Present the Old Testament

In this drama, the words of the Old Testament reading are included within the dialogue, so you could replace the reading with the drama.

GNN special report

Three actors are required: a studio presenter (Brian), an outside reporter (Geoff), and Daniel. It begins with the presenter sitting behind a desk in the studio, and the reporter standing as if waiting for someone to appear (or something to happen). Daniel is offstage and out of sight.

Presenter: Recent events in the royal court of Babylon have left many people baffled, and wondering what the so-called ‘writing on the wall’ incident means for the rule of co-regent King Belshazzar and his father, King Nabonidus. It has just emerged that further bizarre claims have been made by the royal favourite, Belteshazzar, the self-styled ‘Daniel’, of the migrant Jewish people. We go now to our special correspondent in Babylon, Geoff the Mede. Geoff – amazing scenes in Babylon.

Reporter: Yes, Brian. Word reached us of a further revelation early this morning from the so-called peoples’ prophet, Belteshazzar also known as ‘Daniel the Hebrew’. Initial reports spoke of there being thrones set in place, and of an Ancient One sitting on one of them.

Presenter: Yes, Geoff, and this isn’t the first time we’ve heard of this Ancient One from the Hebrews, is it?

Reporter: That’s right, Brian. He’s regarded as God by the Hebrews. And he was described to me as having clothing as white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool.

Presenter: Are there any other details you can give us, Geoff?

Reporter: Not too much yet, Brian. Just that this Ancient One apparently sat on a fiery throne that had wheels, also of fire. Fire flowed out of his presence, by all accounts, although what that did for the furnishings we were not told.

Presenter: So, Geoff, what does this all mean?

Reporter: It’s not clear yet...wait, wait, here he is. (Daniel enters) Just emerging from behind the royal guard. (calls out to Daniel) Belteshazzar, mate! Belteshazzar, Geoff the Mede, GNN. Can we get a word with you?

Daniel: It’s Daniel these days, Geoff.

Reporter: Of course. So, ‘Daniel’…we’ve heard that the mysterious Ancient One has made another appearance. What exactly is he doing this time?

Daniel: Well, Geoff, he is sat there, with loads of people round him.

Reporter: Any idea how many?

Daniel: Well, some say ten thousand times ten thousand, but I just know it’s a lot. Anyway, he’s got his books open…

Reporter: Books?

Daniel: Yes, Geoff. He keeps records of all the deeds done by everyone, and he judges them.

Reporter: Really?

Daniel: Oh yes. Anyway, just as I thought it was ‘just another courtroom drama’, I saw one like a human being coming with the clouds of heaven, and he was presented to the Ancient One.

Reporter: Well this is a first, isn’t it Daniel? Has there been a presentation to this Ancient One before?

Daniel: No, this guy’s new – special. To him was given dominion and glory and kingship, that all peoples, nations and languages should serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion…

Reporter: Everlasting?

Daniel: Yep, everlasting. And, Geoff, his kingship is one that shall never be destroyed.

Reporter: So, when can we meet him? Is he inside? He sounds very important.

Daniel: Oh, he’s not here yet, Geoff. But he is coming.

Reporter: When?

Daniel: Best guess, towards the end of December. Probably the 25th.

Reporter: Well there you have it, Brian. The Jewish Messiah, this mysterious visitor, is on his way. Now back to you in the studio.

Presenter: Thanks, Geoff. You’re watching GNN, the Good News Network. Good night.