Publisher's Synopsis
"This version is the only authorized stage adaptation of Charles Sheldon's best-selling novel. It was commissioned by Sheldon's church, Central Congregational, where it was first written in 1897. In the summer of 1895 in Raymond, Kansas, a tramp knocks at Reverend Henry Maxwell's door looking for work. With regret, Maxwell turns him away, but the tramp's visit has inspired Sunday's sermon from 1 Peter 2:21: "For hereunto were ye called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example that ye should follow in His steps." As Maxwell speaks, the tramp enters from the back of the church and questions the integrity of the sermon, after which he collapses and dies. Maxwell calls for volunteers to join a special group, pledging never to take any action without first asking, "What would Jesus do?" and then following in His steps.".
