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Host
This episode is brought to you by Northwest Christian School Online. To learn more, visit ncsonline.org.
Azariah
Previously on Eyewitness.
Host
But I encourage you to re examine your Bible and ask yourself to look at the lack of consistency throughout that entire book. I would have a much easier time discerning if I were able to talk to someone who was actually there. So the departments that I just mentioned have been working in tandem on a new virtual reality experience. And when. When I say experience, I mean it.
Matthew
So we're gonna be sitting in these big Lazy Boy recliners with the cords, hookups, gloves and the goggles, and we'll feel everything as if it were real life.
Host
Correct, dude. Elysium. Initiate starting countdown.
Thomas
Oh, my gosh.
Matthew
There's no way it's this real.
Malia
Guys, where do you think we are?
Matthew
I don't think that's what we should be asking. I think the better question is when are we?
Father
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.
Malia
Who?
Legion
The Teacher.
Malia
I'm sorry, but who is the Teacher?
Matthew
Maybe you know him by his name. What's his name?
Malia
Jesus.
Matthew
This old Jesus thing, it's trash, dude. It's stupid. I'm out of here.
Jesus
Elysium Extract I wish your other friend could have stayed. But not everyone listens. Have you three met Mary yet?
Mary
I'm Mary, the daughter of Simon. It's so nice to meet you.
Jesus
I'm planning to return to Jordan soon. Hopefully first light tomorrow.
Father
Hopefully not before spending a few moments.
Jesus
With an old friend.
Matthew
And your name, sir?
Jesus
My name is Lazarus.
Matthew
So what's the plan then?
Jesus
The plan? We have some traveling to do. Could someone please help me out of the boat?
Lazarus
Take my hand, Master.
Matthew
Jesus, why are we coming to Gerasenes again?
Jesus
We're going to.
Lazarus
Guard the Master. What do you want with him?
Legion
Jesus, son of the Most High God. In God's name, do not torture me.
Lazarus
Leave this place now.
Legion
Jesus, please.
Jesus
Who are you?
Legion
I am Legion. We are one. We are many. We are many.
Jesus
Why have you taken residence in this man?
Legion
We sense the fractured pieces of his soul. His despair.
Jesus
Despair is not the destiny of a human soul. What is it that you seek?
Legion
Seek? We seek the unraveling. We revel in the suffering.
Jesus
Your revelry brings only pain. But there is another way.
Legion
There is no other way.
Jesus
Your delight is but a hollow illusion. Truth lies in the love of the Father. A love that is radiant, like a light that dispels even the darkest shadows.
Legion
You Speak of love as if it were a force. We fear nothing. Nothing. Nothing.
Jesus
The Father's love is not to be feared. It is the essence of creation, the very fabric of existence. As I raise my hand to thee.
Legion
Your hand is powerless. We are bound to this vessel.
Jesus
You are bound only by your choices. Why do you resist the embrace of Father's love?
Legion
A feeble attempt to counter the inevitable descent into chaos?
Jesus
Chaos is not inevitable. It is a choice. Choose the path of light and the darkness will dissipate.
Legion
We cannot choose. We are shackled by our rebellion.
Jesus
Your rebellion is a choice. And choices can be undone. Will you yield to the Divine?
Legion
No. We will not yield.
Jesus
What is it that you want?
Legion
Leave us be. Do not send us from here.
Jesus
Where then shall I sen. And then.
Father
The Teacher extended his hand toward the possessed man.
Jesus
And be gone from this man. This man.
Father
After the demons left the man, he begged to accompany Jesus. But the Teacher said no. Instead, he told the man to go back to his village and to tell.
Azariah
Them all the good the Lord had done. I can't count how many times we have heard this story before, Father.
Legion
Fr.
Father
Forgive me, my friends, but my youngest daughter has heard these stories more than any.
Azariah
You always bring up the Teacher and his stories.
Father
Do not fault me, Malia. These stories are great stories. They move people. We must share him to everyone.
Azariah
Yes, Father.
Thomas
I liked it.
Azariah
Don't tell him that, or he will just go on and on and on.
Malia
I don't mind listening, Azariah. You can go on and on and on all you like.
Father
Have you heard about the time Jesus shared the story?
Jesus
Picture a farmer sowing seeds upon the soil. Soil as varied as the hearts of those who receive them. The farmer went forth to sow, casting seeds on the ground. Some seeds fell by the wayside, trampled underfoot, and the birds of the air devoured them. Why would someone trample on the seats? The wayside soil represents hearts hardened by the trials and tribulations of life. Just as a path becomes compacted by constant treading. These hearts are resistant, unreceptive to the seeds of wisdom. The seeds, like scattered pearls, are snatched away before they can take root. Other seeds they fell on rocky ground where there was little soil to take root. They sprouted up quickly, but the soil was shallow. They withered away when the sun beat down upon them. The rocky soil are hearts that initially embraced the truth with enthusiasm. Yet beneath the surface lies a shallowness, an absence of depth. When the trials come, like the scorching sun, the roots wither away, for there's no depth to sustain the growth. Other seeds. They fell among the thorns, and the thorns grew up with them, choking the young plants. The thorny soil mirrors hearts preoccupied with cares and riches of the world. Just as thorns compete for nutrients with young plants, these distractions stifle the growth of truth. The seeds are crowded out, unable to flourish amidst the clamor of worldly concerns. Yet some seeds fall on good soil, and they grew and produced a hundredfold. This good soil signifies the hearts that are open, receptive and fertile. They receive the seeds with understanding and bear fruit upon abundantly. These hearts are like rich soil, nurturing the seeds of truth, allowing them to take root and flourish. The lesson, my dear ones, is about the soil of your hearts. Take care. Cultivate the soil. Remove the rocks and the thorns, and allow the seeds of truth to find a deep and receptive abode. Let your hearts be like the good soil, ready to embrace and bear the fruit of understanding and wisdom. May your lives reflect the abundance that comes from a heart receptive to the seeds of truth.
Matthew
Where are we going now, Matthew?
Lazarus
I'm not sure. We'll wait for the teacher to decide.
Father
Matthew, I must speak with the teacher at once. Yes, teacher. I received word.
Jesus
From whom?
Father
From Mary and Martha. They said, lord, the man you love is sick.
Jesus
This sickness won't end in death. It is for God's glory, so that God's son may be glorified through it. Are we returning to Bethany in time? My work here is not yet done, Matthew. Please have the others make camp. Please. Excuse me.
Malia
Are you okay, Azariah?
Father
Yes. I'm just surprised.
Malia
By what?
Father
Lazarus is beloved by Jesus. I'm surprised he's not returning immediately.
Thomas
He's just sick.
Father
Though we would not have heard this news if it was not dire.
Thomas
Dire. So why aren't we leaving then?
Father
I don't know. But the teacher is wiser than I, so I will trust him.
Host
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Jesus
My friends, it is time. We must return to Judea.
Lazarus
But, teacher, a few days ago, those Pharisees wanted to have you killed. And yet you want to go back.
Jesus
Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep. But I am going there to wake him up.
Lazarus
Lord, if he sleeps, he'll get better.
Jesus
Lazarus Is dead. And for your sake, I am glad I was not there so that you may believe. Then let us go to him so that we may die with him. Azariah, will you return with us?
Father
Of course, my lord. Malia, please gather your things.
Azariah
Yes, Father.
Matthew
Is that the village up ahead?
Father
Yes, it is. Stay close, my friends. I fear the threat we left will return. Malia, please run ahead and stay inside with your mother.
Azariah
I don't want to stay inside. I want to see them.
Father
Please, my daughter, do as I ask. I want nothing to happen to you if there is danger for the teacher and those with him.
Azariah
Yes, father.
Thomas
So is there like a funeral or something we're going to?
Matthew
Not quite.
Thomas
Well, what is it then?
Matthew
It's gonna be a little crazy.
Jesus
Jesus.
Mary
Jesus. Why didn't you come back sooner?
Jesus
I have returned now.
Mary
If you had been here, my brother would not have died.
Jesus
Your brother will rise again.
Mary
How, my Lord? How?
Jesus
I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die. And whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?
Mary
Yes, Lord. I believe you are the Messiah. Please, Lord, let me get Mary. She is in mourning.
Jesus
Get her and meet us where my friend has been buried.
Mary
Right away, my lord.
Matthew
Azariah, should we go with Jesus?
Father
Yes. And stay close.
Mary
My lord. Why were you here?
Jesus
We needed you.
Mary
My brother would not have died had you been here.
Jesus
Oh, Mary, I loved him dearly and I still love him.
Thomas
Why is Jesus crying?
Father
Because he knows.
Thomas
Knows what?
Father
He knows what? He is taking Lazarus away from Azariah.
Malia
Should we be concerned by all these people coming?
Father
Be present, my friends. Focus on what is about to happen. We are safe. I know that now.
Jesus
Where have you laid him?
Mary
Here, my lord.
Jesus
Matthew, Thomas, remove the stone.
Mary
But Lord, he has been dead for four days.
Jesus
Did I not tell you that? If you believe, you will see the glory of God. Remove the stone. Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I know that you always hear me. But I said this for the benefit of the people standing here that they may believe that you sent me. Lazarus. Come out. Out, out.
Father
I cannot believe my eyes. He is the Messiah.
Jesus
Quickly, take the grave clothes off and let him go.
Thomas
Is that really Lazarus?
Matthew
Yeah, it is.
Malia
He looks normal.
Father
Of course he does. He has been resurrected as if he.
Matthew
Was never ill. Azariah, thank you for everything you've done for us. This has been one of the most incredible.
Host
Welcome back, ladies and gentlemen. Please don't stand up. We will help you. Disengage from the elysium. Now, how was the experience?
Malia
Crazy.
Host
How so?
Malia
I kind of forgot it wasn't real.
Thomas
Charlie, I don't really know what to say.
Host
Okay, I'll take that as a good sign. Once you're completely disengaged and cleared, you can head out that door and find your parents.
Lazarus
So, how was it?
Matthew
Incredible. How long were you guys waiting?
Lazarus
About an hour.
Matthew
That's it?
Lazarus
Yeah. Why?
Matthew
We were in there for days.
Lazarus
Seriously, what did you guys do?
Matthew
I'll tell you on the way.
Lazarus
On the way to what?
Matthew
That philosophy professor's class.
Host
Thank you for joining us for Eyewitness. The Lazarus Project. This episode was sponsored by NCS Online. Looking for flexible top tier education? Choose NCS Online. Enroll now for k10@ncsonline.org.
I Witness: Silent Night - Episode 4: Resurrection & Revelation
Release Date: May 13, 2024
Host/Author: Northwest Christian School, Red Five Media
In Episode 4 of "I Witness," titled "Resurrection & Revelation," listeners are immersed in a compelling audio drama that intertwines technology with timeless biblical narratives. Hosted by Northwest Christian School through Red Five Media, this episode leverages a virtual reality experience named Elysium to transport characters—and listeners—into profound moments of faith, conflict, and revelation.
The episode kicks off with the Host introducing Elysium, a cutting-edge virtual reality platform developed collaboratively by various departments striving to create an "experience" that feels indistinguishable from real life ([00:35]).
Matthew enthusiastically describes the setup:
"We're gonna be sitting in these big Lazy Boy recliners with the cords, hookups, gloves, and the goggles, and we'll feel everything as if it were real life." ([00:35])
As the countdown to initiation begins, the characters—Matthew, Thomas, Malia, Azariah, and Father—find themselves transported into a biblical setting, encountering figures like Jesus and Lazarus amidst supernatural developments.
Upon arrival, the group witnesses an intense interaction between Jesus and a demonic entity known as Legion. This confrontation encapsulates the eternal struggle between divine love and destructive rebellion.
Father introduces the night as particularly special:
"This night in particular is going to be a very special night because he is coming." ([01:14])
Legion emerges as a formidable antagonist:
"I am Legion. We are one. We are many. We are many." ([02:55])
Jesus addresses Legion with unwavering compassion:
"Despair is not the destiny of a human soul. What is it that you seek?" ([03:14])
Despite Legion's resistance, Jesus emphasizes the power of the Father's love:
"The Father's love is not to be feared. It is the essence of creation, the very fabric of existence." ([04:00])
This dialogue highlights the central theme of the episode—the triumph of love and faith over darkness and chaos.
A pivotal moment unfolds as Jesus shares the Parable of the Sower, offering listeners profound insights into human receptivity and spiritual growth.
Jesus elaborates:
"Picture a farmer sowing seeds upon the soil... These hearts are resistant, unreceptive to the seeds of wisdom." ([06:05] - [09:21])
He categorizes the soil types to represent various human dispositions:
The lesson underscores the necessity of cultivating one's heart to embrace and bear the fruit of understanding and wisdom.
The narrative reaches its emotional crescendo with Jesus announcing the resurrection of Lazarus, a demonstration of divine power and a testament to faith.
Jesus declares:
"We have some traveling to do." ([02:06])
As the group approaches Lazarus' tomb, Mary confronts Jesus:
"If you had been here, my brother would not have died." ([13:19])
In response, Jesus proclaims:
"I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die." ([13:30])
Upon removing the stone from the tomb, Lazarus emerges, resurrected:
"He looks normal." ([16:27])
"Lazarus. Come out. Out, out." ([15:22])
This miraculous event not only validates Jesus' divine mission but also reinforces the episode's exploration of belief, faith, and the power of divine intervention.
As the virtual experience concludes, the characters grapple with the profound events they've witnessed. Malia remarks on the realism of the simulation:
"I kind of forgot it wasn't real." ([17:07])
Father and Thomas discuss the apparent time discrepancy between their virtual journey and reality, pondering the depth and impact of the experience.
Matthew shares a humorous revelation about his prolonged engagement in a philosophy class, adding a touch of levity to the intense narrative.
Matthew ([00:35]):
"We're gonna be sitting in these big Lazy Boy recliners with the cords, hookups, gloves, and the goggles, and we'll feel everything as if it were real life."
Jesus ([03:14]):
"Despair is not the destiny of a human soul. What is it that you seek?"
Legion ([02:55]):
"I am Legion. We are one. We are many. We are many."
Jesus ([06:05]):
"Picture a farmer sowing seeds upon the soil... These hearts are resistant, unreceptive to the seeds of wisdom."
Jesus ([13:30]):
"I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die."
Jesus ([15:22]):
"Did I not tell you that? If you believe, you will see the glory of God. Remove the stone."
"I Witness: Silent Night" Episode 4 masterfully blends immersive storytelling with profound theological discourse, challenging listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys. Through the Elysium virtual reality experience, the episode delves deep into themes of faith, redemption, and the transformative power of divine love.
The resurrection of Lazarus serves as a powerful metaphor for rebirth and the limitless possibilities that faith can unlock. The interactions between Jesus and Legion offer a timeless exploration of good versus evil, emphasizing that personal choices shape one's destiny.
Listeners are left contemplating the parable's relevance in their lives, encouraged to cultivate their hearts as Jesus advises, ensuring they remain fertile grounds for truth and wisdom.
Prepare to be captivated, prepare to be amazed, prepare to become an eyewitness to the extraordinary. This is "I Witness."