02/08/10 Revised 6-14-2001p
Everyone Is Coming Home
“EVERYONE IS COMING HOME” A Three-Act Musical Drama By Mel Whittington Copyright, 2001 All rights reserved.
Those using this script are asked to inform the author at:
[email protected]
Cast:
25+
Time:
80
A PowerPoint program, “Love Crucified” is available from the author at no charge, send a request by email. This highly charged presentation identifies the true identity of Joshua.
Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
Page 1 Published with permission by DramaShare® 2007
Cast of Characters John Potter: Missionary to Mexico. Sue Barkley: Ray Barkley's widowed mother. A spiritual leader to many. Ray Barkley: A 50+ year old man who works hard for a living. He is married and has two sons and daughter. Sharon Barkley: A 45 year old attractive woman with a gentle spirit and inner strength. She is Ray's wife. Danny Barkley: The 26 year old son of Ray and Sharon. He has rejected the Christian lifestyle and resides with his wife April. April Barkley : Wife to Danny. Tiffany Barkley: The 19 year old daughter of Ray and Sharon. Erin: A 19 year old friend of Tiffany’s Aunt Judy: An attractive young woman. Sue Barkley’s niece. Richard Potter: Assistant Ambassador to Peru. John Potter’s brother Joshua: A 30-50 year old man who exudes warmth and acceptance. He is easy to talk with. Mysterious. Pastor D.A.: The pastor of Sue’s home church. A friend. Dameon: A man of 20+ years. Exciting yet, exudes danger. Ryan: Colleague of Dameon. Given to animal instincts Mickey: A colleague of Dameon’s Renee: Mickey’s girl friend Scott: A colleague of Dameon’s Amy: Scott’s girlfriend Peruvian Official: Peruvian Soldier: Preston: A nice, sensitive young man Jessica: Tiffany’s friend Other teens Friends of Tiffany and Erin Sally: A friend of the Potters 1 "Arise, Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all the nations to see! For the glory of the LORD is shining upon you. 2 Darkness as black as night will cover all the nations of the earth, but the glory of the LORD will shine over you. 3 All nations will come to your light. Mighty kings will come to see your radiance. 4 "Look and see, for everyone is coming home! Your sons are coming from distant lands; your little daughters will be carried home. 5 Your eyes will shine, and your hearts will thrill with joy, for merchants from around the world will come to you. They will bring you the wealth of many lands. Isaiah 60:1-5 (NLT) Songs: “I Get On My Knees” by Jaci Valasquez “I Don’t Know Why Jesus Loved Me” Twila Paris / A Crouch “I Do Believe” Gaither Vocal Band “When He Comes Down” The Hoppers “I Will Be Here” Steven Curtis Chapman Love Crucified, Arose Sinner Saved By Grace” The Cathedrals
Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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“Everyone Is Coming Home” Act One Scene 1 April: “I HATE YOU! You are so pitiful! You’re a selfish, unfeeling, excuse-making, angry little boy who blames everything on everybody else in your life. I’m tired of your anger. I am so tired of being shut out of your life. I am tired of being used. I can’t take it anymore, Danny. I’m out of here. I’m going back to home to Minneapolis. Why I let you drag me out here to Seattle, I’ll never know. I hate you. But, I’m really sorry for you, Danny. I’ll even pray for you. But, there’s something wrong with you. There’s something dead about you. May God have mercy on your soul. You’re going to need it.” April exits Danny: “April! April!” Stunned, holding a newspaper, he stares at the place where April was. Then he stands and looks (in unbelief) around the room, as if looking for April, his hands make a fist crushing the newspaper in them as he looks around. He picks up a picture of April. He stares at it, then violently throws in against the wall, kicks the nearby trashcan, drops to a sitting position on the floor, and cries and pounds his fist on the floor. Go to Black.
Act One Scene 2 Sue: John, John, look we got a letter from Joshua! Joshua’s coming home for the wedding! John: Let me see the letter! Oh, this is great. (Reading the letter) I was so worried that the he wouldn’t be able to come. He‘s just been back in South Africa less than three months. Oh honey, it’s got to be a “God-thing” that he gets to come back so soon. Sue: I am sure it is. We’ve been praying for this, John. Oh, it’s just like God to do something that means so much to you. John: I’m so glad he’ll get to be here and see how happy I am now being with you. He was there when Martha died, you know. He knew how devastated I was. I Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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thought life was over. No one, -- not even my brother, Richard – no one but Joshua, believed I could ever get over losing her after 40 years of marriage. Some how Joshua’s presence and encouragement gave me such a peace … (choking back a tear at the memory) I know I’ve told you this before, but I don’t think I would have made it without Joshua. He is the one who got me through those dark days. Sue: I’m glad he was there for you, John. Otherwise, you would have still been grieving when we met. It took me a while to get where I could go on with life after Dan’s death. And now, it seems that God is doing some wonderful things for both of us. It’s exciting, John. First I got letter from Danny saying he would come back home from Seattle, and now Joshua’s coming. God is so good! John: Moving toward her and gazing into her eyes… I am excited for you that your long lost grandson is coming back home. What’s it been -- six years since he got angry and left? God is good. God is so good to have brought you into my life, dear. I love you, Sue. Sue:
Beginning to embrace him for a kiss And, I love you, John.
Ray and Sharon Barkley enter before they can kiss… Ray: Playfully Hey! What’s going on here? I can’t leave the room without you two kids going at it again. Mom, I thought I taught you better. And, you, young man, may I ask what your intentions are! John: just as playfully My intentions are to grab this young lady, marry her, and live happily ever after. In fact I can’t wait. I think we’ll run away together – especially if you keep giving us a hard time about our kissing! Ray holds up his hands in surrender Sharon: You’d better back off, Ray. I’ve been waiting a long time to see your mother get married again and I’m not going to let you provoke them into eloping. Besides Danny and April are coming. It’s going to be a great reunion with them and all the guests coming in. You know how I love parties. So, don’t mess it up! To John and Sue What’s all the excitement about? Sue: Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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Oh. It’s Joshua. He’s coming back from Africa to be at the wedding! John: It’s a God thing. It’s truly a God thing. I couldn’t be happier! Sharon: That is exciting! It will be great to see Joshua again. John, I’m still amazed that you met him and got to be such good friends. I always wondered where he went after that night Ray and Jeff gave their hearts to Christ. Ray: How he got from the Church Singing down to Nogales, Arizona, and at that mission you started all in one day I can’t figure. It was like he was “beamed” down there by Scotty and Captain Kirk. It was a miracle. John: It was a miracle that he came when he did. Reflectively. Boy! What a friend. I can’t believe it! Joshua’s going to be here for the wedding. I hope Richard can get away from Peru in time for the wedding. It would be great to see him again, too. He’s sure been in my prayers a lot more lately. Hey, if there’s going to be a wedding, we better get downtown and get our license. The place closes at five and I don’t want to take any chances. Sue: Oh, I forgot all about that. We’d better go. We’ll see you two later. They exit Ray and Sharon sit down. Sharon: It’s hard to believe you mother is actually getting married again. After your dad died she became so independent – so strong. Ray: I’m so glad she did. No one will ever convince me that it wasn’t her strength and her prayers that kept me from totally rejecting God after Dad died. I was so angry, Sharon. I don’t know how you and the kids put with me. If it wasn’t for mom, you, and Joshua, I don’t know where I would be now. Pause If only I hadn’t been so anger and hard-headed and given in to Jesus sooner, maybe Danny wouldn’t have rejected God…” getting choked up, “I can hardly bare it some days, Sharon. It hurts so bad that my anger at God for not healing dad, drove Danny away from Him. Oh, Jesus, help him!” eventually, Ray silently sobs.
Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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Sharon: Going to comfort him. Sits by him. Rubbing his head/hands Ray, we have to believe that Danny’s coming home for the wedding is also a sign that he will come home to the Lord some day, too. That’s God’s promise. When the jailer who was watching Paul and Silas that night when God brought an earthquake to free them from their chains and opened their cell asked , “What must I do to be saved?” Paul told him to, “Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved and all of your house.” Ray you re-affirmed you faith in Jesus. This promise is yours, too. ‘And all your house.’ It’s all in God’s timing, Ray. Trust God’s promises. Sharon begins singing the chorus to “Standing On the Promises of God”. As Ray listens, he raises his head. Then he gets up, drying his tears. Ray: With renewed energy “Sharon! You’re absolutely right! What a sap I’ve been. I have been feeling so sorry for myself. I’ve been beating my self up long enough. It’s time I started standing on the promises of God. I need to focus not on the circumstances as much as on what He has promised! Lights go to black
Act 1 Scene 3 Outside the Nightclub, Dameon and his friends are preparing to go in. Dameon: “Are you feeling gggood? Are you ready for fun?” All respond affirmatively. “Now you guys listen. We need to play it cool with these babes. Keep cool. Take is easy. We don’t want to scare them away before we have our fun. Hey, Ryan, this especially means you. You practically drooled over the last babe we had.” Ryan: “Hey, man, chill out. I’m cool with this. Lay off the power trip, dude. But, this bums me out, man. You said we were going to have fun! Now you’re saying to lay back. You losing your nerve, man?” Dameon: Dameon grabs Ryan by front collar and gets in his face. Ryan is obviously scared. “Don’t you ever say that to me. I’ll have your heart out and eat it for breakfast” All the others, including Ryan, cower back. Dameon regains control of his emotions, turns loose of Ryan, straightens his clothes. “Hey, let’s lighten up and have some fun!”
Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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They exist to enter the nightclub from backstage. Tiffany and Erin sitting at a nightclub table Tiffany: Do you think they will come, Erin? Erin: Oh, I’m sure of it. I talked to him online just an hour ago. He definitely said he and his friends would be here. He told me what to say to get pass the door when they were carding everyone. (Squealing) O Tiffany, this is so exciting! I wonder what he looks like? Tiffany: I don’t know, but he sure sounds hot. I can’t believe we are doing this. If my dad ever finds out he’ll kill me! Erin: You think your dad would actually hit you?
Tiffany: Worse! He’ll lecture me to death! Erin: “My Dad doesn’t care what I do or anything else about me.” Pause “Oh! Oh! Don’t look! I think DeathMaster is coming toward us. See he’s wearing the hat he talked about. Oh, Tif. That’s got to be him. Oh my gosh, Tif, he’s gorgeous! Dameon and his friends come to table Dameon: Would one of you fine, young ladies be “FlamingStar”? Erin: (coyly) I don’t know. Would you be the “DeathMaster”? Dameon: In person! Erin: I’m the FlamingStar and this is my friend, “Butterfly”. Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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Dameon: Turning to Tiffany “What’s up, sweet thing? These are my friends, Mickey and Renee, Scott and Amy, and this is Ryan. Would you lovely ladies like to dance? They begin dancing. Dameon with Erin and Ryan with Tiffany and the other pairs. Erin is enthralled with Dameon. Ryan leers sensually at Tiffany – as if “licking his chops” in anticipation. At the end of the dance, go to dark. Act 1 Scene 4 Danny is standing on a balcony sadly looking out and down into the darkness. He takes a long drink from a bottle. Putting down a bottle, he climbs up a little higher on the balcony rail. A voice comes out of the darkness and lights show a man on the adjacent balcony. Joshua: “Isn’t this beautiful? You can see the stars. It’s a rare night we get to see the stars this time of year here in Seattle.” Danny: Startled, Danny stands down from the balcony rail. “What?” (pause) Who are you? I thought that apartment was empty.” Joshua: “Oh, I just got here. My name’s Joshua. I was just saying that the radiance of the moon and stars is such a great contrast to the dark of the night. I don’t get to see this too often. It’s beautiful, ‘though. Danny: “You don’t get to see the moon and stars where you’re from? My God, where are you from some underground world or something?” Joshua: “Oh, no. Although, along time ago, there were some people who accused me of something like that. No, I’ve been in my Father’s house for some time. It’s beautiful there, too. There’s a glorious light that shines there. I just don’t see any darkness In My Father’s house. But, that’s another story. “ (pause) “Would you mind me asking you a question?” Danny: Only half listening. “What? Oh, O.K.” Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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Joshua: “What are you doing up on the rail? You look sad.” Danny: “Oh, nothin’. Just… just getting a better look at the city. He looks at Joshua as if he was just now seeing him for the first time. Why do you ask? What’s it to you? Do I know you? I think I know you. Joshua, did you say?
Joshua: “No, you never knew me. But, you look like you could use a friend. You really look stressed. Are you not getting much sleep? Danny: “Sleep! What’s that? I haven’t slept in a week – since my wife left me. Picking up the bottle again. This is the only way I can get to sleep. He takes a drink. Joshua: “You must really miss her.” Danny: “She hates me. At least, that what she said. (pause in thought). I guess it’s really over. She despises me. She says she feels sorry for me. She says there’s a part of me that’s dead! I guess I ought to finish the job! Joshua: “What does she mean by ‘a part of you is dead?’” Danny: “Oh, she says I never let her know how I’m feeling. I never let anyone close to me. She says I never would open up to her. You know, that kind of stuff.” She says it comes from never getting over my grandpa’s death. (pause, choking up) I really loved that man.” Joshua: “You seem to be able to express yourself pretty well right now. I can sure feel your pain.” Danny: “Welllllllll, that’s because I’m drunk! And, you’re easy to talk to. What’s your name? Joshua! I met a Joshua once. You remind me of him. Joshua: Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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“You were talking about your grandfather.” Danny: (He takes a drink) It almost killed my dad to see his daddy die. I’d never seen my dad cry before, but, that night, in the hospital, when they knew Grandpa was dying, my Dad lost it. He just sobbed! (He sniffs and takes another drink) I hurt for my dad. (Pause) “You want to hear something funny? I even prayed that God would heal him! (laugh) But He didn’t --if there is a God. You should have seen it. Me, Danny, “I-don’t-need-anybody-I-can-do-it-by-myself” Barkley, crying like a baby. When Grandpa died, a part of my dad died. When I saw that happen, a part of me died. (drinks) God died for me then, too. I decide right then and there that there was no reason to depend on or trust in anyone else. If it needs doing, you’d better do it yourself. Hey, you want a drink? Why don’t you come on over. I’ve got another bottle.” Joshua: “I’d be happy to join you. I not much for strong drink, ‘though. I’ll be right over.” Go to Black.
Act 2 Scene 1 Tiffany is walking tiredly to the porch of the Barkley home, hair and clothing disheveled, shoes in hand and dejected. She plops down the porch. Aunt Judy catches up with her and sits with her. Tiffany: “Judy, I don’t know how to thank you. I so glad you were home. If you hadn’t been home and able to come and get me, there’s no telling what they would have done. Shudder. Ugh! How horrible! You won’t tell my parents, will you?” Judy: “It’s just between us. What were you doing with scum like that? “ Tiffany: “It was a mistake! Erin – you know, Erin -- the one who’s Dad left her and her mom last year and I’ve been trying to get her to come to church with me– well, she said she had met this awesome guy over the Internet. And she was dying to meet him and she asked me to go with her and meet his friends. And, I always wondered what it was like in one of those places. Oh, I guess I just wanted to see for myself how the other half live. It sounded so romantic and cool!” Judy: Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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“What do you think now?” Tiffany: “Well, the dancing was fun, until he started rubbing all up on me. It was horrible. I cringe every time I think of it. What was I thinking?” Judy: “That’s a good question! This isn’t like the sweet church-going teenager I thought you were. Have you been drifting away from church?” Tiffany: “I guess so. But, church is so boring! I want to have fun!” What’s wrong with a little fun? Judy: “Did you think this was fun? Boys trying to use you for their own pleasure? Do you enjoy smelling like smoke and beer? Is this fun? It ought to be clearer to you now that there are real reasons that your parents and pastors warn you about these things. ” Tiffany: “Aunt Judy. Don’t start preaching at me. I know I messed up tonight. I don’t want to talk about it any more……… Pause pensively. Well, maybe you’re right. I sure was asking God to forgive me all the way over here. I don’t know what good prayer does, though. Judy: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Tiffany: “Yeah, but why? Why does He love us? Don’t you ever wonder? How can He love me after tonight? Aunt Judy, We just cause him trouble over and over and over. Doesn’t he ever get tired of forgiving us? I’m not sure it makes any sense. Sometimes I think this is just a bunch of Jewish “fairy tales. Why would anyone love me – much less God?” Judy: “Why He loves and forgives us is a big question. I don’t know that I can answer it. Tif, I’m going to tell you something very few people know. Your Grandmother Barkley knows. I wouldn’t have made it if it wasn’t for her. There was a time in my life that I, like you did tonight, wanted to see for myself how the world was. Only I didn’t come to my senses as quickly as you did. I’m not going to give you all the details, but let me say that after running away from home, being high or
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drunk for a month, I found myself in cockroach-infested apartment, pregnant and ready to put an end to my life. I woke up one morning alone, with no money, no food, and no clue as what to do next. Fortunately, the phone worked. I picked it up to dial the number of one those people I thought was my friend. Honestly, I know – there’s no doubt in my mind -- I dialed the right the number. Instead of getting the person I dialed, I still have trouble believing it, your Grandmother Barkley answered the phone. I recognized her voice. I was stunned! I couldn’t say a word. Silence. Then, some how, she knew. She said, ‘Judy! It’s you! Oh, Judy, God told me you would call today. Oh, Judy, I’ve been praying for you so much.” For a long time, all I could do was sob! I mean I sobbed! It was a tear-flowing, snot-dripping, slobber-falling cry. Sue just listened and kept telling me how much God loved me and how much every one wanted me to come home. When I could finally talk, I told her where I was and she came and got me and took me home with her. What a great lady she is. What a great God He is! How He could ever forgive me, is beyond me. I don’t know why he loved after what I did. But, because He does love you and me, Tiffany, He forgives us. Why He loves us I don’t know.” Music is up. Judy sings: “I don’t know why Jesus Loves Me” Go to Black Act 2 Scene 2 Joshua is sitting in an airport Peru, South America. A guard and an official escort in Richard Potter. Peruvian Official: “Ambassador Potter, please forgive the accommodations. Since the last guerrilla attack, this is the safest place we have here at the airport. We will try to get your plane repaired as soon as possible. The American Consulate in Lima knows of your situation and knows that we are doing all we can do to expedite your return to the U.S.” Richard: “Very well.” He paces around, merely glancing at Joshua. Finally he sits down. Joshua: “Quite a storm, isn’t it? Your plane have trouble?” Richard:
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“It’s one of the worst rainstorms I’ve every seem down here. In addition to the storm, my jet had engine trouble coming over the mountains. I honestly don’t know how we managed to make it this far. We were going down when we saw this airstrip. I didn’t think the runway was even long enough for us to land on. But, some how we did. Man! I’m shaking!” Joshua: “You’ve had a close call? It sounds frightening.” Richard: “Believe me it was. It wasn’t just the engine trouble and the wicked winds that gave us problems. For a while I thought the entire Peruvian airforce was scrambled to shoot us down. I was afraid that they thought we were smugglers or something.” Joshua: “I suppose that frightened all the passengers and crew. What did you do?” Richard: “The only ones on the plane were the pilot and I. He’s in the hangar supervising the repairs.” Joshua: “You must be a very important man to be flying around Peru in your own jet.” Richard: “Actually it is not my jet. The plane belongs to the Government of the United States of America. I am Richard Potter, the Assistant Ambassador to Peru. And I was hoping to get to Oklahoma in time for my brother’s wedding. Would you look at my hands? I can’t stop them from shaking. Man, I thought I was dead! The plane lost power and started dropping like a sack of wet cement. By all rights, I should be splattered all over the side of that mountain.” Joshua: “It sounds like someone was watching over you.” Richard: “It’s been a long time since I’ve believed in miracles, sir. I don’t think I’ll begin now. It must have been some meteorological phenomenon – some powerful updraft that lifted us over that mountain peak. Then there must have been a bolt of lightning at just the right time and in the right place to re-ignite the engines. I sure there is some natural explanation if we just knew all the facts and put our good minds to use.” Joshua: Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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“It seems to me it would be simpler just to assume it was a miracle rather than having to invent some “natural” explanation. I believe God has a plan for your life, Ambassador, and has chosen this as a way to get your attention.” Richard: “Sir, I trust you mean well. But, not only do you not know me, but, long ago I considered such ideas as you are proposing and I found them to be inadequate explanations for any thinking person. I don’t mean to be rude, but, this is not a conversation I choose to continue.” Richard sits in a chair and turns it a few degrees away from Joshua. Joshua sits serenely looking toward Richard. Richard avoids his gaze and sits restlessly reflecting on the recent events and conversation. After about a minute of silence… Richard: (to himself) “I could have sworn I was going to die. I should have died. Why didn’t I? Why am I still alive? Miracle, ha! Why would God do a miracle for me? I’ve never acknowledge Him as Lord.” Joshua: “Did you say something?” Richard: “No, I didn’t speak to you.” Joshua: “Oh, I thought I heard someone mention my name.” Richard looks at Joshua curiously. Puzzled. Then as if he gained some insight into who Joshua is, he gets up and moves toward Joshua. Richard: “Sir, could we talk for a moment? (Joshua motions for him to sit) You mentioned God. You even suggested that not only is there a God, but that God had a purpose specifically for me.” Joshua: “Yes, that’s right. He is very familiar with you Richard” Richard: Just suppose that there is a God and that He is someone who intervenes in a person’s life. Why me? Why would He rescue me? I haven’t given much thought to God since I was a kid and even then, I scared of God. I listened to my father preach about the … let’s see, what did he call it…”The Second Coming” and “The Rapture”, oh, yes. The Rapture. I was scared to death that Jesus would
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come back to the earth and all my family would meet him in the air – all but me, that is.” “Sir, forgive me, I don’t usually impose on strangers. This is bad protocol, I know. I am frightfully unnerved. But, as I talk with you I feel a peace ... a comfortable-ness. It’s as if I had known you a long time ago.” Joshua: “Your apology is accepted, sir, yet it is very unnecessary. I am very comfortable with you, too, and with this conversation. I find joy in being there for folks. It’s sort of what I do. Now, you were speaking of being afraid of God. Let me tell you about my Father….”
Act 2 Scene 3 John and Sue and Ray and Sharon are sitting on the porch at a table having coffee/tea. Sue: “I love sitting out here on the porch in the morning. Would you like more coffee, Sharon?” Sharon: “Yes, please. John, is your brother going to be able to fly in for the wedding?” John: “The last word I had from his office was uncertain. It all depends on how successful the negotiations go with the guerillas that have been terrorizing the coast of Peru. Honestly, I have been worried about him. Yet, I have been worried about Richard since he was a little kid. It was always hard for him to believe. He always questioned Dad about the details of the Bible. He always had a way with words, too. He could always manipulate people with his words. They usually didn’t even seem aware of it. It’s strange, even as kids I would try to persuade him and try to get him repeat those phrases our daddy would say when he was preaching. For example, I could never get him to affirm his faith. I could never get him to say things like “Jesus is Lord.” Wow! That gave me a chill to think of that. Now, I can’t shake this apprehension about Richard’s safety. I’m scared for him. I’m not sure why. I feel impressed that he is in the process of making an important decision and that time is of the essence. Maybe that’s why I’ve been praying for him. Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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The phone rings. Ray picks up the phone. Ray: “Hello? April! April, how are you? It’s so great to hear from you! Where are you? Are you guys on your way to Tulsa?” Ray’s countenance turns somber. “Oh. Well. Oh. I’m so sorry, April. Uh huh. O.K., goodbye. Oh! April! We love you!” Ray is lost in the shock of the conversation. He volunteers no information. Sharon: “Ray! What is it? Talk to us.” Ray: “That was April. She was at the airport and had to leave to catch her flight. She’s left Danny. She didn’t say why. She just said that she doubts if even God can save their marriage. She’s going home to Minneapolis. She was crying. Wanted us to know that they were not going to make the wedding. She asked us to pray for her and Danny. Man, it must really be bad. She’s never acknowledged God before – at least, to me. She sounded terrible. Then, she had to go. Pause. He cries in anguish, “Oh, God.” And puts his head on his arms and face down on the table. All Sharon can do is put her face in her hands and cry. Sue: “We better pray for Danny and April and Richard. She and John join hands, bow and begin praying. Fade to black Act 3 Scene 1 Erin and Preston are sitting at the bus station, when Tiffany and others enter. Tiffany: “Erin – Preston! What are you doing? I couldn’t believe it when Jessica told me that you were at the bus station about to run away from home. Was this your idea, Preston?” Tiffany swings her purse at him Preston: “Hey watch it!” Erin interrupts him. Erin: “Wait a minute! Leave Preston alone! This was all my idea. He just came along because he cares. He knew he couldn’t stop me and he wouldn’t let me leave Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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alone, so he came with me. Looking at Preston. It’s nice to know there are some men who care and won’t run away just because someone makes a mistake. It’s nice to know there are guys who are not just out for what they can get. (Tears) Turning to Tiffany …. What do you expect, Tiffany? You certainly don’t expect me to stay, do you? What can I do after what happened? I’m the laughing stock of the town. Everyone thinks I am a bad girl or just plain stupid. I can never live down this reputation. And, you know I’m not going to try. I’m leaving on the next bus. No one cares anyway1” Tiffany: “Hey, I was there, too!” Erin: “That’s what I don’t get, Tiffany. You were there, but you chose to get out. You called your Aunt. You looked like you were having fun, then something clicked and you changed. I don’t have that kind of strength. I couldn’t say no regardless of how scared I was. How did you do it?” Tiffany: “Oh, Erin!” Moved with compassion, she tearfully reaches out and hugs Erin. “Oh, Erin, I was so scared. I could just see myself coming home and standing in front of my mom and dad crying and saying ‘I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to! O Daddy, please don’t be mad at me.’ I was so scared that I did the only thing I knew to do. I called out for God’s help. Then, the next thing I know I heard someone who sounded like me saying out loud, ‘In the name of Jesus, stop!’ And, he did. He turned loose as if he had touched a hot curling iron. He looked shocked. I got away from him and called my Aunt Judy on my cell phone. I was afraid Ryan was going to come and get me again. That’s when I saw Jesus. I know you’ll think I’m crazy, but there He was smiling at me and standing in front of Ryan. That’s when I called out to you to get up and leave with me. But, you wouldn’t. I cried and prayed for you all the way home. Erin, I’ve been praying for you ever since that Friday night. Why didn’t you return my calls? I was so worried. Preston: “Erin, this happened Friday night? you didn’t tell me that all of this happened last Friday. Maybe that’s why I was thinking about you so much that night. I was going to go out and party when you came to mind -- no, not like that, but sort of a sadness and sense of urgency. You may not believe me but I even said kind of a prayer – for you –sort of.” I’ve never done that before.” Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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Erin reaches up and takes Preston’s hand. Tiffany: “Erin, don’t go. Come on home with me.” Erin: “Oh, Tiffany.” She sobs. “Your family won’t want me there. No one wants me any more! My mom smelled the beer and cigarette smoke on my clothes and called me all kinds of horrible names. Now, I’m sure she doesn’t love me either.” Tiffany: “That’s what I thought my parents would say about me, Erin. But, let me tell you the rest of the story. When I went to sleep at my Grandma’s house that night. I had another dream or vision. Just as before, I was standing, all filthy and in that horrible outfit I wore that night. It was all torn and filthy. And there I stood before my parents, pleading with them to not be mad. But, it was different this time. Jesus was standing with them. They just stood there looking at me – it seemed for an eternity. Then, I noticed that they weren’t mad. I looked into my daddy’s eyes and they were full of tears. I looked into my mother’s eyes and she was crying, too. I look at Jesus and all I could see was love. And, then, it was like they all floated over to me and began hugging and kissing me. And Jesus began cleaning the dirt off my face, my hands, and my feet. I never felt so loved. I woke up crying, Erin. I was overwhelmed with their love. It was wonderful. I know my family will treat you the same way. That’s what Jesus would do. Jessica: “Tiffany, that’s an awesome story! I wished I could feel like that. What do you have to do to be so close to God that He loves you even when you were doing wrong?” Other teens: “I wonder about that, too. You would think God would Zap you! What do you do it, Tiffany? We want to know what to do, too. Yeah, what’s the secret, Tif?” Tiffany looks at a loss for words. Then, as the music comes up, she becomes assured of her answer. Tiffany: “You guys have got it wrong. It’s not about me. It’s all about God. He just loves us. He loves us even when we are doing wrong. Why, I don’t know. I don’t
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know what to tell you about how to get close to God. My automatic reaction was to pray. All I do is talk with him – a lot! Tiffany sings, “I Get On My Knees” Fade to black.
Act 3 Scene 2 On the Seattle set sits Danny. On the Peruvian set stands Richard. Both are dimly lighted. Lights are up fully on the Barkley porch where Sue is seated with Sharon at the table. Sue: “How are you kids doing? Any word from Danny or April? “ Sharon: “Oh, I’m doing better. There is still no word from Danny. He won’t return our calls. Ray is devastated. He is still blaming himself for turning Danny away from God. April says she doesn’t want to talk to us right now. But, she is talking with a minister at her sister’s church and she says she is learning a lot. And guess what. She said she’s decided to coming to the wedding!” Sue: “How wonderful! I will keep on praying for both of them. I was up praying for them last night and I have a peaceful feeling that God is doing something in their life. Trust in God, dear.” Sharon: “I gave Danny to God a long time ago. I trust that you’re right, Sue. It’s just too easy for me let my thoughts run away with me at times.” John enters with a since of urgency. John: “Sue! Oh, hi, Sharon. Ladies, pray! Pray for Richard. I was upstairs praying and the Holy Spirit told me it was time. It was time for his big decisions to be made. I know we need to pray for Richard right now! There’s a spiritual battle going on. Ray: Has entered as John was talking “That’s the reason I had to come over. God has prompted me to pray for Danny. He needs our prayers now, too. They all sit and begin praying fervently. The lights dim until they are barely visible. Lights go up on Danny and Richard. Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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Music comes up, they sing, “I Do Believe” Fade to black.
Act 3 Scene 3 At the Barkley home. The wedding is in progress. Joshua is the best man. Pastor D. A.: “Do you, John Wesley Potter and you Susan Stephenson Barkley have a pledge to make to one another before I make the pronouncement?” John: “Yes, we do.” The music comes up and they sing to each other, “I Will Be Here” Pastor D. A.: “John. Sue. In as much as you have given your pledge each to the other and have given and received rings, I pronounce you are husband and wife. What God has joined together let not man put asunder. You may now kiss the bride.” “Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my honor to present to you, Mr. and Mrs. John Wesley Potter!” Applause from all. As all rush to congratulate the newly weds, April has stepped aside and downstage to allow others to move closer. Danny enters from across the room. They catch each other’s eyes and move toward each other cautiously until they embrace. Ray: “Danny!” Danny! You’ve come home!” Everyone turns and sees Danny and April together. Ray and Sharon grab them in grateful hugs. Danny: “Dad, Mom, “I’m so … so … “ Sharon gently puts her hand over his mouth and they all meld into a hug.
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Just as Sue and John are greeting Danny and April, Richard enters. John and Richard stand where they are holding each other’s gaze. Then they cautiously move toward one another. They stand face to face with smiles growing huge and, finally, they embrace, laughing. Richard: “John, I have but one thing to say to you. ‘Jesus Is Lord!” He and John start laughing loudly again and embrace. Danny: “Amen!” John and Richard turn to see who said it. Look at Danny. Start walking toward him with open arms, laughing joyfully. As they move toward each other, Joshua looks up to Heaven and mouths a “Thank You” and leaves the stage. Fade to black. Act 3 Scene 4 Barkley Reception at home. Many conversations & much laughing. As the lights come on the people are singing “Love Crucified, Arose” while a PowerPoint presentation of Joshua depicting some of the scenes suggested by the song. Richard: Excitedly “Johnny, this a blast. It’s like old times. I haven’t felt this great since we were young. God can certainly make a difference in ones life.(Playfully) Why didn’t you tell me about this God stuff?” John gives him a look and tries to get him in a head lock to “scob his knob” “You know what I feel like doing? I feel like singing some more. In fact that’s what I am going to do! And so are you, John, and Sue and you, Sally. I remember how you traveled with my Dad when he was preaching revivals. You sang like an angel. There was a song that really got to me. What was that song?” He looks through tapes and finds the one he was looking for and begins playing it. “Ahh, here it is. This is certainly the story of my life. I’m just a sinner saved by grace.” Music begins and the family begins singing, “A Sinner Saved By Grace” Finale Pastor D. A. Everyone is Coming Home© ©Copyright Mel Whittington 2001
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“Just as everyone has come home safely here to this grand wedding, we invite you to that Grand Wedding yet to take place between Christ and His Bride, the Church; that is, those of us who have accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior. By the way, did you know that Joshua is another name for Jesus? Just as Jesus attended the wedding in Cana, and, in our play, Joshua or Jesus attended this wedding. Please hear the good news from 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18 the Holy Spirit inspired the Apostle Paul to write about what is in store for all of us who believe. 1Thes 4:13-18 13 Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14 We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15 According to the Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage each other with these words. (NIV)
“Friends, this is the hope we have in Christ Jesus. Even now, the stage is set for the promised return of our Beloved Jesus. The Bridegroom will soon come for His Bride. This is our invitation to you. Come be a part of the family of God. Allow Jesus to have Lordship in your life. Be a part of the wedding banquet. You can. You can be there when Jesus comes and Everyone is Coming Home! We want all of you to be ready when he comes down to take His Bride home. Music begins. “When He Comes Down.” [Possibly insert “It is finished” in addition to “When He Comes Down” The End
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