Onesimus—The Profitable One

Based on Paul’s letter to Philemon

Night falls quietly over the household of Philemon as, one by one, sleep claims its occupants—family members, servants, guests, and animals.

But not all are sleeping. From a dark corner, a restless figure slips between the marble columns of the central courtyard. Crossing its curtained threshold, he steals into a private chamber without stumbling or hesitation. Every corner, every piece of furniture, even the shadows, are familiar to him, for he is at home.

With silent, calculated steps, he approaches the wooden chests lining the wall. Opening one, his fingers find a small pouch. As he touches the cold metal inside, he shivers, for he knows what he is doing is wrong. Yet without hesitation he hides the pouch beneath his tunic and closes the chest. Then, wrapping his head in his cloak, he silently recrosses the room, passes through the courtyard