirit rise. Follow the sun.
Take your worries and cast them to the wind.
Today we battled sin... and we won!
​
Finally Eli loses his patience and steps forward to offer his own opinion. Half the crowd backs him while the other half backs Stephen and the followers of Jesus.
​
ELI
He's right, the time has come to open up our eyes.
These false rabbis are everywhere.
​
STEPHEN
But this one's different.
This one heals the sick.
​
ELI
And if you fall for that old trick, then be prepared.
You're building temples out of air.
​
STEPHEN
Our Messiah has come!
​
ELI
And where is this miracle man from,
We'd like to know.
​
STEPHEN
He was born right here in Judah, in Bethlehem.
​
ELI
Then why haven't we seen him in Jerusalem?
​
STEPHEN
He spends his time up north, in Galilee.
​
ELI
Oh, that's right, he's the one who claims
He comes from King David's own family tree.
It's all a big scam, a clever charade.
If he's a great prophet why's he afraid
To show his face here in Jerusalem?
I'll tell you why!
We're not a bunch of ignorant shepherds.
We're not a bunch of fishermen crazy from the sun.
We're not a bunch of women waiting for a savior to come!
We are scholars. We are merchants.
We are educated men of wealth and esteem.
And we know what's real,
And what's just a childish dream!
​
STEPHEN
You have absolutely no idea what's real.
You may know how to think but you don't know how to feel.
And if you can't feel, then you can't love our Lord above.
Our Messiah has come!
And Paradise is where he's from.
Now you can choose to follow,
You can run and hide.
Or you an choose to wallow in your arrogance and pride,
But the time has come to decide!
​
The crowd becomes hushed as Eli considers his answer. He shakes his head in amusement, looks at one of his companions, and chuckles.
​
ELI
Oh, I've made my decision.
​
He hits Stephen violently and knocks him to the ground, then jumps on him, punching and kicking like a wild animal. John jumps in to help Stephen, but one of Eli’s huge sons pushes him to the ground and threatens further actions if John doesn’t back off. John scoots away and watches helplessly as a brawl breaks out. As soldiers arrive, more people scurry to the scene, including a few Zealots, the Romans’ sworn enemies. Just as order is beginning to be restored, one of the Zealots sneaks up behind a soldier and stabs him in the back. When the other soldiers realize what has happened, they answer the assault with their swords. Screams are heard as armed and innocent Jews fall in the skirmish.
As Stephen is dragged away by two of the soldiers, the crowd disperses, leaving John standing alone on the stage, frozen in shock and dejection. Lights fade.
Act 2, Scene 4
​
JOHN'S ROOM, PRESENT - NIGHT
​
John is looking out the window at the people on the street. Then he turns away.
​
JOHN
I've always considered that the beginning of the end.
And so did Jesus, I think.
(walking to his bed, obviously fatigued)
Words of love. Acts of violence. Never changes.
​
He lies down, clasps his hands behind his head, and stares at the ceiling.
​
JOHN (CONT.)
Stephen was beaten nearly to death. And I just watched.
​
JACOB
What could you have done, Saba?
​
JOHN
I don't know. Something. Anything.
​
JACOB
It sounds like Stephen was cutting his own course to self-destruction.
​
JOHN
Stephen was telling the truth. And he paid the price, as usual.
(walking to the cupboard)
I'm going to have some wine. Would you like some?
​
JACOB
Yes, thank you.
​
JOHN
(pouring the wine)
When the Pharisees heard that Jesus was in Jerusalem, they started
working on a plan to destroy his credibility. And what they came up
with was, I have to say, absolutely brilliant. It should have worked.
And it would have worked... if it had been anyone but Jesus.
​
Act 2, Scene 5
JERUSALEM, 33A.D. - DAY
​
Jesus is sitting near a fountain by the temple with a small group of children. Their parents and other followers and disciples, including John (18 years old), his brother, James, and Judas, are also present.
​
JOHN (V.O.)
Jesus had just returned to the city from the Mount of Olives.
A sizeable crowd had already gathered and he was starting to teach them.
​
Start Song: Blessed
​
​
​
​
JESUS
Blessed are the children. They see the world,
Through eyes of innocence and wonder. And the world is theirs.
They have no cares. They don't worry about what will be.
Yet their needs are met like endless miracles.
Leaving them free to teach the world to be like children.
​
And blessed is the woman who touches the world,
With hands that can reach into a wounded heart and give it Life.
Mother and wife. Angel of tenderness. Guardian of dreams.
She creates wings out of joy and silent tears.
Then watches her children fly away.
And it takes all the strength of a woman.
Act 2, Scene 6
​
JERUSALEM, 33A.D. - CONTINUOUS
​
When the teaching ends, Jesus spends a few moments enjoying the company of the people who have gathered. Then just as he is about to depart with his disciples, a commotion is heard. A small crowd approaches, led by Caiaphas, the high priest and a group of angry townspeople. They have apprehended a woman, a known prostitute, who they throw roughly to the ground when they reach Jesus’ location. She is practically naked, covered only by a small bedsheet.
​
CAIAPHAS
Rabbi, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery.
As you know our law is very clear on this matter.
Moses commanded us to stone such sinners. To death!
What do you say we should do with her?
​
Jesus, sad and pensive over the cold heartedness of the high priest, turns his back to the crowd and walks a few feet away, then kneels down and begins writing distractedly in the sand with his finger. The onlookers, wondering why he is not responding, look at each other puzzled, then begin to gossip and theorize about what exactly should be done with this despicable woman.
​
Start Song: Inescapable Trap
​
​
DISCIPLE 1
What will he do? It's a dilemma.
​
DISCIPLE 2
An inescapable trap!
​
DISCIPLE 1
He can't comdemn her.
​
DISCIPLE 2
And he can't forgive her
Without taking the rap himself.
​
DISCIPLE 3
Our laws are clear. She's an adulteress.
​
DISCIPLE 2
And she was caught in the act.
No sin is greater. It's hard not to hate her
When she's not even denying the fact.
​
CAIAPHAS
Rabbi, we're waiting. What's your decision?
We need an answer sometime today.
​
PHARISEE
We know what we saw.
​
CAIAPHAS
Do we honor our law?
Or shall we just let her go her way?
​
WOMAN
What will he do? Is he not a prophet?
Is he not a merciful man?
​
ELI
The woman has sinned again and again.
She's pushed it as far as she can.
​
MAN
But we cannot stone her.
The Romans forbid us to execute anyone.
​
ELI
We don't need permission. It's our decision.
We know what to do, now let's get it done!
​
CAIAPHAS
Rabbi, we're waiting. What is your judgement?
What do you want us to do?
​
ELI
He must condemn her.
​
WOMAN
No, he will forgive her.
​
PHARISEE
(to Caiaphas)
Whatever he does, he's through!
​
DISCIPLE 2
What will he do? It's a dilemma.
​
DISCIPLE 1
An inescapable trap!
​
ELI
The woman has sinned again and again.
​
PHARISEE
She's pushed it as far as she can.
​
CAIAPHAS
Rabbi, we're waiting. What is your verdict?
​
WOMAN
He seems like a merciful man.
​
CAIAPHAS
What's your position?
​
ELI
The woman's a sinner.
​
PHARISEE
We need a decision!
​
ELI
He must condemn her!
​
CAIAPHAS
Rabbi, we're waiting, it's very simple.
Why have you suddenly lost your voice?
Her crime is severe and our laws are clear.
There is only one choice!
​
JESUS
(standing abruptly)
Alright!!
​
He walks to Caiaphas, staring him down.
​
JESUS
Alright. Stone her.
​
Jesus returns to the spot, kneels and again starts writing in the sand as a fevered murmur passes through the crowd. The Adulteress is terrified as two men force her to her feet and move into position to stone her. Most of the bystanders are horrified as the rocks are quickly gathered. But just as the men get into position, they realize Jesus is now standing between them and her. He speaks again.
​
JESUS
But only he who is without sin can throw the first stone.
​
Jesus beams his commanding gaze into the eyes of each and every hater present. After vacillating for a few long moments, the men begin dropping their stones. But one man, Jesse, refuses to relent. Jesus walks toward him, his eyes piercing his soul. Finally Jesse drops his arsenal.
​
Jesus comforts the woman as the crowd disperses. His disciples remain, however, as do Jesse, his wife, Elizabeth, and a couple of Jesse’s friends, who vehemently discuss b.g. how they should answer Jesus’ arrogant behavior.
​
Eli and his son stop as they are leaving the scene to see what Jesus was writing in the sand. Eli’s face displays confusion, then shock as he finally makes out the words. Jesus’ voice is heard as the words are seen in the sand.
​
JESUS (V.O.)
Eli of Bethany. Guilty of the murder of Andrew bar Jonah.
May God have mercy on your soul.
​
Eli’s face reveals his guilt and astonishment. Then his demeanor changes to anger. He glares at his son as if he is demanding an explanation. When his son realizes the accusatory meaning of the look he firmly responds.
​
ELI'S SON
(whispering loudly)
I didn't tell anyone!
​
ELI
(whispering)
Then who did?
​
ELI'S SON
(whispering)
I don't know. No one! No one knew!
​
ELI
(whispering)
Except you!
​
He looks around to see if anyone is watching, then looks again at the sand.
​
ELI
(whispering harshly)
Get rid of this!
​
He turns abruptly and sees Jesus intently watching him. His son tries to erase the words with his feet, but they immediately re-appear. When Eli turns back around and sees what is happening, he pushes him out of the way and tries to erase the words himself, but they continue to reappear. Becoming desperate, he falls to the ground and starts to wipe them away with his hands. Just then Jesse and his wife, Elizabeth, are seen standing next to him.
​
JESSE
Eli, what is it? What are you doing?
​
ELI
(flustered)
Nothing.
​
JESSE
(sarcastically)
What, just playing in the dirt again?
​
ELI
(standing, grabbing Jesse's arm)
C'mon, let's go home Jesse. There's nothing else we can do here.
There will be no justice served today.
​
He looks sternly at Jesus, still standing with the Adulteress, then takes Jesse by the arm to lead him away. At first Jesse follows, then notices the words in the sand.
​
JESSE
Wait, look at this. The Galilean wrote something in the sand.
​
ELI
It's nothing, Jesse. Just scribbling. I couldn't make it out.
C'mon, I can't stand the sight of these pathetic...
​
JESSE
Wait, Eli, look. It says... Jesse, son of Nathaniel.
​
ELIZABETH
That's you, Jesse.
​
Eli looks confused and relieved by the strange transformation of words.
​
JESSE
Guilty of the sin of... adultery. What?!
​
ELI
There's more, Jesse. Look, it just appeared.
​
JESSE
(reading)
As you have judged...
​
ELIZABETH
(reading)
So you shall be judged.
​
Jesse turns to face his wife, who is looking at him as if she has just discovered something she had always suspected. Jesse gestures that they’re “just words in sand,” but she turns away and leaves. Jesse chases after her.
​
JESSE
Elizabeth, wait. They're just words. They don't mean anything.
You're not actually going to believe some prostitute-loving magician
over your own husband, are you? He's just trying to
cover up his own crimes. Elizabeth! Please!
​
After a few moments, Eli turns to leave. But as he is walking past the spot where Jesus had written in the sand, he hears Jesus’ voice coming up from the ground.
​
JESUS (V.O.)
Eli of Bethany. May God have mercy on your soul.
​
Visibly shaken, Eli turns toward Jesus, unable to resist looking at him once more. Then he departs, his shoulders slumped, as if he has reached some kind of terrible realization.
​
Unable to overcome his curiosity after witnessing Eli’s strange actions, one of Jesus’ disciples walks to the spot and looks at the sand. Jesus walks up to him.
​
DISCIPLE 2
(reading)
Hypocrisy? Greed? Betrayal?
​
JESUS
Each man sees something different.
He sees his own sins... Judas.
​
A look of shame overcomes Judas' face. Finally able to pull away from Jesus’ gaze, he turns and hurries away. The other disciples follow him. Jesus walks to the adulteress.
​
JESUS
Where did everyone go? No one's condemned you today?
​
ADULTERESS
No one, Lord.
​
He removes his cloak and places it gently over the bed sheet, the only thing covering her body.
​
JESUS
And neither do I. Your sins have been forgiven.
(looking around)
Apparently by everybody.
​
She begins weeping uncontrollably. He draws her to himself and embraces her, then whispers.
​
JESUS
You are free. Now just remain free.
​
She falls to his feet and hides her face in her hands, weeping. When she finally looks back up, he is gone. She rises, looks around, and notices she is all alone. Deep in thought, she walks to the spot where Jesus had written in the sand and stares at the ground. Then she sees a few of the rocks meant for her execution and bends down and picks one up. When the song ends she drops her head and weeps as the rock falls from her hand.
​
Start Song: Blessed (Reprise)
ADULTERESS
Blessed is the man who saves the world,
With words that ignite the darkest soul
With the fire of love. Dear Father above,
I hear your voice in him, and it's telling me,
I can come home. Oh, I can come home.
And start over again.
With no guilt. No shame. No sin.
Act 2, Scene 7
​
JOHN'S ROOM, PRESENT - NIGHT
​
Jacob is at the table finishing up the story about the adulteress. John is sitting across the room by the cupboard, motionless. Jacob stretches and yawns.
​
JACOB
I think that's enough for tonight.
Don't you, Saba? It's getting late.
​
John doesn't respond. Jacob looks over at him, then jumps up quickly.
​
JACOB
Saba, are you alright?
​
Jacob rushes to where John is sitting. John is slightly hunched over, his head down, his body limp. When he looks up, his face is pale and drawn.
​
JOHN
Actually, Jacob, I think I need to lie down.
Help me to the bed, my boy.
​
They struggle to the bed. Jacob helps John to get comfortable, then sits silently watching him, his face full of concern.
​
JOHN
I'll be okay now, Jacob. Thank you.
​
JACOB
Saba, you don't look well at all.
​
JOHN
I haven't really looked well since my eightieth birthday.
I'm okay. Don't worry. I just need to get some sleep.
You get some sleep too. It's late.
​
John closes his eyes and immediately falls asleep. Jacob covers him better with his blanket, then walks to the table and extinguishes the flame of the room’s only lantern. He then settles into a chair across the room from John’s bed and covers himself with a blanket.
​
Soon a figure is seen skulking in the darkness, approaching John’s bed. John wakes with a start.
​
JOHN
Who's there? Jacob? Turn up the lamp.
​
FIGURE
As you wish, John.
​
The figure waves its hand in the direction of the lamp and the light goes up. When John sees who it is he is shocked. He looks across the room and sees Jacob sleeping soundly in the chair. John struggles to prop himself up on his elbow.
​
JOHN
Peter?
​
PETER
In the flesh, my friend.
​
JOHN
In the flesh? How could you be in the flesh? You're dead.
​
PETER
No need to insult me, John. I've come a long way to see you.
​
JOHN
Am I dreaming?
​
PETER
What do you think?
​
JOHN
Well, I think I must be.
​
PETER
Ah, what does it matter? Whether you're
dreaming or awake, I am here.
​
JOHN
But why? Why are you here, Peter?
​
PETER
Your time is short. I've come to
help you with your gospel, then take you home.
​
JOHN
Home? To Heaven?
​
PETER
Where else?
​
John pauses to contemplate what Peter is saying. Then he smiles and shakes his head in wonder.
​
JOHN
Heaven, huh? What's it like, Peter?
​
PETER
It's everything and nothing you expect it to be.
It's beyond your imagination, yet made from the same fabric.
It's what love would look like if you could see it;
what freedom would feel like if you could touch it.
It's being awake and dreaming at the same time.
Like you are right now.
​
JOHN
Like I am? Then am I... dead?
​
He can’t quite get the word “dead” out. Peter interrupts him, laughing.
​
PETER
Oh, no, no, no. Not yet, but soon.
So how's the writing going?
​
JOHN
It's coming along. My grandson is helping me.
​
Peter turns and looks at Jacob, who is sound asleep.
​
PETER
Yes, Jacob is a good man. As was his father.
You need to let him in, John.
​
JOHN
What do you mean? I am letting him in. I talk.
He writes. What more am I supposed to do?
​
PETER
You're holding back. I know it. You know it. God knows it.
You and Jacob both need to open up to each other.
You need to tell this story from your heart. He needs to feel it in his.
​
JOHN
Peter, I'm too old for all this.
​
PETER
You're still alive. You're not too old.
​
JOHN
And you're just a dream.
​
PETER
You asked God a question last night. How many
different ways can you tell this story? It was a
valid question. And from what I see here, you're not really
adding much to all the gospels that have already been written.
​
JOHN
That's what I was trying to tell everyone.
​
PETER
But what they were all trying to tell you is that you can write this story
in a way nobody else can. But first you need to get to the bottom
of all this guilt and shame of yours. Jacob can help you.
But you have to let him in.
​
Still perusing the scrolls, Peter comes across one of his favorite stories.
​
PETER
Ah, the wedding at Cana. Do you remember Andrew's
face when the water magically changed to wine.
​
JOHN
(chuckling)
I'll never forget it.
​
PETER
It went as white as yours did when you
saw me standing by your bed tonight.
​
JOHN
Well, it's not every day you see an old friend
who's been dead for forty years.
​
PETER
Has it been that long?
​
JOHN
Peter, is it true you actually requested
to be crucified upside down?
​
PETER
I was trying to make a point.
​
JOHN
Well, you did, my friend. They're still talking about it.
​
PETER
As I recall I started really regretting it about
the twelfth hour I was hanging there.
​
He continues looking throught the scrolls.
​
PETER
Oh, here's a good one. The raising of Lazarus from the dead.
Now that was the miracle of all miracles. And are you going to
tell what happened after that, when Jesus rode into Jerusalem
in glory right after everyone had heard about it? And how the
Pharisees were already plotting his death, sending spies
into the crowd, threatening Herem if anyone
even mentioned the word, Messiah?
​
JOHN
Yes, and how even so, thousands were waiting for him to arrive.
What a day that was, eh Peter? What a glorious, glorious day.
Act 2, Scene 8
​
JERUSALEM, 33A.D. - DAY
​
A large crowd is awaiting Jesus’ arrival. Roman soldiers are positioned everywhere. It is Passover in the third and final year of Jesus’ tour. Food is plentiful; wine is flowing; people are dancing. The atmosphere is festive. Suddenly a man on top of a building shouts that Jesus has arrived. Horns blare as Jesus enters the gate. The crowd breaks out in a joyful and celebratory song.
​
Start Song: Their Just Reward
CROWD
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Soon we'll be free.
(pointing at the soldiers)
Soon they'll receive their just reward.
​
MAN 1
I heard Jesus say, "Behold, I come with a sword!"
​
CROWD
Caesar has us today, but soon he'll have us no more.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Soon we'll be free.
(again pointing at the soldiers)
Soon they'll receive their just reward.
​
YOUNG MAN
Last night I heard mama say,
Jesus has promised this earth to the meek and poor.
​
CROWD
Caesar has us today, but soon he'll have us no more.
​
MAN 2
We've been waiting,
​
WOMAN 1
We've been praying for the true Messiah.
​
MAN 1
And he's the one. For he has come...
​
ALL
With fire!
​
CROWD
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Soon we'll be free. Soon they'll receive their just reward.
​
ALL
Let the music play. Let's drink and dance
And let our spirits soar.
​
CROWD
Caesar has us today, but soon he'll have us no more.
Caesar has us today, but soon he'll have us no more...
​
As the crowd chants this mantra over and over, Jesus climbs the temple steps and turns to speak, but quickly finds they came not to hear him, but to blindly idolize him. And the louder he yells, the more frenzied they become.
​
JESUS
I have not come to lead armies.
I have not come to fight your earthly enemies.
I have not come to free you from the chains of Rome,
But from the slavery of Sin.
Listen to my words. They only can set you free.
Follow my path.
For it leads to the gates of Heaven Itself.
Where death can never touch you.
Where pain does not exist.
Where sorrow vanishes as you pass through those gates,
Never to be felt again.
​
The crowd grows louder, frenzied in fact, practically drowning Jesus out.
​
JESUS
God, make them listen!
​
His voice is so overwhelming, the crowd comes to a hush.
​
JESUS
Caesar has you today. And he'll have you forevermore.
​
The crowd, still silent, looks at Jesus in bewilderment.
​
Lights fade.
Act 2, Scene 9
​
JOHN'S ROOM, PRESENT - EARLY MORNING
​
Jacob, still asleep in the chair, awakens and sees John’s bed empty. Frightened, he jumps up. But John is just at the cupboard cutting himself a slice of bread.
​
JOHN
Oh, Jacob. Good morning. I'm feeling better.
In fact, I'm starving. That's good, right?
​
JACOB
(shaking his head, amused, relieved)
Yes, that's very good, Saba.
​
JOHN
Would you like something?
​
JACOB
No, thank you. But it's good to see you eating.
In fact, it's good to see you breathing.
​
Jacob walks to the door and opens it. He walks outside and stretches. The sky is gray, threatening to rain. John walks outside and joins him. He offers Jacob a slice of bread. Jacob takes it and puts a piece in his mouth.
​
JACOB
Looks like a storm's coming.
​
JOHN
Good. I'd like to see the rain once more before I die.
​
JACOB
Saba, don't talk like that.
​
JOHN
C'mon, let's take a walk. I want to tell you about
the Passover meal just before Jesus was arrested.
​
JACOB
The Last Supper.
​
JOHN
Yes, I believe that's what it's now called.
​
JACOB
Are you sure you're up for a walk?
​
JOHN
I believe there are still a few steps left in these old legs.
The fun is in finding out how many.
Now, let me tell you about that night.
​
They walk slowly toward the edge of town.
​
JOHN
The end was near. Palestine had become hopelessly split
on whether Jesus was the Messiah or not.
There were as many against him as there were for him.
Riots were actually being predicted in Jerusalem over it.
And Passover was well on its way.
The Pharisees needed a swift solution to this inevitable disaster.
So they came up with the perfect plan to put Jesus out of commission.
Once and for all.
​
Act 2, Scene 10
​
GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE, 33AD - NIGHT
​
Jesus and his entourage are resting in a beautiful garden just outside Jerusalem. They have come here after eating the Passover meal at a follower’s house not far away. We hear John’s voice concluding his story.
​
JOHN (V.O.)
We ate the Passover meal at a house just outside the city.
What should have been a joyous celebration turned into a day of
foreboding and bewilderment. Jesus was acting distracted, somber, mysterious.
He talked about cowardice and betrayal. About leaving us. But it was all in riddles,
so we just thought it was another teaching that we didn’t understand.
​
After the meal we went out to Gethsemane. To an olive orchard
Jesus particularly loved. It felt good being out of that stifling house.
But that good feeling was not to last long. Jesus kept going off by himself
for long periods. I was feeling extremely vulnerable, like something bad
was about to happen and there was nothing I could do about it.
I didn't even know what "it" was. But Jesus knew. "It" was his impending
arrest. And "It" was his ensuing execution for treason and blasphemy.
​
Start Song: This Bitter Cup
JESUS AND DISCIPLES
Blessed are they who come in the name of the Lord.
Come let us pray. Come let us claim our just reward.
​
JESUS
Let love light your way,
And we'll meet again on another shore.
I am with you today,
But soon you'll have me no more.
​
Jesus leaves the disciples and finds a more solitary place in the garden where he can pray.
​
JESUS
My time is near. I feel my life slipping away.
But God, take away this fear.
Or is that part of the price that I must pay?
I've always been clear
On every prophesy You've asked me to obey.
But we've only had three years.
Don't You think we could use just one more day?
I think they're finally starting to hear.
And I've got so much more I want to say.
​
I've been waiting. And I've been praying.
I knew this hour would come.
So if I must drink this bitter cup
Then Thy will be done!
​
Jesus returns to where the disciples' are waiting for him. While a chorus sings a pretty lullaby in the background, Jesus gives them a final teaching.
​
CHORUS (V.O.)
Close your eyes a little while. Let your spirit sing.
Open your heart to the little child who lives within your dreams.
Listen to the silent voice that whispers from your soul.
Let go. Let go. Let go.
​
JESUS
My beloved friends. Come close. Gather round me.
I have one final wish before I leave you.
That you love one another as I have loved you.
Greater love has no man than this -
That he lay down his life for his friends.
Keep faith in your Heavenly Father,
And in everything you have learned from His son.
Keep faith in one another. And each of you,
More than anything else, keep faith in your self.
For you will be tested. Stay pure in heart,
And the Holy Spirit will guide you through every ordeal.
This I vow. This I vow.
Act 2, Scene 11
​
ROAD OUT OF EPHESUS, PRESENT - DAY
​
John and Jacob are standing outside an old, old church. The sky is dark, ready to rain.
​
JOHN
This is where I found your father.
​
They enter the church. It is barren except for a couple pews and an old pulpit ready to collapse. They sit in one of the pews. John looks around, reminiscing.
​
JOHN
Your father was a brave man, Jacob. You should be proud of him.
​
Unresponsive, Jacob stands, walks to a window, and looks out at the rain that is starting to fall.
​
JOHN
You feel he abandoned you.
​
JACOB
He did abandon me. And my mother too.
I learned to accept it.
​
JOHN
When I found him in this church, all alone, his parents dead,
he was so frail and innocent. And he stayed that way
through the rest of his life. Gentle soul, kind, forgiving heart;
never angry, never wanted to hurt anyone. I was as surprised
as you when he left for Rome. But when a man is called...
​
JACOB
I hold the missionaries in the highest regard, Saba.
And the martyrs even higher. But a man with a family
should leave that particular calling to men without families.
When you bring children into the world, that becomes your highest calling.
​
JOHN
I agree, Jacob. And you were your father’s highest calling.
That’s why he joined the apostles. Without men like your father,
and my brother, and Paul and Peter, and the others,
what kind of world would we have to raise our own children in?
God calls only his strongest, most courageous warriors to his battles.
​
John walks to Jacob and stands next to him.
​
JOHN
Jacob, if someone walked in here right now intending to take my life,
even though I’m as close to death as I am, would you not defend me?
Would you not lay down your life for me?
​
JACOB
Of course, Saba. You know I would.
But it was different with my father.
​
JOHN
How so? Because he didn't personally know any of those people?
​
JACOB
(his eyes welling up)
No, because he had to choose between them and me.
And he chose them.
​
JOHN
(putting his arm around Jacob's shoulder)
If the choice was his, believe me, he would have stayed home.
He loved you and your mother almost more than is humanly possible.
He cherished every day with you. Never took either of you for granted.
Whenever we were together, you are all he talked about.
He was so proud of you. So proud of your generosity and your strength,
your compassion, your capacity to appreciate and cherish life.
And oh, Jacob, he’d be even more proud today,
to see how you’ve turned out. I know I am.
​
John pauses for a moment, watching the rain outside the window.
​
JOHN
I'll be seeing him shortly. What do you want me to tell him?
​
JACOB
(starting to whimper)
That I love him, Saba. That I've always loved him.
​
As his whimpers turn to sobs, John pulls him gently to himself and holds him.
​
JACOB
And that I've always wished I could be like him.
I've always wanted to be like him.
​
John holds Jacob in his arms, patting his back, looking out at the now pouring rain, thunder cracking in the distance.
​
JOHN
So have I, Jacob.
​
Suddenly John becomes heavy in Jacob's arms.
​
JACOB
Saba, what's the matter?
​
JOHN
Jacob, help me over to that bench.
​
Jacob helps John to the pew, where he lies down. Jacob kneels next to him, holding his hand.
​
JACOB
I'm going to get some help, Saba. I'll be right back.
​
JOHN
No, Jacob. Stay with me. No one can help me now.
​
JACOB
I can get to the physician's and be back in five minutes.
​
JOHN
Jacob, I'm dying. And I'm so thankful that you're here.
Dying is such a personal thing. I want you
with me when it happens. Only you.
​
JACOB
Saba...
​
JOHN
Jacob, I want you to hear my confession
​
JACOB
(shocked)
Me? Hear your confession? Saba, I...
​
JOHN
You must open your heart. You must listen to
my words with wisdom and compassion, so you'll
know what to say to heal my soul before I die.
​
Jacob squirms at the thought of what John might say, and how he should respond.
​
JACOB
Saba, I can't. You don't know what you're asking.
​
JOHN
I'm not asking, boy. I'm begging you. Please.
​
Jacob’s heart races. He can’t fathom the duty John is asking him to perform. John is one of the great apostles of Jesus, a man admired and respected by millions of people all over the world for his wisdom and holiness. Yet Jacob can see no way to get out of granting John’s request. Still reluctant, he lets out a heavy sigh.
​
JACOB
Alright, Saba.
​
JOHN
Father, thank you for bringing Jacob back into my life.
Especially now. And thank you for sending Peter to me last night.
​
John takes a long pause, staring up at the ceiling, trying to gather his thoughts. Finally just before he speaks, tears well in his eyes.
​
JOHN
Forgive me, Father, for living this long.
I know I am a coward and a hypocrite.
​
Jabob's face contorts as he hears the awful words coming from John's lips.
​
JOHN
All my life I have run from danger. Run from the battles
You sent me to fight. Run from the killers of my friends.
Of my own brother.
​
JACOB
Saba!
​
John turns his head and looks at Jacob, the terror of his confession in his eyes.
​
JOHN
James asked me to go to Jerusalem with him, but I told him
I had to stay with Mary, that Jesus had given me strict instructions.
But that wasn’t true. Mary would have been safe in Ephesus.
Everyone’s safe in Ephesus. My brother died alone. Alone.
​
JACOB
Saba, this is no confession. This is a self-betrayal.
Do you know what you’re saying? You did exactly what
Jesus told you to do. You took care of his mother.
​
JOHN
That was just an excuse.
​
JACOB
It was his commandment to you .
Those were his dying words.
​
JOHN
And I was glad for it. I used it. It meant I didn’t have to go on the missions.
When Paul was martyred in Rome, I was glad it was him, and not me.
I felt the same thing when Peter was crucified. You mention betrayal.
Peter would have never had thoughts like that.
​
JACOB
And where was Peter when Jesus was dying on the cross.
You were the only one brave enough to be there. If not for you,
Jesus would have died without a single of his apostles with him.
​
JOHN
I knew there was no real danger.
They had the man they wanted on the cross.
​
JACOB
Then what were the others so afraid of?
​
JOHN
They thought we were more important than we were, that's all.
​
JACOB
And they were right! Maybe the Romans didn’t fully realize it yet.
But they do now. That’s why they’ve closed Egypt to all Christian immigration.
In fact, they’ve closed off half their empire. Did you know that, Saba?
They fear an invasion. And not by men with swords and spears and giant horses,
but by men with much more powerful weapons… words. They know
they can’t fight words, Saba. No earthly empire has ever been able to fight words.
​
Can’t you see, your mission was to live. To live a hundred years.
So you could have a lifetime to reflect on those glorious teachings,
and write them down for the millions, maybe billions of people who will
read them, and hear them, and learn from them, and live by them.
​
Saba, when I was on my way here from Alexandria, I felt like I had finally
been called to my mission. I believe what we’ve been putting to paper
may be the most important document this world will ever possess.
You were born to do this, Saba. You must honor this calling.
​
JOHN
Whatever I was born for, it was certainly not
to write anything. I am no great writer.
​
JACOB
You are a great writer, because you're a great man.
​
JOHN
A great man. If I were a great man I would have been dead
a long time ago. I'm a coward and I'm confessing it.
I'm asking God to forgive me.
​
JACOB
Saba, please. You can’t die like this, with this sin on your conscience.
You’re passing a terrible judgment on yourself, on one of God’s
most beloved creatures. That is your sin. That’s what you should be confessing.
Do you really think Jesus would have entrusted his own mother to a coward?
You know how much he loved her. And Saba...
​
JACOB
(his eyes filling with tears)
You know how much he loved you.
​
John begins weeping. Jacob holds his head against his chest and rocks him as the rain pours down outside the church, thunder cracking every couple minutes, increasing in frequency and intensity. When John’s tears subside, he lays his head peacefully against Jacob’s chest as Jacob strokes his head and stares at the rain outside the window.
​
John falls into a deep sleep. After a couple moments he starts dreaming about the awful day he witnessed the agonizing execution of his beloved friend and master. SFX screaming, laughing, crying, howling wind, and the pounding of a hammer are HEARD coming from John’s dream.
Act 2, Scene 12
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GOLGOTHA, THE MOUNT OF SKULLS, 33 A.D. - DUSK
​
Jesus is being crucified. Four women kneel on the ground below him. They include his mother, her sister, Salome and Mary Magdalene. John stands nearby. Two Roman soldiers are kneeling at the foot of the cross, throwing dice for Jesus’ possessions, which include only a pair of sandals, a tunic, and a robe.
​
SOLDIER 1
(laughing)
Eights and twos. Give me that robe.
​
SOLDIER 2
Hold on, hold on. Those aren't eights.
What, are you blind? Or do you have a death wish?
​
SOLDIER 1
All right, take it. Let's cast for the tunic. That's
the only thing that's worth anything anyway.
​
Salome, on her knees next to Mary, tries to relieve some of Mary's comsuming sorrow.
​
SALOME
Mary, are you alright? You're shaking so badly. I'm
worried about you. John, get Mary some water.
​
MARY
No, I will not drink while he thirsts.
​
The soldiers have thrown the dice again, and again Soldier 2 won. They are both standing now, Soldier 2 admiring the tunic he just acquired.
​
SOLDIER 2
Look at this tunic. It's seamless. You don't see that
too often. Do you know what this thing is worth?
​
SOLDIER 1
Nothing to me, now that you cheated me out of it.
​
SOLDIER 2
Cheated? I cheated?
​
He grabs Soldier 1 and pulls him toward him, ready to strike.
​
SOLDIER 2
(continuing)
You're the one who cheats. And you still can't win.
​
SOLDIER 1
Alright, alright. Let's cast for the sandals.
See if I can win something today.
​
SOLDIER 2
Go ahead, you take them. I don't want the
sandals of a filthy Galilean witch doctor.
​
Jesse and his friend walk by and see Jesus on the cross. Jesse is drunk and haggard. His life has taken an obvious turn for the worse and he takes great pleasure in seeing Jesus now undergoing a slow and painful death.
​
JESSE
There's our "king." Hey, you, Messiah, if you're truly
the Son of God, slide down from that cross and save yourself.
​
They wait for a moment, then walk away, shaking their heads, grinning.
​
JESSE
I didn't think so.
​
Salome cringes at the horror of the unfolding events.
​
SALOME
Mary, how can you bear to hear
them mock your son like that?
​
JESUS
(groaning)
God, I hurt. I hurt. Father, where are You?
Why have you left me here to die without You?
​
MARY
(beginning to sob)
Jesus. My Jesus.
Act 2, Scene 13
​
INT. OLD CHURCH, EPHESUS, PRESENT - DAY
​
Jacob is sitting on a bench next to John, writing on a scroll. John's sleep is extremely agitated. A figure appears. Jacob doesn't seem to see it as it approaches John's bench. It nudges John's shoulder.
​
PETER
John... John. Wake up.
​
John sits up with a start, his breathing short and quick. When he finally regains his senses and sees who was waking him, his face shows his surprise.
​
JOHN
Peter!
​
He looks around. The church is now bathed in a soft angelic light.
​
JOHN
Is it time to go?
​
PETER
Not yet, my friend. It's time to finish
what you started. Then we go.
​
John sits up and rubs his forehead.
​
JOHN
I was just dreaming about his crucifixion.
​
PETER
(sympathetically)
I know.
​
JOHN
It was the most horrible thing I've ever seen.
​
PETER
Tell the boy about it, John. Let everyone know what happened
that day. Let it be remembered forever. You were
the only one of us who was there, my friend.
You were the only one who was with him.
​
JOHN
Peter, he called to me from the cross.
Act 2, Scene 14
​
GOLGOTHA, MOUNT OF SKULLS, 33 A.D. - DUSK
​
Jesus hangs from the cross, looking down. It is near the end. His voice is weak and strains to be heard.
​
JESUS
John.
​
JOHN
(stepping closer)
Yes, Master?
​
JESUS
Take my mother as your own.
​
JOHN
I will care for her as you have.
​
Jesus looks at his mother, tears coming.
​
JESUS
Mother, make John your son now.
​
Mary nods. She knows the end is near, yet her sadness is so overwhelming she is numb. Jesus writhes in pain for a few moments, then looks up to heaven as a look of joy comes over his face.
​
JESUS
Father. Into Your hands I commit my spirit.
​
His head falls against his chest and he dies. Mary weeps in John’s arms. The soldiers check to see if Jesus is dead, and then confirming that he is, start removing him from the cross. When they have him on the ground, and are about to take him away, John approaches them and asks if Mary can hold him one last time. His request is firmly denied.
​
Just then a wealthy merchant arrives with orders from Pilate allowing him to take Jesus to a special tomb which he has just purchased. John has some words with the merchant, who then talks to the soldiers, who finally bring the body to Mary. As she sits on the ground, they lay him in her arms, and she sings a sweet lament to her beloved son.
​
Start Song: Mary's Lament
MARY
Jesus, my child. Look what they've done to you.
Seems like just yesterday, you were playing with the children.
It always made me smile when they would run to you.
And as I watched you there I whispered a prayer
That this dream could just go on and on,
And then it was gone. Now it's gone.
​
Suffer no more, my son.
Lay your head against my heart
Just once more, my son.
You have given all that you could give,
Gave your life so the world could live,
And I know that now your work is done.
And I feel so alone but I know,
You're finally going home.
You're going home.
​
As Mary sits holding Jesus in silence, scenes of his life are seen in flashbacks on the BGVid:
​
SERIES OF SCENES:
​
(A) EXT. NAZARETH, 6 A.D. - DAY
Jesus, age six, runs in a meadow, playing with his parents. Joseph tackles him playfully and rolls with him as Mary looks joyfully on.
​
(B) INT. HOUSE IN NAZARETH, 12 A.D. - DAY
Jesus, age 12, is having his bar mitzvah. It seems the whole town has turned out for it.
​
(C) EXT. ROAD TO JERUSALEM, 12 A.D. - DAY
The family is on a pilgrimage. Joseph and Mary walk as Jesus, age 12, rides a donkey. When they look back at him, they see he is falling asleep. But before they can get to him, he falls halfway off, as Joseph helps him to the ground. When it is apparent he is all right, everyone laughs.
​
(D) EXT. NAZARETH, 16 A.D. - MORNING
Mary comes out of the house and asks Joseph if he’s seen Jesus. Joseph gestures that he hasn’t, so they look for him. They find him sitting on the cliff, gazing at the great plain below. When they approach him, he stands up excitedly and tells them about his wonderful night alone… with God.
​
(E) EXT. GALILEE, 21 A.D. - DAY
Jesus, age 21, walking slowly with his mother in a meadow near their home. They are in the middle of a deep, deep conversation.
​
(F) INT. HOUSE IN CANA, 31 A.D. - NIGHT
Jesus sits in a candle-lit room with a small group of people. They listen to him intently. He touches some of them and they react to the soothing and healing powers of his touch.
​
(G) EXT. JERICHO, 32 A.D. - DAY
Jesus walks down a road with children all around him, one on his shoulders. Their cheerful conversation and spontaneous laughter demonstrate their obvious love for him.
​
(During the flashbacks, some men take Jesus from Mary’s arms. Lights fade as John, Salome and Mary Magdalene watch them carry Jesus off-stage. Mary sits on her heels in a crumpled position as her spotlight fades to black.)
Act 2, Scene 15
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THE OLD CHURCH, EPHESUS, PRESENT - NIGHT
​
The church is still bathed in light. John is talking with Peter, who is holding his hand in his own.
​
PETER
Finish it, my friend. I'll be back for you.
​
JOHN
(as Peter fades away)
Peter, wait. When? How long do I have? Peter!
​
As Peter’s form fades, Jacob is seen in the same place Peter had occupied.
​
JACOB
Saba, it's alright. I'm here. I'm here.
​
John becomes fully conscious and sees Jacob sitting next to him in the same position he had assumed before John had fallen asleep. He looks around. It is dark out. The rain has stopped. A full moon shines its light into the church.
​
JOHN
What happened?
​
JACOB
You were telling me about the crucifixion,
and then you started calling me Peter.
​
JOHN
I see.
​
He rises to his elbow. It is a strain, so Jacob helps him. John looks around, then lies back down.
​
JOHN
Jacob, over there behind that old pulpit, there is a quill and some paper.
Bring them over here. I want you to write something.
​
Jacob retrieves the items and returns to John's side.
​
JACOB
How did you know these were there?
​
JOHN
Ever since we moved into the bigger church, I’ve been coming here
to write. This old church still lives and breathes. Some things
never die. In fact, nothing does, really. Everything is God.
And God is love. I feel that love, Jacob. I feel it now.
And I understand it. I think I finally understand it.
​
John’s breathing becomes so labored he barely completes the sentence. As John struggles to catch his breath, the two men clutch each other’s arms as if they are trying to keep John from slipping away. Finally John is able to speak again.
​
JOHN
Write this down, Jacob.
​
Jacob picks up the quill and scroll and prepares to write. John stares off into some far-away place as if the words are presenting themselves in the air before him, and he is reading them. And marveling at them.
​
JOHN
In the beginning was the word. And the word was with God.
And the word was God. He was in the beginning with God.
All things were made through him. And nothing was made
that was made without him. In him was life,
and the life was the light of men.
The light shines in the darkness.
And the darkness cannot overcome it.
​
Lights fade out as John finishes the historic first verse of his gospel.
Act 2, Scene 16
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UPPER ROOM, JERUSALEM, 33 A.D. - DAY
​
Lights fade up on a room full of Jesus' disciples, all mourning his recent loss. Some are sitting, others standing, speaking in hushed voices, mostly consoling each other. Then a voice is heard, singing. Startled, everyone looks around, but they can't locate the voice. They are mystified and becoming frightened until they finally witness the person singing. It is Jesus, in the flesh, glowing like a bright candle. And he has a message for them:​​​​​​
​
Start Song: A Candle in the Night
JESUS
I feel what you feel and I know what you're going through.
If it were up to me I'd be there instead of you.
But when you're lost and alone in the dark,
And you're just trying to make it to the morning light,
I'll be there like a star that shines through the night;
There like a flame burning forever bright;
I'll be there like an answer to a prayer;
I'll be your light; like a candle in the night.
​
You brought me your sick and I took away their pain.
You learned how to love one another;
And that's the reason I came.
And though it's time I depart
Know that I'm in your heart,
And that everything is all right.
I'll be there like a star that shines through the night;
There like a flame burning, forever bright;
I'll be there like an answer to a prayer;
I'll be your light; like a candle in the night.​
Like a candle in the night.
​
I feel what you feel and I know what you're going through.
And I know the pain is real, but I'm right here beside you.
So when the battle's raging in your heart,
You will never be alone in the fight.
'Cause I'll be there like a star that shines through the night;
There like a flame burning forever bright;
I'll be there like an answer to a prayer;
I'll be your light; like a candle in the night.
Like a candle in the night.
Like a candle. Like a candle.
Like a candle in the night.
​
THE CURTAIN FALLS on a joyous scene full of singers and dancers, rousing music, stunning lighting and inspiring SFX.