Sergius - That's over then, may as well get cleared up,
Marcus - I hate this duty.
Quartus - Aren't you used to it yet, Marcus? You've seen plenty!
Marcus - I know, Quartus, but it makes no difference. I'll never get used to it.
Sergius- Sure you will! They are all criminals remember that!
Marcus - The middle one wasn't.
Quartus - The one whose clothes we gambled for?
Sergius- Yes, that's the one he means. Were you lucky with the dice this time Quartus?
Quartus- No, not this time, Sergius. Were you?
Sergius- Not a thing! But I made a good haul last time I got ..
Marcus - Is that all it means to you two? Bits of clothing, a few pieces of silver. Oh!
Sergius - For goodness sake, Marcus. We’ve always gambled for their clothes if they're worth it'. It's one of the perks of the job. What has got into you today!!!
Marcus- We’ve crucified an innocent man this time. That’s "what".
Quartus- Who says?
Marcus - The darkness does. The earthquake does. The things He said...
Sergius- (interrupts) Don’t be ridiculous! Coincidence! That's all it was – coincidence!
Marcus - You may think so, Sergius, but the Centurion wouldn't agree with you either.
Quartus- He’s right you know. I heard the Centurion saying that the middle one,
Jesus of Nazareth, was the Son of God.
Sergius- Son of God! What next! The man was a trouble maker.
Marcus - Well if you are so sure of yourself, Sergius, give me one instance just one.
Sergeant- (coming up behind them) Stop arguing, you lot, and get cleared up,
You'll all be in trouble if the Centurion sees you idling around.
Quartus- ' Watch out! Talking about trouble here he is.'
Centurion -  You soldiers not cleared up yet? What have you been doing.
Quartus- Been busy, Sir.
Sergeant- Just about finished, Sir.
Marcus - (picks up a pair of sandals) Whose are these?
Sergius- Oh, they belong to that Jesus of Nazareth the one you seem to admire.
We must have missed them.
Quartus- Why don’t you keep them? You never know, they may be magic.!!
Marcus- (thoughtfully) Perhaps I will.
Sergeant - Let me see them. Hm! good bit of leather.
Centurion- Are those the Nazarene's sandals?
Marcus- Yes, sir. I’d like to keep them, if I may.
Centurion- By all means, they’ll only be thrown away. (Pause) You interested
in Jesus of Nazareth, soldier?
Marcus- (hesitantly)Sort of, sir. I just feel He wasn’t an ordinary
man. What do you think, sir?
Centurion- I feel as you do. I’ve seen dozens of crucifixions, but never
one like this.
Marcus- (eagerly) That's just what I was saying to the others, sir. When
has there been an earthquake before and the darkness! That was
eerie, don't you think sir?
Centurion - I agree. But the things He said were even stranger.
"Father forgive them, they don’t realise what they are doing."
Marcus- Yes, and "It is finished”. What do you think He meant by that?
Centurion - I don’t know, but I mean to find out. How about you?
Marcus- Count me in. sir. But how do we go about it?
Centurion - I know some of His disciples by sight. I’ll find a way to have
a word with them. I’ll contact you when I have some news.
Marcus- Thank you, sir.
Centurion -  Relax everyone. A moment, please Marcus.
I’ve had a word with one of the disciples, and they are meeting this
evening. I Intend to go, do you want to join me?
Marcus-  Yes sir, I’d love to. Do you have the address of the meeting place
Centurion- Yes I know exactly where it is, so meet me at the main gate at 7 p.m.
Marcus- I’ll be there, Thank you, sir.
Sergius-  What did he want with you?
Quartus-  You were whispering what you up to?
Marcus-  Nothing.
Sergius- (belligerently) Oh. no? That’s not what it looked like from here!
Quartus-  No. it wasn't.
Serg.- (pointing to Sergius and Quartus)
You and you have just volunteered to muck out the stables.
Sergius - Sergeant,we’ve just come off duty!
Sergeant.- And now you are just going back on! Two of the lads are sick so. MOVE IT!
Sergeant - And what do you think you are doing?
Marcus-  I’m just off to do some polishing, Serg.
Sergeant-  Then it wont get done standing around here will it?
Marcus- No, Serg.(leaves at the double)
Serge- And that goes for the rest of you too.You've been in here long enough move it!
Sergeant- (grins at audience)That's how I like it!!
7 p.m. that evening. Enter Centurion followed a second or two later by Marcus.
Marcus- Evening, sir. Not late am I?
Centurion- Evening, Marcus. No, you're not late, we have plenty of time. It's only a short walk
to the house.
Marcus-  How did the disciple feel about Roman soldiers visiting them, sir?
Centurion-  I must admit he was a little surprised at first, but then very welcoming
Marcus-  I hope he told the others to expect us.
Centurion-  I'm sure he has.
Centurion-  Are those His sandals you are wearing?
Marcus-  Yes, they are.
Centurion- It must feel strange to be wearing them.
Marcus- But rather wonderful too,almost as if I were part of Him.
Marcus- Is this the house, sir?
Centurion- I believe so. (Knocks at door)
Peter- (surprised) Yes?
Centurion- May we come in?
Peter- (hesitantly) Y e s.
Centurion- We are not here to cause trouble I am Centurion Andronicus and
this is Marcus. Were you not expecting us?
Peter- Oh yes, of course. Please come in.
Disciple-s  You are welcome.Do come in. Sit here.
Centurion- We have come to find out more about Jesus of Nazareth who was
crucified recently.
Mary M.-  Were you there?
Marcus-  Er! Yes we were there.
John- I thought I recognised you.
Marcus- (mumbles) I'm sorry.
Peter-  Oh don't be. It wasn't said to embarass you.
Mary-  Are you a believer in Jesus?
Centurion-  Yes. I am. I believe He was the Son of God.
John-  And you? (looking at Marcus)
Marcus-  I'm beginning to.
Peter- We can definitely assure you that Jesus IS the Son of God.
Centurion- But He is dead now.
Mary- Oh! no. He's alive He rose again!
Mary M.- And we've seen Him!
Peter- (laughs) It's true!
Centurion- I know there was a story going around saying Jesus had been
resurrected from the dead but it was discounted wasn't it?
Marcus- Yes. We were told that you disciples had taken the body and hidden it.
James- Some people will say anything if they are paid well enough!
Believe me, Jesus is alive we have all seen Him.
Marcus- This is amazing it's wonderful!
Marcus- These are His sandals I hope no one minds? I found them After.....um.....after the crucifixion.
Peter- No, no one minds. You look as if they mean something to you.
Marcus- They do. I feel almost as if he were walking beside me.
James- Perhaps He will call you to walk in His footsteps become one of His followers.
Marcus- I'd like that. Yes, I would like to become one of His followers and learn more about Him.
John- Then why don't we go into the Upper Room where Jesus appeared to us,
and we can tell you of His life; His work; and His purpose in coming.
James- And then we can pray together.
Marcus- In His footsteps that sounds good to me.
Centurion- To me, too.
Elizabeth Aynsley ©
Sergeant Right, everyone out at the double.
Sergius- Not more stables, Serg?
Sergeant- No, there's trouble up in Galilee so get your kit and let's be having
you NOW!
Apelles-  They left in a hurry, didn't they? Just look at all this rubbish.'
I suppose that means we have to clear it up.
Nereus- Suppose so. They were called away at a second's notice that riot
in Galilee you know.
Apelles - Oh yes. By the way, I'm Apelles.
Nereus - And I'm Nereus, pleased to meet you.
Apelles - You too. Well, I suppose we've got the best of the bargain. I'd
rather be here than out in Galilee dealing with that mob.
Nereus- True, but I heard they are not such a bad lot. I dare say we would
feel the same if we were in their shoes.
And talking about ‘shoes' look what I've just found.
Apelles-  Let me see. Not a bad pair.
Nereus-  No, I think I'll keep them.
Apelles- You've done well been here all of two minutes and you've walked
into someone's shoes!
Nereus - (laughs) Well, have a look round you never know what you might find.
Apelles- I wonder what sort of a place this is. I've never been to Fortress
Antonia before, have you?
Nereus- No, but I've only been in the Army for six months.
Apelles- Oh, so you are still at the 'homesick' stage! You'll get over it
we all do.
Nereus- Oh yes. I'm quite enjoying Army life really, but this country is
very different from home isn't it?
Apelles- It certainly is. I've just come back from 'home leave' so it'll take
a day or two to get settled in again, but the Army has it's compensations.
You do get to see how other people live.
Nereus- That's true.
Apelles- Are they your size?
Nereus- They seem to be. I'll try them on later.
Sergeant- What have you got there?
Nereus- Sandals Sergeant. someone must have left them.
Sergeant.- Let me see. Oh yea, they belong to Marcus he thought a lot of them.
Nereus- 0h.'
Sergeant.-  Don't look so disappointed, lad. He wont be back for them. He's off on
'home leave' once he is finished up in Galilee so I doubt if he will be back here again.
Nereus- Then I can keep them?
Sergeant.- Why not'. They belonged to a man we crucified some time ago Jesus of
Nazareth- I remember Him well. Said he was the Son of God at one time.
Nereus- I've heard of Him, His followers are called Christians aren't they?
Sergeant.- Been doing your homework before you came out here I see! But you are
right, that's what they are called and there are a few problems here because of them I can tell you.
Sergeant- Into line then, all you lot, it's time for my little 'talk' to the
new boys!
Sergeant- As you know, the others had to leave rather hastily due to a little
problem up in Galilee. This is not an easy posting I may as well tell
you now. Not many people care for our presence here. But, here we are,
and here we stay until our Masters in Rome say otherwise. In the
meantime it's our duty to keep the peace and Hmm!
‘educate' anyone who thinks differently. Is that understood?
Soldiers  Yes, Sergeant.
Sergeant- Good. 'Cos I’m here to make sure you do’. Get settled in then, and
tomorrow 6 a.m. sharp right here, I'll give each of you your duties.
Serg.- Good No one missing?
Soldiers- No Serg.
Serg.- That's what I like to see, everyone eager to start work!
Now , duty roster.
602 and 603 (soldiers step forward)
Main gate guard duty.
604 and 605 (as above) Stables
606 and 432
Special duties for you two, (Nereus and Apelles)
Pick up your helmets, cloaks, spears,
change of footwear and join the others outside.
And in case you are wondering why? I'll tell you. You are to
accompany a fellow called ‘Saul’ who is off to Damascus with
special authority to chain and bring back any christians he can find for trial.
Apelles- I thought christians were a harmless lot, Serg.
Serg.- Not according to this fellow. So you are to go with them
and make sure there is no trouble on the way back.
Nereus- Is it far, Serg?
Serg.- Yes, that's why I mentioned your footwear. We don't want you
limping, all the way back, do we? Not good for our image, is it?
Any more Questioned No? Then DISMISS!
Saul- (restlessly) We can rest for a while then we must be on our way again.
Rufus- (sitting down with the others) I should think so too.
Apelles- You tired Rufus?
Rufus- I'll say I am! Oh, what I would give to be able to put my feet in a
nice cool river for a while.
Nereus- I wonder how many miles we've done today?
Apelles- By the state of my feet I should think about lOO!!! I'm glad we are
almost there.
Rufus- Nereus, have you any ointment? I've got a huge blister.
Nereus-  Yea, here you are, Rutus. Why don't you change your shoes? I'm going to.
Apelles- Are they the ones you found at the barracks, Nereus?
Nereus-  Yea, I thought I'd give them a try. They look comfortable enough.
Yes, they're fine.
Rufus- Strange fellow, Saul, isn't he? Can't wait to get to Damascus.
Apelles- Yes I know. He seems obsessed with the idea of catching Christians.
Nereus- Zealous, I believe it's called zealous
Rufus- It certainly is look, he's up again.
Apelles- Come on then, can't let him think we aren't up to it can we?
Rufus- No way! Not the greatest Army in the world!!!!
Not far now, only a couple of miles or so See,
there is Damascus in the distance.
Saul-  I can't see I'm blind!
Soldiers What is happening.
Oh! that light. He’s blind'.
I heard a Voice did you?
Yes, but I couldn't understand what was said.
Nor could I
What do you think it was?
Who spoke?
Nersus- I think it was God.
Apelles- God?
Nereus- Yea. Who else could it have been?
I can't believe it! The Lord spoke to me.
1st.Friend- The God of the Christians?
Saul- Yes, the One I've been persecuting. He told me to go into the City.
2nd friend- Don't worry, Saul, we will lead you.
Apelles- So what are we going to do now? (looks at other soldiers)
Nereus- I'm going with them.
Rufus- You can't do that!
Nereus- Why not? We have a few days "restleave" before we need to return
to the Fortress so I'm going to find out about that Voice.
Apelles- You mean, Jesus? The one the Christians believe in?
Nereus- Yes. I've heard Him called the Son of God, and if He can do this
I reckon He must be!
Rufus- But that means leaving our gods!
Apelle- What about your career?
Rufus- You could lose your friends.
Apelles- What will your family say?
Rufus- Don't do it, Nereus. Think of all the consequences.
Nereus- If I find the True God, then what else matters? I'll leave my future to Him.
Elizabeth Aynsley ©
Lydia- Wasting time again, Onesimus? How many times must I warn you?
Onesimus- Work, work, work. I’m tired of it!
Lydia - You are an ungrateful young man. Many a slave would think
himself in heaven if he lived here with Philemon. Just
think of the life they have on the estate belonging to Archippus. Well? !!!
Onesimus - I know, I know, but I want to be free.
Lydia- Free? !! You can forget those grand Ideas, and be thankful
for what you've got. Now get on with your work.
Free!!! The very idea!
Felix- I couldn't help overhearing what was said. Onesimus, you do
ask for trouble. All this talk about freedom. We’d all like
to be free, but you know it's impossible so why go on about it?
Onesimus- It’s not Impossible, Felix.
Felix- Of course its im…… what do you mean 'it’s not impossible?’
Onesimus- 'Because I have my plans. I've had enough of slavery'.
Felix- (angrily) Don't talk so foolishly. You know the penalty for runaway
slaves we all do. So forget it, and get on with your work.
Onesimus - Look what I've foundl
Felix- You haven’t found anything, because they were never lost! We all
know where they are. They've been there for years.
Onesimus- So why are they in a cupboard? Who do they belong to?
Felix- They belong to a Roman soldier Nereus I believe his name was
he left them here on his last visit. SO we put them in there in
there in case he came back again. That’s the reason.
Onesimus- A Roman soldier!
Felix- Yes. A Christian. He became a Christian when
he was with Paul in Damascus.
Onesimus - Paul? Who Is Paul?
Felix- Don't you know anything? He is a famous preacher – once known an Saul.
Onesimus- So why haven't I heard of him if he is so famous?
Felix - Probably because he's in prison, in Rome.
Onesimus- ROME! That's where I’m going one day.
Felix- Don't start that again'. I’m off to my duties, and if you have
any sense you’11 attend to yours too.
Onesimus- Yes, and I’m off too but to ROME!
There's enough here to get me a passage on board ship. I'll
get to Rome I'll make sure I do. And then I’ll be free – really free.
I’ll do whatever I want, go wherever I want, and no one can stop me.
And I'll take these too, they are still in good condition. They'll be very useful.
Junias- (heartily) Good morning, fellow traveller.
Onesimus- Good morning.
Junias- Come and join me share my humble meal.
Onesimus- Thank you. you're very kind. (also sits)
Junias- I'm Junias.
Onesimus- And I'm Onesimus pleased to meet you.
Junias- Have you travelled far?
Onesimus- A fair distance. Have you?
Junias- From Puteoli, no great distance. I live there with my wife and children,
and when I heard that a friend of mine was in prison in Rome I decided to
visit him. Where did you live and work?
Onesimus- (hesitantly) In Colossae.
Junias- A good job was it?
Onesimus- Oh Yes, excellent. I was sorry to leave really, but I decided to see
the world. Work my way around, you know.
Junias- It sounds interesting. I'm on my way now to hear Paul my friend. He
is being allowed to preach tonight.
Onesimus- Paul? I've heard of him when I was .......er, never mind.
Junias- Why not join me? I'm sure you will find him interesting.
Onesimus- We11 .....thank you, but I'm not sure. Preachers aren't really
my idea of 'enjoyment' and that's my intention to enjoy myself.
Junias- Oh do come, friend. Your time is your own isn't it? You'll enjoy
listening to him I'm sure.
Onesimus- (reluctantly) Well, I have nothing better to do at the moment so
I may as well, BUT I don't want to become a Christian! Let me make
that clear right now. No Christianity for me O.K.?
Junias- Fine. Just listen to Paul that's all I ask.
Onesimus- (nods) Mm!
Junias- So, Onesimus, tell me about yourself. Now long have you been a free man?
Onesimus- Oh, years and years.
Junias- That's good. I was a slave myself at one time until my Master
gave me my freedom.
Onesimus- Mine did too. He wasn't a bad sort of fellow.
Junias-  Yes, you get some good Masters but you get a lot more who
aren't.
Onesimus- That's for sure. The slaves on a neighbouring estate had a dreadful life.
Junias- Well let's not dwell on it. It's time to make a move. We have to
get there in good time before the crowds arrive.
Onesimus- Sure! (rises reluctantly)
Onesimus, Junian, Lucius talking centre stage.
Junias- Look, Paul is free. Why not have a word with him. I'll introduce you?
Onesimus- Er, no thanks. I don't think so.
Lucius- Paul's coming over to us,
Paul- Greetings, everyone.
Junias and Lucius Greetings, Paul.
Junias- Paul, I would like to introduce my new friend, Onesimus.
Paul- Welcome, Onesimus. (turns to Junias) And what are you doing in Rome,Junias?
Junias- I heard of your imprisonment, Paul so I decided to visit you as noon
as I possibly could.
Paul- I'm glad to see you Junias. And how are you, Lucius?
Lucius- Well, thank you Paul. And how are you?
Paul- Mustn't grumble, the Lord has been very gracious to me in allowing me
to preach whilst still in bonds.
Junias- I wondered if I could be of help to you Paul.
Paul- That's very thoughtful of you, Junias, but I know you have committments
at Puteoli. I'm sure the Lord will bring someone to help me.
And where are you from, my friend?
Onesimus- (almost stuttering) Colossae, sir
Paul- Colossae? A dear son in the Lord lives in Colossae.
Philemon. Do you know him?
Onesimus- (looks extremely uncomfortable) Er, Yes.
Paul- (gazes at him keenly) I think you have something on your mind, my son.
Something which is troubling you. Would you like to talk it over with me
Onesimus- I'm not sure.
Junias- Go on, Paul will help you.
Onesimus- (looking at Paul) Thank You.
Paul- You will excuse us, please? We can go over there for a quiet chat (points)
Junias and Lucius Certainly Paul. Yes, of course.
Lucius- Your friend appears to be in some distress.
Lunius- Yes, he does.
Lucius- How long have you known him?
Junias- We've only just met this morning. I don't really know much about him.
Lucius- Well if anyone can sort out his problems, it's Paul.
Junias- (relieved) That's true.
Joanna Paul seems to be in deep conversation with that young man. Do you
know him?
Junias- Not really. I met him this morning and persuaded him to come to hear Paul.
I believe he has a problem.
Joanna- Well he could't be in better hands.
Lucius- That's just what I was saying.
Junias- Ssh! They're praying.
Paul- Our friend here has some news for you.
Onesimus- I've become a Christian.
Onesimus- (looking at Junias) I know! It's the last thing I said I wanted to be
Junias- (laughs) Don't worry, we understand. When the Holy Spirit shows you
Jesus, all you want to do is to love and follow Him.
lst soldier- It's time to go, Paul.
Paul- Very well. (turns back to others) It seems I must leave you now
my friends.
Junias- I wish I could stay with you, Paul.
Paul- No. Junias. You must return to your family, but thank you for your
thoughtfulness.
Junius- (rather hesitantly) Perhaps I could stay for a little while.
Paul- No, you must go too, Lucius. The Lord will provide for me.
Onesimus- What about me? May I help you, Paul? I have nowhere to go. no
family ties. I should love to stay with you.
Paul- There you are, my friends. See! The Lord has provided. He has sent
me Onesimus. Thank you, Onesimus, I am grateful for your offer of help.
2nd soldier- Paul, we really must go now.
Paul- Certainly. Come, Onesimus, you and I shall have some interesting talks
together. Good night everyone.
Others- Good night, Paul. We'11 see you again soon.
Junias- I'm glad Onesimus offered to stay with Paul.
Joanna- Yes, and I'm sure Onesimus needs Paul too.
Lucius- It's amazing how the Lord answers prayer, isn't it?
Paul- I should like to hear about your life, Onesimus. Apart from knowing
you are now a Christian, I know very little else. Would you like to tell me?
Onesimus- (sighs) I've never spoken to you about my life, Paul, because I'm ashamed.
Paul- I know. That's why I haven't pressed you into telling me.
But I feel
you would like to confide in me now am I right?
Onesimus- Yes, you are. (slight pause) I'm not a free man, Paul in fact
I'm a runaway slave.
Paul- From Philemon?
Onesimus- Yes.
Paul- Why did you do this Onesimus? Surely Philemon was a good master?
Onesimus- Oh! yes, he was. That's what makes it worse, but I ***** well ****** I
just wanted to be free.
Paul-  Free? I see. You do realise Onesimus that much as I enjoy having you
here with me, I must send you back to your Master?
Onesimus- I know.
Paul- How did you manage to get to Rome. Onesimus?
Onesimus- By ship, Oh! I see. You mean the money?
Paul- Yes, the money
Onesimus- I stole It, from a drawer in Philemon's house. I knew
where he kept it.
Paul- (Sadly) He trusted you, Onesimus.
Onesimus- I know he did. I really am sorry about it all.
Paul- Did you take anything else?
Onesimus- No, no, nothing. (looks at his feet). Well........ just these sandals
but they didn't really belong to anyone.
Paul- What do you mean?
Onesimus- They were left at Philemon's house by a Roman soldier
years ago,and he never came back for them.
Paul- (laughs) A Roman soldier? Can you remember his name? Was it Nereus?
Onesimus- Yes, I believe it was. Yes, I'm sure it was.
Paul- I know him well I led him to the Lord.
and I know he metPhilemon shortly afterwards.
Onesimus- Yes, I was told he visited the house a number of times.
Paul- (gently) Do you know there is a wonderful story attached to
those sandal’s
Onesimus- To these?. But they are "just a bit of leather" .
Paul- Very special "bits of leather" Onesimus. They belonged to the
Lord.
Onesimus- (greatly distressed) Oh No! And I stole them!
Paul- I'm sure He has forgiven you. You belong to Him now,
you know, and that makes all the difference.
Onesimus- (nods in agreement) Paul how do you know they are His?
Paul- It's a long story, Onesimus. It goes right back to the
crucifixion, Marcus, one of the soldiers who was there, found the sandals when it
was all over. And in time he became a Christian, When he had to leave Jerusalem in a hurry,
these sandals were left behind.
Onesimus- So how did they come to be in Colossae?
Paul- (laughs) Give me time, Onesimus, I'm coming to that. Nereus found them
Onesimus- Oh! I see.
Paul- Yes, and Nereus was one of the soldiers who was with me when I heard
the Voice of the Lord. Remember I told you how He spoke to me on the road to Damascus?
Onesimus- Yes, I do, An amazing story. I know it changed your whole life.
Paul- As the Lord will change all our lives if only we will let Him.
Onesimus- (thoughtfully) So now I have His sandals. From Jesus to Marcus,
then to Nereus and now me. I want to be worthy to walk in them,Paul.
I would like to make Him glad they have come to me.
Paul- They have led you to Him, Onesimus, that's the main thing. And now
you must do what is right what He expects you to do.
Onesimus- You mean, go back to Colossae, to Philemon?
Paul- I do.
Onesimus- But you need me here, Paul. Couldn't I stay with you? It would be
doing the Lord's work!
Paul- In different circumstances, yes. but I can't keep another man's
servant without his permission, even though you are a great help and
comfort to me. You must return, Onesimus, it's the right thing to do.
Onesimus- (sighs resignedly, and nods) I know it is. I'll go back, Paul.
Paul- Good. I'll make it easier for you though. I shall write a letter
to Philemon. Bring me my writing materials please Onesimus.
Onesimus- (brings them across to Paul) Here they are Paul, and thank you.
"I thank God, Philemon, whenever I hear of your great love
for the Lord and His people. I am an old man now, and I
write to you from prison to ask you a favour.
Onesimus, your slave, has come to know the Lord as his Saviour,
and I send him back to you as a dear brother in the Lord, both to me and to you.
Welcome him back, I know he will now serve you well as he has served me, and if he has
harmed you in any way I will personally repay you everything.Keep a guest room ready for me as I hope I
shall be able to visit you soon.
The Lord bless you. Paul"
Onesimus- Thank you very much, Paul.
Paul- Does the letter make it easier for you to return?
Onesimus- Much easier I just don't know how to thank you, Paul.
Paul- By being a changed person and serving Philemon well. It will be a
witness to what the Lord has done in your life.
Onesimus- I understand.
Paul- Here it is then. You can accompany Tychicus who is taking my letter
to the believers in Colossae.
Onesimus- Thank you.
Paul- So there's no need to worry Onesimus, Philemon will welcome you back
as a brother, and I shall see you very soon I'm sure.
Onesimus- Oh, Paul (looks round vaguely as if searching for something to give
Paul to show his love.- Bends down and takes off his sandals)
Here, Paul, please take these. I want you to have them. They are all
I have that I value.
Paul- The Lord's sandals? Are you sure, Onesimus? But I know how much
they mean to you now.
Onesimus- They do, but I feel they have served their purpose. So many of us have
literally "walked in His footsteps". Now it is your turn to find comfort in them.
Paul- Then I thank you, Onesimus.
Paul- The Lord be with you, dear brother.
Onesimus- And with you, Paul.
Paul- (tenderly)"Just a bit of leather" he said
"just a bit of leather" .
Paul smiles lovingly, clasps them to his chest, pauses, then walks slowly off stage.
Elizabeth Aynsley ©
Shepheard 1 - Hello, I'm glad we have seen you. We have heard of the strangest
happenings over in Bethlehem where you come from.
Shepheard 2- Yes, angel choirs singing, that can't be true - can it?
Shepheard 3- It certainly is. We got the shock of our lives didn't we?
Shepheard 4- Yes, there we were, sitting eating our sandwiches, when suddenly
without any warning a blaze of light, and an angel saying 'Don't be afraid,
I've brought you good news. The Messiah has been born in Bethlehem.'
Shepheard 1- The Messiah? After all these years of waiting:
Shepheard 3- Yes, they even told us where the baby would be born in a manger.
Shepheard 4- So we went along to see Him.
Shepheard 2- Then it is true:
Shepheard 4- Certainly. These things happen when you least expect them.
Shepheard 1- Look, we can't stop now to talk, but could you meet us tonight at say,
8oclock in the courtyard over there to tell us all that happened?
Shepheard 3 Yes, we have been telling everyone we meet of the fantastic news so we
would love to tell you.
Shepheard 2- See you at 8oclock then. Cheerio.
Shepheard 4- You know I never did finish those sandwiches.
Shepheard 3- Some sheep would have a good supper then!
Actor 1- Caspar
Actor 2 - Balthazar
Actor 3- Melchior Servants:
Shepheard 4- Darius
Shepheard 3- Cyrus.
DARIUS- My, but it's hot, I wish we could sit in the shade for a while.
CYRUS- So do I. We've been travelling for hours in this heat. It's not the easiest of jobs being servants to the Magi is it? Even if they are the wisest men in the whole of the East.
Start climbing pulpit steps now.
DARIUS- True, but we must be thankful we have a job. So many people are out of work these days and you must admit it's interesting work.
CYRUS- Oh, its interesting right enough, and I enjoy the travelling it's just this heat!!
Darius- looks over the pulpit.
DARIUS- Well your troubles are over. Look down there an oasis with palm trees and shade.
CYRUS- Shade! Where? OA, just what I need. (Looking around says) Where are the wise men?
DARIUS- Here they come.
CYRUS- Sirs, there's an oasis down there if you would care to rest a while?
BALTHAZAR- Yes, let's rest by all means. Camels are not the most comfortable of creatures to ride.
MELCHIOR- Good idea, I could do with some refreshments.
CASPAR- Get the biscuits and tea out boys. We'll rest here.
Boys get refreshments out of rucksacks and hand round.
CASPAR- You know, I can't help thinking of that star. Absolutely amazing! We
have studied the sky night after night, and then there it was without
any warning the brightest, most unusual star we had ever seen. BALTHAZAR It certainly was. What a discovery! It'll make us famous go down in
history I shouldn't wonder.
MELCHIOR- Well the star will Balthazar, I don't know about us! But it was certainly a star fit for a King.
BALTHAZAR- Yes, a star sent by God to announce the arrival of His Son.
CASPAR- Very true, that's why we went to Jerusalem. We thought He would be born there in the Capital City.
BALTHAZAR- God evidently had other plans for His Son, Caspar.
DARIUS- Strange to think that the tiny baby we saw is God's Son.
CYRUS- Yes, but from what I've heard the wise men saying, the baby, or the Messiah as the Jews call Him, has been expected for hundreds of years.
DARIUS- It's always the same isn't it? You wait and wait for something to happen and then when it does you get a surprise!
CYRUS- That's human nature for you. More tea Sir?
MELCHIOR- Wasn't Herod surprised in fact I would go further, I believe he was actually afraid. Never expected us to call did he?
BALTHAZAR- No, Melchior, he certainly didn't. But if his own wise men had been on their toes they would have known as much as us.
CASPAR- They did seem to be a weary bunch almost as if they had given up expecting their Messiah.
BALTHAZAR- You know Herod had me fooled at first. I really thought he wanted to join us in worshipping the child.
MELCHIOR- So did I.
CASPAR- We all did, but there was something about him which just didntt ring true.
BALTHAZAR- I agree, we all came away feeling uneasy didn't we?
MELCHIOR- And that feeling proved to be correct.
DARIUS- Didn't care for the looks of Herod myself did you?
CYRUS- No. Of course he is one of the last of the Edomites you know. Bad lot that race.
DARIUS- So I've heard.
MELCHIOR- Wasn't it wonderful seeing the star again when we left the Palace?
BALTHAZAR- Indeed it was, and what a joy to realise that it was actually leading the way.
CASPAR- Yes, a star with a purpose to lead us to the very house where the Messiah was.
BALTHAZAR- Caspar! That's an excellent title for the book we'll be writing on our return home 'A STAR WITH A PURPOSE'.
MELCHIOR- Yes, excellent. I like it.
CASPAR- Mm, so do I. I just don't know how these things come to me!!!
DARIUS- Quill sharpening time for us again I see Cyrus.
CYRUS- Yes, with three of them scribbling away we'll be up until the early hours I'll warrant!
DARIUS- A book well worth writing though ay?
CYRUS- Undoubtedly, Darius, undoubtedly.
BALTHAZAR- I believe Mary was pleased with the gifts we brought the baby. Do you agree?
MELCHIOR- I do. Perhaps not what she expected though as I saw her looking slightly puzzled.
CASPAR- I thought so too. She seemed a very thoughtful girl, as if she was storing up everything we said to think over later.
CYRUS- Gold, frankincense and myrrh! They were rather strange gifts for a child, I suppose.
DARIUS- Not when you understand their meaning, Darius. GOLD for He is a King. FRANKINCENSE For He is God the Son. and MYRRH for his sufferings. Most appropriate for the Messiah.
CYRUS- Indeed they are, Darius. Indeed they are.
MELCHIOR- That vision we had wasn't it astounding?
BALTHAZAR- Oh, you mean the warning not to return to Herod. Yes, absolutely amazing.
CASPAR- In fact, it has been an amazing and surprising few months. I certainly never expected to experience anything like this in my lifetime.
MELCHIOR- Nor I.
BALTHAZAR- It just shows, you don't know what's round the corner awaiting you in life.
CASPAR- And speaking of corners, it's time we were on our way and round this next corner. Pack up boys, and let's be on our way.
DARIUS- Coming Sir.
CYRUS- Right away, Sir.
Elizabeth- goes to answer and standing there are Ruth, Phil. Xenia. Louise and any others.
RUTH- Hello, surprise, surprise. Didn't expect to see us did you?
ELIZ.- Well, no, actually we didn't, but come in, you're welcome.
all Thanks
DAVID- I thought you were going away for Christmas!
PHIL.- We were, but we couldn't get fixed up so we came along here instead.
Xenia.H. Don't mind do you?
Cyrus- No, of course not, the more the merrier.
RUTH- That's the idea, a very merry Christmas.
Peter- Where would we be without the parties eh?
DAVID- Well there's more to Christmas than parties you know.
PHIL.- Oh dear, are you going to sermonise? I'd heard you had become a Bible basher.
Cyrus We aren't 'Bible bashers' as you call us, but we have changed since last year.
RUTH- That's what we heard. I never expected it of you four.
Xenia C.- If you had told us last year we wouldn't have believed it either. Xenia H. So what happened to all of you then?
ELIZ.- Go on, David you begin.
DAVID- Well it all started because we were broke. We couldn't afford to go anywhere so we were just wandering around.
Cyrus- Then we saw this Church hall with a notice outside saying 'Welcome to the coffee bar, come in aid enjoy a free cup of coffee'
Xenia C.- A free cup! That was good enough for us so in we went.
ELIZ.- It was lovely inside, lots of small tables and chairs and bright posters up on the walls.
DAVID- So we collected our free coffee and sat chatting. Shortly afterwards a young fellow came up and started talking to us.
Xenia H.- What did he say?
RUTH- Did he start preaching?
Cyrus- No, nothing like that. He just sort of asked where we came from, what were we doing for Christmas that sort of thing.
DAVID- I don't exactly remember how we got on to more serious things, it just sort of followed on quite naturally.
ELIZ.- I remember he asked if we were working.
Xenia C.- And if we enjoyed our work.
Cyrus- Oh yes, then he asked David what he wanted out of life, and he said 'A chain of Butcher's shops'.
Louise- He would: And what did you say Cyrus?
Cyrus- I wasn't sure really a better job with more money certainly. But I don't have any real burning ambition to make a great name for myself.
PHIL.- What did he say to that then?
DAVID- He said there was more to life than money, promotion and ambitious projects.
Xenia H.- That's more or less what you said to us when we first arrived.
ELIZ.- It's true though. He certainly made us stop and think didn't he? General 'Yes' 'He did' etc.
RUTH- So what happened then?
Cyrus- We went back a couple of nights later. before
Xenia C.- We had never been challenged/to think of where we were going, or what we
were doing with our lives. We wanted to discuss these things with him.
Louise- Weren't you scared of what you might be letting yourselves in for?
ELIZ.- No, we felt for the first time that here was someone who would have the answers to the questions going around in our minds.
DAVID- Yes, questions that we don't always have the courage to talk about but which are there all the same.
Cyrus- That's true. We all want to know the meaning of life why we are here.
It's not just all one gigantic accident, there must be a purpose somewhere. RUTH Of dear, we came here to have a good time, to celebrate Christmas. I
didn't expect this:
Cyrus- Life is full of the unexpected Ruth. Some things you can't prepare for,
but you can prepare for the most important thing in life.
Louise- What's that then?
DAVID- To get right with God. To be prepared for the day when we stand before Him and give an account of our lives.
ELIZ.- You said you wanted to celebrate Christmas. What better way to celebrate than to become a Christian
Xenia C.- This is what Christmas is all about. The meaning of life begins here.
DAVID- The baby whose birth we are celebrating grew to manhood and died for the
sole purpose of taking away our sins and getting us right with God.
Xenia H.- Well I must admit you have all certaihly changed. I can see the difference
in you.
ELIZ.- Good, that's how it should be.
DAVID Why not make this Christmas your time to change? Then you will be ready for when He comes again.
PHIL.- You think Jesus is coming again?
Cyrus- Definitely. The Bible is full of references to His second coming. We can't say we were never warned.
Xenia C.- That first Christmas 2000 years ago was expected too.
For years the Jews had expected their Messiah to be born, yet when he came
it took them by surprise. He came when they least expected Him.
DAVID- And His second coming will be the same.
No one knows when this day will be. It is expected, yet will come unexpectedly.
ELIZ.- Like a thief in the night, the Bible says.
DAVID- People were unprepared for His first coming.
Most people are unprepared for His second coming. Don't be one of them.
(Turn to face congregation) We are all ready. Are you?
Elizabeth Aynsley ©
Mary of Magdala
Mary - Mother of James
Salome - Mother of Zebedee's sons
Joanna - Wife of Chuza
Shepheard 1 - Peter's Mother-in-law
Ruth - Unconverted woman -
Pheobe - Unconverted woman -
A room in Mary's house - Mary busy at table setting out cups and cakes.
MARY M. 'Good morning, Mary, Salome,
I'm glad you could come'
MARY & SALOME - 'Good morning Mary'
MARY J. - 'Expecting many this morning Mary?'
MARY M. - 'I'm hoping so; Joanna said she would try to bring her friend Ruth,
and I believe Shepheard 1 hopes to bring one of her neighbours too.'
SALOME - 'Oh, good, that should make a nice number.
I hope you don't mind but we have brought our knitting.'
MARY J. - 'Yes, I don't like to sit doing nothing, I prefer to be doing
something like knitting.'
MARY M. - 'No, that's all right, it's just an informal get-together.
What are you knitting?'
SALOME - 'We are knitting scarves for the fishermen, you know how cold it
gets on the Lake.'
MARY M. - 'Oh, yes, I'm sure they'll be appreciated.'
JOANNA - 'Morning Mary, I've brought my friend, Ruth, I believe you
have met each other before.'
MARY M. 'Yes, nice to see you again, Ruth.'
RUTH - 'Good morning Mary, morning ladies.'
Again Greetings and such things as 'Sit here' 'Nice morning isn't it?'
SALOME 'I see you have brought your knitting too, Shepheard 1.'
Shepheard 1 - 'Yes, I'm knitting a hat for Benjamin.
I got used to knitting them for Peter, but he doesn't
need them now as much as he used to.'
PHOEBE - 'Isn't he in the fishing business now then Shepheard 1?'
Shepheard 1 - 'No Phoebe, he travels around preaching,he has been doing this
ever since Jesus was resurrected from the dead.'
RUTH - 'I heard about this resurrection, but I thought it was all a hoax.'
SALOME, M.M.& M.J.'Oh no''We have seen Jesus since He was crucified.'
PHOEBE - 'Are you sure it wasn't someone just very like Him?'
MARY M. - 'Oh, no, believe me I know it was the Lord.'
RUTH - 'I know you owe a lot to Him, Mary, He did heal you, but
isn't this claim of resurrection taking your loyalty a bit far?'
MARY M. - 'Yes, I do owe Him a lot, Ruth, you all know how ill I used
to be, but my physical healing is nothing compared to what He has done for
me by His death and resurrection.'
PHOEBE - 'I don't understand what you mean. I know He has healed many people,
He even healed you, Shepheard 1, didn't He?'
Shepheard 1 - 'Yes, I had a dreadful fever one day. I was ill in bed when Peter,
my Son-in-law, brought Jesus home, and after He healed me I felt so
well I was able to get up and give them all their dinner.'
RUTH - 'Have you all seen these miracles?'
MARY J. - 'Yes, we travelled around Galilee with Him and the disciples,
and saw miracles of all kinds, the lame cured, the blind able to see - oh, so
many.'
PHOEBE - 'I believe your sons, James and John, were disciples of
Jesus, and travelled round with Him, didn't they Salome?'
SALOME - 'Yes, they are His disciples - they left Zebedee's fishing
business to follow Him, and they have never regretted it.'
JOANNA - 'I know they haven't. I saw them when they came down from the
mountain after Jesus had been transfigured before them. They are
just not the same men as they were in the old fishing days.'
MARY J. - 'That's true, and that goes for all who believe Jesus is
the Messiah,the Son of God.'
RUTH - 'Well I wont deny that miracles have happened, but this-latest
resurrection story has me puzzled- to say the least.'
PHOEBE - 'I agree, Ruth, I believe the Romans even sealed the tomb
didn't they?'
MARY M.-'Yes, and we saw the stone rolled-away.
' MARY J. - 'We had taken spices to put on the Lord's body, but it
wasn't there. Instead, we saw an angel who spoke to us and said Jesus
had risen from the dead - just as He said He would.'
SALOME - 'We were told to hurry to the disciples to tell them what
had happened.'
JOANNA - 'I know it sounds unbelievable, but it is absolutely true,
exactly as Jesus told us before He died.'
Shepheard 1 - 'Yes, I remember Jesus speaking of His death when He was in
our home. I felt dreadfully sad, but He also said He would rise again on the
third day, as you have seen.'
MARY M. - 'Yes, after we told the disciples the news I went back with
Peter and John. I was still very distressed at that time so when they
went back home after seeing the empty tomb I stood there weeping.
I just couldn't leave the tomb.'
SALOME - 'That was when the Lord appeared to you, Mary, wasn't it?'
MARY M. 'That's right. At first I thought He was the gardener and
asked His where He had taken the Lord's body.'
RUTH - 'And it was Jesus?'
MARY M. - 'Oh, yes, He just said one word 'Mary' and I knew it was He.'
PHOEBE - 'Has anyone seen Him since then?'
MARY J. - 'Yes, one night the boys went fishing, but their minds must
have been on other things because they caught nothing.'
SALOME - 'That's right. I remember James and John telling me that
they worked hard all night, but when the dawn came their nets were
empty.'
JOANNA 'It was when they were near the shore that Jesus called to
them to throw their nets on the right side of the boat, and when they
did,it took them all their time to haul in the nets, the catch was so
great
SALOME - 'And when they came ashore Jesus had breakfast all prepared for them.'
MARY J. - 'That must have been about the third time Jesus was
seen.'
'Yes at least three times.' 'Mm, yes.' etc.
RUTH 'Well, you all seem to be convinced.'
SALOME -'You have to believe the evidence of your own eyes haven't you?'
MARY J. - 'Don't worry about feeling doubtful, one of His own
disciples doubted the resurrection.'
JOANNA - 'Oh yes, Thomas said "Unless I see the nail marks in His
hand, and put my hand in His side, I wont believe it.'
PHOEBE-'And did he see Jesus - did he get his proof?'
MARY J-'Yes, when the disciples were locked in a room Jesus appeared
and said "Reach out your hand, Thomas, feel my hands and side, and
stop doubting"'
MARY M.-'Do you know why Jesus died and rose again, Ruth and Phoebe?'
'No' 'No,I don't.'
MARY M -'In Isaiah's scroll he tells us of the Messiah who would one
day come, and because of the sins of men and women He would have to
die as a sacrifice so that we can get right with God.
And through His rising again He conquered the grip of death, and
now lives with His Father in Heaven, His work accomplished.'
MARY J. - 'And because He lives, we, who believe in Him as our Saviour,
will also live with Him for ever.'
SALOME - 'All you have to do is accept His gift of life - made
possible through His death and resurrection.'
JOANNA - 'It's the one free gift no-one should refuse, because He
did it for YOU.'
RUTH - 'Like Thomas, my doubts are vanishing.'
PHOEBE - 'I'm beginning to understand the meaning of His life
and death.'
MARY M. - 'Yes, no-one but the Son of God could give His life for
the sins of the world. No-one but He could give us eternal life.
Don't put off accepting His sacrifice -
Elizabeth Aynsley ©