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Director's Notes The Executioner Cast Jack Gabriel Pharisee woman Roman Soldier Act 1 Scene A chair is up-center stage. Jack enters as if he's just woken up, yawning and stretching. Jack: Sunday morning again. Boy, it sure is a beautiful day today. I can’t wait to... oh,... Sunday. (Looks at watch. Then very obviously phony.) Oh man, eight o’clock already? Church starts at ten, I’ll never make it in time. (Now seriously.) That’ll be the fifth church service I missed in a row. I’d better do something about that.... Next week. (Sitting down) Where’s the remote? (Mimes picking up remote.) Wait, maybe a morning prayer to get the day going. Lord, may ESPN not be showing World Figure Skating Championship reruns. (Pretends to turn on the TV.) All right, NFL Gameday. God is good. Hey, I could get some bible reading in during the commercials. (Looking for the bible. Finds the newspaper.) Aw, God is eternal, I can read the bible anytime. I need to check out the line on today’s games. (Opens the paper.) Gabriel: (Enters without Jack noticing. He looks at Jack with disappointment before talking.) Jack, what are you doing? Jack: (Startled by the voice, he leaps up panicky.) Huh, what? Who are you? Gabriel: Jack, what could be so important that it keeps you from a relationship with God? Jack: (Scared of the stranger.) Who are you? What are you doing here? Gabriel: My name is Gabriel, Jack. I’ve been sent by Jesus Christ with a message from God. Jack: From God? Why? Why me? Gabriel: Because He misses you Jack. You used to have such great times together. He loves you Jack, and He wants you back. Jack: What do you mean back? I’ve never left. I love Jesus. I always have. Gabriel: You used to Jack, you truly did. But you’ve forgotten Him. Jack: (Starting to get a little irritated.) Wait a second. That’s not fair. Gabriel: You’ve forgotten what He went through for you. You’ve forgotten just how much He loves you. Jack: Why are you picking on me, huh? Why doesn’t everyone get this message? Gabriel: Everybody has Jack. Including you. You just need a reminder. Jack: A reminder? So you’re here to remind me? Gabriel: No. My message is to let you know that the Holy Spirit is going to take you on a journey. He’s going to remind you of the love you once held so dear, not me. I can’t tell you more than that now, except that He is going to block your memory and allow you to see Jesus’ love for you through someone else’s eyes. And He’s going to reveal why you should never take the gift He’s given for granted. Jack: Hey, look, I know I’ve missed church now and then, and I don’t pray like I should, and... Gabriel: When was the last time you prayed, Jack? Jack: Well, I just . . . no, that doesn’t really count, does it. How about,... no, it was... Gabriel: You used to talk to God all the time Jack. Why did you stop? He loved those times, and you did too. Jack: I haven’t stopped praying, I just,... Gabriel: And what about your passion for sharing the Gospel. His Holy Spirit used to have a place in you. You had such a fire. Every moment you ignore Him, every cry of His that falls on deaf ears, they’re like daggers in His heart. Jack: (Angrily) All right, stop. Maybe I haven’t been praying like I should. And maybe I need to go to church more often. But you talk as if I crucified Jesus personally. I’m not going to listen to this. Gabriel: I know, that’s the problem. You won’t listen. That’s why He sent me. He’s not willing to give up on you yet. Jack: Give up on me? Why would it come to that? Hey, I’m not an evil guy. I’ve never killed anybody. I didn’t do anything to deserve this. Gabriel: Everybody has Jack. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Nobody deserved God’s gift. That’s what makes it so special. (Slowly, as Gabriel talks, Jack closes his eyes and falls to his knees at center stage as the Holy Spirit falls on him. He lowers his head and extends his arms out in front of him over his head.) You knew that once and loved God so much because of it. The Holy Spirit has come. It’s time for you to remember. (Gabriel pauses and then exits.) Jack: (After a couple seconds Jack slowly stands, slightly dazed as he is transitioning into the part of a Roman Soldier. He snaps to attention when he’s all the way up.) Jerusalem, finally. What a dump. What these Jews see in this city is beyond me. They’ve probably never seen the glory of Rome. Now that’s a city. That’s the home of a God. I’ll get back there pretty soon, as soon as they stop sending me out to these executions. Oh well, that’s the life I signed on for, the life of a centurion. (Pharisee enters and crosses in front of Jack.) Now, where is this place they call Golgotha? (Calls after Pharisee who has walked by.) You there, Jew, tell me where I can find Golgotha. Pharisee: Sir, you are addressing one of God’s elect. I am not to be addressed as ‘you there’. Jack: (Indignantly.) You’re a Pharisee, huh? P: I am. Jack: (Mockingly) Then perhaps, your most self righteous one, you might assist me in my search for the hill called Golgotha. I am told it is here in Jerusalem. I’m to assist with the executions scheduled there. P: Sir, your lack of respect is astonishing even for a Roman. But since your mission pleases me I will tell you. You’re almost there. It’s just a short trip ahead of you straight on. (Turns to go.) Jack: So you’ll be glad to see these two criminals die? P: (Stops and comes back to Jack.) Oh, I could care less about them. You’ve got a new addition. Jack: A third man? P: The one called Jesus. Jack: (Shocked.) Jesus Christ? P: You know Him? Jack: (Evasively at first.) I’ve seen Him around. He never appeared to be capable of anything that would warrant crucifixion. What did He do? P: (Furiously.) He BLASPHEMED!!! Jack: (Stunned pause then obviously sarcastic) NO! What is the world coming to? P: You mock me, but it was your own Pontius Pilate that sentenced Him to death. Jack: Pilate? Why Pilate? Jesus is a Jew. Pilate oversees Roman offenses. P: But He calls himself the King of the Jews, God Himself. Doesn’t this place Him higher than your Caesar? Jack: I see. So he is to be crucified for this then? P: Isn’t that enough? Jack: If Pilate says it is, that makes it so. P: As long as He dies. Jack: You really have something against this Jesus. P: He is a radical. He is dangerous. He has constantly challenged us, the Pharisees, the keepers of God’s Holy Law, and mocked us in public. He is a fiendish snake and a cowardly liar. He is a wretched curse upon this nation, and needs to be destroyed. The longer He is left alive, the longer people will be drawn to Him. He blinds them with His talk of love that will not die. He tricks them with His so-called miracles while violating God’s most sacred laws. He continues to draw the people away from God. Jack: Away from you, you mean. P: The more support He receives, the more people who follow Him, the greater the threat to Rome. He calls Himself the Son of God, the King of the Jews. Don’t you think it’s wise to silence Him now before He gains enough support to threaten Rome itself? Jack: Somehow, I find it hard to believe that Roman security is in your best interests. P: As long as you perform your job properly, it is of little concern to me what you believe. (Leaves) Jack: (Stunned pause as Jack watches the Pharisee exit.) Talk about a grudge. I’ve heard a lot of things about Jesus, seen a few things myself, but nothing like what that guy was talking about. Certainly nothing criminal. (As he’s talking, he walks away from center stage, even possibly moving into the audience, and circles back to it. When he’s away from center stage, the woman goes to center stage and bows as if praying.) Cowardly liar? From what I’ve seen, this Jesus’ love is genuine enough. The Son of God? He might be a nut, but dangerous? I don’t believe it. Still, He has gained quite a following in such a short time. Maybe Caesar was becoming concerned. In any case, Pontius Pilate has convicted Him, that makes Him a criminal. It appears I have reached my destination (Sees woman.) You there, what are you doing? Woman: (Stands and hurries to far DSR, keeping her head down, not looking at Jack.) I’m sorry sir, please don’t be angry. Jack: It’s all right. You haven’t done anything wrong. I just want to know what you’re doing here. W: I came to pray. Jack: You picked a terrible place to do it. There’s going to be an execution here soon. W: I know. That’s what I’m praying for. Jack: Ahh, you must be one of Jesus’ followers. Well, go ahead and pray if it makes you feel better, but be assured, Jesus will die today. W: He can’t. He just can’t die. Jack: Well then maybe He shouldn’t have committed any crime. W: But He hasn’t committed any wrongdoing. He’s innocent. He’s the most innocent man I know. Jack: Pilate says differently. W: That’s because of the Pharisees. They brought Jesus to Him. They convinced Pilate there would be danger and unrest if he let Jesus live. They hate Jesus. They’ve always hated Him. Jack: You’ve got a point there. Those Pharisees can be downright vicious when they want to be. W: (Runs to Jack and begs at his feet.) So you see, He’s not really guilty. You can’t kill Him, you can’t... Jack: (Begin speaking while woman is begging. Get loud to silence her.) Wait, wait a minute. STOP IT! I didn’t say I agree with you. W: (Slumps, depressed.) Jack: And even if I did, it wouldn’t matter anyway. Pilate has convicted Jesus and the only one who can overturn that decision is Caesar. W: (Falls down completely, giving up hope.) Jack: Why do you care so much anyway? What did this Jesus ever do for you? W: (Pause as she considers whether or not to tell him.) He saved me. Jack: What do you mean he saved you? He saved your life? W: Not just my life,… much more. He saved my soul. Jack: (Interested.) Go on. W: A short while ago, I was taken to Jesus by three men, three Pharisees. You see, I used to be a prostitute and they had discovered me with a man that visited me often. They threw me before Jesus, explained my crime, and asked Him if it was right that they stone me, the lawful punishment for such a crime. Jack: (Laughing.) Lady, you should have gone to Rome. Prostitution isn’t just legal, it’s encouraged. (Jack winces and responds to woman’s obvious pain at his statement.) I’m sorry. Continue. W: The Pharisees, they didn’t care about me. They only wanted to hurt Jesus. They thought with Jesus’ compassion, He might let me go, and then they could say He broke God’s laws. But if He wanted me stoned, they would say He didn’t care about the people like he claimed. Jack: Well, you’re alive so it’s obvious what He chose. W: But He didn’t say anything. He just wrote in the sand in front of Him where He was sitting, with his finger. Jack: (Pause.) So, what was he writing? W: Sins. He was writing sins out in front of Him. I couldn’t understand why. The Pharisees asked Him again, what they should do with me. And this time He answered. He said ‘He who is without sin, cast the first stone.’ And as He kept writing, one by one, the men dropped the stones they had collected and left. He was writing their sins. He knew. He knew the darkest areas of their hearts, the secrets they’d kept hidden from everyone else. When everyone had left, He looked into me, not at me, inside of me, and said ‘Go and sin no more.’ And at that moment I knew He was the Messiah. I felt so free. He forgave me of all I had done against Him; against God. Jack: (Respectful and quiet. He has been sincerely touched by her story.) Well, you’d better go. They’ll be here pretty soon. W: (She nods and quietly walks away.) Jack: (Explodes when she’s gone.) What’s going on? Why are we crucifying this man? Crucifixion is intended for the vilest criminals who have committed the most unspeakable acts. It appears that this Jesus is only guilty of His love for these people. No, there must be more to it than that. Pilate has convicted Him, and therefore He is a criminal. Besides, she’s a Jew. Of course he would show love for her. He calls Himself the King of Jews. (Confused.) But the Son of God? Roman Soldier: (Enters from behind the audience and makes his way to the stage referring to invisible people.) Hey, move it. Get out of the way. Come on people, clear a path. (Ad-lib if necessary to get to the front. Upon seeing Jack he stops.) You there, soldier, why aren’t you helping with the prisoners? Jack: (At attention.) Sorry sir. I was told to arrive at the hill called Golgotha in Jerusalem. RS: (Continues to the stage until he’s next to Jack.) Oh, you must be the one they brought in from out of town. Jack: Yes sir. I just arrived a few moments ago. RS: Good. I was beginning to become concerned that you weren’t going to make it. You are aware that we have three prisoners to execute and not two? Jack: Yes sir. I have discovered that in my conversations with some locals. RS: Yes, well, I don’t mind telling you that this one truly bothers me. I don’t know if we’re doing the right thing. Jack: (Relaxing a little.) I met a woman just now who would agree with you. But I don’t think the Pharisee mind seeing Him die. RS: Oh they don’t. I shouldn’t either. I mean, I’ve seen enough crucifixions to last two lifetimes. And I know He is a convicted man, convicted by Pontius Pilate no less, but… well, I just think the Pharisees are wrong about Him, that’s all. He’s not like the rest of the garbage we nail up here. Jack: We are talking about Jesus, right? RS: Of course. Oh, not the other two. They’re scum. One of them murdered his wife and three children. The other one killed a man when the guy caught him stealing from his room at a local inn. If I had the chance, I’d kill them myself and wouldn’t think twice about it. No, this Jesus is different. Jack: It’s funny to hear that from a soldier of Rome when it seems like so many of the Jews hate him so much. RS: Well, you might say I have a unique perspective on the situation. Jack: How’s that. RS: I had a servant at home. Not just a servant, a friend. He’d been with me since I was two years old. He’s always taken care of me. He was almost dead from some illness we had picked up while traveling from Rome. The doctors couldn’t do anything. I had heard that Jesus had performed several miraculous healings, and I knew He was in town. I didn’t know if He’d talk to me, being Roman and all, but I walked right up to Jesus and I told him about my serv… about my friend. He said He would come to my house and heal him. I told Him He didn’t have to. I knew with that kind of power, He had to have some kind of authority over… well, forces I can’t explain. I told Him if He just said the word, I knew my friend would be well. When I said that, He just brightened up. He looked at me with this… I mean, I knew He just had this love… (Can’t think of how to describe it.) Anyway, He spoke healing for my friend and before I even got home some of my servants were rushing out to greet me, shouting confirmation of the miracle. Jack: So do you believe Him? RS: Believe Him? Jack: That He’s the Son of God? RS: Yes! Yes I do. Jack: But if He’s the Son of God… (Once or twice stops as he can’t think of an argument. Then continue.) Do you actually think He cares about you? RS: Oh no, I know He does. Jack: How can you know that? RS: I can’t explain it, but I know it with every part of my being. Jack: But you’re a Roman. He’s a Jew. He has no reason to love you. RS: Have you ever met this Jesus before? Jack: (Grudgingly) Yes, once. He was speaking and performing miracles. There was a blind man that was calling out to Him. Jesus couldn’t hear Him. The crowd was too great. I went and got the old man and took him through the crowd to Jesus. I originally just wanted him to shut up. I thought that was the best way to do it. (Looking out at audience as if seeing Jesus again.) But when Jesus saw him, He took pity on him. He placed His hands on the old man’s eyes and... RS: And? Jack: (Awestruck.) And he could see. The old man thanked Jesus and ran off shouting. But Jesus,… Jesus turned and looked at me, (Visibly shaken.) and smiled. RS: Then you know what I’m talking about. Jack: I’ve never been so shaken in my life. (Snaps out of his memory as if shaking off a daydream.) I never told anyone that. I figured they wouldn’t believe me, or I’d be ridiculed. (Jack turns away from Soldier, embarrassed.) RS: (Pause) I’ve been to five countries, and visited dozens of cities. You know, I’ve never met a good man. Jack: (Appears stunned at that statement.) RS: Oh, there was a time I wouldn’t have thought that. But once I looked into His eyes, I realized what true goodness was. I guess until I met Him, I never had a proper comparison to go by. I can say this. Most of the people I have met are one step away from the two other criminals we’re nailing up today. And all of them are closer to those criminals than to Jesus than any of them are willing to admit. Jack: (Pretends to notice the procession coming behind the audience.) Here they come. RS: It’s almost time for you to do your job. Jack: My job? RS: Here you go. (Hands him imaginary tools.) Here’s your hammer and the nails you’ll need. Jack: I’M THE EXECUTIONER? RS: Of course. We always bring in someone from another town to actually nail them to the wood. That way you can leave, separate yourself from the event. (Heads away towards the imaginary procession.) Jack: But… I… (Soldier is already walking away, not listening to Jack. Jack then backs away in horror, looking at the imaginary hammer and nails in his hands.) RS: (Soldier speaks to the imaginary procession as he guides it to center stage.) Come on, this way. You, get out of His way. This way. (Ad-lib ordering people around as long as it takes to reach the stage. Be slow about it. Let Jack’s torment grow.) Lay the cross here. (To imaginary guards) Tie Him down. (To Jack) It’s time to nail Him to His cross. Jack: But,… I don’t want to. I can’t. I just… RS: Look, I understand, but if you don’t you’ll get your own cross. Now, do your job while I get the other two prepared. It’s not like you haven’t killed before. (Soldier exits.) Jack: (Slowly, looks down at Jesus, looks at the hammer and nails. Turns to leave but stops. Takes a deep breath and tearfully goes to where the invisible cross was laid. Bends down, places a nail on Jesus’ hand, bows his head to compose himself, then looks up raises the hammer and pounds the floor. Pounds it again. Pounds it a third time then stays down in the same position he was in when he traveled back in time.) Gabriel: (Pause.) Jack, you’re back. Jack: (Tearfully shaken.) I nailed his hands. (Lifts head, tears stronger.) I nailed Jesus’ hands. (Looks at Gabriel.) I NAILED JESUS TO THE CROSS. (Lowers head again, deeply sobbing) Gabriel: (Pause.) Everybody has Jack. Everybody has. Go to top. Director's Notes

The Executioner

Cast

Jack
Gabriel
Pharisee
woman
Roman Soldier

Act 1

Scene

A chair is up-center stage.

Jack enters as if he's just woken up, yawning and stretching.

Jack:
Sunday morning again. Boy, it sure is a beautiful day today. I can’t wait to... oh,... Sunday. (Looks at watch. Then very obviously phony.) Oh man, eight o’clock already? Church starts at ten, I’ll never make it in time. (Now seriously.) That’ll be the fifth church service I missed in a row. I’d better do something about that.... Next week. (Sitting down) Where’s the remote? (Mimes picking up remote.) Wait, maybe a morning prayer to get the day going. Lord, may ESPN not be showing World Figure Skating Championship reruns. (Pretends to turn on the TV.) All right, NFL Gameday. God is good. Hey, I could get some bible reading in during the commercials. (Looking for the bible. Finds the newspaper.) Aw, God is eternal, I can read the bible anytime. I need to check out the line on today’s games. (Opens the paper.)

Gabriel:
(Enters without Jack noticing. He looks at Jack with disappointment before talking.) Jack, what are you doing?

Jack:
(Startled by the voice, he leaps up panicky.) Huh, what? Who are you?

Gabriel:
Jack, what could be so important that it keeps you from a relationship with God?

Jack:
(Scared of the stranger.) Who are you? What are you doing here?

Gabriel:
My name is Gabriel, Jack. I’ve been sent by Jesus Christ with a message from God.

Jack:
From God? Why? Why me?

Gabriel:
Because He misses you Jack. You used to have such great times together. He loves you Jack, and He wants you back.

Jack:
What do you mean back? I’ve never left. I love Jesus. I always have.

Gabriel:
You used to Jack, you truly did. But you’ve forgotten Him.

Jack:
(Starting to get a little irritated.) Wait a second. That’s not fair.

Gabriel:
You’ve forgotten what He went through for you. You’ve forgotten just how much He loves you.

Jack:
Why are you picking on me, huh? Why doesn’t everyone get this message?

Gabriel:
Everybody has Jack. Including you. You just need a reminder.

Jack:
A reminder? So you’re here to remind me?

Gabriel:
No. My message is to let you know that the Holy Spirit is going to take you on a journey. He’s going to remind you of the love you once held so dear, not me. I can’t tell you more than that now, except that He is going to block your memory and allow you to see Jesus’ love for you through someone else’s eyes. And He’s going to reveal why you should never take the gift He’s given for granted.

Jack:
Hey, look, I know I’ve missed church now and then, and I don’t pray like I should, and...

Gabriel:
When was the last time you prayed, Jack?

Jack:
Well, I just . . . no, that doesn’t really count, does it. How about,... no, it was...

Gabriel:
You used to talk to God all the time Jack. Why did you stop? He loved those times, and you did too.

Jack:
I haven’t stopped praying, I just,...

Gabriel:
And what about your passion for sharing the Gospel. His Holy Spirit used to have a place in you. You had such a fire. Every moment you ignore Him, every cry of His that falls on deaf ears, they’re like daggers in His heart.

Jack:
(Angrily) All right, stop. Maybe I haven’t been praying like I should. And maybe I need to go to church more often. But you talk as if I crucified Jesus personally. I’m not going to listen to this.

Gabriel:
I know, that’s the problem. You won’t listen. That’s why He sent me. He’s not willing to give up on you yet.

Jack:
Give up on me? Why would it come to that? Hey, I’m not an evil guy. I’ve never killed anybody. I didn’t do anything to deserve this.

Gabriel:
Everybody has Jack. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Nobody deserved God’s gift. That’s what makes it so special. (Slowly, as Gabriel talks, Jack closes his eyes and falls to his knees at center stage as the Holy Spirit falls on him. He lowers his head and extends his arms out in front of him over his head.) You knew that once and loved God so much because of it. The Holy Spirit has come. It’s time for you to remember. (Gabriel pauses and then exits.)

Jack:
(After a couple seconds Jack slowly stands, slightly dazed as he is transitioning into the part of a Roman Soldier. He snaps to attention when he’s all the way up.) Jerusalem, finally. What a dump. What these Jews see in this city is beyond me. They’ve probably never seen the glory of Rome. Now that’s a city. That’s the home of a God. I’ll get back there pretty soon, as soon as they stop sending me out to these executions. Oh well, that’s the life I signed on for, the life of a centurion. (Pharisee enters and crosses in front of Jack.) Now, where is this place they call Golgotha? (Calls after Pharisee who has walked by.) You there, Jew, tell me where I can find Golgotha.

Pharisee:
Sir, you are addressing one of God’s elect. I am not to be addressed as ‘you there’.

Jack:
(Indignantly.) You’re a Pharisee, huh?

P:
I am.

Jack:
(Mockingly) Then perhaps, your most self righteous one, you might assist me in my search for the hill called Golgotha. I am told it is here in Jerusalem. I’m to assist with the executions scheduled there.

P:
Sir, your lack of respect is astonishing even for a Roman. But since your mission pleases me I will tell you. You’re almost there. It’s just a short trip ahead of you straight on. (Turns to go.)

Jack:
So you’ll be glad to see these two criminals die?

P:
(Stops and comes back to Jack.) Oh, I could care less about them. You’ve got a new addition.

Jack:
A third man?

P:
The one called Jesus.

Jack:
(Shocked.) Jesus Christ?

P:
You know Him?

Jack:
(Evasively at first.) I’ve seen Him around. He never appeared to be capable of anything that would warrant crucifixion. What did He do?

P:
(Furiously.) He BLASPHEMED!!!

Jack:
(Stunned pause then obviously sarcastic) NO! What is the world coming to?

P:
You mock me, but it was your own Pontius Pilate that sentenced Him to death.

Jack:
Pilate? Why Pilate? Jesus is a Jew. Pilate oversees Roman offenses.

P:
But He calls himself the King of the Jews, God Himself. Doesn’t this place Him higher than your Caesar?

Jack:
I see. So he is to be crucified for this then?

P:
Isn’t that enough?

Jack:
If Pilate says it is, that makes it so.

P:
As long as He dies.

Jack:
You really have something against this Jesus.

P:
He is a radical. He is dangerous. He has constantly challenged us, the Pharisees, the keepers of God’s Holy Law, and mocked us in public. He is a fiendish snake and a cowardly liar. He is a wretched curse upon this nation, and needs to be destroyed. The longer He is left alive, the longer people will be drawn to Him. He blinds them with His talk of love that will not die. He tricks them with His so-called miracles while violating God’s most sacred laws. He continues to draw the people away from God.

Jack:
Away from you, you mean.

P:
The more support He receives, the more people who follow Him, the greater the threat to Rome. He calls Himself the Son of God, the King of the Jews. Don’t you think it’s wise to silence Him now before He gains enough support to threaten Rome itself?

Jack:
Somehow, I find it hard to believe that Roman security is in your best interests.

P:
As long as you perform your job properly, it is of little concern to me what you believe. (Leaves)

Jack:
(Stunned pause as Jack watches the Pharisee exit.) Talk about a grudge. I’ve heard a lot of things about Jesus, seen a few things myself, but nothing like what that guy was talking about. Certainly nothing criminal. (As he’s talking, he walks away from center stage, even possibly moving into the audience, and circles back to it. When he’s away from center stage, the woman goes to center stage and bows as if praying.) Cowardly liar? From what I’ve seen, this Jesus’ love is genuine enough. The Son of God? He might be a nut, but dangerous? I don’t believe it. Still, He has gained quite a following in such a short time. Maybe Caesar was becoming concerned. In any case, Pontius Pilate has convicted Him, that makes Him a criminal. It appears I have reached my destination (Sees woman.) You there, what are you doing?

Woman:
(Stands and hurries to far DSR, keeping her head down, not looking at Jack.) I’m sorry sir, please don’t be angry.

Jack:
It’s all right. You haven’t done anything wrong. I just want to know what you’re doing here.

W:
I came to pray.

Jack:
You picked a terrible place to do it. There’s going to be an execution here soon.

W:
I know. That’s what I’m praying for.

Jack:
Ahh, you must be one of Jesus’ followers. Well, go ahead and pray if it makes you feel better, but be assured, Jesus will die today.

W:
He can’t. He just can’t die.

Jack:
Well then maybe He shouldn’t have committed any crime.

W:
But He hasn’t committed any wrongdoing. He’s innocent. He’s the most innocent man I know.

Jack:
Pilate says differently.

W:
That’s because of the Pharisees. They brought Jesus to Him. They convinced Pilate there would be danger and unrest if he let Jesus live. They hate Jesus. They’ve always hated Him.

Jack:
You’ve got a point there. Those Pharisees can be downright vicious when they want to be.

W:
(Runs to Jack and begs at his feet.) So you see, He’s not really guilty. You can’t kill Him, you can’t...

Jack:
(Begin speaking while woman is begging. Get loud to silence her.) Wait, wait a minute. STOP IT! I didn’t say I agree with you.

W:
(Slumps, depressed.)

Jack:
And even if I did, it wouldn’t matter anyway. Pilate has convicted Jesus and the only one who can overturn that decision is Caesar.

W:
(Falls down completely, giving up hope.)

Jack:
Why do you care so much anyway? What did this Jesus ever do for you?

W:
(Pause as she considers whether or not to tell him.) He saved me.

Jack:
What do you mean he saved you? He saved your life?

W:
Not just my life,… much more. He saved my soul.

Jack:
(Interested.) Go on.

W:
A short while ago, I was taken to Jesus by three men, three Pharisees. You see, I used to be a prostitute and they had discovered me with a man that visited me often. They threw me before Jesus, explained my crime, and asked Him if it was right that they stone me, the lawful punishment for such a crime.

Jack:
(Laughing.) Lady, you should have gone to Rome. Prostitution isn’t just legal, it’s encouraged. (Jack winces and responds to woman’s obvious pain at his statement.) I’m sorry. Continue.

W:
The Pharisees, they didn’t care about me. They only wanted to hurt Jesus. They thought with Jesus’ compassion, He might let me go, and then they could say He broke God’s laws. But if He wanted me stoned, they would say He didn’t care about the people like he claimed.

Jack:
Well, you’re alive so it’s obvious what He chose.

W:
But He didn’t say anything. He just wrote in the sand in front of Him where He was sitting, with his finger.

Jack:
(Pause.) So, what was he writing?

W:
Sins. He was writing sins out in front of Him. I couldn’t understand why. The Pharisees asked Him again, what they should do with me. And this time He answered. He said ‘He who is without sin, cast the first stone.’ And as He kept writing, one by one, the men dropped the stones they had collected and left. He was writing their sins. He knew. He knew the darkest areas of their hearts, the secrets they’d kept hidden from everyone else. When everyone had left, He looked into me, not at me, inside of me, and said ‘Go and sin no more.’ And at that moment I knew He was the Messiah. I felt so free. He forgave me of all I had done against Him; against God.

Jack:
(Respectful and quiet. He has been sincerely touched by her story.) Well, you’d better go. They’ll be here pretty soon.

W:
(She nods and quietly walks away.)

Jack:
(Explodes when she’s gone.) What’s going on? Why are we crucifying this man? Crucifixion is intended for the vilest criminals who have committed the most unspeakable acts. It appears that this Jesus is only guilty of His love for these people. No, there must be more to it than that. Pilate has convicted Him, and therefore He is a criminal. Besides, she’s a Jew. Of course he would show love for her. He calls Himself the King of Jews. (Confused.) But the Son of God?

Roman Soldier:
(Enters from behind the audience and makes his way to the stage referring to invisible people.) Hey, move it. Get out of the way. Come on people, clear a path. (Ad-lib if necessary to get to the front. Upon seeing Jack he stops.) You there, soldier, why aren’t you helping with the prisoners?

Jack:
(At attention.) Sorry sir. I was told to arrive at the hill called Golgotha in Jerusalem.

RS:
(Continues to the stage until he’s next to Jack.) Oh, you must be the one they brought in from out of town.

Jack:
Yes sir. I just arrived a few moments ago.

RS:
Good. I was beginning to become concerned that you weren’t going to make it. You are aware that we have three prisoners to execute and not two?

Jack:
Yes sir. I have discovered that in my conversations with some locals.

RS:
Yes, well, I don’t mind telling you that this one truly bothers me. I don’t know if we’re doing the right thing.

Jack:
(Relaxing a little.) I met a woman just now who would agree with you. But I don’t think the Pharisee mind seeing Him die.

RS:
Oh they don’t. I shouldn’t either. I mean, I’ve seen enough crucifixions to last two lifetimes. And I know He is a convicted man, convicted by Pontius Pilate no less, but… well, I just think the Pharisees are wrong about Him, that’s all. He’s not like the rest of the garbage we nail up here.

Jack:
We are talking about Jesus, right?

RS:
Of course. Oh, not the other two. They’re scum. One of them murdered his wife and three children. The other one killed a man when the guy caught him stealing from his room at a local inn. If I had the chance, I’d kill them myself and wouldn’t think twice about it. No, this Jesus is different.

Jack:
It’s funny to hear that from a soldier of Rome when it seems like so many of the Jews hate him so much.

RS:
Well, you might say I have a unique perspective on the situation.

Jack:
How’s that.

RS:
I had a servant at home. Not just a servant, a friend. He’d been with me since I was two years old. He’s always taken care of me. He was almost dead from some illness we had picked up while traveling from Rome. The doctors couldn’t do anything. I had heard that Jesus had performed several miraculous healings, and I knew He was in town. I didn’t know if He’d talk to me, being Roman and all, but I walked right up to Jesus and I told him about my serv… about my friend. He said He would come to my house and heal him. I told Him He didn’t have to. I knew with that kind of power, He had to have some kind of authority over… well, forces I can’t explain. I told Him if He just said the word, I knew my friend would be well. When I said that, He just brightened up. He looked at me with this… I mean, I knew He just had this love… (Can’t think of how to describe it.) Anyway, He spoke healing for my friend and before I even got home some of my servants were rushing out to greet me, shouting confirmation of the miracle.

Jack:
So do you believe Him?

RS:
Believe Him?

Jack:
That He’s the Son of God?

RS:
Yes! Yes I do.

Jack:
But if He’s the Son of God… (Once or twice stops as he can’t think of an argument. Then continue.) Do you actually think He cares about you?

RS:
Oh no, I know He does.

Jack:
How can you know that?

RS:
I can’t explain it, but I know it with every part of my being.

Jack:
But you’re a Roman. He’s a Jew. He has no reason to love you.

RS:
Have you ever met this Jesus before?

Jack:
(Grudgingly) Yes, once. He was speaking and performing miracles. There was a blind man that was calling out to Him. Jesus couldn’t hear Him. The crowd was too great. I went and got the old man and took him through the crowd to Jesus. I originally just wanted him to shut up. I thought that was the best way to do it. (Looking out at audience as if seeing Jesus again.) But when Jesus saw him, He took pity on him. He placed His hands on the old man’s eyes and...

RS:
And?

Jack:
(Awestruck.) And he could see. The old man thanked Jesus and ran off shouting. But Jesus,… Jesus turned and looked at me, (Visibly shaken.) and smiled.

RS:
Then you know what I’m talking about.

Jack:
I’ve never been so shaken in my life. (Snaps out of his memory as if shaking off a daydream.) I never told anyone that. I figured they wouldn’t believe me, or I’d be ridiculed. (Jack turns away from Soldier, embarrassed.)

RS:
(Pause) I’ve been to five countries, and visited dozens of cities. You know, I’ve never met a good man.

Jack:
(Appears stunned at that statement.)

RS:
Oh, there was a time I wouldn’t have thought that. But once I looked into His eyes, I realized what true goodness was. I guess until I met Him, I never had a proper comparison to go by. I can say this. Most of the people I have met are one step away from the two other criminals we’re nailing up today. And all of them are closer to those criminals than to Jesus than any of them are willing to admit.

Jack:
(Pretends to notice the procession coming behind the audience.) Here they come.

RS:
It’s almost time for you to do your job.

Jack:
My job?

RS:
Here you go. (Hands him imaginary tools.) Here’s your hammer and the nails you’ll need.

Jack:
I’M THE EXECUTIONER?

RS:
Of course. We always bring in someone from another town to actually nail them to the wood. That way you can leave, separate yourself from the event. (Heads away towards the imaginary procession.)

Jack:
But… I… (Soldier is already walking away, not listening to Jack. Jack then backs away in horror, looking at the imaginary hammer and nails in his hands.)

RS:
(Soldier speaks to the imaginary procession as he guides it to center stage.) Come on, this way. You, get out of His way. This way. (Ad-lib ordering people around as long as it takes to reach the stage. Be slow about it. Let Jack’s torment grow.) Lay the cross here. (To imaginary guards) Tie Him down. (To Jack) It’s time to nail Him to His cross.

Jack:
But,… I don’t want to. I can’t. I just…

RS:
Look, I understand, but if you don’t you’ll get your own cross. Now, do your job while I get the other two prepared. It’s not like you haven’t killed before. (Soldier exits.)

Jack:
(Slowly, looks down at Jesus, looks at the hammer and nails. Turns to leave but stops. Takes a deep breath and tearfully goes to where the invisible cross was laid. Bends down, places a nail on Jesus’ hand, bows his head to compose himself, then looks up raises the hammer and pounds the floor. Pounds it again. Pounds it a third time then stays down in the same position he was in when he traveled back in time.)

Gabriel:
(Pause.) Jack, you’re back.

Jack:
(Tearfully shaken.) I nailed his hands. (Lifts head, tears stronger.) I nailed Jesus’ hands. (Looks at Gabriel.) I NAILED JESUS TO THE CROSS. (Lowers head again, deeply sobbing)

Gabriel:
(Pause.) Everybody has Jack. Everybody has.

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Director's Notes