CREATIVE In Bethlehem · O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie! Above thy deep and...

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In BethlehemA Series Of Special Services For Advent

By Arden W. Mead

In BethlehemIn BethlehemOne Night

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A Series Of Special Services For Advent

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COMMUNICATIONS In BethlehemIn Bethlehem


One Night

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A Series Of Special Services For Advent 27


By Arden W. Mead

In BethlehemIn BethlehemOne Night

Service Two: In The Field

An Order Of Service ...............................................28-30

Scripture Readings ...................................................... 31

Children’s Sermon ..................................................32-33

Script .........................................................................34-41

Concluding Homily ................................................42-44

Prayers ......................................................................45-47

CREATIVE

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In BethlehemCREATIVE


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By Arden W. Mead

CREATIVE

By Arden W. Mead

CREATIVE Service Two: In The Field

CREATIVE Service Two: In The Field

...............................................28-30

CREATIVE ...............................................28-30

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By Arden W. Mead

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By Arden W. Mead

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An Order Of Service

SAMPLESAn Order Of Service...............................................28-30

SAMPLES...............................................28-30

...................................................... 31

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SAMPLES..................................................32-33

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28 One Night In Bethlehem

An Order Of Service

—In the Field—Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had intended to reach Jerusalem this evening, but something happened on the way, and you find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.

O Little Town of Bethlehem ....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5aO little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!

Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.

The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

L O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, you are one of the little clans of Judah. C But from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule Israel. His kingdom

is eternal. L Like a shepherd taking care of his sheep, he will lead his people.C He will care for them by the power and glorious name of the Lord his God. L His people will live securely, and the whole earth will know his true greatness, C because he will bring peace.

The Prayer of the Day

In BethlehemIn BethlehemIn BethlehemOne Night

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An Order Of ServiceCREATIVE

An Order Of Service

—In the Field—

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—In the Field—Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had

CREATIVE

Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had intended to reach Jerusalem this evening, but something happened on the way, and you

CREATIVE

intended to reach Jerusalem this evening, but something happened on the way, and you find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide

CREATIVE find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.

CREATIVE looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.

....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5a

CREATIVE ....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5aO little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!

CREATIVE O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.

CREATIVE Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.

CREATIVE

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—In the Field—

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—In the Field—Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had

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find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.

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looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.

....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5a

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....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5aO little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!

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O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.

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Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.

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Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

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e one of the little clans of Judah.

COMMUNICATIONS e one of the little clans of Judah.

from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule Israel. His kingdom

COMMUNICATIONS from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule Israel. His kingdom

He will care for them by the power and glorious name of the Lord his God.

COMMUNICATIONS He will care for them by the power and glorious name of the Lord his God.

ely, and the whole earth will know his true greatness,

COMMUNICATIONS ely, and the whole earth will know his true greatness,

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In BethlehemIn BethlehemCOMMUNICATIONS

In Bethlehem

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Imagine you are taking a guided tour of the Holy Land, 2,000 years ago. Your group had SAMPLES


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find yourselves instead stuck for the night in Bethlehem. Desperately, your tour guide looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.

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looks for something—anything—to show you in this historic old sheeptown.

O Little Town of Bethlehem

SAMPLESO Little Town of Bethlehem ....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5a

SAMPLES....................................................... Micah 5:2, 4-5a

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!

SAMPLESO little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie!

Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.

SAMPLESAbove thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.

Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.

SAMPLESYet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light.


SAMPLESThe hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

e one of the little clans of Judah.

SAMPLESe one of the little clans of Judah. from you shall come forth for me one who is to rule Israel. His kingdom

SAMPLESfrom you shall come forth for me one who is to rule Israel. His kingdom

e of his sheep, he will lead his people.

SAMPLESe of his sheep, he will lead his people.


How silently, how silently the wondrous gift is giv’n!So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of his heav’n.

No ear may hear his coming; but in this world of sin,Where meek souls will receive him, still the dear Christ enters in.

Old Testament Lesson ................................................................Ezekiel 34:11-16

Psalm 23 .................................................................................... Ihr Kinderlein kommet(In this styling, phrases of the hymn interrupt the reading of the Psalm.

The final chord of each phrase is held softly over the spoken words.)

L The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.

L He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.

Securely I follow wherever he guides.

L He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;The Lord, my good Shepherd, forever is near!

L Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.


L You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.


L Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.


Gospel .........................................................................................................John 10:1-5

Theme Hymn ............................................................Once in Royal David’s CityOnce in royal David’s city stood a lowly cattle shed,

Where a mother laid her baby in a manger for his bed.Mary was that mother mild, Jesus Christ her little child.

CREATIVE

The final chord of each phrase is held softly over the spoken words.)CREATIVE

The final chord of each phrase is held softly over the spoken words.)

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.CREATIVE

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.


CREATIVE


He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.

CREATIVE



CREATIVE


He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’

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He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

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s sake.He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’

CREATIVE

He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’

No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

The Lord, my good Shepherd, forever is near!

though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your

CREATIVE though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your

CREATIVE The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.

CREATIVE The Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.

ou prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with

CREATIVE ou prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with

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Psalm 23COMMUNICATIONS

Psalm 23


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ely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the

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.........................................................................................................John 1

COMMUNICATIONS .........................................................................................................John 10:1-5

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oyal David’s City

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He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’SAMPLES


No foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;SAMPLES


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though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.

SAMPLES

rod and your staff—they comfort me.

SAMPLESThe Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.

SAMPLESThe Lord is my Shepherd, who richly provides.


SAMPLESou prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with


SAMPLESSecurely I follow wherever he guides.


SAMPLESely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the


SAMPLESNo foe that may threaten can cause me to fear;


Shepherds in the field abiding, watching o’er the flocks by night,Soon would hear angelic voices, soon would see a wondrous sight:Christ the Lord proclaimed to them, born that night in Bethlehem!

Children’s Sermon

“One Night in Bethlehem”In the Field

Now our eyes in truth should see him through his own redeeming love,For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heav’n above,As he leads his children on to the place where he has gone.

Homily

Hymn ............................................................... It Came Upon the Midnight ClearIt came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,

From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heav’n’s all-gracious King.”

The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.

For lo, the days have come to pass by prophets seen of old,When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.

His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.

Prayers and Offering

Lord’s Prayer or Holy Communion

Benediction

Closing Hymn .................................................................................... Adeste Fideles Sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation,

Sing, all ye citizens of heaven above!Glory to God in the highest:

Oh, come, let us adore him, oh, come let us adore him,Oh, come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!

CREATIVE

Now our eyes in truth should see him through his own redeeming love,CREATIVE

Now our eyes in truth should see him through his own redeeming love,For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heav’n above,CREATIVE

For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heav’n above,As he leads his children on to the place where he has gone.

CREATIVE

As he leads his children on to the place where he has gone.

Homily

CREATIVE

Homily

............................................................... It Came U

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............................................................... It Came UIt came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,

CREATIVE

It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:

CREATIVE


CREATIVE

“Peace on the earth, good will to all, from heav’n’s all-gracious King.”The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.

CREATIVE The world in solemn stillness lay to hear the angels sing.

For lo, the days have come to pass by prophets seen of old,

CREATIVE For lo, the days have come to pass by prophets seen of old,

When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.

CREATIVE When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.

His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,

CREATIVE His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.

CREATIVE And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.

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Now our eyes in truth should see him through his own redeeming love,

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Now our eyes in truth should see him through his own redeeming love,For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heav’n above,

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For that child so dear and gentle is our Lord in heav’n above,As he leads his children on to the place where he has gone.

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As he leads his children on to the place where he has gone.

............................................................... It Came U

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............................................................... It Came UIt came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,

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It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:

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When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,

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His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.

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And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.


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It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,SAMPLES

It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old,From angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold:SAMPLES


SAMPLES


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When down into the circling years came Christ as was foretold.His word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,

SAMPLESHis word of peace shall to the earth God’s ancient promise bring,

And all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.

SAMPLESAnd all who take this gift will hear the song the angels sing.


SAMPLESPrayers and Offering


SAMPLESLord’s Prayer or Holy Communion

Benediction

SAMPLESBenediction

.................................................................................... A

SAMPLES.................................................................................... A


Script

—In the Field—Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound effects, and a generous dose of imagination. The tour guide may speak from the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking (you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the congregation, perhaps toward the back. Occasionally, she stands to deliver a line. The remainder of the actors speak from the back of the church—prefer-ably the balcony, if your sanctuary has one. It is these overheard voices that provide much of the ... well ... the “realness” of this drama.

In this drama, parts 1 and 3 are played by men. Part 2 can be played by a boy or a young teenager. The part marked “woman” can be played from the midst of the congregation, perhaps toward the back.

As the drama begins, the tour guide has taken the group on a little hike, and has now gathered them together on a hill outside of Bethlehem ...

In BethlehemIn BethlehemIn BethlehemOne Night

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ScriptCREATIVE

Script

—In the Field—

CREATIVE

—In the Field—Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound

CREATIVE

Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound effects, and a generous dose of imagination. The tour guide may speak from

CREATIVE

effects, and a generous dose of imagination. The tour guide may speak from the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking

CREATIVE the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking (you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given

CREATIVE (you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while

CREATIVE wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender

CREATIVE the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change

CREATIVE gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-

CREATIVE the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated

CREATIVE ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the

CREATIVE as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the

CREATIVE

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—In the Field—

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—In the Field—Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound

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the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking (you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given

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(you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while

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wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender

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the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change

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gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-

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the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated

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ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the

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as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the congregation, perhaps toward the back. Occasionally, she stands to deliver a

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congregation, perhaps toward the back. Occasionally, she stands to deliver a line. The remainder of the actors speak from the back of the church—prefer-

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line. The remainder of the actors speak from the back of the church—prefer-ably the balcony, if your sanctuary has one. It is these overheard voices that

COMMUNICATIONS ably the balcony, if your sanctuary has one. It is these overheard voices that

In this drama, parts 1 and 3 are played by men. Part 2 can be played by a boy

COMMUNICATIONS In this drama, parts 1 and 3 are played by men. Part 2 can be played by a boy or a young teenager. The part marked “woman” can be played from the midst

COMMUNICATIONS or a young teenager. The part marked “woman” can be played from the midst

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In BethlehemIn BethlehemCOMMUNICATIONS

In Bethlehem

SAMPLES

Based in part on old-time radio shows, this drama involves voices, some sound SAMPLES


SAMPLES


SAMPLES

the lectern, dramatically pointing to things about which he or she is speaking (you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given

SAMPLES

(you will be amazed and surprised when the congregation looks to a given wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while

SAMPLES

wall to “see” such items as a hill or a flock of sheep). Please note that while the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender

SAMPLES

the tour guide indicated in this script is a male character (to avoid gender gymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change

SAMPLESgymnastics while writing), the guide could easily be female—simply change the “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-

SAMPLESthe “sirs” to “ma’ams.” Also note that, although the group is often “walk-ing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated

SAMPLESing,” the tour guide need not move from the lectern. One actor (here indicated as a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the

SAMPLESas a woman, although nearly anyone could play the part) is situated in the congregation, perhaps toward the back. Occasionally, she stands to deliver a

SAMPLEScongregation, perhaps toward the back. Occasionally, she stands to deliver a line. The remainder of the actors speak from the back of the church—prefer-

SAMPLESline. The remainder of the actors speak from the back of the church—prefer-ably the balcony, if your sanctuary has one. It is these overheard voices that

SAMPLESably the balcony, if your sanctuary has one. It is these overheard voices that

SAMPLESprovide much of the ... well ... the “realness” of this drama.

SAMPLESprovide much of the ... well ... the “realness” of this drama.

In this drama, parts 1 and 3 are played by men. Part 2 can be played by a boy

SAMPLESIn this drama, parts 1 and 3 are played by men. Part 2 can be played by a boy


Guide: Well, I hope you found this evening walk invigorating, ladies and gentle-men. It wasn’t too long a hike, and I thought that ... well ... as long as we are “stuck,” so to speak, in this little town of Bethlehem, we might as well take a field trip.

Woman: “Field trip” is right! You’ve walked us out into a field!

Guide: I know, ladies and gentlemen, that according to our itineraries we were all expecting to spend the evening in the majestic city of Jerusalem. (Under his breath) Believe me, no one regrets our current situation more than I do. (Recovering) But, as you know, our ... how shall I put it ... our “camel crisis” has placed us square in the center of the booming metroplex of Bethlehem against our wills.

Woman: I think a sheep just bit me.

Guide: I’m sure you can bite it back. (To the group) And, as long as we are here, I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town for two reasons.

Woman: What? To finish us off out in this field?

Guide: Three, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ... maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one. The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.

1: Joshua, have you finished gathering up the sheep?

2: (As from a distance) Not yet, Father! I’m working on it.

1: Well, gather them up and make them all lie down. Then come and sit down with your Uncle Caleb and me.

2: Yes, Father!

Guide: And this is the other reason I wanted us all to gather out in this field this evening. I thought, as long as we are here, that we could dig, a bit, into the local industry.

CREATIVE

expecting to spend the evening in the majestic city of Jerusalem. CREATIVE

expecting to spend the evening in the majestic city of Jerusalem. Believe me, no one regrets our current situation more than I do. CREATIVE

Believe me, no one regrets our current situation more than I do. But, as you know, our ... how shall I put it ... our “camel crisis” CREATIVE

But, as you know, our ... how shall I put it ... our “camel crisis” has placed us square in the center of the booming metroplex of Bethlehem

CREATIVE

has placed us square in the center of the booming metroplex of Bethlehem

I think a sheep just bit me.

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(To the group)

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(To the group) And, as long as we are here,

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And, as long as we are here, I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town

CREATIVE

I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town

ee, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening

CREATIVE ee, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening

view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ...

CREATIVE view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ... maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it

CREATIVE maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one.

CREATIVE is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one. The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.

CREATIVE The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.

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Woman:COMMUNICATIONS

oman:Woman:WCOMMUNICATIONS

Woman:W

Guide:COMMUNICATIONS

Guide:expecting to spend the evening in the majestic city of Jerusalem.

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expecting to spend the evening in the majestic city of Jerusalem. his breath)

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his breath)(Recovering)

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(Recovering)has placed us square in the center of the booming metroplex of Bethlehem

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has placed us square in the center of the booming metroplex of Bethlehem against our wills.

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against our wills.


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sure you can bite it back.

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sure you can bite it back. I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town

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I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town

o finish us off out in this field?

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o finish us off out in this field?


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ee, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ...

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view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ... maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it

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maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one.

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is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one. The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.

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The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.

Joshua, have you finished gathering up the sheep?

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Not yet, Father! I’m working on it.

COMMUNICATIONS Not yet, Father! I’m working on it.

ell, gather them up and make them all lie down. Then come and sit

COMMUNICATIONS ell, gather them up and make them all lie down. Then come and sit

this is the other reason I wanted us all to gather out in this field this

COMMUNICATIONS this is the other reason I wanted us all to gather out in this field this

SAMPLES

I’m SAMPLES

I’m sure you can bite it back. SAMPLES

sure you can bite it back. I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town SAMPLES

I thought it a good idea to take the opportunity to walk outside of town for two reasons. SAMPLES

for two reasons.

What? T

SAMPLES

What? To finish us off out in this field?

SAMPLES

o finish us off out in this field?What? To finish us off out in this field?What? T

SAMPLES

What? To finish us off out in this field?What? T


SAMPLES

ee, then. First, this hilltop location provides us an excellent evening view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ...

SAMPLES

view of the tiny town. Notice the windows, lit with the light of ... what ... maybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it

SAMPLESmaybe a hundred oil lamps? A sleepy little town nestled in the hills—it is quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one.

SAMPLESis quite picturesque, don’t you think? A silent night if ever there was one. The stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.

SAMPLESThe stars are about to come out. Perhaps we’ll see some constellations.


SAMPLESJoshua, have you finished gathering up the sheep?

Not yet, Father! I’m working on it.

SAMPLES Not yet, Father! I’m working on it.

ell, gather them up and make them all lie down. Then come and sit

SAMPLESell, gather them up and make them all lie down. Then come and sit


Woman: This is “industry”?

Guide: Yes, ma’am. For this little town, anyway, this is as close to “industry” as we are likely to get—an important industry for this part of the world. Sheep are small animals, therefore inexpensive. They are easier to buy and raise than larger cattle. And they are well adapted to this arid environment. Add to that the wool that they provide ... and the meat, of course ... and sheep become a major “industry” for the local people.

Consider the fact that for many centuries a person’s wealth was measured by the size of the flock they owned. Sheep were a sign of wealth, despite the fact that, to this day, the people who actually care for the flocks are considered rather dirty, poorly paid and lowly.

And this particular “industry” is deeply rooted in this town. Bethlehem has been a sheeptown for well over one thousand years. In fact, it was almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident ... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.

Woman: The king?

Guide: The king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.

As you can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could move just a bit closer, and, pretending to look at the stars, we just might overhear what these shepherds are talking about.

Listen, people. Absorb the culture ....

1: Joshua, are you finished?

2: Yes, Father.

1: And the sheep are all lying down?

2: Yes, Father.

1: And you’ve counted them all? They’re all there?

CREATIVE

onsider the fact that for many centuries a person’s wealth was measured CREATIVE

onsider the fact that for many centuries a person’s wealth was measured by the size of the flock they owned. Sheep were a sign of wealth, despite CREATIVE

by the size of the flock they owned. Sheep were a sign of wealth, despite the fact that, to this day, the people who actually care for the flocks are

CREATIVE

the fact that, to this day, the people who actually care for the flocks are considered rather dirty, poorly paid and lowly.

CREATIVE

considered rather dirty, poorly paid and lowly.

this particular “industry” is deeply rooted in this town. Bethlehem

CREATIVE

this particular “industry” is deeply rooted in this town. Bethlehem has been a sheeptown for well over one thousand years. In fact, it was

CREATIVE

has been a sheeptown for well over one thousand years. In fact, it was almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident

CREATIVE

almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident ... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right

CREATIVE

... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.

CREATIVE

on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.

king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-

CREATIVE king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-

munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.

CREATIVE munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.

you can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of

CREATIVE you can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could

CREATIVE the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could

COMMUNICATIONS

sheep become a major “industry” for the local people. COMMUNICATIONS

sheep become a major “industry” for the local people.

C

COMMUNICATIONS

Consider the fact that for many centuries a person’s wealth was measured

COMMUNICATIONS

onsider the fact that for many centuries a person’s wealth was measured by the size of the flock they owned. Sheep were a sign of wealth, despite

COMMUNICATIONS

by the size of the flock they owned. Sheep were a sign of wealth, despite the fact that, to this day, the people who actually care for the flocks are

COMMUNICATIONS

the fact that, to this day, the people who actually care for the flocks are considered rather dirty, poorly paid and lowly.

COMMUNICATIONS

considered rather dirty, poorly paid and lowly.

this particular “industry” is deeply rooted in this town. Bethlehem

COMMUNICATIONS

this particular “industry” is deeply rooted in this town. Bethlehem has been a sheeptown for well over one thousand years. In fact, it was

COMMUNICATIONS

has been a sheeptown for well over one thousand years. In fact, it was almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident

COMMUNICATIONS

almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident ... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right

COMMUNICATIONS

... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.

COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS

king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.

COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS

you can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could

COMMUNICATIONS

the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could

COMMUNICATIONS

move just a bit closer, and, pretending to look at the stars, we just might

COMMUNICATIONS

move just a bit closer, and, pretending to look at the stars, we just might overhear what these shepherds are talking about.

COMMUNICATIONS

overhear what these shepherds are talking about.

SAMPLES

almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident SAMPLES

almost exactly a millennium ago that Bethlehem’s most famous resident ... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right SAMPLES

... most famous shepherd ... herded his sheep right here—perhaps right on this very hill! David was a shepherd boy.SAMPLES


The king?

SAMPLES

The king?


SAMPLES

king! His is quite a story—a real pauper to prince tale. And this com-munity—this “City of David”—has never forgotten it.

SAMPLES



SAMPLESyou can see, a friendly fire has been lit just over there, and a few of

the local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could

SAMPLESthe local shepherds are beginning to gather around it. Perhaps we could

SAMPLESmove just a bit closer, and, pretending to look at the stars, we just might

SAMPLESmove just a bit closer, and, pretending to look at the stars, we just might overhear what these shepherds are talking about.

SAMPLESoverhear what these shepherds are talking about.

Absorb the culture ....

SAMPLESAbsorb the culture ....


3: (Sarcastically) No, Ishmael, they aren’t all there. A lion got twenty of them. A bear got fifteen. Of course he counted them! How could he not count them? Right, Josh?

2: Right, Uncle Caleb.

3: You have to start trusting the boy, Ishmael. Stop being so hard on him.

1: And you’ll have to stop being so hard on his father, Caleb.

3: Right! Just like his father was easy on me when we were growing up.

1: Caleb!

2: Uncle Caleb, tell me a story about when you and Father were my age.

3:YourfatherwasNEVERyourage,Josh.

1: Caleb.

3: Besides, I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different story? How about a DAVID story?

2:YES!ADavidstory!

1: You and those stories, Caleb.

3: There’s nothing wrong with “those stories,” Ishmael. Where’s your sense of history. For goodness’ sake, where’s your sense of adventure? So, Joshua, what story would you like to hear?

1: Here it comes ....

2: (Excited) The giant! David and the giant.

3: Joshua, I have a feeling you could tell that story yourself, you’ve heard it more than a dozen times ...

1: A hundred times.

CREATIVE

And you’ll have to stop being so harCREATIVE

And you’ll have to stop being so har

Right! Just like his father was easy on me when we werCREATIVE

Right! Just like his father was easy on me when we wer

Uncle Caleb, tell me a story about when you and Father wer

CREATIVE


age,

CREATIVE

age, Josh.

CREATIVE

Josh.

CREATIVE I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different

CREATIVE I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different

COMMUNICATIONS

1:

COMMUNICATIONS

1: And you’ll have to stop being so har

COMMUNICATIONS

And you’ll have to stop being so har

3:

COMMUNICATIONS

3: Right! Just like his father was easy on me when we wer

COMMUNICATIONS

Right! Just like his father was easy on me when we wer

Caleb!

COMMUNICATIONS

Caleb!


COMMUNICATIONS


father

COMMUNICATIONS

father was

COMMUNICATIONS

was NEVER

COMMUNICATIONS

NEVER your

COMMUNICATIONS

your

COMMUNICATIONS

I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different

COMMUNICATIONS

I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different story? How about a DAVID story?

COMMUNICATIONS

story? How about a DAVID story?

here’s nothing wrong with “those stories,” Ishmael. Where’s your sense of

COMMUNICATIONS

here’s nothing wrong with “those stories,” Ishmael. Where’s your sense of history. For goodness’ sake, where’s your sense of adventure? So, Joshua,

COMMUNICATIONS

history. For goodness’ sake, where’s your sense of adventure? So, Joshua,

COMMUNICATIONS I have a feeling you could tell that story yourself, you’ve heard it

COMMUNICATIONS I have a feeling you could tell that story yourself, you’ve heard it

SAMPLES

YourSAMPLES

Your fatherSAMPLES

father

1:SAMPLES

1: Caleb.SAMPLES

Caleb.

Besides,

SAMPLES

Besides,

SAMPLES

I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different

SAMPLES

I don’t think your father’s in the mood. How about a different story? How about a DAVID story?

SAMPLES

story? How about a DAVID story?

David

SAMPLES

David story!

SAMPLES

story!

ou and those stories, Caleb.

SAMPLESou and those stories, Caleb.

here’s nothing wrong with “those stories,” Ishmael. Where’s your sense of

SAMPLEShere’s nothing wrong with “those stories,” Ishmael. Where’s your sense of

history. For goodness’ sake, where’s your sense of adventure? So, Joshua,

SAMPLEShistory. For goodness’ sake, where’s your sense of adventure? So, Joshua, what story would you like to hear?

SAMPLESwhat story would you like to hear?


3: ... and I’m getting the feeling that your father might not want to hear it right now ...

1: Thank you for noticing, Caleb.

3: ... so I’m going to tell you another story ... a story I don’t think I’ve ever told you before. It’s a story that took place right here in Bethlehem—a story of sneaky entries and surprising endings ... and a shepherd boy just about your age.

2: Really?

3: Really. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into Bethlehem.

2: Why was he sneaking?

3: He was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was doing.

2: What was he doing, Uncle Caleb?

3: He had secretly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.

2:Eventhoughtherealreadywasaking?

1: Joshua, let your uncle tell the story.

3: It’s okay, Ishmael. Yes, Joshua. The man’s name was Samuel ...

2: The great judge?

3: Yes. God had spoken to Samuel ... had told him to come to Bethlehem ... had told him to anoint a new king.

2: It was David, wasn’t it?

3: Yes, but Samuel didn’t know that yet. Samuel went to the house of a man named Jesse, just as the Lord had told him to do. One of Jesse’s sons was the man God had chosen to be king.

CREATIVE

. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into

CREATIVE

. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into

was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was

CREATIVE


etly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.

CREATIVE etly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.

COMMUNICATIONS

story of sneaky entries and surprising endings ... and a shepherd boy just COMMUNICATIONS

story of sneaky entries and surprising endings ... and a shepherd boy just about your age.

COMMUNICATIONS

about your age.

2:

COMMUNICATIONS

2: Really?

COMMUNICATIONS

Really?

Really

COMMUNICATIONS

Really. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into

COMMUNICATIONS

. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into Really. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into Really

COMMUNICATIONS

Really. You see, Joshua, many, many years ago a man came sneaking into ReallyBethlehem.

COMMUNICATIONS

Bethlehem.

Why was he sneaking?

COMMUNICATIONS

Why was he sneaking?


COMMUNICATIONS


What was he doing, Uncle Caleb?

COMMUNICATIONS



COMMUNICATIONS


COMMUNICATIONS

king?

COMMUNICATIONS

king?

, Ishmael. Yes, Joshua. The man’s name was Samuel ...

COMMUNICATIONS


es. God had spoken to Samuel ... had told him to come to Bethlehem ...

COMMUNICATIONS es. God had spoken to Samuel ... had told him to come to Bethlehem ...

es, but Samuel didn’t know that yet. Samuel went to the house of a man

COMMUNICATIONS es, but Samuel didn’t know that yet. Samuel went to the house of a man

SAMPLES

He SAMPLES

He was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was SAMPLES

was sneaking so that the king, Saul, would not know what he was doing.SAMPLES

doing.


SAMPLES


He had secr

SAMPLES

He had secretly come to Bethlehem to anoint a new king.

SAMPLES


SAMPLESthere

SAMPLESthere already

SAMPLESalready was

SAMPLESwas

Joshua, let your uncle tell the story

SAMPLESJoshua, let your uncle tell the story


SAMPLES, Ishmael. Yes, Joshua. The man’s name was Samuel ...

es. God had spoken to Samuel ... had told him to come to Bethlehem ...

SAMPLESes. God had spoken to Samuel ... had told him to come to Bethlehem ...

CREATIVE In Bethlehem · O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie! Above thy deep and...

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Transcript of CREATIVE In Bethlehem · O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie! Above thy deep and...