S2E2: Lost & Found

Summary

Podcast Summary: "I Witness: Silent Night" – Season 2, Episode 2: "Lost & Found"

Release Date: December 9, 2024
Host/Author: Northwest Christian School, Red Five Media

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Introduction

In the second episode of Season 2, titled "Lost & Found," "I Witness: Silent Night" delves deeper into the intertwining lives of its characters, blending elements of faith, mystery, and personal discovery. This episode masterfully balances suspense with profound conversations about purpose, faith, and the human experience, all set against a backdrop that hints at both biblical narratives and contemporary dilemmas.

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Plot Overview

The episode begins with the main characters—Quinn, Emily, Miles, and Zhen—embarking on an adventurous quest where they find themselves separated from one another. Their mission: to reunite by navigating through unfamiliar territories, interacting with locals, and solving the mystery that keeps them apart.

As they navigate this journey, they encounter Joseph and Mary, a couple burdened by unexpected news. Joseph reveals a personal crisis: he is not the father of his pregnant wife’s child, hinting at deeper, possibly supernatural implications. This revelation sets the stage for a profound discussion on faith and destiny.

Midway through the episode, the characters find themselves in Elysium, a place that introduces elements of time travel and philosophical musings. Here, Zhen reveals an intriguing connection with Azariah, a shepherd figure who embodies wisdom and introspection. Azariah’s role becomes pivotal as he leads the group in searching for a lost sheep, symbolizing lost souls or purpose.

The culmination of the episode occurs when the group aligns with Azariah’s mission, leading them to a deeper understanding of their own paths and the divine purpose that binds them all together.

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Key Discussions and Insights

1. Faith vs. Skepticism:

   • Mary and Joseph’s Interaction: A significant portion of the episode revolves around Mary being visited by an angel who tells her she will bear a son named Jesus. This supernatural event challenges the characters' understanding of faith.

     Mary: "It would be a mistake."
     (06:20)

   • Quinn and Emily’s Doubts: The characters grapple with believing in Mary and Joseph’s story, representing the modern struggle between skepticism and faith.

     Emily: "This might all feel like a dream. But maybe that's what I need to see where this all leads."
     (11:33)

2. Purpose and Destiny:

   • Azariah’s Philosophy: As a shepherd, Azariah shares profound insights about purpose, emphasizing that even seemingly small acts hold significant meaning.

     Azariah: "Purpose doesn't have to be grand to be meaningful. Sometimes the greatest purpose is found in the smallest acts."
     (19:07)

   • Miles’ Reflection: Through conversations with Azariah, Miles contemplates his own search for purpose, resonating with listeners who may feel lost or seeking direction.

     Miles: "Feeling like you're out there on your own, and no one's looking for you."
     (20:11)

3. Human Connection and Support:

   • The episode underscores the importance of community and supporting one another, especially during times of uncertainty.

     Azariah: "But isn’t that why we need one another? To remind each other that we're not alone?"
     (20:38)

4. Symbolism of the Lost Sheep:

   • The quest to find the lost sheep serves as a metaphor for searching for lost purpose or faith. It illustrates how individual actions contribute to the greater good.

     Azariah: "A shepherd doesn't leave any member of his flock behind. Each one has worth, even if it seems small to someone else."
     (19:22)

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Azariah on Faith:

  "This land knows much of faith. You were brought here, but by what? Perhaps the stars guided you. If the stars have brought you, perhaps there is more here than any of us know."
  (01:57)

• Mary on Overwhelm and Trust:

  "I don't know if I can do this. What will people say? What will my family think? I could be shamed. I could be cast out."
  (07:05)

• Joseph on Trust and Doubt:

  "Faith means trusting even when you don't have all the answers. It isn't the absence of doubt. It's the choice to keep trusting, even when you're unsure."
  (10:00)

• Emily’s Skepticism:

  "I don't mean any disrespect, Mary, but it's so hard to believe. You know, an angel, a miraculous child. When you have an... you know, it all sounds like a story, one that's too good to be true."
  (09:16)

• Azariah on Purpose:

  "Purpose doesn't have to be grand to be meaningful. Sometimes the greatest purpose is found in the smallest acts."
  (19:07)

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Character Development

1. Quinn and Emily:

   • Quinn emerges as the proactive member, eager to solve puzzles and assist others, embodying leadership and compassion.
   • Emily represents skepticism and caution, questioning beliefs and seeking evidence, adding depth to their interactions.

2. Miles and Zhen:

   • Miles undergoes significant introspection, questioning his purpose and the nature of faith.
   • Zhen, with his connection to Azariah and hints of time travel, brings a mystical element, bridging the past, present, and future.

3. Azariah:

   • Portrayed as a wise shepherd, Azariah serves as the moral compass, guiding the characters towards understanding their true selves and their roles in a larger divine plan.

4. Mary and Joseph:

   • Their biblical narrative intertwines with the modern storyline, providing a foundational faith-based perspective that challenges and influences the group’s journey.

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Conclusion

"Lost & Found" skillfully intertwines personal quests with timeless themes of faith, purpose, and community. Through engaging dialogues and symbolic storytelling, the episode invites listeners to reflect on their own lives, encouraging a balance between skepticism and belief. The interactions between characters like Azariah, Mary, and Joseph enrich the narrative, offering profound insights into the human condition and our search for meaning. As the group comes together to aid Azariah in finding the lost sheep, they also embark on a spiritual journey that promises further revelations in upcoming episodes.

Stay tuned for more enthralling chapters as Northwest Christian School and Red Five Media continue to deliver compelling stories that resonate deeply with listeners.

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For more information about Northwest Christian School Online and their programs, visit ncsonline.org. To explore more of Red Five Media’s captivating content, visit RedFiveMedia.com.

Transcript

[Azariah]

This episode is brought to you by.

[Miles]

Northwest Christian School Online. To learn more, visit ncsonline.org previously on Eyewitness. Oh, hey, one thing I forgot to tell you guys.

[Azariah]

You're not all together for this adventure.

[Miles]

See if you can find your way back to each other.

[Quinn]

Wait, what? We have to look around, walk around, talk to some people, and maybe we'll figure it out that way.

[Emily]

What about those people there? Hey, are we supposed to talk to you?

[Quinn]

Emily, stop. That is not how this works. I told you, we have to figure it out. But shouting at Randos is not the way it's gonna get done.

[Mary]

Hey, you see that guy standing over there?

[Emily]

What about him? He looks like he's crying.

[Joseph]

What can I do for you all?

[Emily]

We saw you from back there. We wanted to make sure you were okay.

[Joseph]

I look that bad, huh?

[Emily]

No, I think we could just tell something was wrong.

[Joseph]

Yes, you could say that. It's my wife. She is pregnant.

[Emily]

Congratulations.

[Quinn]

That's great news.

[Joseph]

It would be great news, except I'm not the father.

[Jake]

There's gotta be something around here, right? People just don't leave herds of sheep alone, do they?

[Azariah]

Who comes near my flock? Oh. Oh.

[Jake]

Hey, it's.

[Zhen]

It's okay.

[Azariah]

You're in the middle of the night with no caravan or horses. Only thieves and wolves wander in such darkness. Which are you?

[Zhen]

I promise we are neither.

[Azariah]

You must take me for a man of faith to believe such nonsense.

[Zhen]

Call it faith or something beyond us, but maybe we were meant to be here with you tonight.

[Azariah]

This land knows much of faith. You were brought here, but by what? Perhaps the stars guided you. If the stars have brought you, perhaps there is more here than any of us know. Please. Your names. I.

[Miles]

Miles.

[Jake]

Jake.

[Miles]

Adam.

[Azariah]

Very interesting names. I am Azariah.

[Joseph]

It would be great news, except I'm not the father.

[Emily]

Who is?

[Joseph]

You wouldn't believe me if I told you.

[Quinn]

Actually, I've seen and heard some crazy things before. You may be surprised by what's believable.

[Mary]

Wait. What have you seen? Read the room.

[Quinn]

Jen, now's not the time.

[Joseph]

I think it's best for you to hear it from my wife.

[Emily]

Where is she?

[Joseph]

She's inside. Please, follow me.

[Emily]

Quinn. I have been told my entire life not to follow strange men anywhere, especially inside a house. I. I don't know. Are you really wanting us to go in there?

[Quinn]

Yep.

[Emily]

Do we go? I guess.

[Joseph]

Please sit. May I offer you a drink?

[Quinn]

No, thank you.

[Joseph]

Very well. Let me get my wife.

[Emily]

I have a bad feeling about this.

[Quinn]

Why?

[Emily]

Have you ever listened to a True crime podcast. This is how they all start.

[Quinn]

This isn't going to end with something bad happening to us.

[Emily]

It might. Either way, I'm ready. Ready for what? Ready to take someone down. What does that even mean? I grabbed a rock from outside. Gotta have something for defense. Emily.

[Quinn]

Seriously, Emily, you don't need to worry about anything.

[Joseph]

Sorry for the delay, my friends. My wife is very tired, but agreed to meet with you.

[Quinn]

That's okay. What's her name? Actually, what's your name?

[Joseph]

Did I not introduce myself? I'm so sorry. My name is Joseph.

[Quinn]

Nice to meet you. I'm Quinn, this is Emily, and this is Zhen.

[Joseph]

Great to meet you. You'll have to forgive the mess. We're getting ready for our travel to Bethlehem in the morning. Yes, here she is now. My dear, this is Quinn, Emily and Jen.

[Mary]

Nice to meet you all. I'm Mary.

[Emily]

Mary and Joseph?

[Mary]

Yes.

[Emily]

Why does that sound so familiar?

[Mary]

I don't know.

[Quinn]

Joseph was telling us we wouldn't believe your story. He said it would be better if it came from you.

[Mary]

Yes. Well, it was a day like any other. I was doing some chores around the house and I noticed something. At first I thought it was a reflection, but it was a small light. And it grew larger and larger. That's when I saw him.

[Angel]

Do not be afraid, Mary. This is unexpected, but there's no reason to fear.

[Mary]

What's going on? Who are you?

[Angel]

I'm a messenger from God. I've come to tell you something. Something wonderful. You found favor with him, Mary.

[Mary]

What? Favor with who?

[Angel]

With God.

[Mary]

Me? Favor? I. I don't understand. Why me? I'm no one. I'm just a girl.

[Angel]

God sees you. He has chosen you for something incredible. You're going to have a son. And his name will be Jesus.

[Mary]

A son?

[Joseph]

That's.

[Mary]

But how? I'm not even married yet. I've never. Oh, how can this happen?

[Angel]

God's spirit will come upon you, and his power will make this possible. This child, he's not just any child. He will be holy, the Son of God.

[Mary]

But why would he choose me? I'm not special. I'm no one important. There must be a mistake.

[Angel]

God does not make mistakes. He has chosen you for this because he knows you can carry this responsibility. You are stronger than you think.

[Mary]

I don't know if I can do this. What will people say? What will my family think? I could be shamed. I could be cast out.

[Angel]

I know you are afraid, but you are not alone in this. God is with you, and he will guide you. Through every part of it. Your cousin Elizabeth, she's going to have a child, too, even though she's well past the age. Everyone said it was impossible, but look at what God has done. Nothing is impossible for him.

[Mary]

What if I fail?

[Angel]

You have been chosen because of your heart. Because God knows you will trust him, even when it's hard.

[Mary]

I don't understand any of this. But if this is what God wants, then I'll trust him. I'll do it. Whatever he needs. I'm his servant.

[Quinn]

It's beyond words. You've been through so much, and still you have so much hope, so much faith.

[Mary]

Hope. And faith is what God has given me. It's not always easy, but it's something that I. We hold onto.

[Emily]

Did you ever think of saying no? Of choosing not to carry this responsibility?

[Mary]

It would be lying if I said I didn't feel overwhelmed. At times, it feels like more than I can handle. But each time I start to feel that way. I remember God's promise. He chose me for this. And somehow that gives me strength.

[Joseph]

We both had our fears, our moments of doubt. But God is always with us. And that's what gives us the courage to keep going.

[Quinn]

Where we're from, most people would struggle to trust anything so completely, especially something they can't fully understand.

[Emily]

I don't mean any disrespect, Mary, but it's so hard to believe. You know, an angel, a miraculous child. When you have an. You know, it all sounds like a story, one that's too good to be true.

[Mary]

It's natural to question things that feel beyond our understanding. You're not alone in that. Even I have moments where I question, why me? But God's ways aren't always ours to know. Faith doesn't remove the questions. It just gives us the courage to keep walking with them.

[Joseph]

Faith means trusting even when you don't have all the answers. It isn't the absence of doubt. It's the choice to keep trusting, even when you're unsure.

[Emily]

I don't know if I could do that. Just trust without answers.

[Joseph]

I had my doubts, plenty of them. But God reached out to me, too, and showed me that this child was part of his plan. I don't know the entirety of his plan, but I trust him. We're still learning every day. And we don't expect anyone else to have it all figured out either.

[Emily]

Still, I just don't think I could.

[Mary]

God meets us where we are. Even a small step of trust is enough. And over time, those steps turn into something more.

[Quinn]

I Think this experience will stay with us? Where we're from, we're taught to question everything. But there's something so real in what you're saying. I feel like maybe that's what we've been missing.

[Mary]

Maybe it is. Each of us has our own journey to understanding. I don't know where yours will lead, but I know you're here for a reason. We're actually leaving soon to go to Bethlehem for the census. It's a long journey and I could use all the help I can get. If you're willing. Would you travel with us?

[Quinn]

Really?

[Mary]

We could use the extra hands, and I'd love to have your company. We'll find a place to stay in Bethlehem, and you'd be welcome to stay with us at the inn.

[Quinn]

Jen. Emily, what do you think?

[Emily]

Absolutely. I don't know. This whole thing feels like a dream. But maybe that's what I need to see where this all leads. I guess we're going then.

[Joseph]

Thank you. I know this wasn't in your plans, but your presence is a blessing to us.

[Mary]

We leave in the morning. Rest well tonight. And tomorrow. Tomorrow we start a journey none of us will forget.

[Joseph]

Northwest Christian School Online provides online Christian education for any students ranging from kindergarten to 10th grade. The tuition is fully covered through the State of Arizona's ESA program and is affordable for families out of state. You can count on NCS Online for a rigorous, proven online program that establishes a robust biblical worldview for all students. For more information, go to ncsonline.org that's ncsonline.org.

[Narrator]

In a world where visuals tell stories, there's one name you can trust to bring your vision to life. Red 5 Media. From captivating commercials to cinematic short films, we specialize in crafting unforgettable experiences that resonate with your audience. Need to showcase your brand on your website? We've got you covered with dynamic About Us videos that leave a lasting impression. Events, recaps, highlights, whatever your video needs. Red 5 Media delivers excellence every time. Contact us today and let's make your story shine. Red5Media where every frame tells a story. Visit Red5Media today. That's Redthenumber5Media.

[Jake]

I'm gonna be honest, walking around in the sun, surrounded by the sight and smell of sheep and their droppings isn't what I had in mind when I signed up for the Elysium.

[Miles]

Yeah, I kind of feel the same.

[Zhen]

Way during my first time. I didn't expect the things I experienced either. But at the end, it was all worth it. Besides, this won't be what we were doing the whole time. I know it.

[Miles]

So, Miles, you know this Azariah guy?

[Zhen]

Yeah.

[Jake]

But he doesn't know you.

[Zhen]

Correct.

[Jake]

How does that work, again?

[Zhen]

I meet him 30 years from now.

[Miles]

30 years?

[Zhen]

Yeah.

[Miles]

How is that possible?

[Zhen]

Because I met him in the Elysium during something that takes place about 30 years from now.

[Jake]

Why didn't you say something to him?

[Zhen]

What am I gonna say? Hey, Doc Brown. It's me, Marty. I'm from the future.

[Miles]

Who is Doc Brown?

[Mary]

It.

[Zhen]

It's from Back to the Future. It's. It's a classic.

[Jake]

Stop quoting old movies nobody has seen.

[Zhen]

He literally doesn't know who I am anyways, so what's the difference?

[Jake]

That's a fair point.

[Azariah]

Be quiet.

[Miles]

Here he comes.

[Azariah]

My friends, I need your help. We have a lost sheep and I must find him.

[Zhen]

Yeah, sure. What do we do?

[Azariah]

Miles, will you and. I'm so sorry. Your name again?

[Jake]

Jake.

[Azariah]

Jake. Yes. Will you and Jake stay to watch the flock? Adam and I will search the canyon over there for the lost sheep and return him.

[Zhen]

Okay. Adam, you good?

[Miles]

Yeah. I've always wanted to go searching for a lost sheep.

[Azariah]

Excellent. Please, this way.

[Miles]

So you've been doing this for a while, huh? Being a shepherd, I mean.

[Azariah]

A while, yes. Longer than I can remember. Sometimes it's all I've known since I was a boy.

[Miles]

You like it?

[Azariah]

It has its moments. There's peace in the routine. I suppose.

[Miles]

It seems like a lot of walking and watching. Just you, the flock and the stars.

[Azariah]

Walking, watching. Guiding. But it's more than that. You get to know each one of them.

[Joseph]

Them?

[Azariah]

The sheep.

[Miles]

Really?

[Azariah]

Of course. Did you know they have personalities? Habits. After a while, you know which ones like to wander and which ones will stick close.

[Miles]

Seriously? They actually have personalities?

[Azariah]

Oh, yes. Some are stubborn, some are curious. Some are timid. In a way, they're not so different from us.

[Miles]

I never thought about it like that. I mean, where I'm from, sheep are just sheep. They don't seem like they'd be too complicated.

[Azariah]

They're simple creatures, but there's a beauty in their simplicity. They trust, they follow, and they teach patience.

[Miles]

Interesting. Do you ever feel like you want to shake things up? Do something, I don't know, a little more exciting?

[Azariah]

Exciting? I'm not sure if shepherding is anyone's idea of excitement, but it has a purpose. And there's comfort in purpose. Even if it's a quiet one.

[Miles]

I guess it's kind of nice, in a way. You don't have all the Noise. Back home, everything's so loud. Everyone's always rushing, busy trying to get somewhere. It's like no one ever stops just to be.

[Azariah]

Yes, life here is simpler. But maybe we lose something, too. Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to see the world beyond these hills. To see what lies beyond the flock.

[Miles]

Why don't you?

[Azariah]

Hmm. I don't know.

[Miles]

So, what's the craziest thing you've had to deal with out here? Wild animals. Bad dudes?

[Azariah]

A little of both, actually. There was one night not too long ago when a pack of wolves tried to get at the flock. And there's always the occasional thief who thinks you can make an easy living off another man's work.

[Miles]

I bet they didn't know who they were dealing with.

[Azariah]

They rarely do. It's an advantage people tend to underestimate. A shepherd.

[Miles]

Would you do anything else if you could? Or is shepherding it?

[Azariah]

There are days when I feel restless. As though there's something more out there waiting.

[Miles]

It's like this feeling there's something bigger, just out of reach. Something you're supposed to do, but you don't know quite what it is exactly.

[Azariah]

But for now, this is my calling. The flock needs me, and I have to believe there's a purpose in that.

[Miles]

In my village, people are always talking about finding their purpose. It's like everyone's looking for the same thing, but they don't know where to start. Some people think purpose has to be big and flashy. You know, something that'll make them famous or important.

[Azariah]

Purpose doesn't have to be grand to be meaningful. Sometimes the greatest purpose is found in the smallest acts. Even in watching over a flock or finding a single lost sheep.

[Miles]

Speaking of which, I've got to ask, why are we spending so much time looking for this one sheep? I mean, you've got a whole flock back there. Wouldn't it be easier to let this one go?

[Azariah]

Easier, yes. But a shepherd doesn't leave any member of his flock behind. Each one has worth, even if it seems small to someone else.

[Miles]

But does the sheep even know it's lost? Maybe it's happier out here on its own. Frida Wandered. Whatever sheep do, maybe it doesn't know.

[Azariah]

It'S lost, but that doesn't mean it isn't. And one day it would realize just how far it's wandered and how alone it's become. That's why the shepherd goes after it, to bring it back before it's too late.

[Miles]

Yeah, I guess I can relate. Feeling like you're out there on your own, and no one's looking for you.

[Azariah]

Perhaps there are times when you think you're alone, but you're not. Sometimes help comes in the ways we don't expect, through people we'd never imagined.

[Miles]

I don't know. It doesn't feel like anyone has time to stop and look for anyone else. Everyone's busy with their own lives.

[Azariah]

But isn't that why we need one another? To remind each other that we're not alone?

[Miles]

It's strange being here with you, looking for this one sheep. It almost feels like it's more than that.

[Azariah]

Maybe it is. I believe that in every journey, the Almighty has a lesson for us, even in the smallest ones. Sometimes he calls us to search for others, and along the way, we discover he's leading us closer to himself.

[Miles]

You sound like a philosopher. Maybe shepherding isn't all you're meant for.

[Azariah]

Perhaps. Or perhaps shepherding is more than meets the eye. Ah, there he is.

[Miles]

Perfect timing.

[Azariah]

Indeed. Let's get him back to the flock. It'll be getting dark soon, and tonight feels different.

[Miles]

Different how?

[Azariah]

I don't know. You travelers, the lost sheep. It all feels like it means something. More like God's hand is in this, showing us that tonight isn't just another night. I don't know why, but I feel as though we're on the edge of something holy. Like what we may be called somewhere soon. Like you said, something a little more exciting.

[Mary]

Thank you for joining us for Eyewitness. Stay tuned for more thrilling chapters from Northwest Christian School. To learn more about NCS, visit ncsaz.org.