By John Cosper

This play is royalty-free, and has been published on the Sunday School Dropouts website by permission of the author, John Cosper. if you choose to produce the play, please send an email to John and let him know: john@righteousinsanity.com

CHARACTERS

The Stranger

Mark – Bartender in a gay bar

Drew – A customer in a gay bar

Rick – A seminary student

Meredith – An old friend of Rick’s, works at an inner city mission

Bill – A homeless teen with a sick mom

Walt – A strange homeless guy who is a klepto

Penny – A young teen prostitute who is pregnant

Melissa – A young prostitute, friend of Penny

Maggie – An older homeless woman

Marie Silver – A TV reporter

Travis – Marie’s cameraman

Dr. Jenkins – Doctor at the mission

SCENE ONE

DREW- Bar keep! Smirnoff, and keep ‘em coming.

MARK- What flavor?

DREW- Doesn’t matter, I’m not after a taste sensation tonight, mmkay?

MARK- Thank you.

DREW- No, thank you, pal.

DREW- You need something?

STRANGER- Bad day?

DREW- Me? No thank you, had one of my own.

STRANGER- That’s what I was asking.

DREW- I know it is. And I’d rather not talk about it, thank you.

STRANGER- We don’t have to talk about it.

DREW- Good!

STRANGER- Buy me a drink instead?

Drew stares at the Stranger, puzzled.

DREW- Buy you a drink?

STRANGER- Please.

DREW- Sorry, isn’t that my place to offer a drink or not?

STRANGER- I suppose so. Though if you knew who it was asking you for a drink, you’d be asking me to give you a drink.

DREW- That a fact?

The Stranger nods.

DREW- Fancy yourself a pretty good catch, do you?

STRANGER- I’m not trying to pick up on you.

DREW- No, of course not. No one comes here to get picked up.

STRANGER- I’m a friend.

DREW- I’ve heard that line too. Now here’s one for you. Get lost.

Drew gets off the stool to walk away.

STRANGER- Where are you going?

DREW- What do you care?

STRANGER- Going to sit with your man?

DREW- I don’t have a man at the moment.

STRANGER- That’s true, you don’t. You have had several, right? But nothing like you thought you’d find when you first started seeking them out.

DREW- I don’t have to listen to this.

STRANGER- No one’s cared about you. They only want sex, and when you try to bring more into the relationship, they run away.

DREW- Common tale, right? We’re all looking for that something more.

STRANGER- I suppose so.

DREW- So why torment me over my inability to find it?

STRANGER- I’m not trying to torment. I told you, I’m a friend.

DREW- Oh yes, a friend. You running some sort of men’s pickup service then?

STRANGER- No, nothing like that. What you’re really looking for, you can’t find in a lover. Not the romantic kind, anyway.

DREW- Yeah? Where can I find it then?

STRANGER- You remember that drink I mentioned?

DREW- The one you wanted me to buy?

STRANGER- The one I offered you.

DREW- Oh that.

STRANGER- If you drink from my cup, you will never thirst again.

DREW- You’re kidding, right? Must be one heck of a drink.

STRANGER- You come here every night, looking to quench a deep thirst, and all you find are cheap drinks that fill you up for a night, but leave you wanting more.

DREW- Oh, I get it now. You’re with AA.

STRANGER- I’m not talking about a physical thirst. I’m offering you living water, that will satisfy the longing of your soul to be loved.

DREW- I heard talk like this once before. Long time ago, in a place called Sunday School. I think you’ve definitely got the wrong guy. You see, people like me… God doesn’t care about us.

STRANGER- I care.

Drew looks at the Stranger.

DREW- Really wish I could believe that. It might help.

STRANGER- I came here looking for someone like you. What does that say?

DREW- Nothing good on the religious channels tonight, I guess.

STRANGER- It is the sick who need a doctor, not the healthy. What do the Pharisees know of God’s love when they are too proud to receive it?

DREW- I ain’t too proud for anything. You got something to tell me, let’s talk.

Blackout.

SCENE TWO

MEREDITH- You thirty? Or just really cold?

RICK- I thought I'd get some cups ready, for when people show up.

MEREDITH- You know, it stays warmer if we keep it in the thermos.

RICK- Well, yeah, but, I thought to save time...

MEREDITH- Time pouring coffee is part of building connections with people. Surely they taught you this in that seminary?

RICK- I must have been asleep that day.

MEREDITH- That day? The way church is headed these days, I'd think coffee ministry would be a degree by now.

RICK- (sarcastic laugh) Haha, right. So we wait for people to come?

MEREDITH- Because we never know when they'll arrive, or if. Some nights, we won't see a soul.

RICK- You think tonight will be slow?

MEREDITH- It's unseasonably cool out. We'll see quite a few needing shelter.

RICK- Just be gentle, okay? This is my first time.

MEREDITH- All that class work's made you soft. Good thing that prof ordered you to do some real missions work this summer.

RICK- Hey, I gave up real work at a Chicago church for this.

MEREDITH- Ah yes, shooting and editing videos, PowerPoint, monitoring church blogs, the very essence of ministry.

RICK- It's a dirty job, but someone's gotta do it.

MEREDITH- And one day, you'll have a blessed cubicle of your own to get dirty in. Right now, better pour a little hot chocolate.

RICK- But you said to wait for people.

MEREDITH- The people are here. Hey, Bill.

BILL- Hi, Meredith. Cool one tonight.

MEREDITH- And it's gonna get colder. Hot chocolate?

BILL- Please.

BILL- Mmm, thanks. I’m Bill.

RICK- Hi, Bill. I’m Rick.

MEREDITH- We have some warm soup inside if you want it.

BILL- I already ate. But if you don’t mind, I’d like to take my some for Mom.

MEREDITH- Absolutely. How is she doing?

BILL- Not so good. She’s sleeping most of the day. The pills Dr. Jenkins gave her helped, but not a lot.

MEREDITH- Maybe you should bring her back. She can stay here, no charge.

BILL- Yeah, but Mom likes it at home. You know that.

MEREDITH- That’s true. Well, grab you some soup, and send her my best.

BILL- I will. Nice to meet you, Rick.

RICK- Same here.

RICK- Regular customer?

MEREDITH- We have a few regular guests, yeah. Bill’s mom is really sick, and he has to spend all his time caring for her.

RICK- Seems like he ought to be in school.

MEREDITH- No time for that, or work. He’s always looking out for mom, moving her from place to place as needed.

RICK- I thought he said they had a home.

MEREDITH- Nothing permanent.

RICK- Really?

MEREDITH- Humility is never easy, not even for the truly humble.

RICK- That's profound. You should put it in a book.

MEREDITH- Or a bracelet. I'd make a million bucks off that. Uh oh, heads up.

RICK- What?

MEREDITH- Walter!

WALT- Mer-baby!

WALT- Mmmm, how's my girl?

MEREDITH- Walt? You took my keys again.

WALT- I did? (pulls keys out) Now how did that happen?

MEREDITH- To what do we owe the pleasure?

WALT- Just looking for good company and good coffee. Pour me some, Mac?

RICK- (pouring coffee) The name's Rick. And here you are.

WALT- Rick, Walt. (shakes Rick's hand, taking his watch) Glad to meet you.

MEREDITH- Walt? You just took Rick's watch.

RICK- Hey!

WALT- Oops, my bad. You know I had a watch like this once, and I could have sworn this was mine.

RICK- Thank you.

MEREDITH- Walt? The wristband?

RICK- Wait a second!

WALT- Hey, this is yours too? (gives the wristband back) Sorry, dude. It was just lying around.

RICK- You should be more careful about the things you pick up that are just lying around.

WALT- Yeah, I get that a lot.

MEREDITH- Need a bed tonight, Walt?

WALT- Oh no. I have an appointment to play chess in the park with a Pigeon.

RICK- Did you just say chess with a pigeon?

WALT- Yeah, Dave Pigeon, an old friend of mine. Lives down by the railyards.

MEREDITH- It's gonna be a cold one.

WALT- No problem, I have a blanket.

MEREDITH- I hope it's comfy.

WALT- Should be, it's one of yours. Anyway, I should be off. (hugs Rick) Take it easy, Rich.

RICK- Rick.

WALT- Sure. (pulls Rick's belt off him) And you be good, gorgeous. (hugs Meredith) Hey, no wallet!

MEREDITH- Haha, I thought you might be coming. And you can give Rick back his belt any time.

WALT- Whoa, this is yours too?

RICK- I know. (takes the belt) Shocking.

WALT- I'm just messing with you. We're gonna be pals, you and me.

MEREDITH- Penny?

PENNY- Hey.

MEREDITH- How are you? Want something to drink?

WALT- Or a watch?

PENNY- No thanks, I'm good.

MEREDITH- Are you okay?

PENNY- Meredith, I'm sorry. The things I said the other day, I didn't mean any of it. I know you only want to help, and I was a total jerk.

MEREDITH- You're not a jerk.

PENNY- I didn't get the abortion. I want to keep the baby, but I'm gonna need so much help.

MEREDITH- You don't have to face this alone. You know we're here for you.

PENNY- I have someone better now. Not that I don't need you or appreciate you. But I finally met someone you've tried introducing for a long time.

MEREDITH- You mean Christ?

PENNY- I... I met him. The real him.

RICK- (stifles a disbelieving laugh) You what?

PENNY- You think I'm crazy.

MEREDITH- No, Penny. Are you sure it was him?

PENNY- Sure as I'm talking to you.

WALT- What did he look like?

PENNY- It wasn't the outward appearance. He wasn't super-handsome or anything. It was the way he talked to me. He seemed to know my whole life story, and yet, there was no condemnation or criticism at all. He made me realize I can't do this on my own. I need him, and the friends he's given me, so I came here.

MEREDITH- I'm glad for that.

PENNY- I know this is hard to believe, but I spent the last two days begging God, if he could hear me, to let me see him. It was Jesus, Meredith!

MEREDITH- Sounds like the Jesus I know. Come on, let's get you inside. I'll fix you some soup.

WALT- Jesus? Well, there goes the neighborhood.

RICK- No way. It's impossible.

WALT- Hmm?

RICK- There's no way she met Jesus in the flesh.

WALT- I dunno. My Uncle Nick was Jesus for a whole year. Of course that pretty much ended when he tried to walk across the Ohio River, and the only miracle I ever saw was him perform was the time he picked up the check at Red Lobster...

RICK- Walt?

WALT- Hmm?

RICK- Leave the jacket.

WALT- Oh... right.

SCENE THREE

STRANGER- Coffee?

MELISSA- Looks like it to me.

STRANGER- I was offering it to you.

MELISSA- I don't work for coffee.

STRANGER- I wasn't trying to hire you.

MELISSA- Just offering coffee to a stranger?

STRANGER- You don't want it?

MELISSA- Never said that.

MELISSA- Mmm, just enough cream and sugar. How'd you know?

STRANGER- Wild guess.

MELISSA- Wild, huh? I like wild guys.

STRANGER- I think you'd find me rather dull in that regard.

MELISSA- For the right money, I'll find you any way you want.

STRANGER- I already told you, I'm not here to pick you up.

MELISSA- Well... move along then. Some of us have to work.

STRANGER- You sure you want that?

MELISSA- Not much choice. I have to eat.

STRANGER- There are alternatives, you know.

MELISSA- Oh yeah? You have a friend who gives out danish?

STRANGER- Have you ever been in love?

MELISSA- What?

STRANGER- Have you ever been in love?

MELISSA- Buddy, I'm lovin' men every night. Sometimes two, three of 'em, and even women.

STRANGER- But have you ever truly loved someone?

MELISSA- Why? Wait a minute, I know who you are.

STRANGER- Do you?

MELISSA- My friend Penny told me you were out here. She said you talked to her, showed her what true love was, and changed her life.

STRANGER- Did I really?

MELISSA- You can forget about it, pal. I've never believed in you, or anything beyond what I could see.

STRANGER- But I'm standing right here, right now. Touch me if you don't believe it.

MELISSA- I already told you, no money, no touchy.

STRANGER- Is that how you want it to be? Wouldn't you rather someone touch you in love?

MELISSA- I'd rather you leave me alone!

STRANGER- Why?

MELISSA- Because I don't want anything to do with you!

STRANGER- Is that the reason? Or could it be you don't believe I would have anything to do with you.

MELISSA- Can you blame me? Every person who ever claimed to be from God looked down on me, all my life. Even before I was a hooker.

STRANGER- And yet, here is one, telling you that God loves you.

MELISSA- Yeah. How about that?

STRANGER- If this was for real, would you really turn it down?

MELISSA- What person would?

STRANGER- Care to find out?

MELISSA- I'm not making any money this way.

STRANGER- You might gain something more.

SCENE FOUR

MAGGIE- Mmm, now that's it, boy.

RICK- I get it right that time?

MAGGIE- You sure did, just sweet enough. Bless you.

RICK- Aww, that's what I'm here for, to bless you.

MAGGIE- You done real good.

RICK- Care to come inside for a bit?

MAGGIE- Not me. It's a lovely night the Lord give us.

RICK- It is indeed.

MAGGIE- Think I'll go enjoy it.

RICK- You do that.

WALT- How's the coffee tonight?

RICK- (goes on guard against being pick-pocketed) Hey, Walt.

WALT- Hey, Ron!

RICK- It's Rick.

WALT- Take it easy, pal. I don't bite.

RICK- That's not what I’m worried about. You want coffee?

WALT- Now, is that cheerful customer service?

RICK- Customer service?

WALT- Yeah. It wasn’t a very friendly coffee invitation.

RICK- I’m sorry. Walt, would you like a cup of coffee?

WALT- (laughs) You’re really uncomfortable with this, aren’t you?

RICK- With what?

WALT- Serving people like me. If I didn't know better, I'd almost think you're hoping I'll take some coffee and move on.

RICK- Not at all. You want coffee, I’ll give you coffee. You want to talk or pray, I’m here for you.

WALT- Like a kindly vet in a zoo.

RICK- I’m here to minister, Walt.

WALT- Sure you are.

RICK- I am!

WALT- (laughs, pats Rick on the back, stealing his sunglasses) It’s okay, dude, I know this isn’t your thing.

RICK- Says who?

WALT- I don’t need to be told. My guess is you’d rather be in some library, burying your face in books about God and Greek and all that jazz.

RICK- Well, I am in seminary.

WALT- Wow, no kidding.

RICK- Yeah.

WALT- What are you studying?

RICK- Right now, divinity and pastoral ministries.

WALT- Wow, talk about big words. What all are you learning?

RICK- Well, we study the nature of God, his love for us, his plan of salvation. And how we should serve him here on Earth.

WALT- Sounds like a noble thing.

RICK- It is!

WALT- Of course it also sounds like a waste of money.

RICK- What?

WALT- I mean if this Jesus guy was legit, his will was to do like he did and talk to prostitutes, lepers, beggars, cripples, and riff raff like me. But who am I to tell you your business?

RICK- You’re quite a skeptic, aren’t you?

WALT- With so many people like you choosing serving the Lord in the privacy of your big churches, can you blame me?

Awkward pause.

RICK- So no coffee today?

WALT- Nah, I’m good. You know when chili night is?

RICK- Tomorrow, I believe.

WALT- I’ll see you then.

RICK- Looking forward to it.

WALT- I bet.

RICK- Darn it, Walt!

Meredith and Penny enter with shopping bags.

PENNY- You know I would have been happy with stuff from the thrift store.

MEREDITH- I know, but I wanted to do this for you.

PENNY- I can’t thank you enough.

RICK- Hey, ladies, how was the shopping trip?

MEREDITH- Just fine. We had a great time. You wanna see what she got?

PENNY- Aww, don’t make me.

MEREDITH- Come on, show him how cute you’ll look.

Penny pulls out a pair of maternity shirts and holds them up.

RICK- Hey, very nice.

PENNY- Thanks. This is the first time I’ve had new clothes in years. Never dreamed they would be maternity clothes, but…

MEREDITH- Hey, it’s a whole new beginning for you. And her.

PENNY- Or him.

MEREDITH- Soon as Dr. Jenkins tells us, we’re going shopping again.

PENNY- Sounds good. I’m going to go put this stuff in my room.

Penny exits.

RICK- She’s so cute, like a little doll.

MEREDITH- You don’t know how long I’ve prayed for that girl. I met her my first week working here.

RICK- Really?

MEREDITH- She’s broken my heart a hundred times. She’s repented and turned away so often over the years.

RICK- You’re not worried she won’t do it again?

MEREDITH- There’s always that risk, no matter who you are. This baby’s a gift, though. I think it’s going to change her life.

RICK- Wow… never thought I’d hear of a baby born to a homeless girl as a "gift."

MEREDITH- Every child is a gift.

RICK- Every child deserves a family. That girl is not fit to be a mother.

MEREDITH- She won’t be doing it alone.

RICK- What happens when she runs away again?

MEREDITH- You know, hard as it is to believe, Rick, we do see people’s lives change for the better here.

RICK- But you said yourself, this one has a history.

MEREDITH- So did the woman at the well. Look what Jesus did for her.

RICK- Which Jesus? The real one, or the one SHE met?

MEREDITH- Oh here we go again.

RICK- I can’t believe you haven’t corrected her.

MEREDITH- How can I? We don’t know who this person really is.

RICK- We can eliminate one option.

MEREDITH- You don’t think there’s even the remotest chance—

RICK- No!

MEREDITH- Sad. As much as you’ve read the scriptures, you’d think you might have picked up an ounce of wonder.

RICK- We’re not living in an age of signs and wonders, Meredith! The gospel has been given. We have faith that this same God will return for us one day.

MEREDITH- But how will he return?

RICK- It says in the Bible.

MEREDITH- The Old Testament told how Jesus would come, and yet the religious leaders missed it.

RICK- Whoa… You are not comparing me with the Pharisees.

Melissa enters, approaching the shelter slowly.

MEREDITH- I’m just saying God never does anything exactly how we think he will. He’s bigger and wilder and more unpredictable than the most violent hurricane.

RICK- And you think that wild, violent hurricane has come in the form of a man again on the streets of this town?

MELISSA- It’s true then? Jesus is here?

RICK- What?

MELISSA- It’s okay… I’ve seen him too. My friend Penny told me, but I didn’t believe until I saw him with my own eyes.

MEREDITH- Sweetie, can we help you.

MELISSA- I need to talk to someone. To Penny, if she’s here.

MEREDITH- Of course. Come right inside.

RICK- Do some charity work, he said. Get out there, meet the people Jesus loves. Jesus loves a bunch of lunatics.

Blackout.

SCENE FIVE

PENNY- It was like he knew me. Everything I had ever done, he knew, and it didn’t matter.

MARIE- He told you this?

PENNY- Yes. He loved me, he said, and nothing I could do would change that.

MARIE- What did you say to that?

PENNY- What can you say? I just cried while he held me. I half-expected that to be the moment he’d turn out to be a pervert and grope me. But he was so sweet, and very respectful.

MARIE- Just like you’d expect him to be?

PENNY- No. He was nothing like the God I grew up with in church. Back then it was all sin and condemnation. It felt wrong. Now I know why.

MARIE- Thanks for sharing, Penny.

PENNY- My pleasure.

Marie nods to Travis, who turns off the camera.

MARIE- Okay. Who’s next?

MEREDITH- Well, you wanted to speak to her doctor?

MARIE- Yes, if he’s available.

MEREDITH- Let me check.

Meredith exits.

PENNY- If we’re all done, I’m gonna go watch some TV.

MARIE- We’re finished. Thank you, Penny. God bless.

PENNY- Thank you.

Penny exits.

RICK- God bless… you’re a believer?

MARIE- Yes. Lutheran, born and raised.

RICK- So what do you really think of all this Christ nonsense?

MARIE- As an objective reporter, I have no opinion. I’m interested in finding the facts and letting people decide.

RICK- Off the record?

Bill enters.

MARIE- You know, the Lutherans don’t believe in a lot of mystery and miracles. But it never made sense to me that a God who parted the sea, flooded the earth, and healed the sick would just stop with the miracles.

RICK- So you think it’s for real?

MARIE- I believe in miracles. Whether this is the Christ or not, he’s doing the work of God.

BILL- Hey, Rick.

RICK- Hi, Bill.

BILL- Is the doc in? Mom’s in need of her prescription.

RICK- I think so. Meredith just went to check on him.

MARIE- Excuse me. Your name was?

BILL- It’s Bill.

MARIE- Marie Silver, channel 11. We’re doing a story on the Jesus sightings here in downtown. Would you know anything?

BILL- Jesus sightings?

RICK- People claim that they’ve met Jesus downtown.

BILL- (looks at Rick) What?

RICK- I know, it’s a little crazy.

BILL- You mean like THE Jesus?

MARIE- Yes.

BILL- Haven’t heard about that at all.

MARIE- A number of people have come into the shelter because of him. He’s getting people off the streets and into Christian faith.

BILL- Yeah?

RICK- Don’t believe it, Bill.

BILL- Why not?

RICK- This kind of thing doesn’t happen any more.

MARIE- Then who is this man that everyone keeps talking about?

Marie motions to Travis to get the camera up.

RICK- Do we have to do this on camera?

MARIE- You want to set the record straight? I’m sure this young man would appreciate hearing your thoughts.

BILL- I guess. I mean if this thing is for real…

RICK- I can’t explain it, Bill, but I urge you, don’t get your hopes up.

MARIE- Why not?

RICK- Because, Jesus came once, and he’s not coming again until the revelation.

MARIE- Then who IS touching all these lives out on the streets?

RICK- You don’t sound like some unbiased reporter gathering of facts.

MARIE- I’m playing devil’s advocate, if you can forgive the pun.

RICK- I wish I knew who it was, Marie. I wish I could give you this man’s name, address, and background so we could end this madness.

MARIE- You would want all these people to know that he’s a fraud?

RICK- I want them to know the truth!

MARIE- Even if the truth causes them to fall away.

RICK- If their conversions are genuine, they won’t.

MARIE- But if the conversions happened at the hands of a mad man…

RICK- I never said he was mad!

MARIE- If he’s not Jesus, then what is he?

Walt enters, wearing his many-pocketed trenchcoat.

RICK- I don’t know. Okay? I haven’t met him, I can’t speak for him. But I can tell you with all certainty, it’s not Jesus.

WALT- Uh, no disrespect there, Rip, but I beg to differ.

RICK- Walt?

WALT- Yeah, it’s me.

At Marie’s direction, Travis turns the camera on Walt.

MARIE- Sir, have you met this Jesus man?

WALT- Hey, you’re that chick on TV.

MARIE- Marie Silver, channel 11.

WALT- Yeah, the cute one. I know you.

MARIE- And you are?

RICK- A regular.

WALT- Yeah, pretty much. Name’s Walt, and until about an hour ago, the biggest skeptic, non-believer you’d ever meet.

MARIE- And now?

Meredith and Dr. Jenkins enter, watching the interview.

WALT- Well, let’s just say I’ve had a change of heart.

MARIE- You met Jesus.

WALT- Oh yeah.

MARIE- And?

WALT- Well, if it were left to clowns like this guy, I’d never have believed. But I’m quite happy that Jesus revealed himself personally.

RICK- Walt, please, don’t do this for the cameras.

WALT- It’s not about cameras, Rick. I didn’t even know they were here. But they can bear witness to my setting things right with the people who have been so kind to me.

MARIE- What do you mean?

Walt reaches in his pockets. He pulls out sunglasses.

RICK- My sunglasses.

Walt also pulls out a book, a pen, and a watch.

WALT- It was wrong of me to take these things, Rick. Forgive me?

RICK- Sure.

WALT- And you, Meredith.

MEREDITH- I was wondering where all that went.

JENKINS- You don’t happen to have my missing stethoscope, do you?

RICK- Is that everything?

RICK- What, no coffee pot?

Walt sighs again, reaches back in the coat and pulls out a coffee pot.

RICK- Looks like a yard sale.

MARIE- Well, this is certainly enlightening. This man inspired you to do this?

WALT- The truth is, I stole from these because I didn’t believe a word they said. To know some of them is to know they have no clue who Jesus really is. But having met him myself… well, seems I should be pointing other people in the right path rather than taking away from them, you know?

MARIE- Interesting. Thanks for sharing with us, sir.

WALT- The name’s Ed. Ed Connor.

RICK- I thought your name was—

WALT- Yeah, I lied.

Travis kills the camera.

MARIE- Wow. This is great stuff. Dr. Jenkins, I presume?

JENKINS- You presume correctly. You can come on back. You too, Bill. I gather you’re here for your mom.

BILL- Yes, sir.

JENKINS- Right this way, everyone.

MEREDITH- Ed?

WALT- Yeah?

MEREDITH- Thank you. This is really quite… something.

WALT- It’s embarrassing. But I hope you believe me, it’s real.

MEREDITH- I have no trouble believing.

WALT- Glad to hear it.

MEREDITH- Is there anything we can do for you?

WALT- Not really. I’m just gonna go get me a job.

MEREDITH- Yeah?

WALT- Might as well go back into my previous profession. Be a shame to let my education go to waste.

RICK- Yeah? What kind of education would that be?

WALT- Masters degree, architecture.

RICK- What??

WALT- Ball State, class of ’01.

RICK- How did you ever end up like this if you had a degree in architecture?

WALT- I dunno, just really bored, I guess.

MEREDITH- So maybe architecture’s not your thing.

WALT- Eh, who knows? Maybe I’ll just become a professional golfer. See you ‘round.

Walt exits.

MEREDITH- That’s why I love it here. People never stop surprising me.

RICK- They scare me. Not the people themselves, but this belief in this so-called Jesus. It’s got to end.

MEREDITH- Why?

RICK- People are believing a lie!

MEREDITH- We don’t know that it’s a lie!

RICK- Someone has to find out. This has to end before some real damage is done. I’m going to find him.

Blackout.

SCENE SIX

RACHEL- Hey, how's it going?

RICK- You asking me?

RACHEL- No, no, the guy behind you.

RACHEL- Shoulda guessed, you're not looking for a good time.

RICK- Not exactly.

RACHEL- Something else you need?

RICK- Actually... I was looking for Jesus.

RICK- Haven't seen him, huh?

RACHEL- Buddy, you're in the wrong neighborhood for that.

RICK- That's not what I hear. Not lately. You know a girl named Penny?

RACHEL- I know a lot of girls. Not gonna give 'em up, though.

RICK- I understand.

RACHEL- Yeah, sure. You planning to stick around here?

RICK- I don't know. I've been searching for this guy three nights now.

RACHEL- I tell you, he ain't here. But if I see him, I'll send him this direction.

RICK- That's awfully nice of you.

RACHEL- I'm an awfully nice girl. Not that you could afford to find out.

RICK- Right.

RACHEL- See ya.

STRANGER- Looking for something?

RICK- Me? Oh... I was just talking to her. Not "talking", but just talking... I'm not trying to pick anyone up. You know?

STRANGER- I know. That's not what I meant.

RICK- Oh, well if you think that I was looking for another guy to... But that's not what you mean either.

STRANGER- No, it's not.

RICK- It's you. I should have guessed from the cryptic way of speaking.

STRANGER- You sure I'm the one you want?

RICK- Are you the Christ?

STRANGER- Is that what the people say about me?

RICK- That's what I'm hearing.

STRANGER- I guess it's not so secret any more, what's been happening out here.

RICK- Oh no. I'm working down at Wayside Mission this summer, and we've had more than a few of your friends stop in.

STRANGER- I'm happy to know that.

RICK- They're coming in changed people, having met the Messiah. They say they found in you what they never saw in people like me.

STRANGER- Hurts, doesn't it? You can understand why the Pharisees were always so angry.

RICK- Are you calling me a Pharisee?

STRANGER- Are you?

RICK- I'm not even going to dignify that with an answer.

STRANGER- Are you afraid to know the answer?

RICK- Wait a minute, how did this become about me? You're the one who has some explaining to do.

STRANGER- Why am I on trial? You've seen the fruits of my labor.

RICK- I see people listening to a dangerous lie!

STRANGER- Do you?

RICK- It's not possible that Christ could have popped in for a visit! The scripture is very clear about Christ's return.

STRANGER- (laughs) Seminary student, right?

RICK- Yes.

STRANGER- I should have guessed that. You don't seem the usual type for inner city ministry.

RICK- Again, why are we making this about me?

STRANGER- Because you're the one standing in the way of these people and their Savior.

RICK- Me?

STRANGER- That's right, you. How many hoops would a woman that just left have to leap through before you'd accept her into your congregation back home?

RICK- Besides accepting Christ as her Savior... none.

STRANGER- Really? The little old ladies wouldn't talk about her clothing? Parents wouldn't steer their children away? The pastor would not be ashamed to shake hands with her?

RICK- She can't very well go on in her life of sin.

STRANGER- But when did we start requiring people to clean up before church?

RICK- No one says--

STRANGER- Oh spare me! The church today is no longer a hospital for the sick. It's a country club for the blessed. You have your own gyms, running tracks, saunas, racquetball courts, even your own restaurants, all so you can avoid seeing the wretched refuse of humankind.

RICK- That's not true! Just look at what happens down at that shelter.

STRANGER- Ah, yes, the shelter. What an ironic name.

RICK- We offer hope to people who need it.

STRANGER- You act as an insulator between the elect and the world. Herd all the homeless refuse into a refurbished, downtown building, and you don't have to let them in the doors of your church.

RICK- The people there are doing great ministry. They really care.

STRANGER- I'm sure of that. But are you telling me you'd be in there, making less than minimum wage, associating with drunks and whores if some professor hadn't made you?

RICK- How did you know...

STRANGER- It doesn't take a prophet to see the truth about you. You're worried that someone's teaching people the wrong gospel... one that doesn't jive with your own denominational bias. You should be concerned that people are dying without Christ in their hearts every day because God's people are too busy fighting over things that don't matter.

RICK- Who are you?

STRANGER- Does it still matter?

RICK- I think so.

STRANGER- You know the truth. What will you do with it?

SCENE SEVEN

BILL- How is she?

MEREDITH- I don't know, Bill. Dr. Jenkins is still with her.

BILL- Is she going to be okay?

MEREDITH- We're doing everything we can.

BILL- Can you check on her?

MEREDITH- I can in a few minutes. I need to get these blankets upstairs. We're a little crowded.

WALT- Sorry again about that pipe. I coulda sworn it screwed the other way.

RICK- No problem. I didn't get time for a shower this morning anyway.

WALT- You really need to have someone repair that roof. Structurally, it's sound, but there's a lot of old wood that could use reinforcing.

RICK- Sounds like a job for an architect. You know any?

WALT- I just might... tell Mer-Bear to call me, I'll fix her up.

RICK- You're not going out in this weather, are you?

WALT- 'Course not! I figured I'd do a little kindness, put on a magic show for the kiddies.

RICK- You know magic too?

WALT- I'm pretty good at making things disappear.

RICK- How is she?

BILL- No one will tell me!

RICK- I'm sure she'll be fine.

BILL- Right. Yeah. Too bad no one can tell me for sure.

RICK- Dr. Jenkins is very good at what he does.

BILL- Then how come he's not in a hospital or some place better? I would be if we could afford it.

PENNY- Rick? Have you seen Melissa?

RICK- Not for a while, no.

PENNY- We were supposed to help out with dinner, but she's vanished.

RICK- If I see her, I'll send her to the kitchen.

PENNY- Please do. We've got a full house tonight.

RICK- Don't I know it.

PENNY- Meredith!

MEREDITH- Yes?

PENNY- Have you seen Melissa?

MEREDITH- She was down here reading a whule ago, but I haven't seen her for a bit.

PENNY- Send her to the kitchen if you see her.

MEREDITH- Will do.

BILL- Can you check on Mom now?

MEREDITH- I'm headed there now.

BILL- Thanks.

RICK- Bill?

BILL- Yeah?

RICK- It's gonna be all right.

BILL- How is she?

JENKINS- Your mom is resting.

BILL- Is she going to be okay? Can I see her?

JENKINS- You can come back with me and take a look.

RICK- What is it?

MEREDITH- She doesn't have long.

RICK- Will he tell Bill?

MEREDITH- I don't know. I think he feels Bill will see for himself.

RICK- We could get her to a hospital.

MEREDITH- No. Nothing short of a miracle can--

PENNY- Is everything okay?

MEREDITH- It's fine. Just a power outage.

BILL- What happened?

WALT- Hey, hey, kiddo, relax. It's just a flicker.

BILL- We need power! She needs it!

MEREDITH- We'll do what we can--

BILL- You can't let her die!

PENNY- It's you again.

STRANGER- Melissa told me there's someone needing prayer.

BILL- My mom?

MELISSA- I was listening when you came in. If anyone can help...

STRANGER- I'll do everything I can.

BILL- You're him! You have to heal her.

STRANGER- I can pray for her. Beyond that--

BILL- Please! Come with me!

WALT- I'm gonna go check the breakers.

MELISSA- How is his mom?

MEREDITH- Dr. Jenkins doesn't think she'll last.

MELISSA- Dr. Jenkins didn't know that Jesus was near. Right?

RICK- Melissa... if this doesn't work...

MELISSA- It will work! He is Jesus... right?

MELISSA- You don't believe him. Why?

MEREDITH- We all have other things that need doing. Penny, Melissa, you need to be cooking.

PENNY- Without power?

MEREDITH- It won't be off for long, and we have a lot of hungry people.

PENNY- We could be praying for them.

MEREDITH- Bill needs to be alone with her. In case--

STRANGER- He asked me to leave. He's going to need all of you now.

MELISSA- Is she okay? Is she going to be okay??

JENKINS- We lost her.

MEREDITH- Bill?

JENKINS- He's in shock, I think. No sooner did they get back to the room, she flatlined. There was nothing anyone could have done.

MELISSA- He could have healed her! If we only got here sooner--

JENKINS- He had no such power. I'm sorry to tell you all this...

PENNY- He's not...

JENKINS- No.

MEREDITH- I'm going to make a place for Bill upstairs. Penny, you better get to the kitchen.

MEREDITH- Penny!

PENNY- It's not possible. He knows me... he loves me.

WALT- Well, glad to see that didn't last too long. (senses something's wrong) What'd I miss? Where's the kid?

BILL- Where is he? The liar. Where did he go?

RICK- He's gone.

RICK- Bill, let's sit down.

BILL- Get out of my way!!

RICK- Bill, wait!!

WALT- Bad night, huh? Wonder how this will all end.

SCENE EIGHT

STRANGER- I'm sorry.

BILL- Me too.

SCENE NINE

RICK- His name was Mike Parr, thirty-one years old, born in Seattle, Washington. The oldest of four kids, he was raised in a conservative Christian home, where he gave his life to the Lord at an early age. His brother described him as a fire and brimstone, hardcore conservative. He gave his life to full-time ministry in high school, then went on to Bible college and seminary. Freshman year, he met a girl through a church Bible study named Carmen. He fell head over heels for her, only to learn she was a Wiccan. The girl turned his whole life upside down. He began questioning his faith, God, everything he ever believed. He left school, went on a road trip with Carmen for a year, and came back completely changed. He was an avid reader, but no longer attended any one church. He worked minimum wage jobs, and often lived in the streets. He refused to go back to school, saying that it would mean the end of the ministry God called him to... reaching the very people Jesus would.

WALT- And I thought I had the market cornered on eccentrics living beneath their ability.

PENNY- How is Bill?

MEREDITH- I talked to the police this morning. They're going to try him as an adult, first degree murder.

WALT- Wow.

MEREDITH- I sent him a message that I want to visit as soon as possible. So far he's refused. Doesn't want anything to do with us.

RICK- You're going to see a lot of that fall out. People leaving because they feel foolish.

MEREDITH- We already are.

PENNY- Melissa?

PENNY- I wish you wouldn't go.

MELISSA- I can't stay here, Penny. All my life I've been lied to, especially by Christians. I can't forgive this one.

WALT- Did he ever once tell you, directly, he was the Christ?

MELISSA- No.

WALT- Did any of us, besides Rick, ever ask?

MELISSA- He knew what people were saying, and he never corrected anyone.

PENNY- I need you, Melissa. I don't want to raise this baby without my best friend's help.

MELISSA- Seems like you have plenty of new friends.

PENNY- We don't have to go back to that life!

MELISSA- No, I don't. But at least that kind of life is honest.

MEREDITH- Melissa, you're going to get hurt.

MELISSA- You really think I want to stay here? That man made a fool out of me. Let's face it, we all were made to look like fools. Jesus would never come to this place.

RICK- You're wrong, Melissa. I was wrong.

MELISSA- You never believed him.

RICK- No, I didn't. But as he told me... I was blinded. I couldn't see that Jesus really was here, in our presence.

PENNY- You just read to us his real name and life story.

RICK- True. I got every detail I could from his brother. But even his brother couldn't see the truth. What did Paul tell us? To be imitators of Christ. Can anyone honestly say this man failed at that goal?

WALT- He sure fooled me.

RICK- It wasn't about fooling anyone, Walt. This man put all his prejudices aside and made every action in the image of Christ. No, he wasn't Jesus come back to Earth. But he was exactly what Jesus wanted every one of us to be.

WALT- In other words, everyone who accepts Christ HAS the Holy Spirit... but this guy actually let it rule his life.

RICK- Exactly. You can walk out that door, Melissa. You're going to find a lot of people to judge you, use you, and abuse you. And a lot of them will do so in God's name. Or you can let the Spirit that was in that man live on in your life.

MELISSA- It was real, right? What we felt, what happened?

RICK- More real than anything I've known in twenty years of being a Christian.

WALT- Makes you question how Christian you really were.

RICK- A week ago, that comment would have offended me. But you're right. I was a Pharisee, living in my Christian bubble, looking out and judging the very people I needed to reach. Not because they need my charity. Because I am just as needy for Jesus as they are.

WALT- Great speech, Rick. But I can't really sit and hear more of this.

RICK- Wht? Where are you going?

WALT- Where else? Putting words into actions. Anyone want to go with?

PENNY- I will.

MELISSA- Can we swing by the jail?

PENNY- You're coming with us?

MELISSA- I want to see Bill.

MEREDITH- He already said no visitors.

WALT- He said no to you. Maybe he'll talk to Melissa.

MEREDITH- Maybe so. Good luck, you guys.

PENNY- We'll be back.

MEREDITH- So, I was looking at the calendar this morning. It's nearly time for you to head back to school, right?

RICK- I did put a deposit down on summer school.

MEREDITH- Be a shame to waste it.

RICK- Be a bigger shame to lock myself in school when there's a whole world that needs to meet Jesus.

MEREDITH- So where are you going?

RICK- Oregon? Delaware? Michigan? I dunno, where ever my car takes me.

MEREDITH- I've seen your car, Rick. You may not be going too far.

RICK- If I get to the people who need to meet Jesus, does it really matter?

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