E3- Threads of Faith

Summary

Summary of "I Witness: Silent Night" – Episode 3: Threads of Faith

Released May 6, 2024

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1. Introduction and Arrival

[00:08] The episode opens with the protagonists Quinn, Miles, and Charlie finding themselves in an unfamiliar setting, prompting immediate curiosity and confusion.

Quinn: "Guys, where do you think we are?" [00:10]

They are greeted by a figure introducing himself as Jesus on behalf of Bethany of Judea. The atmosphere is tense as discussions hint at impending danger.

Jesus: "This night in particular is going to be a very special night, because he is coming." [00:13]

Miles expresses skepticism about the situation, leading to a brief altercation before the introduction of Ishma, who seeks to question Jesus about Yahweh.

Ishma: "We just wanted to ask him a few questions about Yahweh." [00:44]

2. Discussion on Commandments and Judas' Predicament

The conversation shifts to deeper theological discussions. Ishma questions Jesus about the foremost commandment, to which Jesus responds with the well-known directive to love God and one’s neighbor.

Jesus: "The foremost commandment is that you shall love your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is, shall love your neighbor as yourself." [01:54]

The dialogue takes a dramatic turn as Quinn and Charlie grapple with the introduction of Judas, a disciple destined to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.

Quinn: "Judas betrays Jesus and that's what gets him killed." [04:00]

Charlie: "He gives up one of his best friends for $300?" [05:01]

This revelation adds a layer of suspense, highlighting themes of trust and betrayal within the narrative.

3. Mary’s Story: The Anointing

Mary, identified as the daughter of Simon and not Mary Magdalene, shares a poignant story about anointing Jesus’ feet, offering listeners a glimpse into acts of devotion and forgiveness.

Mary: "Jesus was eating with Simon... She has prepared me for burial." [10:51]

The narrative delves into the emotional and spiritual impact of Mary's actions, emphasizing themes of forgiveness and love.

Jesus: "Her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much." [12:55]

This segment underscores the transformative power of faith and the depth of Jesus' teachings on forgiveness.

4. Miles' Worries and Jesus' Teachings

Miles confides in Jesus about his struggles with overthinking and worry, setting the stage for a profound lesson on trust and faith.

Miles: "When things don't go the way I planned, it's hard to adapt sometimes." [16:16]

Jesus responds with analogies from nature, encouraging Miles to relinquish his worries and trust in divine providence.

Jesus: "Look at the birds. They don't work the fields... Aren't you more valuable than they?" [16:55]

He further emphasizes the futility of worry, urging Miles to seek righteousness and prioritize his relationship with God.

Jesus: "You can't worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." [17:06]

This interaction highlights the episode's central theme of faith overcoming anxiety, offering listeners practical spiritual guidance.

5. Conclusion and Forward Look

As the episode progresses, Jesus discusses plans to return to Jordan for baptisms, hinting at upcoming missions and adventures.

Jesus: "I'm planning to return to Jordan soon to provide more baptisms." [07:44]

The introduction of Lazarus further enriches the narrative, adding depth to the community surrounding Jesus and setting the stage for future developments.

Lazarus: "My name is Lazarus." [08:27]

The episode concludes with preparations for travel, leaving listeners anticipating the unfolding of new mysteries and the continuation of the characters' spiritual journeys.

Jesus: "We have some traveling to do." [19:23]

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Key Themes and Insights

• Faith and Betrayal: The introduction of Judas serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of trust even among close companions.

• Forgiveness and Redemption: Mary’s act of anointing Jesus exemplifies unconditional love and the transformative power of forgiveness.

• Overcoming Anxiety with Faith: Miles' struggle with overthinking and Jesus' subsequent teachings offer a relatable narrative on managing personal fears through faith.

• Community and Support: The interactions among the characters underscore the importance of a supportive spiritual community in navigating life's challenges.

Notable Quotes

• Jesus on Commandments: "The foremost commandment is that you shall love your God with all your heart... and with all your strength. The second is, shall love your neighbor as yourself." [01:54]

• Quinn on Judas' Betrayal: "Judas betrays Jesus and that's what gets him killed." [04:00]

• Jesus on Worry: "You can't worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." [17:06]

• Jesus on Forgiveness: "Her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much." [12:55]

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Conclusion

Episode 3 of "I Witness: Silent Night," titled "Threads of Faith," masterfully intertwines suspenseful storytelling with profound spiritual lessons. Through engaging dialogues and rich character interactions, the episode explores timeless themes of faith, betrayal, forgiveness, and the struggle to overcome personal anxieties. Notable quotes and impactful moments ensure that both seasoned listeners and newcomers are captivated and inspired by the unfolding narrative. As the characters prepare for future endeavors, listeners are left eager for the next installment in this gripping audio drama.

Transcript

[Narrator]

This episode is brought to you by Northwest Christian School Online. To learn more, visit ncsonline.org.

[Miles]

Previously on Eyewitness.

[Quinn]

Guys, where do you think we are?

[Jesus]

On behalf of Bethany of Judea, I welcome you. This night in particular is going to be a very special night, because he is coming.

[Quinn]

Who?

[Jesus]

The Teacher.

[Quinn]

I'm sorry, but who is the Teacher?

[Miles]

Maybe you know him by his name. What's his name?

[Quinn]

Jesus.

[Miles]

This old Jesus thing, it's trash, dude.

[Jesus]

It's stupid.

[Miles]

I'm out of here.

[Ishma]

Elysium Extract My name is Ishma. He is the Teacher. Inside.

[Miles]

And what do you want exactly?

[Ishma]

We just wanted to ask him a few questions about Yahweh. Teacher, the. The Pharisees are here.

[Jesus]

As I knew they would be.

[Ishma]

You're not going out there, are you?

[Jesus]

Why wouldn't I?

[Ishma]

They are Pharisees. They want you dead.

[Jesus]

It's not my time yet, Quinn.

[Quinn]

What does that mean? I can't say.

[Jesus]

Teacher, please listen to your friends. Even my brother would want you to stay. I understand, Martha. But surely I tell you they will do no harm to me tonight. You wanted to see us, Master? Yes, Thomas. Thank you. Where's our new guest? The one who told me about the inquiry of the men?

[Miles]

That was me, sir. I'm right here.

[Jesus]

Yes. Miles, stay close to Thomas and Matthew, yes?

[Miles]

Yes, sir.

[Jesus]

Keep them near you, Matthew.

[Lazarus]

Of course, Master.

[Ishma]

Good evening, Jesus.

[Jesus]

Good evening. My young friend tells me you have a question for me.

[Ishma]

Yes, we were curious. Which commandment is foremost of all?

[Jesus]

Did you really travel all the way from Galilee to ask me this? Please, Teacher, we want to learn your heart's desire. It is not, but the foremost commandment is that you shall love your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is, shall love your neighbor as yourself. There are no commandments greater than these.

[Ishma]

And what about Yahweh? Are you his son? If you are the Christ, show us a sign.

[Jesus]

When it is evening, you say it will be fair weather, for the sky is red. And in the morning. There will be a storm today, for the sky is red and threatening. Do you know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but cannot discern the signs of the times? My friends, I warn you, be aware of the scribes who like to walk around in long robes and like respectful greetings in marketplaces and chief seats in the synagogues and places of honor, at banquets, those who devour widows houses, and for appearances sake, offer long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation. Matthew, let's return to our host. My new friends. Please join us. I'd love to speak more with you. In time.

[Ishma]

Judas. A word.

[Quinn]

Did you guys see that?

[Charlie]

See how Jesus just destroyed those dudes with the weird hat? Heck yeah.

[Quinn]

No, at the end. Miles.

[Miles]

I must have missed it.

[Quinn]

One of the Pharisees asked to speak with Judas.

[Charlie]

Who's Judas?

[Miles]

Seriously?

[Charlie]

Seriously, who's Judas?

[Miles]

No, I meant that to Quinn.

[Charlie]

Oh, Quinn.

[Miles]

Seriously. That happened?

[Quinn]

Yes.

[Charlie]

Guys, I still don't know who Judas is.

[Quinn]

Judas is one of the disciples.

[Charlie]

And who are the disciples?

[Miles]

Seriously?

[Charlie]

Oh, me? Yes, seriously.

[Quinn]

Charlie, do you know the story of Jesus?

[Charlie]

I don't really want to get into that.

[Miles]

Charlie, It's. It's okay. We're just curious. Wouldn't you rather know more to enjoy the experience?

[Charlie]

I guess so. Honestly. I've heard the name and know about something with the cross, but that's about it. I don't know details or names, places, anything really.

[Quinn]

Do you want me to tell you about it?

[Charlie]

Yeah. But who is Judas?

[Miles]

Judas is one of the 12 disciples of Jesus.

[Quinn]

They're like his best friends and he teaches them things.

[Charlie]

So why did Judas stay and talk to those guys?

[Quinn]

Because Judas is the one who's going to betray.

[Jesus]

No one else knows.

[Quinn]

Judas betrays Jesus and that's what gets him killed.

[Charlie]

Why?

[Miles]

Pharisees are gonna pay him for money.

[Charlie]

He gives up one of his best friends for money?

[Quinn]

Yeah.

[Charlie]

How much?

[Miles]

Thirty pieces of silver.

[Charlie]

That's it? How much is that worth today?

[Miles]

Not sure. Probably a few hundred bucks.

[Charlie]

He gives up Jesus for $300?

[Miles]

Ish.

[Charlie]

$300? Ish?

[Quinn]

Yep.

[Charlie]

That's messed up. When does it happen?

[Miles]

I'm not sure. Quinn.

[Quinn]

I'm still trying to figure out where we are in the story. Nothing is familiar yet.

[Miles]

Quinn, we should quiet down. Looks like Elias and Aliana are coming.

[Quinn]

Are you alright?

[Miles]

Yeah, I'm good. Quinn, Charlie.

[Quinn]

All good.

[Miles]

The teacher asked to see you again.

[Quinn]

Really?

[Miles]

Yes.

[Quinn]

Follow us.

[Charlie]

What do you think he wants?

[Quinn]

I don't know.

[Charlie]

We're not in trouble, are we?

[Miles]

Why would we be in trouble?

[Charlie]

I don't know.

[Miles]

Let's just listen to what he has to say.

[Jesus]

Ah, good. Thank you for staying. I'm sorry for not providing a proper introduction earlier, but these are a few of my closest friends. This is Matthew, Thomas. And Judas was here a moment ago. No matter. These are our new friends. Miles, Quinn and Charlie.

[Lazarus]

Thank you for coming.

[Quinn]

Lovely to meet you. I've heard of you guys before. Especially you, Thomas.

[Jesus]

I doubt that. If I may ask, what brought you Three here?

[Miles]

I'm not really sure. We were in the market and we met Azariah and he invited us.

[Jesus]

Yes, but what brought you to Bethany?

[Miles]

We don't really know.

[Jesus]

Even without you knowing. I'm glad you're here. I wish your other friend could have stayed. But not everyone listens. Tell me, where are you from?

[Miles]

Town called Phoenix.

[Quinn]

I'm from Billings.

[Charlie]

The Bay Area.

[Jesus]

What places are these?

[Lazarus]

Yes, what is the Bay Area?

[Miles]

Um, very far away is probably the easiest way to put it.

[Jesus]

Mary, are you all right?

[Mary]

Yes, teacher. I am sorry for the disturbance. I'm so sorry. I was just cleaning up from the meal.

[Jesus]

It's quite all right. Please be with us. Have you three met Mary yet?

[Quinn]

No, we haven't.

[Mary]

I'm sorry I can't shake your hand right now. My hands are so dirty from cooking. It's so nice to meet you.

[Quinn]

Nice to meet you, too.

[Mary]

I heard my brother may be arriving earlier than expected. Please stay long enough to see him, teacher.

[Jesus]

Of course.

[Quinn]

I'm sorry, but are you Mary Magdalene?

[Mary]

No, I'm Mary, the daughter of Simon.

[Quinn]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Mary]

No need to apologize. It's a common name.

[Quinn]

So, may I ask where you're going next, teacher?

[Jesus]

I'm planning to return to Jordan soon to provide more baptisms.

[Miles]

When are you leaving?

[Jesus]

Hopefully first light tomorrow.

[Lazarus]

Hopefully not before spending a few moments with an old friend.

[Jesus]

Praise the Father. You've returned.

[Lazarus]

I'm delighted to see you again.

[Jesus]

You too, my friend. You too.

[Lazarus]

It's been far too long this time.

[Jesus]

Yes, I know. I'm sorry I have not returned to Bethany sooner. I will not wait so long next time. I assure you of that.

[Charlie]

But who is that?

[Quinn]

I don't know.

[Lazarus]

And who are our new friends?

[Jesus]

Yes, this is Miles, Quinn and Charlie.

[Lazarus]

Oh, it is nice to meet any new friend of the teacher.

[Miles]

And your name, sir?

[Lazarus]

Of course. Where are my manners? My name is Lazarus.

[Narrator]

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[Quinn]

Good morning, Mary.

[Mary]

Good morning. I hope you slept well.

[Quinn]

Yes, I did, thank you.

[Mary]

I'm preparing breakfast for the teacher. Would you like some as well?

[Quinn]

Yes, please. Thank you.

[Mary]

Very well.

[Quinn]

Can I ask how often you're able to see Jesus?

[Mary]

He's a great friend of ours and is incredibly close to My brother. And as much as we always get to see him, I always wish for more.

[Quinn]

This is the first time I've met him.

[Mary]

What an experience it is.

[Quinn]

Yes, quite.

[Mary]

You had heard about him prior, though?

[Quinn]

Oh, yes. My family and I love his teachings.

[Mary]

Oh, that's wonderful.

[Quinn]

It's very different being with him than to just hear or read about him.

[Mary]

It truly is.

[Quinn]

I was just actually reading in Mark the other day.

[Mary]

Mark?

[Quinn]

Oh, wait. Mary?

[Mary]

Yes.

[Quinn]

You're Mary?

[Mary]

Yes.

[Quinn]

No, I mean, you're the Mary who poured the perfume on Jesus feet, right?

[Mary]

Yes, I am. Would you like to hear the story?

[Quinn]

Absolutely.

[Mary]

Well, Jesus was eating with Simon.

[Jesus]

Thank you for opening your home to me.

[Ishma]

Of course. Everything was to your liking?

[Jesus]

It was wonderful.

[Ishma]

May I ask you something?

[Jesus]

Please.

[Ishma]

I wondered if you.

[Mary]

My Lord, please have mercy on me.

[Ishma]

Mary, get up, please.

[Mary]

Lord.

[Ishma]

What are you doing, woman? You're getting tears all over Jesus feet.

[Mary]

Please, my Lord, let me. Let me wash your feet.

[Ishma]

You are wasting that perfume. Get off the floor immediately.

[Mary]

Lord, please bless me, Jesus.

[Ishma]

Do you know who this woman is? If you were a true prophet of God, you would know who she is. And that you are being touched by a sinner.

[Lazarus]

My Lord, think of what could be done with that perfume. It could have been sold and the money used for the poor.

[Ishma]

My Lord, I'm about to put a stop to this.

[Jesus]

Be still, Simon. And you as well. Matthew, why do you trouble this woman? She has done a beautiful thing for me. Matthew, you will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me. This woman, with her generosity and love, has done it. She has prepared me for burial. My Lord, I. I. Simon, a question.

[Ishma]

Oh, Ask it.

[Jesus]

A money lender had two debtors. One owed 500 denarii, the other 50. They each could not pay. What do you think the lender did?

[Ishma]

I don't know.

[Jesus]

He canceled their debt.

[Ishma]

Both?

[Jesus]

Both. Now which of them will love him more?

[Ishma]

The one who owed 500 because it was the largest.

[Jesus]

Yes. Correct. I entered your house. You gave me no water for my feet. But this woman wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss. But from the moment she entered, she has not ceased kissing my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. Her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little loves. Little, little Mary, my sweet child. Give me your hands.

[Mary]

Thank you, my Lord.

[Jesus]

Your sins are forgiven. Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.

[Mary]

My Lord, thank you. The way he looked at me. The way he spoke to me. I'd already believed before that he was the Son of God. But in that moment, my life was changed. I understood. I am his and he is mine. I'm sorry, my dear. I didn't mean to make you cry.

[Quinn]

It was a beautiful story. I've heard that from somewhere.

[Mary]

Heard what?

[Quinn]

For I am his and he is mine. It's beautiful.

[Miles]

Good morning.

[Mary]

Good morning, young man. Did you sleep well?

[Miles]

I think I did. It felt like I didn't sleep at all, if that makes sense.

[Quinn]

Weird, right?

[Miles]

Yeah. Mary, is it okay if I go outside for a minute?

[Mary]

Of course. Will you be joining him?

[Quinn]

Quinn, I'd love to hear more stories, if you're willing.

[Mary]

I'd love to share. The teacher had just blessed me after I washed his feet.

[Miles]

This is something else.

[Jesus]

And what is that?

[Miles]

Oh, teacher, I. I didn't realize you were out here.

[Jesus]

It's quite all right. I was just praying.

[Miles]

I'm so sorry. I. I didn't mean to interrupt. I'll go back inside and help Mary.

[Jesus]

Mary is fine by herself. Please stay with me.

[Miles]

Are you sure?

[Jesus]

Yes. The company would be nice.

[Miles]

Okay. I was just wanting some fresh air. I really can leave if you'd like.

[Jesus]

Miles, be content. You are bothering no one.

[Miles]

Okay. Sorry. I'm sorry, teacher. I tend to overthink things easily.

[Jesus]

And why's that?

[Miles]

I don't know. I plan things in my head. When things don't go the way I planned, it's hard to adapt sometimes. Sometimes more like all the time.

[Jesus]

When you are preparing your day, what is it you're worrying about?

[Miles]

Everything. I start planning what I'm gonna eat, what I'm gonna wear. Homework, class, dinner, college, everything.

[Jesus]

Do me a favor, Miles.

[Miles]

Anything.

[Jesus]

Look at the fields in front of us. Tell me what you see.

[Miles]

I see plants, bushes, trees.

[Jesus]

What else?

[Miles]

Well, there's some goats over there on the left.

[Jesus]

And what else?

[Miles]

I don't think I'm seeing what you're wanting me to see.

[Jesus]

Look up just slightly. Now, do you see the sky brimming with life?

[Miles]

Yes.

[Jesus]

Look at the birds. They don't work the fields. They don't fish or make bread in the kitchen, yet our Father feeds them. Aren't you more valuable than they? Now look at the flowers. They don't worry about what they will wear yet. God clothes, the grass of the fields. What does worrying do for you? Does it add time to your life? Does your overthinking provide you anything other than stress for the day? Heavenly Father knows what you need. I assure you, if you seek him first and seek his righteousness, he will give you these things. You can't worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

[Miles]

It all sounds so easy. But at the same time, not placing.

[Jesus]

Your worldly desires behind you to be with Jehovah is not easy. But it will be worth it.

[Miles]

Am I clinging to worthless idols?

[Jesus]

Only you and our Heavenly Father know that. But ask yourself, is there anything in my life that I am placing before God the Father? If the answer to that is yes, then the answer to your question is yes. I am simply hoping you are able to take your fear and worry to the Lord first before yourself.

[Charlie]

Good morning.

[Jesus]

Good morning.

[Quinn]

I'm sorry. Should. Should we wait inside?

[Jesus]

We were just planning the day.

[Miles]

So what's the plan then?

[Jesus]

Genoa.

[Ishma]

Yes, teacher.

[Jesus]

Is Azariah here?

[Ishma]

I believe he is at the market.

[Jesus]

Would you bring him please? Let him know I need his help.

[Ishma]

Absolutely.

[Jesus]

Teacher, the plan. We have some traveling to do.

[Narrator]

Thank you for joining us for Eyewitness, the Lazarus Project. Stay tuned for more thrilling episodes. This episode was sponsored by NCS Online. Looking for flexible top tier education? Choose NCS Online. Our inspired curriculum, flexible schedules and diverse materials ensure a well rounded education rooted in biblical worldview. With supportive facilitators and comprehensive assessments, your child thrives. Plus, tuition is covered by Arizona's ESA program. Enroll now for K10 at ncsonline.org.

[Ishma]

In.

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