Return to Me Act 1 (Stage is dark, Spotlight up on Narrator as she enters SL between Matteniah’s and Iddo’s home, following her as she walks picking flowers, stops picking flowers at CS when she notices audience) Welcome all to this time together. I am so pleased you have come. I am going to tell you a story. A story very personal to me. This story is of an epic journey. It is of a people who witnessed God’s miraculous power and of course there is a love story...or two. But most important, it is a story of faith. You know we all come to faith differently. Faith in God is not found in a bubble. Faith is found as we navigate this messy world with its many cultures, trials, and forces that work against faith. Sometimes by sheer stubbornness we stay on the faith journey, but for others faith is a gift. The people in this story are my people...your question is are they your people too? What part of this story is your story? Sit back and enjoy the adventure. The adventure of a lifetime...a lifetime with the Almighty One. (Lights Down, Narrator; Lights up SR top of school balcony. Iddo starts singing, setting the stage for what is about to happen). Introduction - song -Iddo It’s 536 B.C. Belshazzar the king is in great need Daniel is who he will call For the handwriting’s on the wall The news isn’t good, the Persians are coming And Babylon’s kingdom will fall. (chorus-Jewish sing chorus with Iddo) God always keeps his promises ‘The prophecy can’t be denied After seventy years things are changing ‘The temple’s rebuilding is nigh (Verse- Iddo only) God’s people have lived in exileFar, far away from their home Judah was conquered, the people enslaved Jerusalem’s temple is gone. It’s finally time to go back to Judah God would be leading them home. (chorus-Jewish sing chorus with Iddo) God always keeps his promises The prophecy can’t be denied After seventy years things are changing The temple’s rebuilding is nigh (Lights fade- All ensemble exit and head to back of house for parade scene) (Lights up SL as Yael comes running over to Zechi’s house yelling excitedly Zechi is up on rooftop) Yael: Zechariah! Where are you? (looking up at Zechi on rooftop) Can you believe what has happened? Zechi: (He looks down at her from his rooftop) What has happened? Yael: The Babylonians have been defeated by the Persians! King Cyrus is throwing a celebration! Zechi: —_ looking down at Yael) YES! See I told you God does keep his promises! (Zechi begins down the stairs) I just didn’t think it would be in my lifetime! Yael: The procession is coming down main street now!! Zechi: Wanna go see it? (they take off running together through the crowd of parading people, Lights up as the parade enters with lots of pomp and circumstance. Z&Y sneaks to the top of the assembly house Ensemble freeze during verses. 7 Diana and Berkiah are in their home from back of house. 1 Parade begins to enter Making way to CS. Ma sewoverlooking the canal SR. As the parade passes by the assembly house, music becomes muffled and the crowd becomes quiet but still pretending to be celebrating.) Zechi: Oh, look Yael! There he is!!! Yael: Who? . Oh, Zechariah, I don’t get it. What is so exciting about a change of kings. One king or the next, we are still slaves. But...Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh! Wow!!! Look at all the colors, all the sparkle, and... those must be all his magiciansll!... There must be 100s of { them! Magnificent!!!!! Zechi: Really? That is what you see? All the colors and Magicians? (Laughing)...you are such a girl! Yael: Well ...duh! Zechi, I am a girl!... and if you can’t see that... No wonder you can’t see the true beauty of a parade. Aw, come on... Tell me Zechi: fin a trance, talking but not to Yael) I see the hand of God! Prophesying that a King Cyrus would let all the exiles from Jerusalem return to their land. (realizing Yael is standing quietly and looking at him weirdly) Wow! We are going home! Yael: But this is our home! Zechi, I don’t want to leave Babylon! Zechi: Our people have waited for this time! As God’s chosen people we have to rebuild God’s temple. (Pausing, Zehi Looks back down at the parade) You are right! The vibrant colors and clothes are stunning: (Yael pushes Z and they start giggling and head down from the roof top? While Babyton people are enticing others at the market Place. As Zechi and Yael head back home. They encounter a gambler who begins to entice Zechi, handing him dice and encouraging him to roll them.)Zechi: (Takes the dice and looks at them) I don’t understand what he wants? Yael: Oh Zechi! (Yael takes the dice and gives them back to the gambler and pulls Zeki in a different direction) You are so naive. You better stick close to me, I will protect you. (Other enticements along the way as they come up the aisles in the nce. Parthia is among them; Yael runs to see what Parthia has and Zeki pulls her back and shakes his head no. This is a back and forth of Yael and Zechi pulling each other out of the harm’s way. ‘Having fun along the way. They finally end up at home and they stand in respective doorways.) Zechi: It is nearly time for Sabbath we had better get ready. Are you joining us tonight? Yael: No, my mother is still very sick. See you later? (Goes to enter house, step back hurriedly) Zechi? (a tone of anticipation and fondness)! love our walks to the canal! If we move to Jerusalem will there still be a canal? Zechi: (shrugging and grinning) don’t know, but I promise we will always go on walks! (Yael turns to go in and Zechi calls her) Yael! I know going home is scary but you know I will always keep you safe, right? Yael: Yeah, I do! Zechi: Yael! You will always be my best friend! Yael: And you mine! (smiling and they both enter their own homes). (In Iddo’s & Dinah’s courtyard. Lights up on Dinah preparing to take the Sabbath meal to Mattaniah’s family. Dinah carries a pot over to Mattantah’s home. Lights down CS, Lights up on SL. Dinah calls to Yael and Yael opens the door - farther inside are Miriam lying down and Parthia is next to her conducting a ritual) Parade ensemble exits the house through the audience..-Miriam, I brought Dinah: something for your Sabbath meal. (—_i/7 Yoel: aT Dinah: (Placing food on the table as she asks Yael) Who ig that with ygur mother? t Yael: Parthia - she is here to read Mami oe ‘ read yours? She is always right! Dinah: I’m not sure that is such a good idea. LL (Dinah Nods hello towards Parthia, otherwise ignores her presence. Speaks to Mirtam) ——SE—— Miriam: Dear Dinah, you're always so good to us. But # Where Ls gad MENS, (Awkward silence from Dinah - Yael enters with cups of water and passes them around.) Woura ike TO SSK Somehrircy of Mirie ie seer? Dinah: Thank you...But no - my husband, Iddo, became angry when I asked your last astrologer for signs ..he says...it is forbidden and (hushed secret whisper) pagan. (clears throat. Smiles and nods at Parthia giving her a false nod of acknowledgment)Miriam: Well, he doesn’t have to know. Give Parthia your cup. . (inah gives her the cup, not realizing what she is going ta do* Parthia drops a pinch of herbs in, stirs it around, and looks intently into the cup) ” Parthia: I see a great tearing in your life, something very precious to you will be ripped away and... Dinah: Stop!" I don’t want to hear , Miriam have a blessed in on you tomorrow, (Dinah exits house abruptly. Goes directly to her home through front door. Parthia watches Dinah leave with contempt and turns to speak to Yael) Parthia: Come with me, little one. I brought the charts as I have promised! Let’s begin your studies so you can learn to read tite stars. (Yael walks over to Parthia as the lights go down on the scene.) (Lights up CS on Iddo’s house. Family puts food and candles on the table and then gathers around the table talking excitedly. Dinah Enters home at the front door and takes her place. Iddo enters. AU chatter ceases. * (Queengqanseene Dinah rises and begins the Sabbath meal with the prayer of shema.) Dinah: Hear Oh Israel... (waving her hands over the lit candles us is tradition and then begins to serve her family) Iddo: fy sons, Berekiah and Hoshea, we must start planning for our journey back to Jerusalem! (reaching for Zechi to sit on his knee)You will be 12 soon, ‘wiksionsdsimim take on a man’s role same. We have so much to do! (sends Zechi back to his seat) This is a glorious time to be alive. (Others are looking doubtful and shaking their heads, mumbling quietly, Hoshea elbows Berekiah to speak on their behalf) Berekiah: Abbal?! Wecheverrreverrtreardt-iing-Coice Iddo: Zechi: Hoshea: we-casmedeort=Don't you think all this “returning to Jerusalem” doqpeensetere crazy talk! He promised that we would be as suumskews as the stars in the heavens... (muttering with a joking smile on his face) It must be a pretty dark sky if we're the only stars that are left. (Hoshea and Berekiah laugh. A harsh look and loud clearing the throat from Iddo quteten them. Iddo smiles and nods to Zecht to continue. Zechi points another finger to note the third promise) Zechi: Hoshea: He promised that through us all the nations of the earth would be blessed... flouder) That's funny, as I recall...All nations hate us. We sure are blessing a lot of people. (everyone is nodding in agreeance) Zechi Stands up at table, holding up a Pointer finger and ticks off each points as he says them. Iddo is getting irritated at the disrespect of his sons and this starting to show in his actions.Zechi: a - : Iddo: Hoshea: Iddo: (the brothers look at each other, not understanding the anger Iddo is *fes! We were created to live with God, in His dwelling place on earth. (the next line is directed to Iddo’s sons) Which is His temple in Jerusalem! ‘That is why it is so important for us to return and to rebuild it. Without it, our sins will continue to separate us from Him. But does it have to be in Jerusalem? What did Ijust say? Of course, it does! Do you think He would dwell among us here, alongside these pagan idols and pagan temples? exhibiting. Hoshea elbows Berekiah and nods toward Iddo) Berekiah: Iddo: Berekiah: Iddo: Abba you know Hoshea and I, started this business of transporting... for the family. We are doing very well these days and well... and it's just not a good time to move to Jerusalem. Bah! You won't need to run a business when we return to Jerusalem! YOU were born to be priests, We were born to be priests and priests we will be! Just like all our fathers before us! Oh Abba. You are faithful to these old tales. But | I fear, as all the times before, this too is just a rumor and once again you will be disappointed. Why, (Pause) not..just wait and see what the new King Cyrus declares and then our future will be clear! (raising his cup) You will see...very soon. God will return His people to Jerusalem! (All raise their cups and drink, Visitor comes to door in need for a wife) Sea ae EEC Dinah slaps Hoshea’s upside the head...Then returns to the loving disposition and with a smile she speaks Iddo stands with hands 0 table speaking load and pronunciating underlined words to his son's. ‘Almost yelling with controlled rage at the attitude of his sons. Iddo brings anger back into check and grows excited trying to ignite excitement in Berekiah.Dinah: (Dinah puts on a cloak, head covering and gathers her things as she ts talking) don’t wait for the end of Sabbath! (chuckting at her humor) foal o: Souepeney-Prechouls TMNT Er tytotna- te pom One es Setrses-eeredbonopccleing- tor Hoste Beene). BOYS, CONT Biye your IAUTeT TOO Tare Ot er tines Bet do keep hie in'the land of reality while I am gone, (all Laugh at Dinah’s last sentence as she heads out.) (‘Lights are lowered to change to night and Iddo steps outside the house - watching and waiting for Dinah to return whistling the chorus to family business and randomly talking to God as the rest of the men leave through USC. Women clean off table and exits USC with all dishes. Iddo goes inside home. Dinah enters SL, enters home taking off her headscarf. She is excited but tired. Iddo greets her with a hug.) Iddo: Dinah: Iddo: Dinah: Any problems? Thankfully all was good...mother and child. I love being a midwife! There is nothing more miraculous than the birth of another one of God’s children! Whew! It is work for the mother and me ~ (Pausing and chuckling) I guess that’s why it’s called labor! (she continues laughing at her own joke) Dinah, I am sorry about earlier! Forgive me for upsetting dinner. Do you agree with our sons? Shewkdwe-kemestheissequest torstey here orto tena tey-reternswith Ts? ; : Iddo.. acco dexusalem; this is the only home we've ever known. : Childeon-Ounfemiszmemazias aseheve! And as much as what you love Jerusalem, we love Babylon. Our sons were only asking you to see10 Anis what yeu have now, in this place. Whretthey hevel—kdde-thie-hesrahraye-beeryourdrensty amddemanding.them to follauyoumdroenrem ae mnaidioretionr for thelr Teeny TINS Iddo: - Butthisisrtsomcone’s-werldiz-deeamst This is about God’s promise and our obedience. He said as long as the sun and moon remain, Israel will remain. We must put our trust in that promise! Dinah: Maybe so but, last I looked the sun rises above Babylon too! Be-yorrrrorseethmrGod has shown-fever-er-ustreres-tnrtappy here witir— hoes Jade: see : i . vttowing His oe ant — ane rd thenrourofconvenience, self gain orfear——— (Dinah walks away from Iddo and stands hugging herself) Jddo:_——What?-whet do you think? (Lights down on Iddo & Dinah. Lights up on Parthia SL. Mysticat sounding music is playing as she speaks)"1 Parthia: I see a great tearing in your life... (lights down on Parthia) (Lights up CS on Iddo, Dinah, And Zechi) Narrator:[JNow you have met the four main people of our story. Four people I love dearly! You can’t help but enjoy Yael, she is so full of life and energy. She has practically raised herself since her mother has been ill her whole life. And then there is Zechariah, who even at this young age, is deeply aware of God’s workings in the world. Iddo, whose life as he knew it was destroyed at a very young age. He lived through the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple and made the grueling journey on foot as a child to the pagan city of Babylon. But now you hear him embracing the journey home. And then we have our precious Dinah. She marries Iddo because of his great faith. Her life is full. Two sons and daughters-in-law and many grandchildren already. She thrives in this little Jewish community as a midwife and is somewhat unaware of the Babylonian influences all around her. Why would she want to go to Jerusalem? Babylon is predictable and safe! But, soon all of their lives will be turned upside down. I often wonder, would I have left the “comforts” of Babylon and gone on this epic journey? (Lights up CS-Dinah in home tidying upjas Iddo and Zechi hurriedly passing through home, leaving for morning prayers) Iddo: Come Zechariah we don't want to be late. Dinah: Heading off for morning prayers as usual? Iddo: Yes and it will be an exciting discussion today with all the changes herer (lddo joins with other priests coming from many directions, Iddo starts the prayer and then fades to no sound, only movement of him and other priest) Iddo: “O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with all who love.....12 (Kids are playing CS. Zechi sneaks away from the prayers and goes to play with the children in the street. Berekiah comes in SR passing in front of the assembly hall looking for Zechariah. Friendly | nodding at the men who are scattering after their prayers, heading off stage at different exits. Berekiah finds Zechi among the children playing and goes to him. Meanwhile iddo is putting things up after | Prayers and getting ready to leave, he begins to search for Zechi around the middle of Berekiah’s first verse.) Berekiah: Oh, there you are Zechariah, I want you to come with me to work today. @fusic begins and the market place comes alive. Berekiah shows Zechi merchandise and the procession of wealthy goods is all satsea eM Berekiah Zechi, it is time to learn the business (proudly) Ge atowa You're twelve years old and almost likeaman =| h-: . to Peore ‘The days are getting longer 5 Rep opin 's And I'm not getting younger ite ‘There'll be a good living, living in Babylon In spite of all the ups and downs I know our profits will abound These Persian women sure know how to shop. I need you here with me ‘There’s much to learn you see This business will be rising to the top. Iddo: Zechi, it is time to learn the business (matter- of-factly) Not trade or money, but the business of God ‘The scriptures we must read And prayers are all we need God’s business is what we need in Babylon With all of life’s ups and downs God will never let us down ‘The Torah’s words are calling you today Ineed you here with me There’s much to learn you see Berekiah distracted by merchants, allows Iddo to motion for Zechi, Ido begins to share his vision of the family Business) > hos bovi God will be beside us all the way13 (Berekiah realizing that Zechi is gone, finds him with Iddo takes his hand to walk away back towards the marketplace carts) (Bridge) ( Switch keys - to A flat) Berekiah: Zechariah, he is my son and I will take him with me... Those prophets were just dreamers don’t you see? No matter what Saba thinks You and I will never be priests So put your faith in Babylon, that’s the key (to @7) Ensemble:Zechi has a choice to make He’s got to get it right He’s pulled in two directions so it seems Even though we know the answer Because we've read the book His future is just waiting in the wings (repeat line) (Lights fade on Berekiah and Zechi as they exit up the aisle-BSC. Iddo heads home. Up to his rooftop. Where he watches Yael in her courtyard. Lights up Parthia enters Yael’s courtyard and begins looking over the star charts with Yae.) Parthia: These months that you have been learning from me has shown me that you have a great gift to see the future. s eiely. I want you to be my apprentice. I will teach you everything I know about potions and spells. Dathonwitl-be-ve-proudefpon. : oe Yael: Really? Will you teach me everything? Will-ebe able to heal my Mother®6tre grows” eokerevery-caye we Parthia: I am doing everything I can fonder. But the spirit of unbelief is strong here (she points to Iddo’s house.) Bretwe will Lifeemdemake sacrifices amdmeinenstibhe {9 ~ Berekiah takes Zechi by hand and kneels down in front of him Berekiah stands and looks towards the merchant carts) » aoddas- pihohear our request (Parthia begins in a ritual as Yael mimics Parthias movements. Iddo begins to pray) (Lights up SR as Shoshanna and Dinah, and a group of ladies enter returning from the market carrying baskets of food) Shoshanna: So, I haven’t heard your plans for returning to Jerusalem. Aren't you excited? Dinah: (more subdued) Oh Shoshanna, dear cousin...We don’t even know if we are going... There has not been anything official from King Cyrus yet. Shoshanna: (Scolding disbelief tone) Dinah!?!_ The scriptures tell us we are going! Dinah: (changing the subject) Did you know the journey will take over three months? I can’t begin to imagine such a long trip, can you? Seems...impossible. Shoshanna: (Jolly attitude again) Well, I think it is exciting. My Joel was not sure he wanted to go at first, but, you know me, I convinced him! Dinah: Shoshanna, why? Shoshana: Becaiuse, this is the most important thing we could ever do. If we don't obey the Almighty One and rebuild our temple, we'll be separated from Him forever. You'll see Dina:. The announcement will come any day. (All the ladies drift away, waving to Dinah, who enters her home’s courtyard. Iddo is still on the rooftop. Zechi returns home coming up the aisle from the back of the room and is full of excitement). Zechi: Saftd, I learned so much today about our15 business. I have never seen so much money change hands. The Babylonians respect Abba too, It was a good day. Where is Saba? Dinah: Probably up on the roof. Zechi: (Zechi climbs to the roof and joins Iddo) Saba it was such an interesting day with Abba today! So much to learn. (Zechi notices Iddo’s disappointment) But I missed my Torah studies too. Iddo: We can study Torah in the evenings so you can keep up. (iddo turns toward Yael’s house and points. Says angrily...) Tell me Zechi, who is that woman. with Yael? Zechi: That is Parthia, she is the fortune teller for Yael’s mother. i “Satz; I have been having strange dreams lately... about Yael hiding in a big basket. Aur (Zechi goes to look at what Iddo ts staring at intently. Parthia and Yael are digging a hole and burying something) What are they doing? Iddo: Burying an idol at the door of the house. This is very bad, Zechariah. After dinner I must talk with Mattaniah and warn him about what his daughter is getting involved in. (lights fade on rooftop, Parthia and Enter home. Matteniah enters his home USR through back door as Dinah enters from houses front door. Parthia is standing over Miriam oddly and steps over to a table to mix potions when others enter) Dinah Misiers-Lhere-broughtyorrsome-freshinait, Miriam: very sick and weak) Mattaniah, are you here? (Miriam grabs matteniah’s hand and looking at him, then around at the others)Piette fessmryteve-Herkere: Miriam: (Miriam reaches for Dinah, and Dinah's Takes Miriam’s hand) Dinah, you're here. I have...something to ask you. Dinah: Miriam, yes my dear friend, anything! Miriam: Dinah, promise me you'll take care of my Yael. ) aS your very own daughter... Yael: Mama, Stop! Don’t talk that way! (frightened and angry) Miriam: (looks at Mattaniah, then back to Dinabj-ehewd-be— Promise me you'll teach herbimektAnd find a worthy husband...Promise mel! Dinah: Of course,-Misiom=hiiwier== ‘Mx 7 Stories youwould tell us gboubthe standing —, ctoncol_Mecee-ene-dookun®—Shre-necdts HITT eve. (looks at Yael and smiles) Yael: | Mama, no! You won't die! I have prayed to my stars aschthayallsay you will be healed! (Bveryone is crying, understanding that Miriam is dying) Miriam: ‘Phey-ere-nrong- my sweet Vael-buttockry ‘ 7 eek 2 : (looks at Mattaniah) My-asbarnt... I'm so tired... ... ’'m not afraid... (Miriam smites weakly and breathes her last) Yael: (screaming) Mama! No, please don’t leave me!7 (Fael ts crying, laying on her mother Pathia pulls her up and guides her out to the courtyard. There is a moment of silence on stage as Dinah covers Miriam with a sheet, reaches to comforts Matteniah, then steps to the window it is at this time we see the exchange of Yael and Parthia) Yael: (to Parthia in a confused state) You said she wouldn't die! Parthia: (Parthia holds Yael and comforts her) “Belicuemelitileone, I did everything I could, butthe-spirit Uf Uinbeliel Was JUST too strony. — (Parthia holds Yael by the shoulders in order to see her eye to eyqlue-bessiuaiting to talk to yourfather, thetime tras tome. Twi Mot walt arty fOrpere Yael, you have the gift efdeep-spiritrratinstgnt - - I will arrange for you come and live with ine, Yorrwithbemy-deughteremntMiteaciryor everything Hernow-fogettrer we wilt Diner 2 Me, A DEMET Tore tira yor cont ever Mra! Dinah: (Dinah speaks through the courtyard window) You need to leave here right now! You have no business making promises you can’t keep! (Dinah Exits house through USL back door) Parthia: Quick, I have something for you. (Yael kneels beside Parthia as she slips a necklace around Yaer’s head). It’s the moonstone amulet I promised you, Wearitatalltimes. It will protect you. (Dinah enters courtyard and Parthia address Dinah) ; i F é : aith-me-jpiscee-hen-hand-on-Heets hem Dinah: She isn’t yours. (Dinah pushes Parthia’s hand away and help Yael stand up as she is talking) Yael is Jewish. She belongs with us. How dare you fill her head with crazy ideas when you just heard her mother last request. (looking at Yael) Pad : R i yar (Dinah takes Yael into her home and they exit USC back door of Iddo’s home. All lights fade except for spotlight on Parthial)Tmust have Yael Tl whisk her away Me and the stars Will show her the way I must have an apprentice To help me get by The stars could explain Why her mom had to die (Chorus) If she'll live with me Till give her rest Me and the stars Weill do the rest Master and apprentice Forever will be Yael just has to believe In the stars and me ‘The stars they have told me That it would be so That Yael, she would be mine And be mine alone I look to the stars And what do I see ‘The future belongs To the stars and me (Chorus - repeat last-2 lines) (lights down on Parthia, who exists SL. Lights up on assembly hall where men are having their morning prayers. Drums are heard) —Pre- set in hose(Drums sounding) Announcement read from the assembly house over the yeshiva school. Many Jewish men there too. Women and children , ; are drawn in by the sound of the drums) Persian banner bearer: order of Cyrus,/All Jews may return to their homeland in Canaan and repopulate the hills and cities including Jerusalem. You are to rebuild the temple to the God of heaven. All objects taken from that temple by King Nebuchadnezzar will be returned to you. The entire journey is to be paid for from the royal treasury. Persian guards will go with you for protections and to act as guides for your journey. (quietly be over excited excitement among ‘everyone, hugging and happy tears, very lttle sound as the song begins by the crowd but a low muffle of happiness) Iddo: (chorus) Today is a day of glorious news Ail Sagu's A proclamation from the Persian king. Rebuilding God's Temple in Jerusalem His people to Judah returning ‘The prophet Isaiah had said this would be Over one-hundred years ago Even King Cyrus was mentioned by name In scripture all scholars would know We're going home (home, home) - to Jerusalem (home, home) Our time has come (home, home) - Our new lives begun (This part needs to be 4-part harmony with lots of voices and choro) (chorus) And yet, there are some who will choose not to go For whom Babylon was their home It was a long journey over difficult land And life was too good to let go (end with second singing of “our new lives begun” to resolve melody)20 (Great joyous celebration. Dancing and crying in the streets. Dinah overwhelmed and sits down shaking her head) (Lights up on Yael and Zechi run off to canal together to SR) Zechi: I haven’t had a chance to talk with you in so Long —long—there-bas_ been so much happening Yael: Zechi: Yael: Zechi: Yael: Zechi: —eroumttrere-—feer+-belteveseucman_has been Have come of THIS jourey-with-we- How are you? All right, I guess. Abba is not himself...he’s so quiet, and the house feels so empty. I Don’t know what I would do without Parthia. She visits me every day and we talk about stars and potions and many other things too. Yael! I wish you wouldn’t even be around her. All those things she is teaching you are not true and they are against our laws. Are you saying my mother was wrong? Because, my mother believed them, and I believe them too! Besides...YOUR GOD let her die! Look, I don’t want to argue. I just care about you. (sighs) You're right! I don’t want to argue either. So tell me, what is new with you? Saba Iddo is arranging everything for our trip to Jerusalem, Abba and Uncle Hoshea have decided to come later. Of course, Saba and Safta are heartbroken leaving some of our family behind... (Yael interrupts Zecht’s rambling) Yael: Zechi! | asked about you!Zechi: Yael: Zechi: Yael: Yael: Zechi: Yael: Zechi: Yael: Zechi: Yael: Zechi: Yael: 21 I will be 12 soon! I'l be able to read the scripture passage in the assembly hall for the first time! And I will be old enough to make my own decision about going to Jerusalem. So. What are you going to do? Haven't decided! What about your family? Can you keep a secret? Sure. Pinky promise? (Zechi nods head yes) 1 am NOT going. Yael, you have to go! No, I don’t! Parthia says that I am strong enough to make my own decisions... Your Abba will never let you! That’s the secret! I am not going to tell him! I will sneak away and hide and Abba won’t even know until he is a full day away. You will break your Father’s heart! Your mother is gone and now you want to leave him too? I don't know if I can keep this secret. You have too! You pinky promised. You can’t break your promise. I trusted you, Zechi! I can’t look out for you if you are here and I am there? (Zecht shaking his head) Sometimes you make my life so hard! (throws up hands and smiles at her) But you can count on me. Zechi you are the best! (Yael gives Zechi a hug) My best friend! Come on, we need to head home.Zechi: Wait! This may be our last time to be at this canal looking over Babylon. I will miss you, Yael. Yael: Yep (punching Zechi in the arm and running off) So you'd better stay here too! (Lights down) Lights up on Narrator Narrator: So, what do you think about Yael now? She has experienced such tragedy. Her grief is quite powerful and has led her on a path, which will lead to certain destruction. And what about Zechariah? What a decision for a twelve-year-old to make. When God speaks to him, will he be able to hear God’s voice? He is listening. Even Iddo and Dinah are not sharing the same journey now. Yes, there is a great tearing coming in Dinah’s life. But trust me...God is not done with any of these people yet. Zechariah has spent much time in prayer over his decision to stay or leave. As we return to our story Zechariah is sharing the reading from the holy scrolls with the whole assembly for the first time. A true coming of age moment in this young man’s life... (Zechi climbs the steps with his prayer shawl on at the assembly hall and looks out over the people. Spotlight on Zechi) Zechi: The reading today is from the Genesis scroll. The Lord said to Abram, “Leave your country, your people and your father’s household, and... (God’s voice is heard speaking directly to Zechi at this timej” and go to the land I will show you.” (All freeze - lights change to blue?) Lights up on the narrator who is now beside the assembly hail.23 NAEFAEGE: And just like that, Zechariah knew what God was calling him to do. To leave his family and go to Jerusalem, to the land promised to Abraham’s offspring. But God isn’t just talking to Zechariah...others have decisions to make also. Preparations for departure are complete. The journey is imminent. Today Dinah is leaving her home of many years, where she has raised her children and is now full of grandchildren. Has her full life gotten in the way of her faith journey? (Lights down on Narrator SR and pink lights up on Iddo’s home signifying morning CS with Iddo and Dinah. Rooster crows. Dinah combing out her hair. Iddo pulled on his wrap talking with Dinah.) Iddo: What are you thinking about, Dinah? ie toe Redan Ob 20 . Dinah: _ I feel like I'm in the middle of Noah’s ark with 9 (© °° all these animals around ~theremstbe Blomt ot ce for whee ~ 20 Iddo: _It will get easier. Iavish you_could have-been with me yesterdeptosee al Mat gold and trensurercounted outevenc single itenrto Price" Sheekbeascer-morethan-5000-utictes-fortis-te- take-hemetoJeusalem. Can you believe that Prince Sheshbazar, King David’s descendant will be leading us home!24 athaks Not Nog heme Dinah: Home2_to.lemisalem? todaten? Iddo: —_I was very disappointed there will be only 42,000 of us returning. Dinratr———42;,0007 That seems like too May te-trevel ldde-——Fhrevaraverr has peer civicett ite strraticr apart, Dinah: (stares despondently) Oh... (Wagons gathering Far SR-all lights up. Everyone is running around to make sure that everything is in place for the journey home.) Iddo: The caravan is assembling over on the main street. Phravetoartertel-efousthinge-but look mrournbamdbmake surewe-eehrt forget —amathing— fin the street, donkey carts going all different directions, children running around with moms chasing them. Different people can say things like.) wharttr “It is time to get in line”. Ghild-#i: I have never been outside the city gates! What will we see Abba?” —FatherefGhild4H+ I do not really know...maybe nothing but sand.” Bomele#1: Have you seen my goat? ———Wrate #27 Are we there yet? (General chaos. This will all be arranged with the ensemble that will {fill in several gaps throughout the play. The “elders and families” will already be lined up behind curtain stage right with their wagons and donkeys...etc.)25 Shoshanna: (with great excitement) Dinah, today is the day! We are really going! Can you believe it? I didn't think I would see this day. I am so ready! Come Joel, let us take our place in the caravan! Zechi: Abba, you will come later, right? Berekiah: Yes, Son. (TearfutlyJAs soon as we can. (@veryone begins to load up by picking up bundles. Matteniah running in from the side yelling) Mattaniah: Has anyone seen Yael? She helped me load up this morning and said she was going to go sleep in the wagon. But she isn’t there, (Zechi goes to sneak away, until Matteniah calls him) Zechariah, Do you know where she is? Zechi: (looking very guilty and backing away) I promised not to tell. I cannot break a promise. Iddo: _If it is a matter of life and death, it is all right to tell. Dinah: (stepping forward) Matteniah, What about that seer, Parthia? She wanted Yael to live with her. Have you gone there? (@fattaniah turns to go to leave when Zechi runs up to give him information). Zechi: Thad a dream, ... a dream...that Yael was hidden in a big basket! Look for her in a basket. (Chaos takes over again: Extras chatter) Femeie#t: How long will this journey take? “Matesttr Will we sleep in Jerusalem tonight? (Lights pan down, spotlight on Zechi who is standing alone amongst the chaos.)26 Zechi: Oh, Almighty One, look at our ease? Canewe Wer AS AAV MM TNT PAMMICS torn-epest. anythin And Yael, she is going to hate me is miserable. I'm scared! |- i Iwenttotoist you. Thetyeuuil dkeep-your-premises. Please show me how to do this! (lddo makes his way to Zechi and begins clapping leading by example into the Hava Nagila. Prince Sheshbazaar and others head to places.) SRM tikes thir dayee Gres mp oot (Mattaniah is seen dragging Yael to his wagon. She is glaring at oleyer Son9 So Zechi. As Hava Nagila winds down the wagons start moving around 4oP of Pottor the room. Babylon set changes to desert as the journey begins. ne ‘ As the wagons trevel around the room on the overhead pictures and rat och, Babylon, Euphrates, deserts are being shown to symbolize the passing of time. Tent camping scenes to show passing of time. While this is happening, the stage is continued to be emptied. We will need .30€} Light, €2it music to play as the slides are changing and the wagons are rolling. to \acr of st49C As the music stops the main characters are setting up camp in the sand CS. Stage becomes emptied or covered with black fabric. Anything left to be taken off can be finished during scene 8) [ses 3 (Lights up on CS the rest of the characters and the sun is starting to set, and mains are gathered around a campfire.) (Yael laying on ground, arms folded behind her head looking up at the stars, Zecht comes and sits by her) Yael: Okay, don’t say “I told you so” but I'm actually kind of liking this journey. I can see so many more stars. Zechi: I knew you would! And you will get use to our new life in Jerusalem too. Yael: Just to let you know, I will never get used to all this grit in my clothes from the sandstorms and camels spitting on me every chance they get!Dinah: Iddo: Dinah: Iddo: a Iddo, is this the way it will be in Jerusalem? I haven't seen anything green in weeks. The wind blows, the sun scorches, 4##hwe-heve-e—= sviewroraniver, or atleast compte of pam ress our courtyard? So many questions? My love, there will be sights you have never seen before! —feereictr’t You have become more and more long winded ” as we've traveled. Buipoweetokineso sevchyoungerthesedays and you've lost that stoop. r what is happening to you? (Smiles and winks)1 am nearly home! Shoshanna: Tell us sese about the story of Abraham and Iddo: his wife Sarah, who went everywhere with him. (She reaches for Joel’s hand, and looks lovingly into Joel’s eyes, and then leans over to Dinah) YOU know, the man may be the head of the household, but us women are the neck, and the neck turns the head! (she laughs merrily) Zechariah, de-youtmewwhythe Almighty One-thooserte také us through the desert® nS to learn to trust and depend on Him forZechi: Iddo: Yael: 28 awhetsve-need-endrrotrety-orronrewnscit ssuilicionay. This desert will definitely do that! aWe-cseia-Betiretron-erd just over that hill is Jerusalem. Tomorrow we see the temple mount! (Yael speaks to Zechi) This is exactly what I meant by you are not fun anymore. Talking, talking, talking! Boring, boring, boring! (Yael gets up to run away from the storytelling. Her Abba stops her.) Mattaniah: You can’t go running off by yourself anymore. Yael: Zechi: There are many men who would steal a beautiful young girl like you and sell you into a rich man’s harem. But Abbal I won't go far, just over there. (grabbing his bow and arrows) | will go with her. (Spotlight follows them.) Yael: Zechi: Yael: Zechi: How did you know I would be hiding in that big basket at Parthia’s? [had a dream. I know that sounds weird, but it’s true. I dreamt I saw Parthia hiding you in a storage basket... You have dreams that foretell the future? Why didn't you tell me!?! I knew you were different from all the other boys. You know the gods speak to people in dreams! Don‘ say gods, Yael. There’s only one God. You need to forget all that pagan stuff from Babylon. Anyway, why do you want to know the future so badly?Yael: Zechi: Yael: 23 Because everything in my life keeps changing- first my mother died, now my father is taking me hundreds of miles away from my home. The future is like a huge, deep hole in the road up ahead, but the stars! The stars can tell me how to get around it. We're supposed to trust the Almighty One, Yael. Abraham didn’t know what was ahead of Him either, but he had faith--- ‘That's the God of your family. My mother believed in the moon goddess. I wear the moon goddess’ image all the time (shows Zechi her necklace). You follow your family’s beliefs, and I will follow mine. Now...(smiting and teasing) tell me more about these dreams and visions!30 tr el Dinah: Well tomorrow .... We see Jerusalem. (Lights down. Everything ts barren on stage.) [Soci A ei Narrator: After months of traveling through the seemingly endless wilderness, Zechariah and the first group of the 42,000 reached the snow-capped peaks of the Mount Herman range and the countryside had turned greener. They are finally about to catch their first glimpse of Jerusalem. Can you imagine the anticipation? The yearning in their hearts, their souls, and probably even in their feet! (show the travelers looking up -use the projector to show what Jerusalem looked like - a wasteland. What they saw were piles of rocks and rubble, overgrown with weeds, no signs of life) Zechi: Are you sure this is the right place? Maybe Jerusalem is on the other side of that hill? Iddo: No, son, that’s it...that’s Jerusalem...well, what's left of it. But, that’s why we are here! Yael: It doesn’t even look like'a city! No temples, no buildings, no color, and no shopping! Zechi: Where was the temple? Iddo: (pointing toward the mount) Up there...on Mount Moriah. And that is where we will rebuild it. Dinah: —(despondentiy) It will take a lifetime to rebuild! Where will we live? Iddo: We will camp!31 Dinah: Camp? What have we been doing for the last 3 months? Really appealing! I need a bath and a real bed! (saying exasperatingly, almost whining) Mattaniah: Our families are vulnerable living in tents here. We should start building homes higher up on the ridge right away. Iddo: No, the temple must come first! We will have people working on the temple primarily, others working on our houses and getting water to our homes, and others...may have to be on guard duty. And Zechariah, you have the most important job of all...studying the Torah! Zechi: Ah Man! (kicking the dirt) more studying? The Torah? I could have done that in Babylon. (mumbling and gesturing around him) And there's so much fun work to do....! (stomps the ground in unfairness) (Looking SR Iddo announces visitors) Iddo: Joel! Mattaniah! Look! We have company! There is a group of men coming from the East....Hmm. a really Big group (concerned tone) ... maybe they are coming to greet us? (more confident tone trying to ease peoples worries) (everyone joins Joel and Mattaniah who are putting on their cloaks and several men from the camp, including Prince Sheshbazzar and Prince Zerubbabel move SR to meet the large group of Samaritans.) Zechi: What could they want, Saba? Iddo: l imagine they’ve come to see what the new caravan of foreign people, who just invaded their hills are doing here. Zechi: Are they Jews like us?32 Iddo: Some of them might be. The Babylonians left the very poorest of our people behind and carried away all our leaders, craftsmen, scholars and priests. Sheshbazzar: We've come in peace (holding up his hands) I’m Sheshbazzar (speaking) Ensemble: We're sons of Abraham and we've come from afar We're here to stay Take back our land The city here, Jerusalem, ours to command Samaritan leader: You have no right! Sam #1 This is our land! Sam #2 We've been here for generations and we stand! Sam #1 You'd best go home Sam #2 We'll help you pack All Samaritans: ‘Take your caravans and leave and don’t come back! Sheshbazzar: We can’t do that (speaking) Jew #1: We've come all this way Jew #2: We have permission from the king not to delay Jew Ensemble: You check it out What we say is true Samaritan leader: We will fight to make our land empty of Jews (Spoken) Samaritans Ensemble: (Chanting above line as they exit SR)33 (Women adjusting to Jerusalem-unpacking) Narrator: Have you ever had life change in a way that you knew the world would never be the same? Oh I have been there and done that. Remember how these people looked with longing and anticipation toward Jerusalem? From the highest high to the lowest low..the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual journey of your world gone awry is shattering. I am quite confident that every one of the 42,000 asked the question, “What have I done?” as they gazed over the ruins and desolation of Jerusalem. Over the next six months they will struggle to establish a new normal. Some will become bitter and resentful, others will be so stubborn that they will damage all their relationships, and a few will assimilate into the culture of the Samaritans. How will anyone find joy in this difficult journey? (Dinah, Shoshanna and other women are at the spring) Dinah: (without enthusiasm) Iddo says, this is where we will build our houses. I asked him, Here?! You must be joking! (she chokes this out - depressed but laughing) Shoshanna: Once we clear away these stones and repair the walls...it won’t be so bad...why, it will be just like back home in Babylon. (more convincing herself than Dinah) Woman #1: Eventually, we can build a wooden roof over the rooms and channel water into the cistern when it rains. Then it will be just like our house in Babylon. Shoshanna: Isn’t the view beautiful? Think what it will look like in the Spring. It will be just like Babylon.Dinah: 34 Oh, my friends! This place will never be like Babylon! (Looks up and smiles to her friends and chuckles as she thinks of their despair) Forgive me....1 alternate between sitting in a puddle of tears to hysterical laughter at the condition of our lives now! (more serious and directed to Shoshanna) Don't you ever get discouraged? Don’t you ever want to go back? Shoshanna: Across that desert of sand?! Nope!!! But I would like to at least have a cow. (grins) Woman #2: Or a well! Maybe one that did not require armed guards on the walk to protect us from the Samaritans. Shoshanna: Things will get better, Dinah! Just have a Dinah: little faith. I just...I don’t know if I will be able to live here! I miss everything about Babylon, especially my family. I miss delivering babies... Shoshanna: The babies will come, you'll see! And so will our families. Let’s just be happy because (Dinah cuts her off) Dinah: I know...we’re in Jerusalem now. (lead-in - 4 chord progressions) You're in Jerusalem now And we don’t even have a cow The neighbors are snootie They think we have cooties! Yep, you're in Jerusalem now. (2 chord progressions) In Babylon, we had four walls