The story of a crippled boy who must decide to either follow Christ or trust in the traditions of his times, held by powerful persons around him, full of vengeful, bitter spirits.

Born into the tribe of Levi, Joel looks forward to serving as a priest in the temple in Jerusalem. This hope is taken from him by a bully who beats him nearly to death. When he meets the Healer of Nazareth, He learns that Jesus can indeed heal broken bones — but can He heal a bitter heart?

Character themes in this story: salvation, anger, bitterness, suffering.