The Ground Beneath Our Feet (2026) Movie Script
1
[peaceful music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Come,
ye weary, heavy laden,
bruised and broken by the fall.
If you tarry till you're better,
you will never come at all.
[theme music]
Mary, please, come
with the family.
MARY: Oh, Mother, none of
the families are my age.
How am I supposed to
have any fun at all?
There are others to
consider besides yourself.
What was that all about?
I prefer we discuss
it in private, Dear.
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Though my
sister was absent that day,
we gathered with
other families, just
as we always had
every Lord's day for
as long as I could remember.
While I didn't know
it at the time,
Mary's rebellion foreshadowed
the end of an era,
not just for my family, but
for the country as well.
The security and innocence of my
childhood was coming to an end.
[peaceful music]
If anyone says I love God but
hates his brother, he is a liar.
For he who does not
love his brother,
whom he has seen, cannot love
God, whom he has not seen.
Whoever loves God must
also love his brother.
Aw, shucks, I gotta go.
Have a good day.
[doorbell]
I'm here to pick up Mary.
I'll tell her you're waiting.
Mary, your boyfriend's here.
Where'd you find that?
In Evelyn's room.
Oh, I know it wasn't--
Hi, Roy.
Let's get out of here, baby.
[peaceful music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Why are
you downcast, oh my soul?
Why are you
disquieted within me?
Oh, Lord, help me to
find my hope in you.
May I take those
books for you, Evelyn?
Why, thank you.
Hi, Freddie.
Good morning, Evelyn.
May we walk with you?
Of course.
Say, did you ever
go on that camping
trip you were talking about?
- We did.
It was swell.
I bet it was.
You didn't have to chase
any bears, did you?
Not this time.
Well, look who we have here.
Aren't you in a hurry?
Let go of me.
What?
You don't like me?
You're kind of cute.
I said let me go!
Let go of her, Roy.
Looks like someone's
cruising for a bruising.
Careful.
Let me accompany you to class.
Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on
Earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day
our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as
we have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the
power, and the glory forever.
Amen.
It's nice of you
to join us, Evelyn.
Sorry I'm late.
As it is your first
tardy, you are excused.
But see that it
doesn't happen again.
It certainly won't.
Thank you, Mrs. Layton.
Howard, please come up
and continue from where
we left off yesterday.
HOWARD: Yes, ma'am.
God who gave us life,
gave us liberty.
Can a nation's
liberties be secure
if we have removed a
conviction that these liberties
are the gift of God?
Indeed, I tremble for my country
when I reflect that God is just.
His justice cannot
sleep forever.
[ominous music]
TEACHER: I'd like these
completed by Monday, class.
But I'm going
skiing this weekend.
TEACHER: Fine, finish
it when you can.
What if I don't feel like it?
TEACHER: I suppose
that's your prerogative.
[bell ringing]
Hey, you OK?
Yeah.
I'm fine.
You don't seem fine.
I'm just tired.
Hey!
What's going on?
[scuffling]
Do you have work today?
Yeah, tomorrow's my day off.
Great, that means you can
audition for the play with us.
No, I'm a horrible actor.
I'd get booed off the stage.
You could be an extra.
Come on, Emma, it'd be so fun.
Please.
I don't know.
That's totally your guys' thing.
Oh, my gosh, look at this.
She's pretty good.
Looks like you have
some competition, Jaida.
Shut up.
Gosh.
I know.
She's been acting really weird.
Yeah, she has.
What's going on?
I have no idea.
When I came up to her--
don't look.
What was that about?
None of your business.
Sorry.
Hey, girls.
Mind if I have a
moment with Aspen?
Not a problem.
What do you want?
Don't lose this.
There's pizza in the freezer.
And if you need anything,
you can always call your dad.
Your dad?
He's still your
husband, you know.
I'll be back on Tuesday.
Have a nice trip.
I'm so excited for your party.
Who are you inviting again?
The better question would
be, who didn't I invite.
[peaceful music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: I
remember with fondness
the time I worked
for Farmer John.
The monotony of the job
provided ample time for prayer,
and my faith began to grow.
It was this faith that would
carry me through the valleys
that lie ahead.
[peaceful music]
Hello, Evelyn, good job today.
It was my pleasure.
Yes, I like having
you working here.
You gave me an
extra dollar, sir.
Oh, better get
my eyes checked.
Did you hear about Mrs. Baxter?
No.
Poor old gal fell and
broke her hip today.
I'm sorry to hear that.
Yeah, yeah.
She'll be back.
She's a tough old bird.
Take those to your
family, will you?
Thank you kindly, but
that won't be necessary.
Oh, it's necessary.
You go and take
those to your family.
Thank you.
Have a good day.
[peaceful music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: I decided
to take the eggs to Mrs. Baxter.
I remembered the Bible verse
about looking after widows
in their distress,
and I was glad to help
her in her time of need.
Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Jones.
Hello, Evelyn.
I like your lollipop.
It reminds me of a snail.
Someone toilet
papered Billy's house.
Come see.
- Really?
Are you sure?
Yeah!
MANAGER: What a thankless job.
It has been one complaint
after another all evening.
Cold pizza, soggy
crust, wilted lettuce.
I mean, would you eat this?
What do I have to do to get
some good employees around here
anyway?
You could start
by paying us more.
What did you say?
I said you could
start by paying us more.
You're fired!
Really?
All right.
Try and find someone
to replace me, then.
I just lost my chef.
You want me to make the pizza?
Can I take--
I asked for pineapple.
I got olives instead.
He hates olives.
Have the waiter take that
off the bill, will you?
Mine too.
There was a hair in my salad.
OK.
You have no idea how badly
I want to quit right now.
You and everyone else.
[dramatic music]
Things never change, do they?
I'm sorry.
Emma.
I wish things could be
different for your sake.
Yeah, well, from
now on, they will be.
Open the door!
Emma!
Emma!
Open this door right now.
Open this door right now, or
I'm going to bust it down.
[dramatic music]
What kind of mother would
put her stupid boyfriend
above her own daughter?
Well, at least
you have a mother.
And you don't?
She dumped me with relatives
when I was just an infant.
I didn't see her again
until I was your age.
Why didn't grandpa
Roy raise you then?
He wanted me in a stable home.
A stable home?
What even is that?
[dramatic music]
I'm just one step away.
[music playing]
Just the type of
loser I deserve.
ASPEN [ON PHONE]: Hello?
Hey.
ASPEN [ON PHONE]: Oh,
are you done with work?
Yeah, I just got off.
Do you mind if I crash
at your place tonight?
ASPEN [ON PHONE]: Really?
Did you get kicked
out or something?
I guess you could say that.
ASPEN [ON PHONE]: Well, the
party's just getting started.
When you get here, you
can make yourself a drink.
I'd rather not.
I'm pretty exhausted.
ASPEN [ON PHONE]: Whatever,
just hole up in my room, then.
OK, thanks, Aspen.
Bye.
Don't eat those.
Why not?
Asher made them.
What are you doing
up here anyway?
I told you to stay in your room.
How much will you pay me?
- Come on, Ethan.
- Fine.
I'll go join the
party then, I guess.
$10.
$20, final offer.
Fine.
Yes.
[upbeat music]
[ominous music]
Oh, my gosh.
Are you sure we're
allowed to be in here?
Emma, this is
the theater room.
I live here.
Hey, Becca.
[phone ringing]
Hello?
NICOLE [ON PHONE]: Emma, I
need you to stay at grandpa
Roy's house for a while.
But that's 45 minutes away.
How am I supposed
to get to school?
NICOLE [ON PHONE]: It's
just until things settle
down a little bit around here.
They want to help you, Emma.
Call me when Brian ODs.
I want my room back.
NICOLE [ON PHONE]: Emma!
I take it that was your mom.
Yeah.
What was that about?
Glad you could make it.
Want some?
Ew, is that a
fruit bar, Aspen?
Really?
- I happen to like them.
OK?
Check out this picture
Allie found in her basement.
Tell me what you see.
A young couple and their baby.
Look at it more closely.
It looks like there's an
apparition behind his shoulder.
It's an old woman
with gray skin.
Who just saw a ghost.
She must have looked
in the mirror then.
Oh, my gosh, you guys stop.
You're, like, totally
freaking me out.
Look, you guys, it's gotta
be photoshopped or something.
What are you
guys talking about?
This photo was
taken 50 years ago.
It can't be photoshopped.
OK, what's your
explanation, then?
Easy.
I talked to my
grandma, and she said
the previous owners
of her house called
up spirits using a Ouija board.
It must have been
captured on the photo.
They had Ouija
boards back then?
Of course.
So let me guess, Miss seeker
of all things paranormal,
you're going to get
yourself a Ouija board now?
I already did.
Oh, gosh.
That's really creepy.
Sweet bid me hold my tongue.
From this rapture.
I shall surely speak the
thing I shall repent.
See your silence,
cunning, and dumbness.
For my weakness draws
my very soul of counsel.
Stop my mouth.
TEACHER: Emma Bryant.
It's your turn.
Hey, you got it.
OK.
An excerpt from Little
Women by Louisa May Alcott.
I'd have a stable full
of Arabian steeds,
and I'd have rooms
piled with books,
and I'd write out
a magic inkstand.
So my work should be as
famous as Laurie's music.
I want to do something
splendid before--
I'm sorry.
I forgot.
HOWARD: That was the first
math test I've ever flunked.
That was no math test, Howard.
I share your sentiments.
What's a math teacher doing
teaching philosophy, anyway?
I've been wondering
that myself.
Oh, did I tell you guys?
The other day, when I was
running down the street,
Darlene looked back
to tell me something.
I don't remember what,
but just a second
later, she rammed
into a mailbox,
flipped over her handlebars.
And would you know it?
She walked away
completely unscathed.
- No kidding?
- Wow.
And whatever became
of the mailbox?
Beats me.
So who's all going to the
county fair this weekend?
I'm going with Mary Catherine.
I'll be there.
James said he had two extra
tickets if anyone wanted them.
I think he was planning to--
Does this look familiar?
Roy, what are you doing
with Evelyn's scarf?
Why don't you ask her?
Evelyn?
I don't care to talk about it.
I don't know what in the
world she sees in him.
He's neither kind
nor respectful.
Nor trustworthy.
If I'm being honest, I
suppose the same question
could be asked of him.
Well, they do say birds
of a feather flock together.
I do worry about her.
Understandably so.
I suppose we should be going.
I don't want my
parents to worry.
Of course not.
Evelyn?
Yes.
Are you going to
the dance on Saturday?
Yes, I am.
I see.
With my parents, that is.
We're going early
to help set up.
Would you like
to be my date then?
I thought you'd never ask.
[peaceful music]
All right.
If you want to continue
using my taxi services,
you're going to have
to start paying for it.
The price of gas just
went through the roof.
Along with everything else.
Speaking of which, my mom
just got an eviction notice
Wait, what?
Yeah, they jacked
her run up so high
she can't afford it anymore.
She's looking for
another job now.
Doesn't she already have two?
Yeah, I don't know
how she'll manage,
but in my opinion,
the more time she's
away from Brian, the better.
Why does she stay
with him anyways?
He's such a creep.
He's quite charming
when he's sober.
I wonder what he'll
think of me after all
that my mom and grandma
Mary put him through.
Hey, what's that?
It's just a photo.
Oh, my gosh, you
look just like your mom
did when she was your age.
And is that your grandpa?
Yeah.
Oh my gosh!
Jaida, that was a red light!
[LAUGHING] I'm sorry.
I'm sorry.
Are you sure about this?
I
Can't keep sleeping on
Aspen's couch forever, so.
Well, good luck.
Wow, thanks.
[upbeat music]
I don't get it.
It's our turn next.
All right.
[upbeat music]
Aside from the
butterflies in my stomach,
all I could remember
of our first dance
was how awkward I felt.
It turns out Walter was
even more nervous than I was.
Let's blow this joint.
[peaceful music]
If it weren't for your
little fit of jealousy,
this never would have happened.
I feel sick to my stomach.
How do you think I feel?
Take a look at my car.
It would help if I
could see straight.
I think I have a concussion.
Thank God you're OK.
Don't you dare say
a word to mom and dad.
You hear me?
Roy, have you-- have
you been drinking?
So I had a few brewskis.
What's that to you?
Honestly, Roy, I don't even
care to waste my breath on you.
I suppose we should just be
happy you two are still alive.
Evelyn, take your
sister to the truck.
Roy and I will call for a tow.
Don't look at me like that!
Like what, Mary?
I have a new name for
you, Miss Holier Than Thou.
It's very fitting,
don't you think?
Honestly, Mary, you're
getting on my last nerve.
[somber music]
What is thy only
comfort in life and death?
That I with body and
soul, both in life
and in death, am not
my own, but belonging
to my faithful Savior--
Golly gee, Mary!
What has gotten into you?
- who with his precious
blood hath fully satisfied
for all my sins, and
delivered me from
all the power of the devil.
MARY: Ouch.
DOROTHY: Did you cut yourself?
MARY: It's nothing.
And so it preserves
me that without the will
of my Heavenly Father not a
hair can fall from my head.
He to all things
must be subservient--
Really, Freddy?
Must you recite
that at the table?
- Why not?
- Because it's annoying.
That's why.
Your brother is proud of
his accomplishments, Mary.
And we ought to
support him in that.
Let me see your finger.
Say, are you going to put
some of that leftover pineapple
cake in our lunch today?
I already did.
Well, that's just swell.
May I be dismissed?
Yes, you may.
Take your banana.
Mary, do you have
something you'd like
to say to your mother and I?
Thanks for breakfast.
Honey, that's not what
your father had in mind.
I'll just get right to it.
We know about the
accident, Mary.
I didn't say a word.
Oh, and I'm supposed
to believe that?
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: For nothing
is secret that shall not
be made manifest.
Neither anything hid that shall
not be known and come abroad,
Luke 8:17.
[doorbell]
Good afternoon, Evelyn.
I made a little
extra stroganoff.
I thought your family
would enjoy it.
Why, thank you.
DOROTHY: How can you she
treat Evelyn that way.
Whatever has she done to
deserve such treatment?
WILLIAM: You're
right, Dear, there's
simply no excuse for that.
And what of this
boyfriend of hers, anyway?
Is everything OK?
WILLIAM: You can say that again.
Just fine, thank you.
WILLIAM: I don't know how
much more of this I can take!
Tell your mother hello for me.
I certainly will.
[somber music]
Where did we go wrong, William?
Are we to blame for
her aberrant behavior?
You can lead a horse to water.
You can't make it
drink, Dorothy.
And that is just
what I fear, that we
led her to an empty trough.
What are you talking about?
DOROTHY: We may have
modeled right behavior,
but did we not abdicate
our duty to instruct her?
WILLIAM: But is that not the
responsibility of her teachers?
All I know is something
has gone desperately wrong.
I couldn't agree more.
And as her father, I will
get to the bottom of this.
[somber music]
Some punk just smashed into
the vending machines again.
I have some chips
if you want them.
I'm good.
I'll take those.
OK.
Have you started your essay yet?
Are you kidding?
It's the stupidest topic ever.
I know, right?
It's honestly such
a waste of time.
And that coming
from the likes of you.
Hey.
Just saying.
And what does Religion
in American Life
have to do with
kitchen appliances?
It's not for school.
The essay's due tomorrow.
I'll get to it later.
I'm going to get some lunch.
Who's coming?
I'll go.
Found it.
Found what?
Are ghosts real?
If by that question,
one is referring
to the disembodied spirit
of a deceased person,
then the answer is no.
Still thinking about that
creepy photo, I take it.
Yeah, but there's more.
Demons can impersonate
deceased people as they
go about the Devil's work.
So she's calling up demons?
According to this.
You don't think she's
possessed, do you?
How should I know?
[eerie music]
[strong gusts]
[thunder]
Grandpa!
Aunt Evelyn's journal?
Come and get it!
My diary!
[frantic music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Walter
and I chased Roy and Mary
all over the county that
day, but eventually,
they gave us the slip.
I never saw that diary again.
You're forgetting something.
You take it.
You don't want it?
If I kept it, Evelyn would
rummage through all my things
until she found it.
What am I supposed
to do with it?
Just stick it in your
closet or something!
You don't want to read it?
Of course not.
[music playing]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: And
be ye kind to one another,
tenderhearted, forgiving
one another, even as God,
for Christ's sake,
hath forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:32.
[peaceful music]
MAN [ON COMPUTER]:
Leading scientists
now believe that
the Earth entered
into a wet period following
this interval that lasted
upwards of 2 million years.
This period, which
geologists refer to as the--
And God blessed them.
And God said to them, be
fruitful and multiply,
and fill the Earth, and
subdue it, and have dominion
over the fish of the sea, and
over the birds of the heavens,
and over every living creature
that moved on the Earth.
And God saw all
that he had made,
and behold, it was very good.
And there was evening, and there
was morning, the sixth day.
And there was evening
and there was morning.
You know, that's said six times.
MAN [ON COMPUTER]:--cousins
to everything from algae
to arachnids.
More specifically, humans
are a distinct species
within the hominid family,
namely the great apes.
Through the
aforementioned process,
this common ancestor gave rise--
EMMA [VOICEOVER]: Evelyn
seems to have all the answers.
I wonder what she would think.
EVELYN: Are you
busy this evening?
WALTER: No, I'm not.
I don't suppose you
could tutor Freddie, then?
I'd be glad to.
Which subject?
It's his catechisms.
There's just so
much memorization.
And, you know, Freddy, he'd
rather be catching tadpoles.
Who's to blame him?
Tell him to expect
me around 7:00.
Thank you.
Sure, it says that.
But is that really
what it means?
Yes, but--
The question you
ought to be asking
is, what does it mean to you.
You have a lot to
learn, don't you?
I dare say I do.
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Beware,
lest any man spoil you
through philosophy
and vain deceit,
after the tradition of
men, after the rudiments
of the world, and
not after Christ.
Colossians 2:8.
Evening, Catherine.
Hello, William.
I haven't seen Mary for a while.
Has she been ill?
We would welcome that.
What's going on?
Mary's cast off
the faith, Catherine.
Oh, surely that can't be.
I'm so sorry.
Here's the cabbage
you asked for.
Thanks.
Is everything
all right, Father?
Ahem, Evelyn, what do you
know about your math teacher?
Mr. Buford?
Well, he doesn't
really teach math.
What does he teach, then?
He has an interesting set
of opinions, to be sure,
ones he readily shares.
Do you know his worldview?
He's an atheist, if
that's what you mean.
I'm going to grab a couple
of ears of corn for supper.
Tell your mother I'll
be home in a jiffy.
[peaceful music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: For the
time will come when they
will not endure sound doctrine.
But after their own lusts
shall they heap to themselves
teachers, having itching ears.
And they shall turn away
their ears from the truth,
and shall be turned unto fables.
2 Timothy 4:3 and 4.
Father, thank you so much for
your kindness and your grace
to us.
Thank you for the
sending of your son
and the shedding of
his blood for us,
so that we can have a right
relationship with you.
Father, I want to lift up Lisa
and just ask that you would heal
her body and that you would
help her husband as he's
at home with her infant.
We pray all these things in
your son's precious name.
Amen.
Well, as we begin the message
this morning, why don't you
take your Bibles and open
to the book of Romans.
Romans chapter 1 is
where we will be.
I'll begin reading in verse 18.
It says, "for the wrath of
God is revealed from heaven
against all ungodliness
and unrighteousness of men,
who by their unrighteousness
suppress the truth.
For what can be known
about God is plain to them,
because God has
shown it to them.
For his invisible attributes,
namely his eternal power
and divine nature, have
been clearly perceived ever
since the creation of
the world in the things
that have been made.
So they are without excuse."
So what's it like
living with your grandpa?
It's been very eye
opening, I guess.
How so?
Well, I overheard their
Bible study the other day.
And?
And I swear I felt like my
head was going to explode,
Aspen.
You know how we're taught
that we're glorified apes?
Well, the Bible tells us that
we're created in God's image.
So both of those can't
be true at the same time.
Yeah, but Ms. Miller
says that Genesis
is just a book of poetry.
So--
Maybe that's because
that's what she was taught.
I actually did my own research,
and it's a historical narrative.
Really?
Yeah.
I found a Bible the
other day, and I started
randomly flipping through it.
It's like everything
in it contradicts
everything we're being taught.
Give me one example.
You know how we're taught that
we should follow our hearts?
Yeah.
Well, the Bible tells us that
the heart is desperately wicked.
I'm just wondering if--
what if the Bible is true,
and we're rejecting
everything in it?
Like here.
Read this.
Woe unto them that
call evil good and good
evil, that put darkness for
light and light for darkness.
Woe unto them?
What's that supposed to mean?
Yeah, I don't know.
That's the part that gets me.
[peaceful music]
Well, good morning.
Good morning.
You look like you didn't
sleep a wink last night.
I'm all right.
Could I get you
some more coffee?
No, I'm good.
Thank you.
I was thinking I
could make some cookies
for your Bible study.
Well, that would be
just delightful, Dear.
Thank you.
[doorbell]
HELEN: I'm sorry I'm early.
I just had to talk to you
in private, if that's OK.
GRANDMOTHER: Well, do come in.
It's my granddaughter, Allie.
They placed her into a
psych ward, of all things.
They've tried all sorts of
meds on her, but none of them
seem to be working.
Helen, you said yourself that
she's steeped in the occult.
You can't fix a spiritual
problem with pharmaceuticals.
I think it's all my fault.
You're going to get
yourself a Ouija board now?
I already did.
GRANDMOTHER: Surely,
that can't be.
Certainly it
wasn't my intention.
You see, when she
was a little girl,
I bought a book set for her.
It was in the fantasy genre.
I thought it was
harmless enough.
But before I knew it, she
was dabbling in witchcraft.
And what I thought
was a passing fancy
has morphed into an obsession,
one that is destroying her.
GRANDMOTHER: She can't play with
fire without getting burned.
HELEN: What have I done wrong?
GRANDMOTHER: Helen, it's
the enemy of her soul
who is to blame.
Let's commit Allie to the Lord.
He can save her yet.
[somber music]
Hey.
Hey.
Here's some gas money.
Oh, my gosh, can
you afford this?
I would give you
more if I could.
What has gotten
into you lately?
What do you mean?
Well, I just mean,
like, you haven't
been acting like yourself.
Gosh, Jaida, was
I really that bad?
[SINGING] Darling,
I am longing for you
So take me
And our love will be true
My heart aches when
I'm thinking of you
So take me
Or my world will be blue
You saved me
Yes, you carried me through
So take me
And I'll never leave you
[peaceful music]
Hey, why aren't
you getting ready?
You think it's too
late to drop out?
Of the play, Em?
You're not serious.
I'm dead serious.
It just makes such
a mockery of God.
I don't feel right
about it anymore.
I mean, honestly,
I don't either.
But imagine how angry
Mrs. Howard would be.
I think I'd rather feel
her wrath over God's.
[horn honking]
Jaida's here.
We'd better get going.
[dramatic music]
[SINGING] No, oh, no,
don't tell me what to do
Yeah, you don't
tell me how to think
And live and breathe
No one but you
Thank God that God
cannot tell me what to do
Oh, no, don't tell me what to do
Yeah, you don't
tell me how to think
And live and breathe
No one but you
Thank God that God
cannot tell me what to do
[applause]
When I'm on Broadway
dating famous people
and you guys are just moms--
But it's like if he keeps
disappearing like that--
[all talking excitedly]
It's going to be a great life.
No, I am.
I'm going to be on Broadway.
I believe it.
[somber music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Of how much
worse punishment do you suppose
will he be thought
worthy who has trampled
the Son of God underfoot?
I'm going to head out.
I'll see you guys later.
See you later.
[chatter]
[somber music]
Mary, dinner's ready!
Mary?
Mary?
Mother, she's not answering!
Mary.
[somber music]
Mary is an adult now.
Dorothy, like it or not, she
has to make her own decisions.
And she couldn't
even say goodbye?
I know.
I know it's difficult. But
the Lord will see us through.
We've got to trust him.
She left without any warning.
I just don't
understand it, Walter.
She's usually so predictable.
If only I had known, perhaps
I could have stopped her.
Walter, I fear
it's all my fault.
Had I been more patient
with her, more loving,
surely she'd still be with us.
And my dear mother's
heart wouldn't be broken.
Evelyn, you mustn't
blame yourself.
It was a series of bad
choices on her part,
and she's to bear
the responsibility.
Perhaps you're right.
Nevertheless, my
conscience convicts me.
Don't let it, Dear.
Your sins have been cast
as far as the East is--
The East is from the West.
Walter, what would
I do without you?
[peaceful music]
Emma, what are you doing here?
It's so good to see you, honey.
I've missed you.
Well, if that's the case,
then can I move back in?
Emma, it wouldn't be safe.
Has my father
asked you to leave?
What?
No, of course not.
He'd never do that.
I just don't feel like
I belong there anymore
or anywhere, for that matter.
Give me a minute.
Hey, Emma, you actually
weren't horrible last night.
I didn't think
you had it in you.
You were there?
Yeah, I was front
row, dead center.
Wouldn't have missed it.
And because I came
to your little play,
I was wondering if you'd want
to come to my game Friday night.
I'd really like
to, but I just--
See you there.
OK.
Who was that?
Just someone from school.
Split shot, caramel macchiato.
Look, Emma, I know you don't
have much respect for me.
And it's for good reason.
But I need you to hear
me out on something.
When I was your age,
I had an opportunity
to make something of myself.
I didn't do it.
My life is a wreck, Emma.
Whatever you do, please,
don't follow in my footsteps.
I think you ought to at
least consider it, Nicole.
It's not often that an
opportunity like this
comes around.
And besides, we'd
all like to see
you in a healthier environment.
Well, what's wrong with Vegas?
Are you forgetting
that I live there?
But, Dad, you know I've
always wanted to be a dancer.
And if I stay in Vegas, I'll
be a showgirl in no time.
Imagine all the
money I could make.
Trust me, Nicole, money
can't buy you happiness.
If you saw mother's
penthouse, you would
change your mind in an instant.
Three failed marriages
and a battle with addiction
is no recipe for happiness.
Look, I can promise
you one thing.
Your mother would
give all the glitz
and glamour up in a heartbeat
for some real meaning
and purpose in her life.
I'm not so sure about that.
[phone vibrating]
BECCA [ON PHONE]: Hey, Em,
I'm headed to Devin's house.
You want to come with
Sounds like fun,
but did you forget?
It's Sunday.
I get go to church
with my grandparents.
BECCA [ON PHONE]: Don't tell
me I just drove 45 minutes out
of my way for nothing.
Look out your window.
Well, gee, would have
been nice to know sooner.
BECCA [ON PHONE]: You in or out?
OK, just give me
a minute, will you?
BECCA [ON PHONE]:
That's my girl.
[somber music]
Is this Devin's house?
No, it's Aiden's.
Aiden?
As in Aiden O'Conner?
No, Devin's other
best friend, Aiden.
Come on.
He's expecting you.
Let's take some time to
smooth out a few things.
Yeah.
Speaking of things that
need to be smoothed out,
Jacob cannot catch.
No, Should not be
starting, at all.
Hey, where's Aspen?
She's at church.
She's at church?
I like your earrings.
Where'd you get 'em?
I don't remember.
Well, when are you
coming to school, anyways?
I'm not sure yet.
Well, I've been
missing you, you know?
- You have?
- Yeah.
Come here.
I want to show you something.
So what'd they do
then, call the police?
- No, they called my mom.
- Go!
Fight!
That's even worse.
Go!
Fight!
What?
That's even worse!
I know, right?
She must've, like,
totally freaked out.
Yep.
Well, at least she cares.
- Go, fight!
- That's what I was thinking.
Red, black, and white!
[cheering]
COMMENTATOR [ON LOUDSPEAKER]:
Call on field is
pass interference, number 14.
That's not pass interference!
Take his whistle!
Take his whistle!
Take his whistle!
Take his whistle!
Did you see it?
What are you doing up here?
You missed it, didn't you?
I just sent this
kid to the hospital.
They said he's got a
dislocated shoulder.
Wow, sounds like you're
destined for greatness.
Come on.
I just put six more
points on the board.
Guys, we're up by 17 now.
[cheering]
Cool.
We could really use
a mascot down there.
You'd be able to see me better.
Come on.
- I don't know about that.
OK.
[knocking]
Hey, babe.
So, are we going?
Hmm?
So why did it take
you so long anyway?
What, to ask you out?
Yeah.
That's because you're
impossible to read.
Geez, sorry.
So what are your plans
after you graduate?
I'm not sure yet.
What about you?
Get rich quick.
And how do you expect to
do that, by robbing a bank?
Why should that matter?
Because Aiden, that's
breaking the law.
Well, I'm sorry,
Miss Goody Two Shoes,
but what's wrong for one person
is perfectly fine for another.
So what, if it
feels good, do it?
Works for me.
Have I told you how
beautiful you look today?
Aiden, this is a nightclub.
They're going to card us.
I'm taking care of it.
Trust me.
[dramatic music]
You're pushing the
envelope this time, buddy.
[dance music]
There's a coat
rack over there.
You've been here before?
Are you kidding me?
This is my second home.
[dance music]
NICOLE [VOICEOVER]:
Whatever you do, please,
don't follow in my footsteps.
Go ahead.
Try it.
I'm gluten free.
All the better for me.
Wow, this is good.
They look the same.
That's cause it is.
You want to dance?
[dance music]
Hi, Jaida.
Do you think you
could come pick us up?
Aiden's too wasted to drive.
JAIDA [ON PHONE]: Where are you?
The Four States.
Just please come
pick us up, Jaida.
I promise I'll
make it up to you.
No way am I getting out of bed.
Call Aspen.
[music playing]
You have no idea how
much this means to me.
That's what friends are for.
Yeah, but Aspen, it's 1:00 AM.
And no offense or anything, but
it's just not like you to-- you
know.
Put myself out?
That's not what
I was suggesting.
I know.
You're right, though.
The old me never would
have bothered to come.
The old you?
Really, Emma, what do
you see in him anyway?
He reminds me of your step dad.
Don't-- don't say that.
AIDEN: Stop the car!
I'm going to throw up.
We're not moving.
AIDEN: Speak for yourself.
Trust me, Emma, you
can do better than this.
[police siren]
Roy!
I'm really sorry, Officer.
My speedometer is broken.
Excuse me?
Yeah, it's just--
You're parked illegally, sir.
Oh.
Look, if you'd
just been honest
and not lied about
your speedometer,
I might have given
you a warning.
License and registration.
Great.
Thank you.
Here are these for you, sir.
And let this be a lesson
for you, young man.
Have a good day.
I told you we couldn't park
here, but you wouldn't listen,
would you?
Mr. Buford was right
about that, too.
About what, Mary?
Oh, nothing.
Nothing at all.
How much did we make
last night anyways?
After the ticket, you mean?
$1.76.
Well, at least we can
get the speedometer fixed.
Aren't you funny?
I've just been dying
to go to the theater.
Well, we could go to
a matinee or something.
Why, isn't that
chivalrous of you?
I thought you said all
men were chauvinists.
I suppose there's
always the exception.
[somber music]
[phone ringing]
Hello?
Mary, is that you?
I'm sorry, Dear.
The connection's poor.
Did you say Las Vegas?
What?
Hello?
I sure did.
And I have news for you, Mother.
Roy and I have tied the knot.
Isn't it grand?
Mother?
Are you there?
Think anyone heard
my stomach growling?
One of these days, we'll
be on that stage, Roy.
Fancy that.
What makes you so sure?
Why, Roy, I can do
anything I set my mind to.
Would that happen
to include cooking?
I think I'll be sick if I have
to eat one more TV dinner.
How insulting.
Mary, what did I say?
[SINGING] Darling,
I am longing for you
So take me
And our love will be true
My heart aches when
I'm thinking of you
So take me or my
world will be blue
You saved me
Yes, you carried me through
So take me
And I'll never leave you
[applause]
Have you ever thought about
growing out your sideburns?
My sideburns?
Look, all I can think
about right now is dinner.
I'm starving.
You need money
to eat, you know?
Right, which is why we need to
save what little we have instead
of blowing it on the theater.
How dare you.
This is going well.
It sure is, isn't it?
PREACHER [ON COMPUTER]:
But understand
this, that in the last
days, there will come times
of difficulty.
For people will be lovers
of self, lovers of money,
proud, arrogant, abusive,
disobedient to their parents,
ungrateful, unholy,
heartless, unappeasable,
slanderous, without
self-control, brutal,
not loving good, treacherous,
reckless, swollen with conceit,
lovers of pleasure rather
than lovers of God,
having the appearance of
godliness but denying its power.
Avoid such people.
[dramatic music]
[phone ringing]
NICOLE [ON PHONE]: Emma,
where have you been.
EMMA [ON PHONE]: At
home with a migraine.
NICOLE [ON PHONE]:
I'm coming in.
Honey, I have to
tell you something.
OK.
I don't know how to say this.
What?
What?
You're really freaking me out.
There's been a
shooting at your school.
What?
Was anyone hurt?
Yes.
I have to text Aspen.
I have to call her.
No, honey.
Aspen was at school.
OK, I need to make sure--
Aspen is dead.
[sobs] What?
Come here.
[somber music]
[crying] She--
she was my best friend.
[somber music]
When did it happen?
At lunch, in the cafeteria.
Where were you?
In the theater.
I-- I had left my
inhaler in the theater.
I was sitting next to Aspen.
Um, I realized that it was
gone, that I didn't have it.
And--
- the second, after I
left, um, he killed her.
It should have been me.
Don't say that.
I'm just glad you're OK.
I'm not though.
I keep having these flashbacks
where my heart starts
pounding out of my chest.
And I can't breathe.
And then I hear the baby cry.
The baby cry?
Did no one tell you?
Tell me what?
They saved the baby.
Whose baby?
Aspen's baby.
I didn't know
she was pregnant.
Neither did I.
[peaceful music]
Mary!
Evelyn, I'm sure I'm
the last person you'd
hope to see at your doorstep.
Don't be silly.
Come in.
Can I make you
some iced tea or--
It's fine.
Thanks.
Why, this beautiful child
wouldn't happen to be my niece,
now, would she?
And more than
that, if you'd like.
What?
Evelyn, I'm not going
to beat around the bush.
Roy's left me for another woman.
I can't possibly take care
of this child on my own.
Surely, you're not serious.
Indeed, I am.
Will you take her or not?
You don't care to see her become
a ward of the state, do you?
Lord, have mercy on her soul.
Walter, dear, are you
ready to be a father?
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]:
But I say unto you
which hear, love your enemies,
do good to them which hate you,
bless them that curse you.
And pray for them, which
despitefully use you.
Luke 6:27 and 28.
Hello, Evelyn.
What are you doing here?
I suppose you're
here to see Nicole.
I'm not worthy of her.
I actually came to see you.
Is that so?
Look, I just need
to talk if that's OK.
She's been sleeping in lately,
so I suppose that I could--
I'll hurry.
I promise.
Why did you leave her, Roy?
She left me.
Not according to Mary.
She said it was another woman.
I'd never do that.
Somehow, I find
that hard to believe.
Look, think the worst of me.
I deserve it, but it's
the truth, Evelyn.
[baby crying]
Look, when I laid my
eyes on that baby,
something changed in me.
I even went to church
for the first time.
Boy, did that ever
rattle Mary's cage.
She swore she'd
never let me go back.
And then what happened?
Gave her a piece of my mind.
I imagine that went over well.
Well, that's when
she went packing.
I'm really sorry, Roy.
Look, just tell me this
one thing, and I'll--
I'll beat feet.
I know I've done a lot
of bad things in my life,
but is there any hope
for the likes of me
and getting right with God?
Well, you certainly
can't save yourself.
It's Christ's work on
the cross that saves us.
All you have to do is believe.
So I can just keep on
living my life, then?
Not so fast.
The Bible also says that
faith without works is dead.
But you just said our
works don't save us.
Because they don't.
It's by grace that we've
been saved through faith.
But once we're saved,
Christ doesn't just
leave us in our sins.
He begins to change us.
Here, maybe this will help.
Today is a day
of mourning where
we gather to say goodbye
to a beloved daughter,
sister, friend, and mother.
We honor a life that's so
young, so full of promise,
yet tragically taken from us
by a senseless act of violence.
But today is also
a day of rejoicing
because Aspen is
more fully alive now
than she ever was in this life.
You see, Aspen is with Jesus,
and for those in Christ,
to be absent from the body is
to be present with the Lord.
Aspen would want
everyone standing
here to have the
same hope that she
found when she came to Christ.
No one is guaranteed tomorrow.
If you die today,
would you find yourself
like Aspen in the
presence of God,
or eternally separated from him?
To come to Christ, simply
admit that you are a sinner.
Believe that Jesus
died for your sins.
Call upon his name.
Friends, the hour is late.
Seek him while he
can still be found.
There's still one
thing I can't understand.
If God is good, why is there
so much suffering in the world?
Well, the Bible makes
clear that suffering
is a result of sin.
As to the nature
of that suffering,
there are going to be
things in this life
that we simply do not understand
because well, God is God,
and we're not.
But for those who put
their trust in him,
he promises that all things
will work together for good,
even our greatest adversities.
But how can I trust
someone I can't understand?
You get to know him, Roy.
To know him is to trust him.
How do I do that?
He's already revealed
himself to us in his word.
[baby cooing]
You don't suppose I
could see her, do you?
Follow me.
[peaceful music]
Ms. Bryant, Emma,
it's so nice to see you.
Good to see you.
May I have a word?
Of course.
I can only imagine that
you have some questions.
Yeah.
Please ask any
question that you have.
I was just wondering,
was there school shootings
when you were a kid?
Not nearly as many
as they are today.
What changed then?
That is a really
good question.
It's also a tough question.
There was a time in our nation
where children were taught
to honor their parents and
respect authority, recognize
they were a part of something
bigger than themselves,
but most importantly,
to revere the Lord.
And as a result, our
nation was blessed.
And then what happened?
Another great question.
Slowly but surely, God
was removed from schools.
He was removed from
our public square.
Even in churches today,
it's hard to even hear
him talked about in the pulpit.
And anytime God's removed
out of his rightful place,
we can't as a nation
expect his favor to remain.
So there's no hope for us?
Oh, I actually have a
question for you, Emma.
What did Aspen name her baby?
She named her Hope.
And why did she name her Hope?
She told me that she
found hope in Christ.
I want you to know that
same hope is available to you.
But what if I'm
not a good person?
Shouldn't I be the one
asking that question?
Here's the hope I want
you both to understand,
that the Bible says while
we were still yet sinners,
Christ died for us.
The Bible also says that
if we confess our sins,
he is faithful.
He is just to forgive us of
all of our unrighteousness.
Will you pray with us?
It will be my pleasure.
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]:
My hope is built
on nothing less than Jesus'
blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust
the sweetest frame,
but wholly lean on Jesus' name.
On Christ, the
solid rock, I stand.
All other ground
is sinking sand.
[SIDEWALK PROPHETS, "COME TO THE
TABLE"]
[SINGING] We all
start on the outside
The outside looking in
This is where grace begins
We were hungry
We were thirsty
With nothing left to give
Oh, the shape that we were in
And just when all
hope seemed lost
Love opened the door for us
He said come to the table
Come join the sinners
Who have been redeemed
Take your place
beside the Savior
Sit down and be set free
Come to the table
Come meet this motley
crew of misfits
These liars and these thieves
There's no one unwelcome here
And that sin and shame
that you brought with you
You can leave it at the door
And let mercy draw you near
So come to the table
Come join the sinners
Who have been redeemed
Take your place
beside the Savior
Sit down and be set free
Come to the table
Come to the table
To the thief and to the doubter
To the hero and the coward
To the prisoner and the soldier
To the young and to the older
All who hunger, all who thirst
All the last and all the first
All the paupers and the princes
All who failed and been forgiven
All who dream and all who suffer
All who've loved
and lost another
All the chained and all the free
All who follow
All who lead
Anyone who's been let down
All the lost who have been found
All who've been
labeled right or wrong
To every one who hears this song
Come to the table
Come join the sinners
You have been redeemed
Take your place
beside the savior
Sit down and be set free
Oh, sit down and be set free
Come to the table
Come to the table
Sit down and be set free
Come to the table
[peaceful music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Come,
ye weary, heavy laden,
bruised and broken by the fall.
If you tarry till you're better,
you will never come at all.
[theme music]
Mary, please, come
with the family.
MARY: Oh, Mother, none of
the families are my age.
How am I supposed to
have any fun at all?
There are others to
consider besides yourself.
What was that all about?
I prefer we discuss
it in private, Dear.
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Though my
sister was absent that day,
we gathered with
other families, just
as we always had
every Lord's day for
as long as I could remember.
While I didn't know
it at the time,
Mary's rebellion foreshadowed
the end of an era,
not just for my family, but
for the country as well.
The security and innocence of my
childhood was coming to an end.
[peaceful music]
If anyone says I love God but
hates his brother, he is a liar.
For he who does not
love his brother,
whom he has seen, cannot love
God, whom he has not seen.
Whoever loves God must
also love his brother.
Aw, shucks, I gotta go.
Have a good day.
[doorbell]
I'm here to pick up Mary.
I'll tell her you're waiting.
Mary, your boyfriend's here.
Where'd you find that?
In Evelyn's room.
Oh, I know it wasn't--
Hi, Roy.
Let's get out of here, baby.
[peaceful music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Why are
you downcast, oh my soul?
Why are you
disquieted within me?
Oh, Lord, help me to
find my hope in you.
May I take those
books for you, Evelyn?
Why, thank you.
Hi, Freddie.
Good morning, Evelyn.
May we walk with you?
Of course.
Say, did you ever
go on that camping
trip you were talking about?
- We did.
It was swell.
I bet it was.
You didn't have to chase
any bears, did you?
Not this time.
Well, look who we have here.
Aren't you in a hurry?
Let go of me.
What?
You don't like me?
You're kind of cute.
I said let me go!
Let go of her, Roy.
Looks like someone's
cruising for a bruising.
Careful.
Let me accompany you to class.
Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on
Earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day
our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts, as
we have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, the
power, and the glory forever.
Amen.
It's nice of you
to join us, Evelyn.
Sorry I'm late.
As it is your first
tardy, you are excused.
But see that it
doesn't happen again.
It certainly won't.
Thank you, Mrs. Layton.
Howard, please come up
and continue from where
we left off yesterday.
HOWARD: Yes, ma'am.
God who gave us life,
gave us liberty.
Can a nation's
liberties be secure
if we have removed a
conviction that these liberties
are the gift of God?
Indeed, I tremble for my country
when I reflect that God is just.
His justice cannot
sleep forever.
[ominous music]
TEACHER: I'd like these
completed by Monday, class.
But I'm going
skiing this weekend.
TEACHER: Fine, finish
it when you can.
What if I don't feel like it?
TEACHER: I suppose
that's your prerogative.
[bell ringing]
Hey, you OK?
Yeah.
I'm fine.
You don't seem fine.
I'm just tired.
Hey!
What's going on?
[scuffling]
Do you have work today?
Yeah, tomorrow's my day off.
Great, that means you can
audition for the play with us.
No, I'm a horrible actor.
I'd get booed off the stage.
You could be an extra.
Come on, Emma, it'd be so fun.
Please.
I don't know.
That's totally your guys' thing.
Oh, my gosh, look at this.
She's pretty good.
Looks like you have
some competition, Jaida.
Shut up.
Gosh.
I know.
She's been acting really weird.
Yeah, she has.
What's going on?
I have no idea.
When I came up to her--
don't look.
What was that about?
None of your business.
Sorry.
Hey, girls.
Mind if I have a
moment with Aspen?
Not a problem.
What do you want?
Don't lose this.
There's pizza in the freezer.
And if you need anything,
you can always call your dad.
Your dad?
He's still your
husband, you know.
I'll be back on Tuesday.
Have a nice trip.
I'm so excited for your party.
Who are you inviting again?
The better question would
be, who didn't I invite.
[peaceful music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: I
remember with fondness
the time I worked
for Farmer John.
The monotony of the job
provided ample time for prayer,
and my faith began to grow.
It was this faith that would
carry me through the valleys
that lie ahead.
[peaceful music]
Hello, Evelyn, good job today.
It was my pleasure.
Yes, I like having
you working here.
You gave me an
extra dollar, sir.
Oh, better get
my eyes checked.
Did you hear about Mrs. Baxter?
No.
Poor old gal fell and
broke her hip today.
I'm sorry to hear that.
Yeah, yeah.
She'll be back.
She's a tough old bird.
Take those to your
family, will you?
Thank you kindly, but
that won't be necessary.
Oh, it's necessary.
You go and take
those to your family.
Thank you.
Have a good day.
[peaceful music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: I decided
to take the eggs to Mrs. Baxter.
I remembered the Bible verse
about looking after widows
in their distress,
and I was glad to help
her in her time of need.
Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Jones.
Hello, Evelyn.
I like your lollipop.
It reminds me of a snail.
Someone toilet
papered Billy's house.
Come see.
- Really?
Are you sure?
Yeah!
MANAGER: What a thankless job.
It has been one complaint
after another all evening.
Cold pizza, soggy
crust, wilted lettuce.
I mean, would you eat this?
What do I have to do to get
some good employees around here
anyway?
You could start
by paying us more.
What did you say?
I said you could
start by paying us more.
You're fired!
Really?
All right.
Try and find someone
to replace me, then.
I just lost my chef.
You want me to make the pizza?
Can I take--
I asked for pineapple.
I got olives instead.
He hates olives.
Have the waiter take that
off the bill, will you?
Mine too.
There was a hair in my salad.
OK.
You have no idea how badly
I want to quit right now.
You and everyone else.
[dramatic music]
Things never change, do they?
I'm sorry.
Emma.
I wish things could be
different for your sake.
Yeah, well, from
now on, they will be.
Open the door!
Emma!
Emma!
Open this door right now.
Open this door right now, or
I'm going to bust it down.
[dramatic music]
What kind of mother would
put her stupid boyfriend
above her own daughter?
Well, at least
you have a mother.
And you don't?
She dumped me with relatives
when I was just an infant.
I didn't see her again
until I was your age.
Why didn't grandpa
Roy raise you then?
He wanted me in a stable home.
A stable home?
What even is that?
[dramatic music]
I'm just one step away.
[music playing]
Just the type of
loser I deserve.
ASPEN [ON PHONE]: Hello?
Hey.
ASPEN [ON PHONE]: Oh,
are you done with work?
Yeah, I just got off.
Do you mind if I crash
at your place tonight?
ASPEN [ON PHONE]: Really?
Did you get kicked
out or something?
I guess you could say that.
ASPEN [ON PHONE]: Well, the
party's just getting started.
When you get here, you
can make yourself a drink.
I'd rather not.
I'm pretty exhausted.
ASPEN [ON PHONE]: Whatever,
just hole up in my room, then.
OK, thanks, Aspen.
Bye.
Don't eat those.
Why not?
Asher made them.
What are you doing
up here anyway?
I told you to stay in your room.
How much will you pay me?
- Come on, Ethan.
- Fine.
I'll go join the
party then, I guess.
$10.
$20, final offer.
Fine.
Yes.
[upbeat music]
[ominous music]
Oh, my gosh.
Are you sure we're
allowed to be in here?
Emma, this is
the theater room.
I live here.
Hey, Becca.
[phone ringing]
Hello?
NICOLE [ON PHONE]: Emma, I
need you to stay at grandpa
Roy's house for a while.
But that's 45 minutes away.
How am I supposed
to get to school?
NICOLE [ON PHONE]: It's
just until things settle
down a little bit around here.
They want to help you, Emma.
Call me when Brian ODs.
I want my room back.
NICOLE [ON PHONE]: Emma!
I take it that was your mom.
Yeah.
What was that about?
Glad you could make it.
Want some?
Ew, is that a
fruit bar, Aspen?
Really?
- I happen to like them.
OK?
Check out this picture
Allie found in her basement.
Tell me what you see.
A young couple and their baby.
Look at it more closely.
It looks like there's an
apparition behind his shoulder.
It's an old woman
with gray skin.
Who just saw a ghost.
She must have looked
in the mirror then.
Oh, my gosh, you guys stop.
You're, like, totally
freaking me out.
Look, you guys, it's gotta
be photoshopped or something.
What are you
guys talking about?
This photo was
taken 50 years ago.
It can't be photoshopped.
OK, what's your
explanation, then?
Easy.
I talked to my
grandma, and she said
the previous owners
of her house called
up spirits using a Ouija board.
It must have been
captured on the photo.
They had Ouija
boards back then?
Of course.
So let me guess, Miss seeker
of all things paranormal,
you're going to get
yourself a Ouija board now?
I already did.
Oh, gosh.
That's really creepy.
Sweet bid me hold my tongue.
From this rapture.
I shall surely speak the
thing I shall repent.
See your silence,
cunning, and dumbness.
For my weakness draws
my very soul of counsel.
Stop my mouth.
TEACHER: Emma Bryant.
It's your turn.
Hey, you got it.
OK.
An excerpt from Little
Women by Louisa May Alcott.
I'd have a stable full
of Arabian steeds,
and I'd have rooms
piled with books,
and I'd write out
a magic inkstand.
So my work should be as
famous as Laurie's music.
I want to do something
splendid before--
I'm sorry.
I forgot.
HOWARD: That was the first
math test I've ever flunked.
That was no math test, Howard.
I share your sentiments.
What's a math teacher doing
teaching philosophy, anyway?
I've been wondering
that myself.
Oh, did I tell you guys?
The other day, when I was
running down the street,
Darlene looked back
to tell me something.
I don't remember what,
but just a second
later, she rammed
into a mailbox,
flipped over her handlebars.
And would you know it?
She walked away
completely unscathed.
- No kidding?
- Wow.
And whatever became
of the mailbox?
Beats me.
So who's all going to the
county fair this weekend?
I'm going with Mary Catherine.
I'll be there.
James said he had two extra
tickets if anyone wanted them.
I think he was planning to--
Does this look familiar?
Roy, what are you doing
with Evelyn's scarf?
Why don't you ask her?
Evelyn?
I don't care to talk about it.
I don't know what in the
world she sees in him.
He's neither kind
nor respectful.
Nor trustworthy.
If I'm being honest, I
suppose the same question
could be asked of him.
Well, they do say birds
of a feather flock together.
I do worry about her.
Understandably so.
I suppose we should be going.
I don't want my
parents to worry.
Of course not.
Evelyn?
Yes.
Are you going to
the dance on Saturday?
Yes, I am.
I see.
With my parents, that is.
We're going early
to help set up.
Would you like
to be my date then?
I thought you'd never ask.
[peaceful music]
All right.
If you want to continue
using my taxi services,
you're going to have
to start paying for it.
The price of gas just
went through the roof.
Along with everything else.
Speaking of which, my mom
just got an eviction notice
Wait, what?
Yeah, they jacked
her run up so high
she can't afford it anymore.
She's looking for
another job now.
Doesn't she already have two?
Yeah, I don't know
how she'll manage,
but in my opinion,
the more time she's
away from Brian, the better.
Why does she stay
with him anyways?
He's such a creep.
He's quite charming
when he's sober.
I wonder what he'll
think of me after all
that my mom and grandma
Mary put him through.
Hey, what's that?
It's just a photo.
Oh, my gosh, you
look just like your mom
did when she was your age.
And is that your grandpa?
Yeah.
Oh my gosh!
Jaida, that was a red light!
[LAUGHING] I'm sorry.
I'm sorry.
Are you sure about this?
I
Can't keep sleeping on
Aspen's couch forever, so.
Well, good luck.
Wow, thanks.
[upbeat music]
I don't get it.
It's our turn next.
All right.
[upbeat music]
Aside from the
butterflies in my stomach,
all I could remember
of our first dance
was how awkward I felt.
It turns out Walter was
even more nervous than I was.
Let's blow this joint.
[peaceful music]
If it weren't for your
little fit of jealousy,
this never would have happened.
I feel sick to my stomach.
How do you think I feel?
Take a look at my car.
It would help if I
could see straight.
I think I have a concussion.
Thank God you're OK.
Don't you dare say
a word to mom and dad.
You hear me?
Roy, have you-- have
you been drinking?
So I had a few brewskis.
What's that to you?
Honestly, Roy, I don't even
care to waste my breath on you.
I suppose we should just be
happy you two are still alive.
Evelyn, take your
sister to the truck.
Roy and I will call for a tow.
Don't look at me like that!
Like what, Mary?
I have a new name for
you, Miss Holier Than Thou.
It's very fitting,
don't you think?
Honestly, Mary, you're
getting on my last nerve.
[somber music]
What is thy only
comfort in life and death?
That I with body and
soul, both in life
and in death, am not
my own, but belonging
to my faithful Savior--
Golly gee, Mary!
What has gotten into you?
- who with his precious
blood hath fully satisfied
for all my sins, and
delivered me from
all the power of the devil.
MARY: Ouch.
DOROTHY: Did you cut yourself?
MARY: It's nothing.
And so it preserves
me that without the will
of my Heavenly Father not a
hair can fall from my head.
He to all things
must be subservient--
Really, Freddy?
Must you recite
that at the table?
- Why not?
- Because it's annoying.
That's why.
Your brother is proud of
his accomplishments, Mary.
And we ought to
support him in that.
Let me see your finger.
Say, are you going to put
some of that leftover pineapple
cake in our lunch today?
I already did.
Well, that's just swell.
May I be dismissed?
Yes, you may.
Take your banana.
Mary, do you have
something you'd like
to say to your mother and I?
Thanks for breakfast.
Honey, that's not what
your father had in mind.
I'll just get right to it.
We know about the
accident, Mary.
I didn't say a word.
Oh, and I'm supposed
to believe that?
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: For nothing
is secret that shall not
be made manifest.
Neither anything hid that shall
not be known and come abroad,
Luke 8:17.
[doorbell]
Good afternoon, Evelyn.
I made a little
extra stroganoff.
I thought your family
would enjoy it.
Why, thank you.
DOROTHY: How can you she
treat Evelyn that way.
Whatever has she done to
deserve such treatment?
WILLIAM: You're
right, Dear, there's
simply no excuse for that.
And what of this
boyfriend of hers, anyway?
Is everything OK?
WILLIAM: You can say that again.
Just fine, thank you.
WILLIAM: I don't know how
much more of this I can take!
Tell your mother hello for me.
I certainly will.
[somber music]
Where did we go wrong, William?
Are we to blame for
her aberrant behavior?
You can lead a horse to water.
You can't make it
drink, Dorothy.
And that is just
what I fear, that we
led her to an empty trough.
What are you talking about?
DOROTHY: We may have
modeled right behavior,
but did we not abdicate
our duty to instruct her?
WILLIAM: But is that not the
responsibility of her teachers?
All I know is something
has gone desperately wrong.
I couldn't agree more.
And as her father, I will
get to the bottom of this.
[somber music]
Some punk just smashed into
the vending machines again.
I have some chips
if you want them.
I'm good.
I'll take those.
OK.
Have you started your essay yet?
Are you kidding?
It's the stupidest topic ever.
I know, right?
It's honestly such
a waste of time.
And that coming
from the likes of you.
Hey.
Just saying.
And what does Religion
in American Life
have to do with
kitchen appliances?
It's not for school.
The essay's due tomorrow.
I'll get to it later.
I'm going to get some lunch.
Who's coming?
I'll go.
Found it.
Found what?
Are ghosts real?
If by that question,
one is referring
to the disembodied spirit
of a deceased person,
then the answer is no.
Still thinking about that
creepy photo, I take it.
Yeah, but there's more.
Demons can impersonate
deceased people as they
go about the Devil's work.
So she's calling up demons?
According to this.
You don't think she's
possessed, do you?
How should I know?
[eerie music]
[strong gusts]
[thunder]
Grandpa!
Aunt Evelyn's journal?
Come and get it!
My diary!
[frantic music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Walter
and I chased Roy and Mary
all over the county that
day, but eventually,
they gave us the slip.
I never saw that diary again.
You're forgetting something.
You take it.
You don't want it?
If I kept it, Evelyn would
rummage through all my things
until she found it.
What am I supposed
to do with it?
Just stick it in your
closet or something!
You don't want to read it?
Of course not.
[music playing]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: And
be ye kind to one another,
tenderhearted, forgiving
one another, even as God,
for Christ's sake,
hath forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:32.
[peaceful music]
MAN [ON COMPUTER]:
Leading scientists
now believe that
the Earth entered
into a wet period following
this interval that lasted
upwards of 2 million years.
This period, which
geologists refer to as the--
And God blessed them.
And God said to them, be
fruitful and multiply,
and fill the Earth, and
subdue it, and have dominion
over the fish of the sea, and
over the birds of the heavens,
and over every living creature
that moved on the Earth.
And God saw all
that he had made,
and behold, it was very good.
And there was evening, and there
was morning, the sixth day.
And there was evening
and there was morning.
You know, that's said six times.
MAN [ON COMPUTER]:--cousins
to everything from algae
to arachnids.
More specifically, humans
are a distinct species
within the hominid family,
namely the great apes.
Through the
aforementioned process,
this common ancestor gave rise--
EMMA [VOICEOVER]: Evelyn
seems to have all the answers.
I wonder what she would think.
EVELYN: Are you
busy this evening?
WALTER: No, I'm not.
I don't suppose you
could tutor Freddie, then?
I'd be glad to.
Which subject?
It's his catechisms.
There's just so
much memorization.
And, you know, Freddy, he'd
rather be catching tadpoles.
Who's to blame him?
Tell him to expect
me around 7:00.
Thank you.
Sure, it says that.
But is that really
what it means?
Yes, but--
The question you
ought to be asking
is, what does it mean to you.
You have a lot to
learn, don't you?
I dare say I do.
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Beware,
lest any man spoil you
through philosophy
and vain deceit,
after the tradition of
men, after the rudiments
of the world, and
not after Christ.
Colossians 2:8.
Evening, Catherine.
Hello, William.
I haven't seen Mary for a while.
Has she been ill?
We would welcome that.
What's going on?
Mary's cast off
the faith, Catherine.
Oh, surely that can't be.
I'm so sorry.
Here's the cabbage
you asked for.
Thanks.
Is everything
all right, Father?
Ahem, Evelyn, what do you
know about your math teacher?
Mr. Buford?
Well, he doesn't
really teach math.
What does he teach, then?
He has an interesting set
of opinions, to be sure,
ones he readily shares.
Do you know his worldview?
He's an atheist, if
that's what you mean.
I'm going to grab a couple
of ears of corn for supper.
Tell your mother I'll
be home in a jiffy.
[peaceful music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: For the
time will come when they
will not endure sound doctrine.
But after their own lusts
shall they heap to themselves
teachers, having itching ears.
And they shall turn away
their ears from the truth,
and shall be turned unto fables.
2 Timothy 4:3 and 4.
Father, thank you so much for
your kindness and your grace
to us.
Thank you for the
sending of your son
and the shedding of
his blood for us,
so that we can have a right
relationship with you.
Father, I want to lift up Lisa
and just ask that you would heal
her body and that you would
help her husband as he's
at home with her infant.
We pray all these things in
your son's precious name.
Amen.
Well, as we begin the message
this morning, why don't you
take your Bibles and open
to the book of Romans.
Romans chapter 1 is
where we will be.
I'll begin reading in verse 18.
It says, "for the wrath of
God is revealed from heaven
against all ungodliness
and unrighteousness of men,
who by their unrighteousness
suppress the truth.
For what can be known
about God is plain to them,
because God has
shown it to them.
For his invisible attributes,
namely his eternal power
and divine nature, have
been clearly perceived ever
since the creation of
the world in the things
that have been made.
So they are without excuse."
So what's it like
living with your grandpa?
It's been very eye
opening, I guess.
How so?
Well, I overheard their
Bible study the other day.
And?
And I swear I felt like my
head was going to explode,
Aspen.
You know how we're taught
that we're glorified apes?
Well, the Bible tells us that
we're created in God's image.
So both of those can't
be true at the same time.
Yeah, but Ms. Miller
says that Genesis
is just a book of poetry.
So--
Maybe that's because
that's what she was taught.
I actually did my own research,
and it's a historical narrative.
Really?
Yeah.
I found a Bible the
other day, and I started
randomly flipping through it.
It's like everything
in it contradicts
everything we're being taught.
Give me one example.
You know how we're taught that
we should follow our hearts?
Yeah.
Well, the Bible tells us that
the heart is desperately wicked.
I'm just wondering if--
what if the Bible is true,
and we're rejecting
everything in it?
Like here.
Read this.
Woe unto them that
call evil good and good
evil, that put darkness for
light and light for darkness.
Woe unto them?
What's that supposed to mean?
Yeah, I don't know.
That's the part that gets me.
[peaceful music]
Well, good morning.
Good morning.
You look like you didn't
sleep a wink last night.
I'm all right.
Could I get you
some more coffee?
No, I'm good.
Thank you.
I was thinking I
could make some cookies
for your Bible study.
Well, that would be
just delightful, Dear.
Thank you.
[doorbell]
HELEN: I'm sorry I'm early.
I just had to talk to you
in private, if that's OK.
GRANDMOTHER: Well, do come in.
It's my granddaughter, Allie.
They placed her into a
psych ward, of all things.
They've tried all sorts of
meds on her, but none of them
seem to be working.
Helen, you said yourself that
she's steeped in the occult.
You can't fix a spiritual
problem with pharmaceuticals.
I think it's all my fault.
You're going to get
yourself a Ouija board now?
I already did.
GRANDMOTHER: Surely,
that can't be.
Certainly it
wasn't my intention.
You see, when she
was a little girl,
I bought a book set for her.
It was in the fantasy genre.
I thought it was
harmless enough.
But before I knew it, she
was dabbling in witchcraft.
And what I thought
was a passing fancy
has morphed into an obsession,
one that is destroying her.
GRANDMOTHER: She can't play with
fire without getting burned.
HELEN: What have I done wrong?
GRANDMOTHER: Helen, it's
the enemy of her soul
who is to blame.
Let's commit Allie to the Lord.
He can save her yet.
[somber music]
Hey.
Hey.
Here's some gas money.
Oh, my gosh, can
you afford this?
I would give you
more if I could.
What has gotten
into you lately?
What do you mean?
Well, I just mean,
like, you haven't
been acting like yourself.
Gosh, Jaida, was
I really that bad?
[SINGING] Darling,
I am longing for you
So take me
And our love will be true
My heart aches when
I'm thinking of you
So take me
Or my world will be blue
You saved me
Yes, you carried me through
So take me
And I'll never leave you
[peaceful music]
Hey, why aren't
you getting ready?
You think it's too
late to drop out?
Of the play, Em?
You're not serious.
I'm dead serious.
It just makes such
a mockery of God.
I don't feel right
about it anymore.
I mean, honestly,
I don't either.
But imagine how angry
Mrs. Howard would be.
I think I'd rather feel
her wrath over God's.
[horn honking]
Jaida's here.
We'd better get going.
[dramatic music]
[SINGING] No, oh, no,
don't tell me what to do
Yeah, you don't
tell me how to think
And live and breathe
No one but you
Thank God that God
cannot tell me what to do
Oh, no, don't tell me what to do
Yeah, you don't
tell me how to think
And live and breathe
No one but you
Thank God that God
cannot tell me what to do
[applause]
When I'm on Broadway
dating famous people
and you guys are just moms--
But it's like if he keeps
disappearing like that--
[all talking excitedly]
It's going to be a great life.
No, I am.
I'm going to be on Broadway.
I believe it.
[somber music]
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]: Of how much
worse punishment do you suppose
will he be thought
worthy who has trampled
the Son of God underfoot?
I'm going to head out.
I'll see you guys later.
See you later.
[chatter]
[somber music]
Mary, dinner's ready!
Mary?
Mary?
Mother, she's not answering!
Mary.
[somber music]
Mary is an adult now.
Dorothy, like it or not, she
has to make her own decisions.
And she couldn't
even say goodbye?
I know.
I know it's difficult. But
the Lord will see us through.
We've got to trust him.
She left without any warning.
I just don't
understand it, Walter.
She's usually so predictable.
If only I had known, perhaps
I could have stopped her.
Walter, I fear
it's all my fault.
Had I been more patient
with her, more loving,
surely she'd still be with us.
And my dear mother's
heart wouldn't be broken.
Evelyn, you mustn't
blame yourself.
It was a series of bad
choices on her part,
and she's to bear
the responsibility.
Perhaps you're right.
Nevertheless, my
conscience convicts me.
Don't let it, Dear.
Your sins have been cast
as far as the East is--
The East is from the West.
Walter, what would
I do without you?
[peaceful music]
Emma, what are you doing here?
It's so good to see you, honey.
I've missed you.
Well, if that's the case,
then can I move back in?
Emma, it wouldn't be safe.
Has my father
asked you to leave?
What?
No, of course not.
He'd never do that.
I just don't feel like
I belong there anymore
or anywhere, for that matter.
Give me a minute.
Hey, Emma, you actually
weren't horrible last night.
I didn't think
you had it in you.
You were there?
Yeah, I was front
row, dead center.
Wouldn't have missed it.
And because I came
to your little play,
I was wondering if you'd want
to come to my game Friday night.
I'd really like
to, but I just--
See you there.
OK.
Who was that?
Just someone from school.
Split shot, caramel macchiato.
Look, Emma, I know you don't
have much respect for me.
And it's for good reason.
But I need you to hear
me out on something.
When I was your age,
I had an opportunity
to make something of myself.
I didn't do it.
My life is a wreck, Emma.
Whatever you do, please,
don't follow in my footsteps.
I think you ought to at
least consider it, Nicole.
It's not often that an
opportunity like this
comes around.
And besides, we'd
all like to see
you in a healthier environment.
Well, what's wrong with Vegas?
Are you forgetting
that I live there?
But, Dad, you know I've
always wanted to be a dancer.
And if I stay in Vegas, I'll
be a showgirl in no time.
Imagine all the
money I could make.
Trust me, Nicole, money
can't buy you happiness.
If you saw mother's
penthouse, you would
change your mind in an instant.
Three failed marriages
and a battle with addiction
is no recipe for happiness.
Look, I can promise
you one thing.
Your mother would
give all the glitz
and glamour up in a heartbeat
for some real meaning
and purpose in her life.
I'm not so sure about that.
[phone vibrating]
BECCA [ON PHONE]: Hey, Em,
I'm headed to Devin's house.
You want to come with
Sounds like fun,
but did you forget?
It's Sunday.
I get go to church
with my grandparents.
BECCA [ON PHONE]: Don't tell
me I just drove 45 minutes out
of my way for nothing.
Look out your window.
Well, gee, would have
been nice to know sooner.
BECCA [ON PHONE]: You in or out?
OK, just give me
a minute, will you?
BECCA [ON PHONE]:
That's my girl.
[somber music]
Is this Devin's house?
No, it's Aiden's.
Aiden?
As in Aiden O'Conner?
No, Devin's other
best friend, Aiden.
Come on.
He's expecting you.
Let's take some time to
smooth out a few things.
Yeah.
Speaking of things that
need to be smoothed out,
Jacob cannot catch.
No, Should not be
starting, at all.
Hey, where's Aspen?
She's at church.
She's at church?
I like your earrings.
Where'd you get 'em?
I don't remember.
Well, when are you
coming to school, anyways?
I'm not sure yet.
Well, I've been
missing you, you know?
- You have?
- Yeah.
Come here.
I want to show you something.
So what'd they do
then, call the police?
- No, they called my mom.
- Go!
Fight!
That's even worse.
Go!
Fight!
What?
That's even worse!
I know, right?
She must've, like,
totally freaked out.
Yep.
Well, at least she cares.
- Go, fight!
- That's what I was thinking.
Red, black, and white!
[cheering]
COMMENTATOR [ON LOUDSPEAKER]:
Call on field is
pass interference, number 14.
That's not pass interference!
Take his whistle!
Take his whistle!
Take his whistle!
Take his whistle!
Did you see it?
What are you doing up here?
You missed it, didn't you?
I just sent this
kid to the hospital.
They said he's got a
dislocated shoulder.
Wow, sounds like you're
destined for greatness.
Come on.
I just put six more
points on the board.
Guys, we're up by 17 now.
[cheering]
Cool.
We could really use
a mascot down there.
You'd be able to see me better.
Come on.
- I don't know about that.
OK.
[knocking]
Hey, babe.
So, are we going?
Hmm?
So why did it take
you so long anyway?
What, to ask you out?
Yeah.
That's because you're
impossible to read.
Geez, sorry.
So what are your plans
after you graduate?
I'm not sure yet.
What about you?
Get rich quick.
And how do you expect to
do that, by robbing a bank?
Why should that matter?
Because Aiden, that's
breaking the law.
Well, I'm sorry,
Miss Goody Two Shoes,
but what's wrong for one person
is perfectly fine for another.
So what, if it
feels good, do it?
Works for me.
Have I told you how
beautiful you look today?
Aiden, this is a nightclub.
They're going to card us.
I'm taking care of it.
Trust me.
[dramatic music]
You're pushing the
envelope this time, buddy.
[dance music]
There's a coat
rack over there.
You've been here before?
Are you kidding me?
This is my second home.
[dance music]
NICOLE [VOICEOVER]:
Whatever you do, please,
don't follow in my footsteps.
Go ahead.
Try it.
I'm gluten free.
All the better for me.
Wow, this is good.
They look the same.
That's cause it is.
You want to dance?
[dance music]
Hi, Jaida.
Do you think you
could come pick us up?
Aiden's too wasted to drive.
JAIDA [ON PHONE]: Where are you?
The Four States.
Just please come
pick us up, Jaida.
I promise I'll
make it up to you.
No way am I getting out of bed.
Call Aspen.
[music playing]
You have no idea how
much this means to me.
That's what friends are for.
Yeah, but Aspen, it's 1:00 AM.
And no offense or anything, but
it's just not like you to-- you
know.
Put myself out?
That's not what
I was suggesting.
I know.
You're right, though.
The old me never would
have bothered to come.
The old you?
Really, Emma, what do
you see in him anyway?
He reminds me of your step dad.
Don't-- don't say that.
AIDEN: Stop the car!
I'm going to throw up.
We're not moving.
AIDEN: Speak for yourself.
Trust me, Emma, you
can do better than this.
[police siren]
Roy!
I'm really sorry, Officer.
My speedometer is broken.
Excuse me?
Yeah, it's just--
You're parked illegally, sir.
Oh.
Look, if you'd
just been honest
and not lied about
your speedometer,
I might have given
you a warning.
License and registration.
Great.
Thank you.
Here are these for you, sir.
And let this be a lesson
for you, young man.
Have a good day.
I told you we couldn't park
here, but you wouldn't listen,
would you?
Mr. Buford was right
about that, too.
About what, Mary?
Oh, nothing.
Nothing at all.
How much did we make
last night anyways?
After the ticket, you mean?
$1.76.
Well, at least we can
get the speedometer fixed.
Aren't you funny?
I've just been dying
to go to the theater.
Well, we could go to
a matinee or something.
Why, isn't that
chivalrous of you?
I thought you said all
men were chauvinists.
I suppose there's
always the exception.
[somber music]
[phone ringing]
Hello?
Mary, is that you?
I'm sorry, Dear.
The connection's poor.
Did you say Las Vegas?
What?
Hello?
I sure did.
And I have news for you, Mother.
Roy and I have tied the knot.
Isn't it grand?
Mother?
Are you there?
Think anyone heard
my stomach growling?
One of these days, we'll
be on that stage, Roy.
Fancy that.
What makes you so sure?
Why, Roy, I can do
anything I set my mind to.
Would that happen
to include cooking?
I think I'll be sick if I have
to eat one more TV dinner.
How insulting.
Mary, what did I say?
[SINGING] Darling,
I am longing for you
So take me
And our love will be true
My heart aches when
I'm thinking of you
So take me or my
world will be blue
You saved me
Yes, you carried me through
So take me
And I'll never leave you
[applause]
Have you ever thought about
growing out your sideburns?
My sideburns?
Look, all I can think
about right now is dinner.
I'm starving.
You need money
to eat, you know?
Right, which is why we need to
save what little we have instead
of blowing it on the theater.
How dare you.
This is going well.
It sure is, isn't it?
PREACHER [ON COMPUTER]:
But understand
this, that in the last
days, there will come times
of difficulty.
For people will be lovers
of self, lovers of money,
proud, arrogant, abusive,
disobedient to their parents,
ungrateful, unholy,
heartless, unappeasable,
slanderous, without
self-control, brutal,
not loving good, treacherous,
reckless, swollen with conceit,
lovers of pleasure rather
than lovers of God,
having the appearance of
godliness but denying its power.
Avoid such people.
[dramatic music]
[phone ringing]
NICOLE [ON PHONE]: Emma,
where have you been.
EMMA [ON PHONE]: At
home with a migraine.
NICOLE [ON PHONE]:
I'm coming in.
Honey, I have to
tell you something.
OK.
I don't know how to say this.
What?
What?
You're really freaking me out.
There's been a
shooting at your school.
What?
Was anyone hurt?
Yes.
I have to text Aspen.
I have to call her.
No, honey.
Aspen was at school.
OK, I need to make sure--
Aspen is dead.
[sobs] What?
Come here.
[somber music]
[crying] She--
she was my best friend.
[somber music]
When did it happen?
At lunch, in the cafeteria.
Where were you?
In the theater.
I-- I had left my
inhaler in the theater.
I was sitting next to Aspen.
Um, I realized that it was
gone, that I didn't have it.
And--
- the second, after I
left, um, he killed her.
It should have been me.
Don't say that.
I'm just glad you're OK.
I'm not though.
I keep having these flashbacks
where my heart starts
pounding out of my chest.
And I can't breathe.
And then I hear the baby cry.
The baby cry?
Did no one tell you?
Tell me what?
They saved the baby.
Whose baby?
Aspen's baby.
I didn't know
she was pregnant.
Neither did I.
[peaceful music]
Mary!
Evelyn, I'm sure I'm
the last person you'd
hope to see at your doorstep.
Don't be silly.
Come in.
Can I make you
some iced tea or--
It's fine.
Thanks.
Why, this beautiful child
wouldn't happen to be my niece,
now, would she?
And more than
that, if you'd like.
What?
Evelyn, I'm not going
to beat around the bush.
Roy's left me for another woman.
I can't possibly take care
of this child on my own.
Surely, you're not serious.
Indeed, I am.
Will you take her or not?
You don't care to see her become
a ward of the state, do you?
Lord, have mercy on her soul.
Walter, dear, are you
ready to be a father?
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]:
But I say unto you
which hear, love your enemies,
do good to them which hate you,
bless them that curse you.
And pray for them, which
despitefully use you.
Luke 6:27 and 28.
Hello, Evelyn.
What are you doing here?
I suppose you're
here to see Nicole.
I'm not worthy of her.
I actually came to see you.
Is that so?
Look, I just need
to talk if that's OK.
She's been sleeping in lately,
so I suppose that I could--
I'll hurry.
I promise.
Why did you leave her, Roy?
She left me.
Not according to Mary.
She said it was another woman.
I'd never do that.
Somehow, I find
that hard to believe.
Look, think the worst of me.
I deserve it, but it's
the truth, Evelyn.
[baby crying]
Look, when I laid my
eyes on that baby,
something changed in me.
I even went to church
for the first time.
Boy, did that ever
rattle Mary's cage.
She swore she'd
never let me go back.
And then what happened?
Gave her a piece of my mind.
I imagine that went over well.
Well, that's when
she went packing.
I'm really sorry, Roy.
Look, just tell me this
one thing, and I'll--
I'll beat feet.
I know I've done a lot
of bad things in my life,
but is there any hope
for the likes of me
and getting right with God?
Well, you certainly
can't save yourself.
It's Christ's work on
the cross that saves us.
All you have to do is believe.
So I can just keep on
living my life, then?
Not so fast.
The Bible also says that
faith without works is dead.
But you just said our
works don't save us.
Because they don't.
It's by grace that we've
been saved through faith.
But once we're saved,
Christ doesn't just
leave us in our sins.
He begins to change us.
Here, maybe this will help.
Today is a day
of mourning where
we gather to say goodbye
to a beloved daughter,
sister, friend, and mother.
We honor a life that's so
young, so full of promise,
yet tragically taken from us
by a senseless act of violence.
But today is also
a day of rejoicing
because Aspen is
more fully alive now
than she ever was in this life.
You see, Aspen is with Jesus,
and for those in Christ,
to be absent from the body is
to be present with the Lord.
Aspen would want
everyone standing
here to have the
same hope that she
found when she came to Christ.
No one is guaranteed tomorrow.
If you die today,
would you find yourself
like Aspen in the
presence of God,
or eternally separated from him?
To come to Christ, simply
admit that you are a sinner.
Believe that Jesus
died for your sins.
Call upon his name.
Friends, the hour is late.
Seek him while he
can still be found.
There's still one
thing I can't understand.
If God is good, why is there
so much suffering in the world?
Well, the Bible makes
clear that suffering
is a result of sin.
As to the nature
of that suffering,
there are going to be
things in this life
that we simply do not understand
because well, God is God,
and we're not.
But for those who put
their trust in him,
he promises that all things
will work together for good,
even our greatest adversities.
But how can I trust
someone I can't understand?
You get to know him, Roy.
To know him is to trust him.
How do I do that?
He's already revealed
himself to us in his word.
[baby cooing]
You don't suppose I
could see her, do you?
Follow me.
[peaceful music]
Ms. Bryant, Emma,
it's so nice to see you.
Good to see you.
May I have a word?
Of course.
I can only imagine that
you have some questions.
Yeah.
Please ask any
question that you have.
I was just wondering,
was there school shootings
when you were a kid?
Not nearly as many
as they are today.
What changed then?
That is a really
good question.
It's also a tough question.
There was a time in our nation
where children were taught
to honor their parents and
respect authority, recognize
they were a part of something
bigger than themselves,
but most importantly,
to revere the Lord.
And as a result, our
nation was blessed.
And then what happened?
Another great question.
Slowly but surely, God
was removed from schools.
He was removed from
our public square.
Even in churches today,
it's hard to even hear
him talked about in the pulpit.
And anytime God's removed
out of his rightful place,
we can't as a nation
expect his favor to remain.
So there's no hope for us?
Oh, I actually have a
question for you, Emma.
What did Aspen name her baby?
She named her Hope.
And why did she name her Hope?
She told me that she
found hope in Christ.
I want you to know that
same hope is available to you.
But what if I'm
not a good person?
Shouldn't I be the one
asking that question?
Here's the hope I want
you both to understand,
that the Bible says while
we were still yet sinners,
Christ died for us.
The Bible also says that
if we confess our sins,
he is faithful.
He is just to forgive us of
all of our unrighteousness.
Will you pray with us?
It will be my pleasure.
EVELYN [VOICEOVER]:
My hope is built
on nothing less than Jesus'
blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust
the sweetest frame,
but wholly lean on Jesus' name.
On Christ, the
solid rock, I stand.
All other ground
is sinking sand.
[SIDEWALK PROPHETS, "COME TO THE
TABLE"]
[SINGING] We all
start on the outside
The outside looking in
This is where grace begins
We were hungry
We were thirsty
With nothing left to give
Oh, the shape that we were in
And just when all
hope seemed lost
Love opened the door for us
He said come to the table
Come join the sinners
Who have been redeemed
Take your place
beside the Savior
Sit down and be set free
Come to the table
Come meet this motley
crew of misfits
These liars and these thieves
There's no one unwelcome here
And that sin and shame
that you brought with you
You can leave it at the door
And let mercy draw you near
So come to the table
Come join the sinners
Who have been redeemed
Take your place
beside the Savior
Sit down and be set free
Come to the table
Come to the table
To the thief and to the doubter
To the hero and the coward
To the prisoner and the soldier
To the young and to the older
All who hunger, all who thirst
All the last and all the first
All the paupers and the princes
All who failed and been forgiven
All who dream and all who suffer
All who've loved
and lost another
All the chained and all the free
All who follow
All who lead
Anyone who's been let down
All the lost who have been found
All who've been
labeled right or wrong
To every one who hears this song
Come to the table
Come join the sinners
You have been redeemed
Take your place
beside the savior
Sit down and be set free
Oh, sit down and be set free
Come to the table
Come to the table
Sit down and be set free
Come to the table