Jericho: The Promise Fulfilled 2010

After many years wandering in the desert, the Israelites, led by Joshua](../actor/mark-rondina), are close to entering the Promised Land. Before they do, their prophet [Moses passes away, leaving Joshua as their new leader. One of Moses’ trusted aides, his servant and spy Salmon, is sent along with another spy, Steve, to gather intelligence on the formidable city of Jericho.

When the spies arrive at Jericho, they discover that the city is heavily protected by enormous, impenetrable fortress walls. The city’s defenses are reinforced by vigilant guards who patrol constantly. Despite their precautions, the spies manage to slip into the city. Their safe house becomes an apartment owned by the woman Rahab, who quickly understands the danger they’re in. She hides the spies under large haystacks on her roof whenever guards come searching. Rahab chooses to shield them, even telling the guards that she saw the spies leave and does not know where they went, buying the spies precious time. Later, she helps them escape by lowering a red rope out of her window, instructing them to keep it there so she can be saved when Jericho falls.

As Salmon and Steve return to their camp in the desert, Steve teases Salmon, jokingly suggesting he has a crush on Rahab. Once back with the Israelites, they report to Joshua, telling him that the city’s main strength lies in its formidable walls. Joshua then devises a plan to conquer Jericho by crossing the Jordan River, which acts as a natural barrier. Miraculously, as they enter the river, the waters part, creating a dry passage for the Israelites.

The Israelites then observe Passover and prepare for battle. The next day, they march around the city walls once, and repeat this process for six days. The King of Jericho orders his soldiers to guard the city fiercely. On the seventh day, the Israelites march around Jericho seven times. At the climax, the priests blow their trumpets, and the Israelites shout loudly. The mighty walls shake violently, then collapse entirely, destroying the fortress that had once seemed invincible.

Despite the destruction, some troops and civilians inside Jericho survive the fall. During the ensuing chaos, Salmon finds the window and the red rope used by Rahab. He rescues her and her family from the rubble, ensuring their safety. After the battle, Joshua instructs Salmon to look after Rahab and her family as they start their new life outside the crumbled city ruins.

This story highlights themes of faith, bravery, and the importance of trusting in a higher plan, even amidst the chaos of war and destruction.