Ep 34. A Matter of Faith

In the 34th episode of The Rifleman's first season, entitled "A Matter of Faith," Lucas McCain, a widower and single father in the town of North Fork, is faced with a crisis of faith when his son Mark becomes seriously ill. Lucas, a devout Christian, finds himself questioning the existence of God and struggling to reconcile his beliefs with the grim reality of his son's illness.

As Mark's condition worsens, Lucas becomes increasingly desperate to find a cure. He turns to the local doctor, who recommends a risky and expensive treatment that Lucas cannot afford. In a moment of desperation, Lucas turns to a local faith healer, despite his initial skepticism.

The faith healer, a mysterious and enigmatic figure named Eli, claims to have the power to heal the sick through faith alone. Lucas is initially wary of Eli's claims, but as his son's condition deteriorates further, he becomes willing to try anything. With the help of his friend and neighbor, Micah, Lucas takes Mark to see Eli, hoping against hope that the faith healer can work a miracle.

As they journey to Eli's remote cabin in the wilderness, Lucas and Mark experience a series of unexpected and unsettling events that challenge their faith and their courage. Along the way, they encounter a group of hostile strangers who threaten their safety and their mission.

When they finally reach Eli's cabin, they are greeted by a strange and eerie atmosphere. Eli seems to have otherworldly powers, and his presence fills Lucas and Mark with a sense of unease and apprehension. Despite his doubts, Lucas allows Eli to perform a healing ritual on Mark, hoping that it will cure his son's illness once and for all.

But when the ritual goes awry and Mark's condition worsens, Lucas is forced to question everything he thought he knew about faith, God, and the power of healing. As he and Micah try to unravel the mystery behind Eli and his strange powers, they realize that they may be facing an enemy far more dangerous than they ever imagined.

In "A Matter of Faith," The Rifleman explores the timeless themes of faith, doubt, and the power of belief. Through the struggles of Lucas and Mark, the show examines the ways in which religion and spirituality can provide comfort and hope in times of crisis, but also the risks of blind faith and the dangers of false prophets. With its thrilling action, gripping drama, and thought-provoking themes, "A Matter of Faith" is a compelling and unforgettable episode of this classic TV Western.