This man, this man who
is the son of God,
launched a theology and philosophy
that would Influence the values of western civilization
for centuries.
Ronald R. Cooke
Copyright
Am I Your Son? is a work of fiction. The names, characters, places, and events described herein were sourced
from historical, archeological, and reference documents, as well as the
author’s analysis of relevant cultural and geographical information; augmented
by fictional characters and events.
Includes text from
Summa 21:
Let us unite our perception of the physical
with our experience of the spiritual
Copyright 2017, 2020 and 2024 by Ronald R. Cooke
Auburn, CA.
All Rights Reserved
This book is intended for the personal use of the reader,
and may be copied in whole or part for the reader’s personal use, provided no
changes are made to the content. Parts of this book may be used by the reader
in verbal presentations including sermons and lectures, and as reference
material for the reader’s written documents. Please observe the author’s rights
under United Sates of America copyright law and provide suitable attribution if
the content is used or referenced.
Table of Contents
Appendix 1. Is Jesus the Son of God?
Appendix 2. Why Was Jesus Successful?
Introduction
What we know about the life of Jesus was created by Apostles, disciples, historians, inspired authors, and church fathers. The life of Jesus between his birth and ministry has been ignored. Endless controversies about the virginity of Mary and the birth of Christ are based on obsolete medical knowledge.
Because there is so much misinformation, contradictory information, and outright mythology available on the Internet, researching the life of Jesus and the people who became a part of his story is very challenging. However, if we take a holistic historical view that includes first century culture, politics, economics, geography, theology, and human knowledge, we are able to develop a more comprehensive, realistic and logical assessment of his life.
There is a risk in writing about the life of Jesus in 21st century terms. We see Jesus as a man we would like to know rather than the personality depicted in the Bible. But I believe this risk is offset by telling a logical story that is internally consistent, presents an interesting progression of events, is historically more accurate, adds cultural context to his life, and includes information not found elsewhere.
Most of the story is credible. Jesus is presented as a creative, intelligent, charismatic, and interesting persona. His thoughts and actions are influenced by the mores of Jewish culture, the narrow parochial attitudes of his contemporaries, and the political environment of his times. As expected by the culture of his community - he falls in love. He travels and absorbs the knowledge and values of other cultures. Jesus develops a loving father - son relationship with the Holy Spirit. Throughout his life, God is always at his side, helping him in his ministry and in the end… proves the truth of his message by raising Jesus from the dead.
We get to know all of the main characters as tangible personalities. They have emotions, strengths and weaknesses. Descriptions of geography, buildings, and towns, along with portrayals of first century cultural influences and historic events lend context to the story.
I believe we have an obligation to preserve, protect and
promote the work of Jesus Christ in 21st century terms. The gospel is still
good news. The spiritual exists. If God
wants to speak to us, we should listen.
Ron
To Cynthia.
My affectionate friend and trusted companion
The best marriages are made in heaven
Chapter 1 Mary and Joseph
July, 6 B.C.
Unaware of the approaching soldiers, the lovely young girl concentrated on her task, carefully filling the water skin with as much water as it would hold from the community well. There were four of them, rough barbarian mercenaries from the garrison at Capernaum. When she bent over the wall of the well to finish her task, one of the men quietly crept up behind her. Shameless, evil, and full of lust he leered at the helpless girl. Rape was a common form of amusement for these men and it reinforced the dominance of Roman oppression.
The soldier scratched his dirty ragged beard and waited for her to turn around. Unaware of the man behind her, Mary pulled the heavy water skin out of the well, positioned the leather strap around her shoulder, and turned to go home. A wave of shock and terror swept over her when she saw the soldier. Mary screamed.
“Well,” he jeered, “look who came out into the sunshine– a flower to be plucked.” He seized her by the arms and roughly pulled her toward him. Then he brutally pulled on her dress. Her sash fell away. The water skin fell to the ground, spilling its contents over the rough stones that circled the well. Mary desperately tried to push him away. Run, she thought, I have to get free of his grasp and run. But the man was much too strong for her. He grabbed her by the shoulders and pulled her toward him. Mary began to pray, Dear God, please help me. Please help me. The soldier was about to force a brutal kiss on his victim when a very loud voice rang out: “Stop! Stand and face me!”
Bewildered, the frustrated soldier abruptly turned to see who would be dumb enough to interfere with his moment of pleasure.
There he was; a very young Centurion, handsome, regal, well-armed, sitting upright on a magnificent white horse; very confident of his position over these rabble. The mercenary scowled with disgust. Upset over the loss of his lustful conquest, he briefly thought of attacking that wimp of a Roman. He could easily kill him. That would end his damn superior tone. But he quickly abandoned the idea. With a horse and armor like that, the Centurion was obviously well connected. If he killed the Centurion the Romans would hunt him down like an animal and torture him to death. The angry soldier muttered to himself in anger, but then managed a deceptive smile.
“Yes sir,” he submissively called to the Centurion, “I was just helping her with the water skin.”
The Centurion didn’t buy the soldier’s lie. “Assemble with your Quaternion and go about your business,” he commanded. There was a firm tone in his voice. Young or not, he was used to being obeyed. The soldier shrugged with obedient resignation and motioned to the other three men. The soldiers reluctantly joined together and trudged off toward Sepphoris. Before they disappeared over the hill, the soldier briefly turned to look back at Mary and the Centurion. He thought to himself I’ll find a way to get even with that little pup of a Roman!
Her entire body trembling with uncontrollable fear, Mary quietly bent down to pick up the water skin.
“Here, let me help you with your errand,” the Centurion called out as he laboriously dismounted from his horse. He had obviously been in the saddle for a long time. The young man stretched, adjusted his tunic, and walked slowly toward the well. When he reached Mary, he gently placed his hand on her shoulder and looked deeply into her eyes. “Do not be afraid,” he said softly, “I will not hurt you.”
Still shaking with the fear of being raped, Mary could only manage to acknowledge his words of assurance with a small smile. She suddenly felt very weak and nervously sat down on the wall of the fountain. The Centurion cautiously sat down beside her, but said nothing. He looked at her again with sympathy. Mary was a beautiful girl, graceful in form, and gentle in demeanor. There was a special purity about her that troubled the young man. He did not understand why, but she impressed him as being very different from the other women he had known. After a few moments he stood up, gently took the water skin from Mary’s hands, and carefully dipped it into the well water. Once filled, he handed it to Mary.
“I’ll walk you home;” he said “to make sure no one else bothers you.” In truth, he felt a need to be close to this lovely young girl. Thoroughly captivated, the Centurion turned to pick up the reins of his horse. A sudden passion swept over him. If there is a Jew who could take my heart, he thought, this is the one.
The Centurion motioned for Mary to lead the way. As they walked along the dusty street toward her house, she gradually regained some of her composure. Mary even smiled when she spotted two neighborhood women looking at her and the Roman in awe. What must they think? She wondered.
“What is your name? The young man asked.
“Mary.”
Desperately trying to engage her in a conversation, he repeated Mary’s name.
“Mary of Nazareth.” He was suddenly at a loss for words. He struggled to say something relevant.
“And how old are you?”
Mary sensed his unease. “I am just 14 of years,” Mary quietly replied “And how old are you?”
“Seventeen,” he quickly answered, “my father is a Tribune in Alexandria. I just came from Alexandria to Caesarea by ship.”
“And where are you going?” Mary asked politely.
“I’m on my way to Sepphoris to survey Herod’s military garrison. The Tribune in Caesarea asked me to inspect Nazareth on my way.”
There was a long pause as they walked along. Then he said in a quiet voice: “It’s a good thing he did, Mary”
He is, Mary thought, a man of honor. She briefly turned to him and acknowledged his help with a gentle smile.
“Thank you for your compassion.”
She paused and looked away again.
“And do you have a name, Roman?”
“Maximus,” he answered. “My family is well known in Rome.”
They arrived at the gate that led into Mary’s house. The Centurion didn’t know what to do, so he just self-consciously extended his hand. Mary adjusted the strap on the water skin and gracefully took his hand in her fingers. Gently squeezing it she said softly “Thank you, Roman.”
Then Mary turned and walked through the gate, closing it firmly behind her.
…...………
The Betrothal of Mary and Joseph
In this culture, at this time in history, starting a family (preferably a large family) was anticipated and required by the customs of the community. As soon as a boy could be a father, he joined the men of the community in religious services and he was expected to perform all of the duties of a man. As soon as a girl was sufficiently developed to be a mother, she was obligated to start a family and assume the role of being a good wife. Although the betrothal (engagement, promise, or pact) between a boy and a girl was often made over a year before the expected marriage, it could happen within a month or two of the wedding day.
Parents played a key role in the selection of a suitable mate and the betrothal process. A 14 year old Mary is ready to have babies. It is time to formalize her betrothal to a young man.
……...……
September, 6 B.C.
Cooler weather had returned to Nazareth. September also meant more rain, usually in the form of a light mist. Cool autumn air swept through the house. Mary was busy with morning chores when she heard the front yard gate close with a clatter. Curious, she looked out the small kitchen window to see who was coming to the door. It was Joseph the carpenter’s son. Tall, serious of demeanor, he ambled through the courtyard with a chair in his arms. Mary’s heart leaped with delight. To her, Joseph was strong, handsome, smart, and at age 15 - definitely ready to marry. Carefully avoiding the chickens and clutter, Joseph made his way to the entryway. But before he could knock, Mary had already started to open the heavy wood door.
Startled, Joseph took a moment to collect his thoughts. His eyes conveyed a hint of self-conscious affection. “Good morning, Mary,” he said politely “we have finished the chair your mother wanted.”
Although he offered the chair to Mary, he never stopped looking into her eyes. He was looking for some sign of a connection. Mary blushed slightly, smiled, and took the chair from him.
“Come in, I’ll find mother.” She put the chair down next to a roughhewn table and disappeared down the narrow hall that separated the big room from the bedding rooms to find her mother, Anne.
Mary’s mother was very pleased the chair had finally been delivered. She came into the room and gave Joseph a big friendly smile as she dug into a ragged goat skin purse for a few coins.
“How is your mother this morning?” she asked as she handed the coins to Joseph.
Joseph looked uncertain. “She is fine, I guess..... She went with my father to glean the grain.”
He again looked intently at Mary. Entranced by his attention, she was unable to prevent the slight crimson color that again graced her cheeks.
Anne understood what was happening between them, but for the moment she chose to pretend she didn’t notice the exchange of sensual excitement.
“Say hello to Jacob and Ruth for us. We will see your father and mother at the Temple Saturday.”
Anne briefly looked at her daughter. “Say goodbye to Joseph,” she said with some amusement, “and come into the back with me. We have much to do before your father returns.”
Joseph turned to leave. As he did so, his hand brushed Mary’s arm. The emotional response was instantaneous and exciting for both of them.
****
October, 6 B.C.
Jacob watched his son lay out the cutting plan for the timbers on the floor of their little shop. He was proud of his son’s skills. Joseph will be a good carpenter, he thought. He will pass his skills on to his sons; just as I have done for him and my father Mattan did for me. Watching Joseph work, Jacob was suddenly overwhelmed with a singular idea. It was time for Joseph to have a family of his own. I have been in denial, he reasoned, I didn’t want my son to grow up. Jacob suddenly felt a surge of guilt for his lapse of judgement. That was very selfish of me. It is time for him to find a wife. Jacob abruptly moved to act on his decision.
“Joseph,” Jacob said loudly “I am going into the house to have a talk with your mother.”
Joseph looked up, absently nodded his head, and went back to his work. Jacob left the shop to find Ruth. He found her in the garden laboriously removing the stubborn weeds.
Jacob had to reach into his subconscious mind to find the courage he needed. This conversation was long overdue.
“Ruth, my dear sweet wife, it is time we had a little talk about Joseph.”
“Yes Jacob,” she responded with a little smile. She already knew what he wanted to talk about. Like millions of mothers before her and millions of mothers who were yet to come on this earth, Ruth and Anne had decided over a month ago Mary would be a perfect bride for a perfect son.
****
Mary loved the synagogue services. Unlike most of the other women in Nazareth, she had learned to read and she had been through the Torah so many times, she could repeat some of the passages from memory. Mary embraced God with deep conviction and she engaged him in prayer every day. For her, God was a real person, a close friend, and a protector.
Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath (Day of Rest), begins on Friday evening after sundown and concludes on Saturday evening after sundown. After the service on Saturday afternoon, Mary looked for Joseph as soon as she left the prayer area. And there he was. Her heart leaped with a thump of joy. As soon as he saw her, it was obvious he was just as pleased to have a few moments with her. Smiling, he walked over to where she and Anne were standing.
“Where is Joachim?” he asked.
“My father is over there,” Mary said pointing to a group of men. “He is talking to the other elders.”
Joseph looked self-consciously at Anne. “Is it alright if we take a little walk?”
Anne could only gently smile her approval. Mary took Joseph’s arm and they began to stroll together toward Mary’s house. The thrill of their growing love for each other was obvious.
Upon seeing Mary and Joseph walking alone together, Joachim quickly left the other men to join his wife. He was nervous about his daughter’s affection for Joseph. He and Anne had been childless until an angel came to them one evening with a message.
“You shall be blessed with a baby girl. Give her the name of Mary, and raise her in the ways of the Lord.”
Overjoyed by their good fortune, Joachim and Anne carefully followed the angel’s instructions. They raised Mary according to the laws of their faith, and two years later, they were blessed with another baby girl whom they named Salome.
But now Joachim was clearly concerned. “It is forbidden for a woman to be intimate with a man until after they are married. Are you not worried about their growing passion for each other?” he asked.
“Joachim my loving husband, do you not remember how we were just a few years ago?”
“But I do not recall my birth.... or your birth.... being announced by an angel.” Joachim responded.
Anne turned and placed her hands on his shoulders, and then around his neck. She gave him a warm loving hug.
“There is something very spiritual about their relationship,” Anne paused for a moment to organize her thoughts, “I believe.... I know... God wants this marriage.”
Jacob gently returned her loving embrace. After a few moments he spoke softly with equal conviction. “I agree... God has ordained their union... and as we know... The best marriages are made in heaven.”
It is time,” Anne said, “It is time for you to have a talk with Jacob.”
****
November, 6 B.C.
Mary walked laboriously up the tree lined path that led to the village and her home. The heavy goat skin sling she was carrying was stuffed with a load of firewood. Tired from her morning chores, Mary decided to look for a place where she could rest for a moment. Looking up the trail, she spied a large flat rock. It looked like a perfect place to stop.
Mary put the sling next to the rock, brushed away the leaves, and sat down with a sigh of relief. The slightly pungent smell of rotting leaves and the fragrance of wet earth permeated the cold air. She began to think, as she did almost all day, every day, of her coming marriage to Joseph. Her mother was busy with the wedding arrangements. Ruth had taken over the responsibility for food and drink. The date had been set. “It will be a beautiful wedding,” she thought “and then...” Mary blushed and looked down at the leaves that lined the path.
A very loud voice broke through the warm drowsy haze of her happy thoughts.
“Mary of Nazareth,” a young man’s voice called out to her “we meet again.”
It was the Roman Centurion, handsome, erect and proud on his white horse. Behind him marched a group of eight Roman soldiers. At first, Mary’s eyes widened and she shuddered with fear. The soldiers were looking intently at her, examining every inch of her body with obvious lust. But the Centurion’s warm smile quickly put her at ease. He stopped his horse by the rock where she was sitting, motioned for the soldiers to proceed on up the path, and dismounted from his horse.
“I’ve been thinking of you,” he said respectfully. “I do not seem to be able to keep you out of my mind.” He paused and lowered his head as though suddenly embarrassed by his thoughts. Some unknown force had encouraged him to fall in love with this lovely girl. But of course that was impossible for him. His father would never give him permission to marry a Jewish girl. Purity of bloodline and all that.
Mary looked up. “And once again I am glad it is you..... and not someone else.” The ugly image of the soldier who wanted to rape her raced briefly through Mary’s thoughts.
The Centurion smiled with compassionate affection and carefully sat down on the rock beside her. He desperately wanted to engage Mary in conversation.
“Well, are you married yet?”
“I am betrothed to a man from Nazareth, a carpenter,” Mary responded in a soft voice. “We plan to wed in December.”
“He is a lucky man,” the Centurion said quietly. “I sincerely wish you well.”
Mary looked up at him, scanning his face for a sign of the Centurion’s character. He is a noble man, she decided. But then a deep ugly red scar on his face caught her attention.
“Where did you get that?” she asked.
The Centurion’s mood immediately changed.
“A minor skirmish with the Parthians,” he responded drily “they caught us in an ambush. We won but I lost three men.... and received this token of Parthian hostility.”
Mary studied his face for a moment. Then she slowly reached up and gently traced the swollen wound with her finger tips. The warmth and energy of her gentle touch surprised the Centurion. It conveyed a sense of compassion and grace. He suddenly realized the wound was no longer painful.
“You have magic in your fingers,” he said softly.
“Let us hope my fingertips have the healing power of God,” Mary smiled and withdrew her hand from his face.
They were silent for a moment, just sitting there acutely aware of the other’s presence.
“Were you born in Nazareth?” he asked.
“My sister and I were born in Sepphoris.... My parents moved here to escape the conflict between the zealots.... and your Roman mercenaries.”
A slight scowl darkened her face. Mary slipped off the rock and picked up the sling of firewood. “I’d better go. I’m getting cold.”
Once again the Centurion was deeply saddened by the reality that separated them. “I’ll walk you home..... with your permission.”
Mary looked thoughtfully at the Maximus and nodded her approval. He is not like the others, she reasoned.
The Centurion gathered the reins of his horse, Mary picked up the sling, and they started toward the village. By the time they reached the community well, his troop had refreshed their water supplies and had started off again toward Caesarea.
When they reached the gate to her home, Mary turned thoughtfully to the Centurion. “Thank you for what you have done. I thank you and God thanks you.” Then her eyes fell upon a medallion that hung from a chain around his throat. It was a Roman Imperial crest. Apparently, the Centurion was from a very important family.
He noticed her look of wonder. “I wish I could give you and your husband to be something of value.... as a gift.... as a celebration of your union.”
Then, on a sudden impulse, he grasped the medallion, pulled the chain up over his head, and handed it to Mary.
“Here is my gift,” he said with a warm smile “keep it with you for protection. If you are challenged by any Roman, show him the medallion. All Roman Centurions will know the crest of my family and they will respect your freedom and give you safe passage.”
He carefully put the chain around Mary’s neck. The medallion fell into the fold of her robe, out of sight. He looked deeply into her lovely brown eyes. Mary of Nazareth, he thought, the Gods have caused me to fall in love with a woman I can never have and don’t fully understand. But so be it. Then he slowly turned and reluctantly walked to his horse. He mounted, and taking the reins in his hand, he turned one more time to look upon her.
“Mary of Nazareth, I sense you have the compassion and strength to change history. May your God watch over you and give you peace.”
With that, he swung his horse around and started down the road toward Caesarea.
Mary watched the Centurion until he disappeared into the trees. Then she reached into her robe, found the medallion, and began to examine it. She noticed the crest on the medallion matched the crest on the Centurion’s tunic.
****
The activity between a girl from Nazareth and a Roman Centurion did not go unnoticed. The next morning, as soon as the sun warmed the town square, three village women gathered at the community well. This had become their custom over many years. It was a time to gossip about nothing and everything. Too be sure, Mary’s two walks with a Roman Centurion was the only topic worth discussing this morning.
“Did you see that?” asked the first woman, “she is engaged and walks with a Roman.... right into town.... bold as can be.”
“Do you think he had his way with her?” asked the second woman.
“He certainly had eyes for her,” said the third woman.
“Well,” exclaimed the first woman, “she certainly must know it is forbidden for a man and woman to be intimate unless married to each other.”
“And,” the second woman added “remember the scripture: There shall be no indecent women among the daughters of Israel. She must be a virgin on her wedding day."
“Does she care?” asked the third woman.
The first woman frowned. “She is very dedicated to her beliefs in God, and she can read the law. I know she can read because I have seen her do it.”
“And I have heard,” interrupted the second woman “she is descended from the Royal family of David. That makes her all the more responsible for obeying the scripture.”
“She is engaged to Joseph,” said the third woman “he is a descendent of Solomon. She wouldn’t dare bring shame on her husband. Would she?”
There was a pause while they bent over the well to fill their water skins. Then, just as they were about to resume their chatter, the three women noticed a lone figure approaching the well with a water skin in her hand. It was Mary. The three women looked at her with obvious disapproval. Their dour demeanor was one of veiled hostility. Mary instantly knew what they were thinking.
“Good morning,” she said pleasantly. “I trust you will have a nice day.”
Mary dipped the water skin into the water and filled it to the top. Then she stood up, adjusted the strap on her shoulder, and turned with deliberation to look intently at each of the three women.... one by one.
“My virtue was saved by the Roman. He is a man of honor and a perfect gentleman.”
Mary hoisted the water skin, looked directly into the eyes of each woman once again, and said firmly:
“And I am still a virgin.”
****
December, 6 B.C.
Three days before their wedding, Mary and Joseph huddled together in the lee of the Temple to escape the sting of the winter wind. Their hearts were pounding with anticipation. Despite the bitter cold, both of them were warmed by the thrill of young love.
“My parents,” Joseph said “have set aside a room for us to begin our journey. It will not be much of a place, but it will give us some privacy. We can share the chores with my mother and Jacob.”
“It is enough for a beginning,” Mary responded with conviction.
Her words of assurance were a relief for Joseph. He believed, deep down, there was something very special about his love for her and the significance of their marriage. Although he was puzzled by the idea, he instinctively knew he was taking on a unique responsibility. He bent over to kiss her cheek.
“I will always take care of you,” he said softly.
They nestled for a few moments turning over the thoughts that came rushing into their minds. Getting married, establishing a home. Mary had complete confidence in Joseph. He was a skilled carpenter and an excellent stone mason. Then Joseph broke into her thoughts with a question.
“I hear you have taken up with a Roman Centurion,” he teased.
Mary smiled and gave him a playful punch to his arm. He responded by taking her into his arms and giving her a long lingering gentle kiss. It would be their last kiss before becoming husband and wife. Joseph looked thoughtfully at this woman he loved.
“Mary of Nazareth, I am marrying a woman of grace and compassion.”
****
Although marriage is the union of two distinct persons, it is also the union of two souls that will join together as one. We each possess a soul. But we are incomplete. We search for a companion. Thus marriage is, without question, one of the greatest soul-stirring experiences for both the bride and the groom. Each soul has found its mate. We are spiritually complete when we are one.
In the Jewish ceremony, the groom is initially the center of the newly created home. He takes his place under the canopy where the marriage ceremony will be performed. When the bride is led to the canopy, she proceeds to walk (or dance) in a circle around the groom, symbolizing the creation of their own special space within the greater world. After the completion of seven circuits around the groom, each one ever closer to him, she stands beside her husband to be, symbolizing that they - together - are at the center of their new home. From here on, throughout the entire ceremony, the bride and groom form the center of all activity. During the following celebration, they are treated as royalty by happy guests; their physical and spiritual selves have been united.
Mary and Joseph were married in a village ceremony on December 25, 6 B.C. Joachim could not contain his pride. His beautiful little girl had become a married woman at age 14. Joseph’s uncle Cleopas gave a rousing speech in honor of the newlyweds. Anne and Ruth shared long hugs and tearful moments of joy. Jacob was so pleased he made many, many toasts.
****
For the young newlyweds the celebration could not last long enough. But the boisterous laughter, joyful songs and spirited dancing finally gave way to quiet conversations in small groups of villagers. Mary and Joseph paid their respects to their parents and several close neighbors, and began the walk to their new home. Ruth and Jacob had set aside one room for their extended family. The young couple would stay there until they could afford a place of their own.
They strolled slowly, hand in hand, stopping from time to time to share a gentle loving kiss. Both were euphoric. Their time had come at last. Joseph spoke.
“Mary, my wife, whatever happens, with God’s help, we will do it together.”
“May God watch over us,” Mary responded. Then, with a slight trace of crimson on her face, she added “And may God give us many healthy babies.”
Joseph was about to respond when he looked over Mary’s shoulder. A man of medium build with greying hair and a rumpled appearance was walking toward them, carefully testing each step with a cane. Joseph turned to face the man, carefully protecting Mary by placing her behind him. The man stopped a few feet away from them.
His gentle demeanor and affectionate smile put Joseph at ease.
“Who are you?” Joseph asked.
The man rested himself on his cane, and then began to speak slowly as though every word was very important.
“I am an angel.... my name is Micah.... God has given me the job of revealing his divine plan.”
Joseph was astonished by the man’s words. Skeptical and somewhat confused, he cautiously asked him “Can you prove you are an angel?”
Micah ignored Joseph. “I have the responsibility of watching over humanity’s spiritual evolution, and you two...” he paused for what seemed forever, “are the key to what comes next.”
Joseph, now thoroughly annoyed, again challenged Micah.
“Prove you are an angel!”
Micah looked at Joseph as one would regard a little child.
“Oh ye of little faith, must everything be of stone?”
With that remark, Micah gestured with his hand in a circle.... and disappeared. Mary and Joseph were astonished. Their amazement was even greater when Micah suddenly reappeared, carrying a bouquet of flowers cradled in his arms. Seven beautiful roses surrounded by a spicy fragrant spray of green fern. Smiling, he handed the flowers to Mary.
“A gift,” he said “a gift from God to honor your wedding day.”
Mary carefully cradled the roses in her arms and bent her head to let the delicate fragrance of the flowers envelope her senses. Any doubts about Micah suddenly vanished. She was overjoyed to be in the presence of a real angel. Micah reached into the flowers and took a perfect white rose with a blush of red from the bouquet. “There is a rose here for each of your children.... seven beautiful babies. This white rose celebrates your first one, a baby boy whom God wants you to name Jesus. He will be known as the son of God with the power to heal and teach.”
Joseph was surprised, pleased, and troubled: all at the same time. He wanted a large family, but what did Micah mean when he said Jesus would be the son of God?
“Is he to be from my seed? Are we being asked to raise an infant seeded by God?”
Micah understood Joseph’s distress. Every man was proud of his seed. In this culture, it was an integral part of his manhood. A woman was only expected to provide the fertile womb that would nourish the growth of a man’s seed (a complete fetus) until the baby was born. Gentle Micah placed his hand on Joseph’s shoulder.
“You will provide the seed for your son. Mary will also make her contribution to the creation and growth of a baby you will both love. God will help by making sure your seed and Mary’s contribution are perfect. Your son will be of the house of David, just as you expect. He will also be a descendent of King David through Mary.”
Joseph relaxed. A feeling of joy swept over him. Seven children would be a sign of great wealth. He looked at Mary, his heart filled with love. How would she react to Micah’s news?
Mary was obviously delighted. She wanted many children. Micah’s words were joyous news. But she was also puzzled.
“Why have we been selected to be the parents of this boy you want us to call Jesus?”
Micah stepped back and looked at both of them with a smile that conveyed his loving compassion. He again made a circular motion with his hands, and a bench suddenly appeared. He motioned for them to sit down. Joseph carefully reached down to test the bench to make sure it was real. Mary had greater faith. She immediately seated herself on the bench, still cradling the beautiful roses in her arms. Micah began to speak.
“You both come from a culture that has created a remarkable understanding of God’s values. Your knowledge will provide Jesus with a philosophical foundation for the work he will do for God. Joseph, you are a man of intelligence and strong character. Mary, you have - in addition to these things - absolute faith. God has selected you to raise Jesus because he knows you will work together to raise him in the ways of man and God.”
Micah paused long enough to let them understand the significance of his words. Then he began to speak again.
“Joseph, you must teach Jesus the ways of your community, the skills of a carpenter and mason, and how to be a man among men. Mary you must be sure Jesus learns to read, thoroughly understands the laws and customs of your religion, and embraces your absolute faith in the divine.”
Mary and Joseph looked at each other, wondering if they would be able to carry out Micah’s instructions. But Micah already knew they would be the perfect parents for Jesus. He raised his hands and made another circular motion.
And disappeared.
****
Rays of golden sun streamed through the small window into their bedroom. The air about their bed was crisp and cold. Mary and Joseph awoke from a deep peaceful sleep, very happy but unsure of their new roles as husband and wife. Joseph rolled over, raised himself on his elbow, and carefully examined Mary’s lovely face. He reached out to gently caress her shoulder.
“Mary.... Mary we need to talk.”
Mary opened her eyes and grasped Joseph’s hand.
“You sound so serious. Did I do something wrong?”
“No–heavens no,” Joseph responded to reassure her. Then he became thoughtful.
“I had a dream last night, something between a vision and an inspiration. I am convinced.... we have to be careful.”
“About what?”
“We cannot tell anyone about the angel who visited us yesterday or anything about Jesus.”
Startled, Mary pushed the covers away from her face to get a better look at Joseph.
“Why not?” she asked, puzzled by his announcement.
“Because if we tell anyone, even our parents, word will spread about our encounter. We will be forever hounded by people who will ridicule our claims. The commotion will be awful and.... we have to protect Jesus. If the Romans or the priests find out about him they will be overly curious about his powers. If they decide he is a threat, they will kill him.”
Mary abruptly sat up; her eyes wide open with alarm.
“Is that what you learned in your dream?”
“Yes.... Mary it all makes sense. God would not want us to jeopardize the life of our son.”
Mary lay back in the bed and pulled the covers up around her face. The world was suddenly very cold. She pondered about the three women at the well. They will not like what we tell them. They will be jealous. They will make up stories – evil stories. The news will spread. What happens next can only be bad for our baby.
Mary’s face turned a bit crimson at the thought of being a newlywed wife. She threw down the covers from her face and looked at Joseph.
“Then it is settled. Let us keep our encounter with Micah a secret. We must tell no one.”
Joseph gently took Mary in his arms to sooth her distress.
“We shall wait.... We shall wait for God.... He will decide when he is ready to call Jesus his son.”
Chapter 2 John and Jesus
This chapter includes a more comprehensive narrative about The Birth of John (Who Would Become John the Baptist), explores the events and cultural challenges that confronted Joseph and Mary, reveals a perfectly plausible reason why Joseph decides to go to Egypt, and tells a more realistic story about the Birth of Jesus.
After reviewing available historical information for this period in history, and Coptic Christian beliefs, I am compelled to believe it is highly likely Joseph and Mary fled to Egypt to escape the growing chaos in Galilee. The chaos of 5 B.C erupted into violent rebellion in 4 B.C. after King Herod died. For their safety, and the safety of their unborn child, Egypt was a good choice. In Egypt Joseph would have been able to find employment as a carpenter (oddly enough--- working for the Romans on their many building projects).
……………
June, 6 B.C.
The aches and pains of age troubled Zechariah, making it more difficult for him to carry out his duties as a Temple Priest. He and his wife Elizabeth had longed to have children, but she was barren. Never-the-less, they continued to live in the ways of the Lord and were still hopeful they could have at least one child.
One day, while Zechariah was burning incense in the Temple, as was his duty, he was startled and frightened by the sudden appearance of an angel.
“Be not afraid,” said the angel in a serene voice. “Your prayers have been answered. Elizabeth is with child, a boy, and the Lord asks you name him John. He will be your joy and delight. His birth is important to God. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit before the time of his birth. He will prepare the way for the Lord. He will instruct people to do what is right and bring all who seek salvation to the word of our God. You must therefore be sure he will be righteous, so that he will carry out his mission without blame.”
“But we are so old!” exclaimed Zechariah. “How can this be?”
The angel was annoyed by Zechariah’s response.
“My name is Gabriel, and I was sent by the Lord to tell you the good news of your coming child!”
“But we are forty and three years old. Isn’t it too late?”
Gabriel frowned, clearly upset by Zechariah’s lack of faith.
“Because you do not believe me,” Gabriel retorted “I will take away your ability to speak until you regain your faith in the Lord!”
Then, with a wave of his hand, Gabriel disappeared.
Zechariah soon discovered Gabriel was telling the truth. He could not speak. Try as he might, he could not utter a single word. Not even a sound. Puzzled, he finished his duties at the Temple and went home.
When Zechariah reached his house, Elizabeth threw open the door and greeted him with tears of joy.
“The angel told me the news!” she exclaimed. “I am pregnant! We are going to have a baby boy!”
…………
(In 6 B.C., children who managed to reach the age of 10 had an average life expectancy of 47.5 years. Thus people age 43 were considered “old”.)
…………
Elizabeth had become pregnant six months before Joseph and Mary were married. In December, word went out to the family she was having trouble with her health. Joachim was Zechariah’s cousin. When word of Elizabeth’s illness reached him, he pondered what could he do. After much discussion, Mary volunteered to help Elizabeth until she gave birth. Although they had been married for only two weeks, Joseph reluctantly agreed. Arrangements were made. In mid-January Mary joined a caravan to make the long trip by foot to Hebron in the hills of Judea where Elizabeth and Zechariah lived.
Elizabeth was busy with the afternoon chores when she heard a commotion in the yard. She looked out the window and saw a young woman, a very tired young woman, toiling up the grade to her house. At first, Elizabeth was puzzled. Then inspired by a sudden realization, she exclaimed “Mary!” and walked as quickly as she could on her painfully tired legs to the door.
“Mary!” she called out to the woman. Mary, exhausted by the day’s long journey through the rain, managed a halfhearted smile.
“Elizabeth, I am really glad to see you because it marks the end of my long journey from Nazareth.”
Elizabeth threw open her arms and hugged Mary.
“Welcome to my humble home. Come in, come in and wash up.”
Then a very surprised Elizabeth stumbled back against the wall.
“What’s wrong?” asked Mary, thoroughly alarmed by the older woman’s distress.
“My baby,” Elizabeth responded, patting her swollen belly, “He gave such a kick. I do believe he is glad to see you.”
Mary helped Elizabeth to a chair, made her as comfortable as she could, and took a long look at her cousin. Elizabeth was obviously struggling with her pregnancy. The strain showed on her face and her legs were crisscrossed with ugly enlarged varicose veins.
“When are you due,” Mary asked.
“In three months, maybe sooner, God willing.”
“March,” Mary said absently. “And you said your baby is a boy. How do you know?”
Elizabeth scanned the face of the young woman before her. Even with the grime and stains of her long journey, Mary’s face conveyed a sense of sweet compassion.
“Zechariah and I have been praying to God to let us have a baby for many years. Now he has blessed us with a baby boy. I know this because an angel told me what was going to happen. The angel instructed us to call him John.”
Before Mary could respond, the door opened with a bang. It was Zechariah. Mary quickly crossed the room to give him a hug. The old man was genuinely glad to see her and retuned her hug with some vigor.
“How are you?” she asked. “Have you just come from the Temple?”
Zechariah could only smile. Elizabeth came to his rescue.
“Zechariah cannot speak–he is being punished by the angel Gabriel because he refused to believe I was pregnant. He will not be able to speak until he finds his faith - when John is born.”
****
February, 5 B.C.
Mary was just finishing breakfast when she suddenly jumped up from the table and ran outside. Several minutes later she returned, looking very ill.
Elizabeth watched as Mary nervously crossed the room to take her seat at the table. The young woman’s condition was obvious.
“Mary,” she said with love in her heart “Mary you are pregnant!”
Mary sat down by the table, a slight crimson color on her cheeks. Self-consciously, she looked up.
“Yes, Joseph and I will be parents, sometime in the fall.”
“Mary, you are the lucky one. Your birthing years have started while you are young. Look at me; I suffer my pregnancy because I am old.”
Mary relaxed a little and managed a faint smile. But Elizabeth was not finished.
“I had a revelation last week. Micah came to see me in a dream. He told me all about Jesus.”
Mary sat upright, suddenly frightened by the Elizabeth’s words.
“You must not tell anyone. Please do not tell anyone,” she pleaded.
“Zechariah and I will keep it our little secret. Do not worry.... But there is more.”
Mary was astonished by Elizabeth’s words.
“Your baby Jesus and my baby John will become friends,” Elizabeth said with confidence. “You are going to be the mother of the Messiah, a man who will carry God’s message to everyone who will listen. And my John.... my John will announce his coming.”
Mary relaxed into her chair, her face radiant with a happy peaceful smile. The God she loved had a plan.
Uncertain what to say next, Elizabeth studied her young companion’s serene face. Who am I, she thought, that the Mother of my Lord should come to me?
Then - inspired by a sudden rush of inspiration - she spoke with conviction. “Oh Mary.... Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. Your son will be the son of man and the perfection of God.”
****
Mid-March, 5 B.C.
The shriek of pain coming from the bedroom told Mary that John was coming into the world. She rushed to get hot water from the kitchen and then into the room to help with the birth. By the grace of God, it was an easy delivery. Mary cut and tied the umbilical cord, washed him, and rubbed him with oil. They wrapped the baby with soft fabrics and laid him in a cradle.
John had a lusty cry. Mary was concerned. “Do you think his crying will wake up the whole neighborhood?” she asked.
“He is born to be a prophet,” Elizabeth remarked dryly. “I’m sure he will be heard.”
By the time Zechariah returned from his Temple duties, the baby was asleep. Zechariah was surprised to find so many neighbors had dropped whatever they were doing to visit Elizabeth.
Zechariah was even more surprised by how many people came to John’s circumcision eight days later. When the circumcision was completed, his neighbors asked him what he was going to call his son. Most expected Zechariah would name his son after himself.
But instead, Elizabeth spoke up. “No! He is to be called John.”
There was a murmur in the room. It was unusual for a woman to speak up like she did. One neighbor asked Zechariah:
“And what name do you want?”
Zechariah took a tablet and to everyone’s astonishment wrote down the name - John. As soon as he finished showing the tablet to them, Zechariah immediately regained his ability to speak. He had done what the angel instructed him to do. A very relieved Zechariah began to chant: “Give praise to the Lord, the God of Israel. He has come to set his people free....”
****
April.
Three weeks after John’s birth, Mary returned home to be with the man she loved. They celebrated her return with both families and the festivities included another very special event: it was Mary’s fifteenth birthday. There was joyous dancing and hearty laughter. Joachim was very proud of his daughter, as a good father should be. Jacob made many toasts to the reunited couple.
The next morning Ruth greeted Mary with a cheerful “Good morning,” as the young woman walked with some care into the kitchen. “Are you feeling sick today?”
“No, not really,” Mary replied. “So far my pregnancy has been relatively easy.” Then her face brightened with a broad grin. “I just have to be careful where my feet are going.”
Mary began to busy herself with the morning chores. She picked up the water skin and headed toward the door. But Ruth spoke up with some energy.
“No, no Mary. Let Joseph go to the well for water.”
Mary reluctantly put down the water skin. “Fetching water is woman’s work.... What can I do to help?”
Ruth looked affectionately at the young woman who was so important to her son.
“You can help by kneading the bread dough. When you have finished, I’ll build a fire in the outdoor oven. It would be very helpful if you could tend the fire and bake the bread.
Mary smiled, happy to be of some help. She loved kneading the dough and the smell of baking bread.
Ruth became philosophical.
“It is written the sages encourage women to increase their good deeds and spiritual refinement during a pregnancy in order to please the Lord. In my eyes, Mary - you are doing more than the Lord could ask. You left the comfort of your husband’s bed to help Elizabeth.”
Ruth paused for a long moment and changed the subject.
“Joseph is upset about Ezekias (Hezekiah). He is trying to start a rebellion.”
Mary was worried. “How can he hope to defeat both Varus and Herod?” she asked.
“The Pharisees are looking for a Messiah to lead them against the Romans. Many believe his son Judas the Galilean is the Messiah they seek.”
Mary looked away; a slight knowing smile graced her face. She already knew who the Messiah would be. He was growing day by day in her womb. But then her mood abruptly changed. There was fear in her eyes when she looked at Ruth.
“The enumeration has angered everyone and Quirinius insists on completing it this year. The people are already upset about Herod’s profane behavior. If Judas is anointed the Messiah, there will be bloodshed.”
Ruth pondered Mary’s words. Everyone was threatened by the spreading talk of rebellion.
“All over Israel,” she said “there will be no place to hide.”
Mary shuddered with apprehension. She must find a way to protect Jesus from harm.
“Joseph speaks often about Judas the Galilean. Like everyone else, he is angered by the Roman’s ruthless oppression and pitiless taxation. But what can he do?”
Ruth looked at Mary, her eyes filled with sorrow.
“Leave. Leave or Joseph will be forced to join the rebellion.... and he will probably be maimed or killed.”
Mary’s heart thumped and she became increasingly uneasy. “But where can we go?”
“North into Persia or south into Egypt.... There are many Jews in Egypt. That might be the best choice. But Joseph will have to decide.”
Ruth paused to examine her daughter -in-law. “Will you go with him?”
“Of course,” she almost whispered the words “ wherever he goes I will be at his side.”
****
Late August.
Although Joseph had steadfastly resisted being drawn into the rebellious hatred mounting in Nazareth, Sepphoris, Cana, Nain, and elsewhere, he knew he was being criticized for his attitude. Some of the men in Nazareth began to whisper behind his back. But for Joseph, it was a simple choice. He had given his word to Micah that he would protect Mary and his son from harm. Even though he shared his neighbor’s resentment and frustration against the harsh and unforgiving rule of the Romans, he had to honor his commitment to the God both he and Mary loved.
He had also resisted the idea of leaving home, but in late August the mood in Nazareth became very hostile toward anyone who didn’t want to kill Romans. Herod, it was rumored, had become paranoid and unpredictably cruel. Varus, the governor of Syria, had threatened to march his three legions into Galilee and Judea. Open hostility against the Romans was everywhere. It was, Joseph decided, too dangerous for them to stay in Nazareth. He had given his word to Micah and to God. Nothing was more important than his unborn son, Jesus.
****
September.
It is expected that in the last month of pregnancy, a responsible husband will open the synagogue ark to pray for an easy birth. Someone in the congregation will then take out the Torah scroll. Upon opening it, the love of God sweeps down from the heavenly gates. Hopefully, the husband has brought God’s blessings upon his wife and she will have an easy birth. And so it was for Joseph and Mary at the Temple in Nazareth. Mary was serene in her confidence God would take care of them. Joseph was full of the pride that comes to a man when his beautiful wife will soon give birth.
After the service, Joseph and Mary spent several minutes talking with neighbors. Congratulations and best wishes filled the air. The mood was very congenial.
It was time, however, for them to have a serious discussion about leaving Nazareth. Threats of conflict were everywhere. They joined their parents at Jacob’s house to share a meal with Ruth, Joachim and Anne. After dinner Jacob proposed a toast to the young couple. But no one offered a smile. Everyone was troubled by the discussion that could not be avoided.
Joseph spoke up. “As you all know, I am under intense pressure to join the rebellion..... But I have a responsibility.... I have a responsibility to God and to Mary. I cannot let any harm come to her.... or our baby.”
“I know your fears,” Joachim responded “Anne and I have always believed Mary is destined to do the work of our Lord....” He paused to look at each person at the table. “That gives Joseph a greater responsibility.... a greater responsibility to God than to stay here and risk being slaughtered.”
A subdued Jacob gave his response in a voice so low his words were almost inaudible.
“I agree..... He cannot fulfill his obligations by staying here in Nazareth,” Jacob said, “It is not safe for him, Mary or their baby.”
“Would Egypt be any safer?” asked Joseph.
“There is a large Jewish population in Alexandria. They apparently live in a relatively peaceful coexistence with the Romans,” Joachim responded “and there will be plenty of work there for a man of your skills.”
“What will he do for money?” scowled Jacob “it’s a long trip. There will be expenses.”
Ruth looked up and prodded her husband. “We can help them, can’t we Jacob.”
Jacob looked briefly at Joachim. Both men were resigned to the inevitable. “It is certain.... If God has united a Levite with the House of David, he had a divine purpose.”
Jacob smiled gently and turned to his wife.
“Yes my love. We can raise some money..... They will not starve.”
****
Joseph decided to follow the Jordan River south to Jerusalem. They could join one of the many caravans headed south from Syria for safety. Following the river route would be easier on Mary and he believed they could make it to Jerusalem before she was due. Joachim had supplied them with a donkey to carry their meager possessions. From time to time Mary would ride on the donkey to give her tired feet a short rest.
But as they walked south along the Jordan River, Joseph and Mary encountered several groups of travelers going north who told them alarming stories of skirmishes with the Romans in Peraea.
“Herod is in trouble,” Joseph commented to Mary as they turned southwest toward Jericho. “I’m glad we didn’t go through Samaria into Judea. The Romans are losing control. The people we met this morning believe Herod is becoming more and more paranoid. That only makes him more dangerous.”
They walked along in silence for a few moments before Joseph spoke again.
“Herod has alienated everyone. He observes Roman pagan holidays, builds pagan temples, sponsors arena games and now he insults us with that blasphemous gilded eagle over the great gate of the temple. They say Herod has even executed his own son in order to maintain his throne. Where will his cruelty stop?”
Mary looked thoughtfully at her husband.
“Joseph, we have been ruled by Assyria, Babylonia, Greece, Egypt, Syria and now the Romans. I know you look forward to the day when we will be an independent nation ruled by the laws of God.”
Mary was about to say more when she suddenly realized she was beginning to feel ill. They continued their journey in silence.
Jericho was in turmoil. When they reached Bethany they were met by several terrified people who warned them the Romans had just crucified several rebels. For the moment, Jerusalem was not a safe place for anyone.
Upon hearing about the crucifixions, Mary began to tremble uncontrollably - as though from the cold.
“Joseph, get us out of here!” she cried out “do something. Please! Let’s keep going south!”
Joseph, temporarily confused by the excitement, managed to nod his head in agreement. They walked as fast as they could by the Mount of Olives, circumvented Jerusalem as best they could, found the road to Bethlehem, and turned south. As they walked along, the noise of Jerusalem began to fade and within an hour the countryside seemed to be serenely peaceful.
Mary again began to feel ill.
God have mercy on me, she thought.
****
God was indeed merciful. That night they camped with a group of travelers who were headed north to the Decapolis. The next morning they joined a caravan headed south toward Hebron. But as they approached Bethlehem, it became clear Mary was soon to be a mother. The last few miles were especially difficult. Mary struggled to keep up with the caravan. The sun had almost disappeared over the western horizon by the time they at last entered Bethlehem. Mary knew she could go no further. Joseph found her a stone bench in the public square and she gratefully sat down to rest.
Joseph searched the darkened streets for help. A sympathetic neighbor pointed to a humble house near the square. Joseph, unsure what to expect, and very worried about Mary, quickly walked to the house and knocked on the door. Inside he could hear a shuffling noise and then the door opened just enough to reveal a large woman. She looked uneasily at Joseph.
“Can I help you?” she said with suspicion.
Joseph, tired, dirty and very nervous about Mary, certainly looked like he needed help.
“My name is Joseph. I am from the house of David. I have been told I have family in Bethlehem. I met a man who directed me to your house. Please help us, my wife is about to give birth.”
The look on the woman’s face immediately changed from one of suspicion to a mixture of surprise and joy. She threw open the door and rushed to give Joseph an affectionate hug. Joseph almost lost his balance, so passionate was her enthusiasm.
“Gabriel told me you would come!” she cried “I didn’t want to believe him.... but I wanted to believe him.... but,” the woman abruptly stopped talking and looked with alarm over Joseph’s shoulder “where is your wife?” she exclaimed.
Joseph freed himself from the woman’s hug and managed to regain his composure.
“She is in the square, near the community well.”
“Go fetch her,” the woman commanded “go fetch her at once and bring her here!”
Joseph, relieved by the woman’s obvious warmth, turned toward the square and went back to the stone bench where Mary was seated.
“I found help,” he said “a woman asked me to bring you to her house.”
Joseph helped Mary to her feet. “And,” he said with excitement, “she said Gabriel told her we would be coming.”
Mary was so tired she could only manage a small smile. Joseph gave her as much support as he could as they walked slowly to the house. The woman greeted them on the steps, helped Mary inside and took her to a chair by the fireplace. She quietly examined Mary’s face, placed her hand on Mary’s forehead and nodded with satisfaction.
“We don’t have much money,” Joseph declared, still uncertain about what was happening.
The woman dismissed his concern with a wave of her hand.
“My name is Genisia.... We will gladly share what we have with you and your wife. I will find some way to make room for you both.”
Genisia paused for a moment, thinking about Mary, Joseph and how to help them.
“You can make a place for yourself in the barn. It will be warm there. The animals won’t mind.”
…….……
In 5 B.C. it was not unusual for people to sleep with their animals in a barn or cave. Located in a structure attached to the house or in a cave, they would be protected from the weather and thieves.
Jesus was apparently born in late September or early October, 5 B.C. In an irony of history, he could have been conceived on December 25, 6 B.C.
……….…
Jesus arrived before midnight. It was an easy birth. Having had five children of her own, Genisia knew exactly what to do. After he was born, Genisia cut and tied the umbilical cord, washed him, rubbed him with oil, and bundled him in swaddling clothes. They gathered hay from the barn and made a crib for him in the manger. Although exhausted, Mary was a serene and happy mother. She lay back on a hay stack to rest. Like most fathers, Joseph was both delighted to have a son and almost overwhelmed by his love for Mary.
Genisia looked with affection at the young couple.
“Well,” she said “I cannot do much more for you and I am tired. I’ll say goodnight.”
But Joseph wanted to ask Genisia a question. He left Mary’s side and took Genisia by the hand. He looked at her gravely.
“Gabriel told you?” he asked.
“Yes,” she said quietly “he was very animated..... about Mary..... about you...”
Genisia smiled broadly at Joseph “And I know all about your little secret,” she teased.
Joseph responded with alarm. “Everything?”
“Yes, but do not worry my young friend, your secret is safe with me.... and who would have ever guessed that I.... me.... a humble nobody, could help bring him into this world.”
Joseph relaxed. “We both thank you for your help. You have done all that God could ask of any woman.”
Genisia started for the door, but abruptly turned once again to face Mary and Joseph.
“One of my sons is a shepherd. He and his friend are on their way here; they are bringing lambs to sell in the market. Do not fear them.”
Genisia looked at Mary with sincere reverence, paused for a moment, and said “I do believe you have given birth to the Lamb of God.”
Mary smiled and settled back into the comfort of the hay.
Genisia beckoned for her two dogs to follow her into the house. But they refused to come. Instead they curled up next to the crib. Genisia understood. They would guard Jesus while Mary and Joseph were asleep.
Joseph walked to the open door of the manger and looked up at the stars. Rays from one particularly bright star seemed to bathe the manger with a soft glow.
He was suddenly filled with joy.
“We have a son!” he exclaimed.
Joseph closed the heavy door and returned to Mary. He knelt down and carefully positioned himself next to her. Joseph cuddled Mary in his arms and gently kissed her forehead. Exhausted but happy, she was soon blissfully asleep. Joseph lay back and allowed the haze of sweet sleep to overcome his senses. But in the drowsy moments before he fell into a deep slumber, a voice filed with love and grace echoed through his thoughts.
“We have a son!”
****
On a hill not far from Bethlehem, several shepherds were keeping watch over their sheep. Genisia’s son and his friend had joined them in the late evening hours to cull out three lambs. They were all suddenly aware of the beautiful star that bathed Bethlehem in a soft light. At first, they were terrified.
“It is an omen,” said one shepherd “something important has happened.”
“Whatever has happened, it must be good,” responded a second shepherd “let us praise this sign which clearly comes from God.”
Genisia’s son looked at the star and followed its rays as they descended to Bethlehem. He was struck by a feeling of joy.
“The light of the star is falling on my house!”
He quickly picked up his staff, motioned to his friend, and the two of them started for the village, guiding the three lambs before them.
Full of wonder, one of the shepherds began to sing: “Oh little town of Bethlehem....”
****
As was the custom, on the eighth day, Mary’s baby was circumcised and given the name Jesus. Four weeks later the couple took the risk of journeying to Jerusalem and on the fortieth day they made a purification offering at the Temple. Thankfully, all went well. Despite the recent shock of multiple crucifixions, the city was relatively quiet. They took great care to complete their offering unnoticed. But as Joseph and Mary were leaving the Temple’s Court of the Women, they were approached by a very frail man dressed in old cloths and badly worn sandals. He looked as though he had been expecting them.
“My name is Simeon,” he said “and I have been looking for you.”
“How did you know us?” demanded a very suspicious Joseph.
The old man smiled. “God told me you would come today.”
Joseph was both puzzled and alarmed.
“Why would God tell you to look for us?”
“Because he told me I would not die before I have seen the Messiah and today ..... today he told me you were the ones who would bring him to the Temple.”
The old man looked with wonder at Jesus, and then reached out to take him from Joseph’s arms. Although suspicious, a reluctant Joseph allowed the old man to have his way. He was very gentle and as he cradled Jesus in his arms, he prayed “Lord, as you have promised, you may now take your humble servant in peace; for my eyes have seen your salvation for all nations, and all your creations.”
Simeon turned and gave Jesus back to Joseph. His humility and benevolence were unmistakable as he backed away with a graceful bow.
“Bless you both,” he said with compassion “may you have a safe journey.”
Then he disappeared into the crowded courtyard.
Joseph looked perplexed. “Why did God tell Simeon to look for us?”
Mary was suddenly overcome with joy. “God just sent us a message,” she said “he has shown us how important Jesus will become when he is grown.”
But then she abruptly turned and began to walk toward the courtyard gate. Her pace quickened and Joseph, carrying Jesus in his arms, had to walk very fast to catch up to her. Mary’s mood had changed in an instant. Her terrible fear was unmistakable.
“I want to go back to Bethlehem; just as fast as we can. It is not safe here for us or for Jesus!”
****
The required rituals complete, Joseph and Mary could again focus on their future and the trip to Egypt. Help came in the form of a distant uncle, a rather large happy man by the name of Jethro. Shortly after Joseph and Mary returned to Bethlehem, he suddenly appeared, as if out of nowhere. Genisia told him about Mary’s baby. For reasons he did not understand, Jethro immediately felt compelled to have a talk with Joseph and invited him for a leisurely walk to the top of Mount David. It was a friendly conversation.
“I understand from Genisia you plan to go to Egypt,” Jethro said “It is a long trip and you will be in danger much of the way.”
“You and I both know what is coming for the people of Israel,” Joseph answered “Mary and I have a special responsibility to protect our baby from harm. Bad as the trip may be, it will be safer in Egypt than here.”
“Will you go by the coast route or cross the dessert?
“I’m not sure. What would you do?”
“Hmm ..... Go by the coast route. There are more caravans to join, and more water. Besides once you get to the coast, the walk to Egypt will be easier for Mary.”
“But what about crossing the hills between here and the coast?”
“There is water, this time of the year,” Jethro responded “just take your time.”
Jethro was silent for a moment.
“Egypt is a good choice for you,” he said firmly.
Joseph nodded in agreement, even though he was unsure why Jethro thought Egypt would be a good idea.
Jethro pressed on with his thoughts.
“The Romans are doing several major construction projects. They seem to have enough money to go on forever with their constant building of roads, buildings, temples, and harbors. You could go to Alexandria or Memphis. They may even send you south to Hermopolis.”
“Are there many Jews there?”
“Of course, they are everywhere. If you make friends with the Essenes, they will provide you and your family with a place to stay until you get settled.”
Joseph knew of the Essenes. They were very strict with their rituals and beliefs. But they could be helpful to a traveler. Joseph’s interest began to increase. He asked Jethro several more questions. The last one was the most difficult.
“We have almost no money. How will we get there?”
Jethro looked intently at the young man beside him. He stroked his beard thoughtfully and the spoke in a low voice.
“I do not know why, but I feel compelled to help you. I have this feeling you are destined to go to Egypt. I do not know why.... maybe God knows.... Yes of course God knows. You will improve your skills and pass them on to your son. The experiences of a big city like Alexandria will give you a broader perspective of how the world actually works. You will be able to watch the coming and going of traders and caravans from all over the world, even as far away as India.”
Jethro placed his hands on Joseph’s shoulders.
“Yes, you should go to Egypt. You will grow in stature and pass your new knowledge on to your son. Go while you are young and before your family ties you down. It will be a good experience for you. I’ll pay your way.... for you and your family.... you can go down by the coastal route.... and I’ll introduce you to an Essene Priest. He can give you a coin of introduction that will open the door of any Essene community.”
Joseph was almost overwhelmed by Jethro’s suggestion and promise of help. He could only nod his head in agreement. He gave Jethro a nervous smile and shook his hand.
After leaving Jethro, Joseph looked for Mary and found her in Genisia’s garden.
“Jethro is going to help us. He agrees we should go to Egypt.”
Mary was troubled by Joseph’s statement. Egypt seemed to be a far distant country and full of unknown challenges. Yet, in her heart Mary knew they could not stay in Judea.
“Will it be safe for Jesus?”
“Egypt is beyond the control of King Herod. You know what a jealous and cruel king he is. If he hears about Jesus, he will seek him out to have him killed. If we go to Egypt, it is likely the Romans will not care about Jesus. We can travel there on the coastal road by way of Gaza.”
“And where will our journey end?”
“My father once mentioned we have family in the village of Metariyeh. Jethro will introduce me to an Essene priest. He believes they will help us on our trip.”
After several moments of contemplation, Mary nodded her agreement. Joseph was right. They must continue their journey.
Chapter 3 Growing Up
King Herod I. became a Roman Client King over Judea, Samaria, Galilee, Idumea, and Peraea in 37 B.C. He is known for his huge building projects including the port at Caesarea Maritima, a fortress at Masada, a palace fortress at Herodium, and the second Temple (Herod’s Temple) which he built on an expanded Temple Mount in Jerusalem.
The first periodic enrollment of Syria was made in 8 – 7 B. C. during the rule of Gaius Sentius Saturninus, and his successor Publius Quintilius Varus who governed Syria for three years, from mid-summer 7 B.C. to mid-summer 4 B.C. Because Varus had no dependable military experience, Augustus sent Publius Sulpicius Quirinius to Syria as his legatos (lieutenant). Varus controlled the internal affairs of Syria, while Quirinius commanded the Roman Legions and directed its foreign policy. Quirinius left Syria in 5 B.C., leaving Varus in charge.
The enrollment was delayed in Herod’s kingdom because he knew a census would cause an uprising among the population. Augustus eventually sent Herod a very explicit message; Herod was demoted. Going forward, Herod would be treated as a subject of Rome, rather than a client King. The enumeration was delayed by subsequent diplomatic exchanges between Augustus and a very reluctant Herod. He obviously did not like the idea of being demoted.
King Herod 1 finally ordered the enumeration in either late 6 B.C. or early 5 B.C., when Quirinius was a special legatos Aogusti to Syria. The whole nation was required to be counted and take an oath of fidelity to Augustus.
The hatred and energy of rebellion swelled to a fever pitch in 5 B.C. By late summer, Joseph was under a great deal of pressure to join the rebellion. He also became very concerned for the safety of his wife and her unborn baby. It was lucky for them they left Nazareth in the fall of 5 B.C.
King Herod I totally alienated the Jews and when he died in early 4 B.C. the temporary gap in Roman rule encouraged Judea and other provinces to erupt in full revolt. Would be Messiahs, temple priests, and ordinary Jews rebelled, hoping to restore freedom from the hated Roman oppressor. Publius Quintilius Varus had four legions under his command. He was known for his harsh rule and high taxes. The Jewish historian Josephus mentions the swift action of Varus against a messianic revolt in Judaea after the death of Roman Client King Herod I in late 4 B.C. Varus led two (three?) complete legions and numerous Arab auxiliaries under the command of King Aretas into Galilee. Sepphoris was destroyed and some of its residents were sold as slaves. He then marched south to Jerusalem. Varus systematically crushed the rebellion with incredible brutality. He occupied Jerusalem and as a symbol of Roman power; crucified 2,000 Jewish rebels.
Herod’s son Herod Antipas became the tetrarch of Galilee and Peraea. He ruled until 39 A.D. He loved Sepphoris, perched on a hill overlooking the valleys below, and in 3 B.C. started an ambitious program to rebuild the city as his capitol.
Herod’s son Philip became tetrarch of territories north and east of the Jordan (including the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee). He ruled until 34 A.D.
Herod's son Herod Archelaus became ethnarch of Judea, Samaria, and Idumea. As a ruler, he was totally incompetent and like his father, he managed to alienate most of the Jews in his kingdom. Archelaus was also incredibly cruel. By 6 A.D. the aristocracy was so incensed they sent a delegation to Rome to warn Augustus if he did not remove Archelaus there would be a revolt. Augustus agreed. In 6 A.D. Samaria, Judea and Idumea were combined into the province of Iudaea (Judaea) under direct Roman administration. The capital was at Caesarea Maritima. Coponius was appointed prefect. Publius Sulpicius Quirinius, who again had been appointed legate governor of Syria, was put in charge of a census for the purpose of taxation over a geographic area that included Iudaea (Judaea) and Galilee.
The census was immediately met by another rebellion led by Judas the Galilean, and Zadok a Pharisee. Jewish law prohibited the taking of a census. Judas proclaimed the Jewish state as a republic which would only recognize God as king and ruler. God’s laws were supreme. The revolt continued to spread, and in some places serious conflicts ensued. The Jewish high priest Joazar, who was responsible for maintaining a peaceful population, failed to quell the rebellion. Although his guerilla tactics were initially successful, Judas died by the sword in 7 A.D.
Pontius Pilate was the fifth prefect (governor) of the Roman province of Judaea from 26 A.D. to 36 A.D. His relationship with Herod Antipas was one of mutual distrust (and occasional hatred). Antipas was an ambitious man. He longed to gain control over Judaea and he was continually trying to undermine Pilate’s authority. But neither the first Roman Emperor Augustus (ruled 27 B.C. to 14 A.D.) nor his adopted son Tiberius (Emperor 14 A.D. to 37 A.D.) trusted Antipas.
Tiberius became a dark and reclusive ruler. He withdrew from Rome and went to Capri in 26 A.D. That left Sejanus, prefect of the Praetorian Guard, effectively in charge of the Roman Empire. But then Tiberius, fearing Sejanus was leading a conspiracy against him, had Sejanus executed in 31 A.D.
The life of Jesus was thus framed by continual intrigue, treachery and suspicion among Israel’s Roman rulers. They also were incredibly arrogant, malicious, and - in the eyes of the Jewish population - highly immoral. The rebellion started by Judas of Galilee continued to spread and fester even after his death. The Romans eventually crushed all resistance, destroyed the Temple in Jerusalem, and scattered the Jews (Jewish Roman wars 66 A.D. to 136 A.D.)
…………
Jethro was right. There was plenty of work in Egypt, the Essenes were very helpful, Joseph learned several new skills, and they met people from many kingdoms. Memphis was a busy trading port with acres of warehouses, shops, and animal pens. There was a large Jewish population in Alexandria, the second most important city in the Roman Empire. The young couple apparently traveled to several cities and villages along the Nile, and may have followed the Red Sea all the way to the Gulf of Aden. Mary and Joseph were able to talk with people of many faiths and philosophies.
Wherever they went people appeared to take a special interest in Jesus. Or perhaps it just seemed that way. Mary and Joseph were very proud of their new son.
Time passed quickly. In November of 4 B.C. Mary gave birth to a second child, a girl, whom they named Deborah, and in April of 2 B.C. Mary gave birth to a boy, whom they named James.
After the birth of James, however, there came a time of deliberation. Work had been plentiful and they were in good health. But like many young couples, Joseph and Mary yearned for a permanent home of their own. King Herod had died in early 4 B.C. and new rulers had ascended to power in Israel. Since Herod the Great was no longer a threat to them, Joseph and Mary believed it would be relatively safe to return. In June they decided to make the journey to their family home in Nazareth. Joseph knew he could find work in the bustling city of Sepphoris (now Zippori), which was located just north of Nazareth. Herod Antipas had selected Sepphoris as his capital and was in the midst of his many construction projects. The city was also becoming a center for wealthy people.
****
2 B.C.
In July they started the long walk back to Nazareth. In early August they knocked on a familiar door. Genisia answered.
“Oh my, look at you!” she shrieked with joy. “And look at the little ones. Come in–come in.”
Genisia reached out and took James from Mary’s arms, cuddled the baby, gave him a kiss on his forehead, and motioned for them to follow her into the little house. Tired, and a little dirty - actually very dirty from the dusty road - Mary and Joseph were relieved to see Genisia. Jesus and Deborah followed them into the house.
“You must be starved!” Genisia exclaimed.
Mary responded with gratitude. “We could use a little water to wash up. May we use the trough in the yard?”
“Of course dear, I’ll help you wash your babies and then while I dry them in the house you and Joseph can bathe in peace.”
And so it was. Jesus, Deborah and James were carefully washed to remove sixteen days of dirt from walking on dusty roads. Although Jesus insisted on dunking in the trough, Deborah and James were quite content to be bathed with a wet cloth. After the children were (relatively) clean, Genisia took Jesus and Deborah inside to give them something to eat. James was quite content to sleep. Joseph and Mary were happy to bathe by themselves, and gave their thanks to God for a safe trip.
****
“And what are your plans?” Genisia asked.
“We plan to find a place in Nazareth,” Joseph answered. “We would like to settle down in a home of our own.”
But Genisia shook her head with obvious apprehension. “You have to be careful!” she exclaimed.
“Why?” Mary and Joseph responded with surprise.
Genisia paused to collect her thoughts. Then she spoke with conviction.
“When Herod the Great died, his will divided his kingdom among three sons and his sister. Herod Achelous has become King of Judaea. Achelous is a cruel, violent and aggressive man. If he gets wind of Jesus, he will have him killed just for sport.”
Mary was despondent. Joseph looked uncertain. Their dream of a peaceful life in Nazareth was suddenly in doubt.
“What shall we do?” Mary asked.
“Follow your plan. Go north, go back to Galilee. Just be careful where you travel. Herod’s son Herod Antipas is now the tetrarch of Galilee and Peraea. Antipas appears to be so busy with his building projects, and endless attempts to gain more land to rule, he doesn’t have time to bother his subjects. He also seems to allow the people under his rule a certain amount of freedom. Don’t attract any attention and you will be safe in Nazareth... Nobody goes there.”
****
Genisia was busy kneading bread dough, her hands white with flour. Mary had just finished washing the strips of cloth (diapers) she would need for James and Deborah. After hanging them up to dry, she came into the kitchen. Mary was distraught. Of course Nazareth would be comparatively safe from Roman oppression and bandits seldom came near the village. Their parents were there. Her sister lived in Bethsaida. Joseph would be able to see his uncle again. But the nagging problem of the long trip home hung over their heads like a dark cloud. Genisia understood her apprehension and tried to brighten Mary’s thoughts.
“You haven’t told me about your adventures in Egypt. Where did you go?”
Her mood interrupted, Mary smiled at the older woman.
“The Romans liked Joseph’s work and sent him to help with several construction projects. We went to Memphis, Heliopolis, Alexandria, and more places than I can remember. We saw the Lighthouse of Alexandria. It is taller than 30 buildings placed on top of one another. We went up the Nile River. The fields of green stretched forever. But by the time James was born we were tired of the constant travel. That’s why we are going to Nazareth.”
“I am afraid I have never traveled much beyond Jerusalem or Masada. I envy your adventure. How did Jesus take all the travel?”
“He was amazing. Everywhere in Egypt people were delighted to see him. He looked at each person as though trying to understand their feelings. I do believe Micah was right. Jesus is special in the eyes of the Lord.”
Then Mary looked warily at Genisia. What is she thinking?
“Do not worry; your secret is safe with me,” Genisia gently tried to console Mary. “Gabriel made sure I understood who he was and why we must protect him–until he is ready to God’s work.”
Genisia continued to knead the dough into the flat bread she would put in the baking oven.
“And what about Deborah and James?”
“Deborah is a flirt,” Mary grinned. “She can get her father’s attention any time she wants. I do believe she will be very good with people. And James is also very special. He was, thankfully, a small baby. Birthing was easy.”
Mary jolted as though she had just remembered something she had to do and quickly left the room. In a few moments she returned with James cuddled in her arms. She opened her wrap and gently guided James to her breast. He was soon happily consuming his lunch. She continued her response to Genisia.
“He often looks at me as though waiting for me to tell him something. I just tell him I love him.... and he seems content just to hear my voice.”
“Will you have more children?” Genisia asked.
“It’s up to God. I trust in his judgement,” Mary responded. “The angel Micah told us we would have seven children.... We shall see.”
Genisia looked with compassion at Mary. “You are chosen, Mary of Nazareth. You are special in the eyes of God.”
****
As it happened, fate worked in Joseph’s favor. The large town of Sepphoris, just over 8 kilometers north-northwest of Nazareth, was almost destroyed following the death of Herod the Great. Herod Antipas rebuilt and fortified Sepphoris as the capitol of his government in Galilee starting in 3 B.C. He renamed the town Autocratoris, linked it to Legio, a Roman military camp, and the ancient city of Samaria. When Joseph and Mary returned home construction was underway. Although it took almost 2 hours to walk from Nazareth to Sepphoris, Joseph was able to find work there as a carpenter and as a mason. He would often sleep overnight in Sepphoris, thus giving him more time for work.
When Joseph and Mary returned to Nazareth, they were warmly welcomed by their families, and immediately found a small house to buy. When Joseph wasn’t working in Sepphoris, or on projects he found in Nazareth, he could be found expanding their new home to accommodate additional members of the family. As the years passed, sons Joses, Jude and Simon, along with a daughter Rachel, were added to the family.
Joseph and Mary were very busy. It was a happy period in their lives. They had enough to eat, lived in a reasonably comfortable home, made friends, renewed old friendships, and became very close to their parents. Joseph and Mary taught the children the customs of their culture and did a good job home schooling their children. Jesus was learning basic arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) and elemental geometry (rectangles, squares, triangles, shapes and lines), becoming proficient in reading, and - thanks to Mary’s help - developing a strong interest in Jewish law and customs. By age 9 Jesus was already learning to be a carpenter and stone mason. Joseph proved to be a firm but gentle father.
****
6 A.D.
There was a commotion in the street. The people of Nazareth were gathering to meet a large band of armed men who had gathered at the village well.
Mary went to the door of the shop. “Who is that man in front?”
“He is known as Judas of Galilee,” Joseph said quietly “he is from the village of Gamala.”
“Why is he here in Nazareth?” Mary asked.
“He is leading a rebellion against the Romans. He and his friend Zadok are preaching that only God has the right to rule over Israel..... He believes the Romans have no right to tax us.”
Joseph frowned. “Some are hailing him as the Messiah, because he wants to kill Romans and free us from their rule....”
Joseph prepared to leave the shop.
“I want to hear what he has to say.”
Jesus, who was soon to be ten years old, looked up from the scroll he was reading.
“Can I go with you father?” he asked excitedly “The boys in the village say Judas claims to have God on his side...”
Jesus ran to his father. “If he goes to fight the Romans,” he said with conviction “Judas will win.”
At first Joseph was reluctant to have his son accompany him to the village square. The talk of rebellion would be course and full of hate. But then with a shrug of his shoulders he motioned for Jesus to follow him out the door.
“This is as good a time as any to learn of man’s folly.”
In the square, Judas was speaking in a very loud voice to maybe 30 very agitated men and boys.
“Join us in our righteous rebellion to the hated rulers of Israel. We refuse to enroll in the census imposed on us by Quirinius. Roman taxation is slavery..... God alone is King. His laws are supreme!”
There was a loud cheer from the crowd.
“This census is just a way to enroll us for Roman taxation!” he shouted. “We go to Sepphoris to liberate it from the Romans. Who has the strength to join us?”
Many hands went up. In a very short time some 25 men, mostly under the age of 20, ran home to gather their belongings and whatever weapons they owned. They returned to eagerly join the ranks of the men headed for Sepphoris. As they disappeared down the dusty road, Jesus noticed several women were weeping.
“Why are they crying, father?”
Joseph looked down at his son and sadly responded, “Because some of their sons and husbands will never return.”
****
Jesus was helping his father in the little shop when their work was interrupted by cries of grief from the street. They dropped what they were doing and went outside. Two women were wailing in obvious anguish. A third woman, hugging her three little children with both arms, was sobbing uncontrollably. A young man lay in the street, his tunic covered with dried blood from an ugly wound that still oozed a trickle of red down his shattered arm.
Joseph was very upset and turned with disgust from the scene. He looked solemnly at Jesus.
“That...,” he said slowly “is the result of war.”
A man walked by them on the street, carrying a Roman sword. He grinned at Joseph and Jesus. He was obviously very proud of his new weapon.
“We ambushed the Romans.”
Joseph took Jesus by the shoulder and walked back into the shop.
“They have won.... for now.... But the Romans will punish all Galilee for this skirmish whenever it pleases them. Jewish blood and limbs will be everywhere.”
The grief of the three women shocked Jesus. The vision of their suffering tormented him for several minutes. He fidgeted with the tools and absently ran his hand over a piece of wood. His thoughts began to clear. Let the Romans have their empire. They will never have our souls. We have given them to God.
****
July, 9 A.D.
A whisper of a breeze brought welcome relief to the heat of a summer afternoon. Deborah (11), James (9), Joses (8), Jude (7) Simon (6) and Rachel (5) were playing a lively and animated game of hide and go seek. James had just found Rachel, who was hiding in a pile of hay. As was often the case, five year old Rachel was loudly screaming her disappointment because she was supposed to be “it” next. She liked to hide, but was not too sure about the frustration of seeking. The other children laughed merrily at their sister’s antics, but that only made Rachel obstinate. Deborah went over to the pile of hay to console her sister.
“Rachel calm down. Nobody is hurting you. I know you like to hide, but now it’s your turn to look for us.”
Rachel was still unhappy. “But how come I’m always the last one to be found?” she pouted.
“Because you are very small, that makes you harder to find.” Deborah gave her little sister a hug.
“Come on,” she said taking Rachel’s hand in her own “let’s see if you can find all of us.”
Joses, Jude and Simon joined the two girls. James went over to the community well to have a drink of water. He filled his cup and eagerly began to sip the cool clear water. When he turned round, he was confronted by two larger boys who were standing behind him.
“Well, look who is taking our water,” the taller of the two boys sneered “who gave you permission to drink our water?”
James was small for his age and easy to pick on. He wasn’t even as tall as his younger brother Jude.
“This water belongs to all of us, you know that.”
“Only if I say so, and I don’t give you permission.” the boy snickered. He pushed James backward by the shoulders, and then again very hard, as though to push him into the large stone basin where the water collected. James was powerless to stop him. But Deborah, ever watchful for the safety of her brothers and sisters, saw what was happening. She frowned, tugged at the sleeve of her brother’s shirt, and pointed to James.
Joses looked annoyed, and nudged his two brothers. They turned to see what was happening. Then three of them began walking toward the well with some determination. Although they had teased James many times about his small size, no one was going to pick on their brother!
“What’s the problem?” Joses looked directly at the taller boy.
The boy mocked Joses and his brothers. “Stay out of the way–it’s none of your business.”
A scuffle broke out, Deborah and Rachel joined the group.
“You let my brother alone!” Rachel shrieked.
The boys ignored her and continued to scuffle with James and his brothers. Then a loud and commanding voice broke through the chaos. It was Jesus, 12 years old and soon to be 13. Although not much taller than either of the other two boys, Jesus could stand his ground.
“Back off!” he commanded. He then looked intently into the eyes of the taller boy.
“But.... we.... OK,” he mumbled backing away. It suddenly dawned on the two boys they were outnumbered by a very determined family.
Jesus spoke with authority. “Back off and go away,”
“And don’t come back!” little Rachel screamed.
The odds were too great, and besides there was something unusual about that kid Jesus. The boys walked backward a few steps and turned to flee the scene.
****
October, 10 A.D.
Jesus, now 14, had assumed his place among the men of the community. A strong young man and mature for his age, he had learned the skills of a carpenter and stone mason from his father. Jesus usually worked side by side with Joseph, and the young man liked to accompany his father into Sepphoris.
Joseph was a good teacher and his lessons were not limited to job skills. He often talked to Jesus about the cities and villages they had toured in Egypt, the great warehouse district in Memphis, the open air trading stalls in Alexandria, and the almost overwhelming variety of goods that passed between the Roman Empire and Kingdoms to the east: grain, textiles, lumber, marble, metals, olive oil, spices, frankincense, wild animals, wine - and slaves. Alexandria was almost as important, and almost as big, as Rome itself.
The conversations between father and son occasionally included a discussion about religion. Joseph wanted to make sure Jesus had a broad perspective of the real world, or at least as much as Joseph had absorbed while in Egypt. One afternoon, while working on the framing of a door jam, he brought up the subject of faith.
“Jesus,” Joseph spoke in a low voice. “Do you know the difference between a religion and a theology?”
“I think theology is belief and a religion is formalized theology.”
“Almost right. A theology is a system of beliefs. Our Jewish customs and laws are a good example. When we were in Egypt, I had many discussions with men and women who believed in the teachings of Buddhism, and Hinduism. These also are theologies. When people organize temples where a theology is taught or practiced, then they have established the formalities of a religion. Organizations that repeatedly practice a theology create a religious institution. It is important you understand the difference between a theology and a religion.”
“I think I do,” Jesus answered “a theology is what I hold within me as a set of beliefs. When we gather with others in the synagogue, we are participating in a religion.”
“You have had your bar mitzvah ceremony,” Joseph continued “as you know; you re now accountable for your actions, Jewish ritual law, ethics and traditions. You have been invited to lead prayers and read before the congregation, as I do for our family at home.”
Joseph smiled with satisfaction, and then became mischievous. “According to our laws, I have prayed to God about you. I gave him my heartfelt gratitude that you have reached manhood without incident.” Joseph paused and winked at his son. “After your bar mitzvah I can no longer be punished for your sins. You are on your own.”
Jesus grinned at his father. “I know you and Mom will still guide me. She has been very insistent I know the law by heart. You have taught me the ways of the community.”
Joseph was not finished. He looked at his son with solemn conviction.
“There is one more thing,” he intoned. “According to our customs, in the next year or two you will be married. That will give you additional responsibilities to your wife, your children, and the community. Becoming a man is not a trivial event.”
Chapter 4 Sarah
Jesus did not grow up in a vacuum. He was obviously influenced by the culture within which he lived, including a healthy first century Jewish respect for marriage and family life. Given the concept that God created a human male, with all of the biological characteristics of a male, it should not be a surprise he would fall in love.... just as God intended.
A little background.....
Religion: Greek mythology includes the Titans, immortal giants of incredible strength and knowledge who ruled the world during the Golden Age of man. By 500 B.C. the Greeks had developed a rich tradition of mythic Gods and Goddesses. Each one had a place of residence and a specific role in natural life. In addition to the principal Greek gods who lived on Mount Olympus there were a large number of local Gods who lived in the countryside. The Greeks also developed legends about a series of heroes including Hercules and a real life hero Alexander the Great, who became the King of Macedonia in 336 B.C. He was one of the most successful military commanders in history.
After the Roman Republic conquered Corinth in 146 B.C., it began to absorb many elements of Greek culture including its medicine, literature, architecture and religious traditions. Greek Gods were often given a Roman name. Those who were not satisfied with the worship of public gods turned to emerging mystery cults, so named because admission into the secrets of the cult was by initiation. Members were encouraged to experience a mystical awakening, seek an afterlife, and participate in communal worship in an environment of spiritual fellowship. Mystery religions became widespread throughout the Roman Empire. By 2 A.D. worship of the God Mithras was also gaining popularity, particularly among Roman soldiers. Mithraism was a mystery religion that could be compared as a rival to Christianity with its belief in a savior, the struggle between good and evil, communal meals, and the development of a clerical hierarchy. Imperial cults also developed which identified Roman Emperors, and occasionally members of their family, as having divine authority. The people of Carthage worshipped multiple Gods including Tanit, who was a Punic and Phoenician goddess, and her consort Ba`al Hammon.
Medicine: During the life of Jesus, Alexandria was a center for Greek scholarship, including medicine. Greek interest in mind and body included Hippocrates, a physician (460 – 370 B.C.); Plato, founder of the first institution of higher learning in the Western world (427 – 348 B.C.); Aristotle, who injected a rational and empirical approach into the study of Greek science and medicine (384 – 322 B.C.): and Herophilos, the first scientist to systematically perform scientific dissections of human cadavers
(335 – 280 B.C.). Greek medicine spread throughout most of Alexander’s empire and beyond. Alexandria became an important center of Greek medicine and this knowledge was infused into the Roman culture after they conquered Egypt in 30 B.C.
Early Romans believed good health could be realized through wholesome food, personal cleanliness, and exercise. Healthcare was added as the Empire grew and life became more complicated. Greek physicians could be found in many of the major cities of the Roman Empire.
Carthage: The city of Carthage developed into a key city within the Roman Empire under Julius Caesar and Augustus. It became the capital of the Roman Africa Province. Called the Granary of the Empire, it exported cereals, olive oil, beans, wild animals, textiles, marble, wine, timber, wool, and livestock along with figs, grapes, and other fruits to ports on the Mediterranean Sea. The people of Carthage became thoroughly Latinized, and developed the art of making and installing decorative designs with pieces of mosaics made from stone or ceramic materials. Knowledge of glazing passed on to other parts of the Roman Empire. Figural mosaics were enthusiastically adopted by the Romans for the Roman baths as well as the walls and floors of their villas. For high quality work, the Romans typically relied on Greek artisans.
Impact: Jesus would have been exposed to other religions, philosophies, and cultures throughout his life. There is every reason to believe he worked on multiple projects in Nazareth, Sepphoris, Capernaum, Tiberias, and other villages in Judaea. His current influence among the Coptic Christians in Egypt suggests he also worked in (or near) Alexandria. He had the opportunity to learn additional trade skills from the men he worked with on these projects, and he certainly would have absorbed an understanding of their beliefs. Jesus also encountered the use of Greek medicine and medical technology, and may have been able to speak Koine Greek (which was widely used in commercial, medical and government activities) in addition to his native Aramaic. Intelligent and inquisitive, this exposure would have increased his knowledge, given depth to his ministry, and enhanced the wisdom of his theology.
…………
12 A.D.
Sepphoris
Sepphoris, the historic capital of Galilee, is located just over 3 miles from Nazareth. After Herod's death in 4 B.C., a rebel named Judas, son of a local bandit, Ezekias, attacked Sepphoris, plundered its treasury, raided its weapons storehouse, and armed over two thousand followers in a revolt against Herodian rule. Judas then marched south to Jerusalem to join with the rebels there.
By late 3 B.C. or early 2 B.C., Herod Antipas started an ambitious construction program to make Sepphoris his capitol. It would become a beautiful Greco-Roman metropolis with more than 20,000 residents who enjoyed all the luxuries of modern life. Streets lined with colonnades, an underground fresh water system, an imposing forum and theater, along with a palace and villas resplendent in white limestone and colored marble - all situated on a hill overlooking the forested hills and fertile valleys of northern Israel.
While most of the common people lived in simple houses, there were many wealthy people living in large, spacious, well-planned dwellings frequently adorned with beautiful mosaics.
Herod Antipas was pouring money into Sepphoris and many of its residents were newly rich. He also made sure it was well guarded by a garrison of Roman troops.
.........
Jesus liked working with his father in Sepphoris (Zippori). Although it was primarily a Jewish community, Sepphoris was populated with a mix of ethnic groups, and deeply influenced by Greek culture.
Jesus would walk with Joseph from Nazareth to Sepphoris, work for several days, and then return home for one or two days. While working in Sepphoris Jesus often spent his evenings socializing with people of many different races and religions. It was a fascinating time of learning and intellectual growth. It was also an opportunity to make new friends and..... fall in love.
****
Jesus and Joseph were selected to help build the villa of a Greek physician named Jamel. Among the other workers was a man named Decus, a mosaic artist from Carthage. They quickly became friends and Jesus was very impressed with Jamel’s skills. One day, while Jesus and his father were cutting wall timbers for the house, Decus suddenly appeared in the doorway.
“Can you help me?” he asked. “I cannot lift the scaffolding platform by myself.”
Jesus glanced at his father and turned to Decus. “Do you need both of us?”
“No,” Decus said. “One will do.”
Jesus put down his adzes and followed Decus down the hall to a large room. When he entered, he gazed with wonder at the beauty of the mosaic designs.
“Did you do all this by yourself?”
“Yes, of course,” Decus smiled. He was obviously proud of his work. “This will be a Roman style bath, complete with pool and side rooms.”
Jesus began to study the patterns. He carefully traced the lines of a mural with his fingertips. “Where did you learn your skills?”
“I was trained in Carthage of the Roman Africa Province, and in Athens.”
Jesus picked up a piece of brightly colored red ceramic and began to examine it. “Where did this come from?”
“I make my own ceramics. There are suitable clays near here and I can fire my own pieces.”
Jesus walked among the construction clutter, examining the stone and ceramic pieces Decus was using on the walls and floors.
“But why did you come here? You could be working in Rome, or Carthage, or Alexandria or anywhere else.”
“Jamel likes to travel. He saw my work in Athens. He asked me to come here. I was curious about Judea and Galilee, so I accepted his offer.”
Decus was a muscular man, clean shaven, darker skin, and taller than Jesus. He picked up one end of the scaffolding platform and motioned for Jesus to help him. Jesus picked up the other end, and the two men hoisted the platform into place.
Jesus was very curious about the mosaics. “When it begins to turn dark, I’d like to talk with you.”
Decus smiled in agreement, and Jesus went back to join his father. He wondered if it would be possible for him to learn the skills he had just seen in the Roman style bath.
****
The light of day was gradually replaced by the shadows of night. Jesus began to make a somewhat unsuccessful attempt to clean up the clutter and put away his tools. Tired from the day’s labor, Joseph had already left to make dinner at the little house where they were staying. Jesus finished his chores and decided to see Decus again. When he entered the villa bath, the man from Carthage was also cleaning up for the day.
“So, you have returned to criticize my work,” he teased.
Jesus was immediately defensive. “No. No. I’ve come to ask if you are willing to show me how you fasten the mosaics on the walls and how you fire the ceramic pieces.”
Jesus paused. “You do great work. It is the labor of an artist.”
Decus began to chuckle. “All the best mosaic artisans have Greek training. We are taught how to do everything from materials to design. It takes years to perfect our skills.”
One again, Decus gently teased the younger man. “So you want me to teach you all my secrets. It might take more than a day.”
Jesus was embarrassed by his impulsive question. “I’m not sure how to answer you...”
Then… it happened.
He suddenly was aware of her presence, even though she was standing behind him. Perhaps it was the faint scent of her delightful light perfume, his emotional awareness of another person, or the energy of her conscious effort to connect with him.
Jesus turned and there she was. Slender, lovely, brown eyes and the most beautiful olive skin he had ever seen. His heart thumped. She briefly studied his face and then gave him a mischievous smile. “Are you finishing work early carpenter?”
Jesus smiled self-consciously and looked into her eyes. “We are through for the day. There is not enough light to do a good job.”
The woman sighed. “Sometimes I think my father’s house will never be finished.”
“A good job takes time,” Jesus responded.
Jesus was totally captivated by the woman standing next to him. He bent down to pick up a piece of wood and absently tossed it onto a pile of scrap. Jesus slowly stood up and again looked intently into her eyes. “What is your name?”
“Sarah,” she said softly. “This will be my father’s house but...” Sarah seemed a little confused. “You already know that.”
Unsure what to say next, and suddenly aware of his dirty hands, shirt and pants, Jesus was embarrassed. He could only manage a shy smile. “My name is Jesus. My father and I have been working on your father’s house for several weeks.”
“I can see you are a carpenter. Are you also a mason?” Sarah asked.
“We work with rock and wood. I am fascinated by these ceramic designs. I was just asking...” Jesus was suddenly aware Decus was watching his reaction to Sarah with some amusement. “I was just asking Decus if he would teach me his trade.”
Jesus turned to look at Decus. “May I come to see you tomorrow?”
Decus nodded his agreement with a sly smile and turned back to his work.
Mortified by his temporary loss of manners, Jesus looked for a way to escape his predicament. He had an inspiration. “I have to go to the community square to find some more timbers. Otherwise we will not have enough wood to work on tomorrow.” He expected Sarah to say goodbye, or something about the house. Instead she responded with a friendly question.
“Can I come with you?”
Jesus was surprised and delighted she wanted to be with him. “Of course!” he said cheerfully.
Jesus motioned toward the door. As they started to make their way through the construction debris he again felt the excitement and energy of her presence.
“Where is your father from?” he asked.
Sarah did not answer right away. She seemed to be in deep thought. Most men would be looking at my figure.... But not this man.... He keeps looking into my eyes. He has incredible charisma. It’s as though he wants to connect with my heart.... my spirit.... His eyes are so wise– and a little sad. She was both captivated and a little frightened. Sarah struggled to clear her thoughts.
“My father is from Tarsus. He’s a physician and a Roman citizen.”
“Where did he go to learn his trade?”
“He trained in Alexandria. My father heals anyone who needs help.”
“Is he Jewish?”
“Yes of course.” she quickly answered. Then she paused and asked “But does it matter to you?”
Jesus paused to think for a moment. No one had ever asked him that question. He pondered his feelings for a moment. But after thinking it over his response was both direct and positive.
“No, it does not. The land of my birth is but one of many lands. There are good people everywhere.”
Jesus picked up the handles of a cart and they walked to the community square. Jesus picked over the timbers until he found just the right ones, and loaded them onto the cart. Together they started back toward the villa. But before they got there, Sarah stopped and turned to him.
“I have to leave you here. It has been nice to...” She reached out to shake his hand and then remembered Jesus was pulling a cart loaded with heavy timbers. Embarrassed by her mistake, she backed up and started to turn away. But Jesus dropped the handles of the cart and quickly went to her side. He extended his hand, rough and dirty from his work. Sarah looked up at him and gently clasped his hand with her fingertips. They both felt a sweet surge of energy and excitement.
****
Sarah returned to the villa the next day. She was carrying a small water skin of fresh cool water from the community well. She found Decus, Joseph and Jesus in the bath. Decus and Joseph dusted off their shirts, and sat down on the villa floor for a welcome rest and a drink of water. Jesus gently took the water skin from Sarah. Joseph began to smile, just a little. He could not help but notice how his son looked at Sarah, and for that matter, her rapture with him. Joseph looked at Decus and saw a slight grin on the man’s weathered face. Love in bloom is exciting, innocent, sweet, and awkward; all at the same time.
Jesus looked at his father. “Is it all right if I take a little walk with Sarah?”
“Not until you introduce me,” replied Joseph.
Mortified by his mistake, Jesus immediately took Sarah by the hand and brought her closer to where Joseph and Decus were resting. “This is Sarah.... this is her father’s house. He is a physician.”
With some effort, Joseph slowly got up from the floor, and extended his hand. “I see you have my son’s attention. If he is interested in you, then his mother and I are pleased to know you.”
Sarah took Joseph’s hand and clasped it warmly. “It is my pleasure to meet you,” she said politely.
Joseph returned her warm smile. “OK you two, have your walk. But remember we have a schedule to keep, Jesus.”
****
After supper that evening Joseph and Jesus sat together in the little room they used for a kitchen. Joseph was happy to see his son had found a friend. But he was uncertain about the outcome. Joseph asked himself a question he and Mary had discussed many times. Does God want Jesus to be a married man? He was still uncertain. Marriage would be a natural step for his son. He was certainly old enough. On the other hand, Jesus was to have a special place in the community. Although troubled by his thoughts, Joseph decided it would be best to let things happen naturally, at least for the time being.
“Jesus,” Joseph asked. “Just how interested are you in this woman?”
Jesus didn’t answer. His attraction to Sarah was glorious and thrilling and puzzling; all at the same time. He needed to sort it all out.
Joseph spoke again. “Mary and I have thought about your passage into adulthood for some time. We were very proud of your reading in the Temple, and your wonderful knowledge of the law. And now.... and now you are ready to take the next step. Just be careful who you choose.”
Although Jesus looked at his father, his eyes were focused on something else. Joseph had seen this look on his son’s face several times. It was as though he was able to see something far beyond his physical surroundings.
“God has given me a good choice.”
****
Jesus asked Sarah to meet him again on Saturday in the town’s olive garden. It was a lovely warm afternoon made even more delightful by a playful breeze. They walked slowly among the trees, aware of the beauty of the garden, the delightful scent of flowers, and..... each other. Her hand brushed his, and he shyly grasped her fingers. She responded by taking his hand, and giving it a tender squeeze. They walked slowly hand in hand to the top of a small hill. Turning to look at each other, Jesus knew what he wanted more than anything else in the world. He took Sarah in his arms and looked into her eyes. They told him what he wanted to know. She was in love. He gave her a warm and gentle kiss.
****
Of course Sarah had to tell all her friends about this man she had met, what he did, and their walk in the olive garden.
“What does he look like?” asked Sarah’s best friend.
“He has brown eyes, skin the color of almonds, long brown hair parted in the middle, and a short beard. Jesus is slightly taller than I am and - very handsome. And when he looks into my eyes..., he connects with my heart. It takes my breath away.”
“Of course you would think he is handsome,” her friend teased.
“I love him with all my heart,” Sarah happily responded.
“But what will your father say?”
Sarah was suddenly pensive. “My father will want to pick my husband. That is the custom.... I’ll just have to make sure he picks Jesus.”
****
Mary took the news with her customary grace. She knew it was inevitable Jesus would want to take a wife. Like most mothers, she was concerned with her son’s choice of a partner. But her unease didn’t stop there. Mary expressed her doubts to Joseph.
“Are we doing the right thing?”
Joseph shared Mary’s doubts, but he was more pragmatic. His answer was a simple “Yes.”
But Mary was still uncertain. God had given them a big responsibility.
“We have been told Jesus is the son of man and the perfection of God. We of course want him to be happy. Getting married is a natural confirmation of his human nature. But would God want him to be married? Does god consider marriage to be dirty? If the marriage produces children, does that reduce the holiness of our son? Are we violating our obligation to God? Should we have encouraged Jesus to be celibate?”
Joseph sat back in his chair and considered Mary’s questions. Then he answered them one by one.
“We have talked about this before. Jesus is our first born son and that imposes certain obligations on us. We have carried them out according to the laws and traditions of our culture. As a man, he has every right to marry the woman he loves. As you say, marriage is a natural confirmation of his human nature. But what does God want? I believe God wants Jesus to experience life as it is here on earth, complete with all the joys and tears that life can bring. We know God considers marriage to be a holy union. There is nothing dirty about marriage or having children. Indeed, we have been taught marriage and children are the highest achievement of a good life. We have done everything Micah asked us to do. You have been a perfect mother and Jesus is the fruit of your womb. I only hope God is pleased with my humble efforts as a father.”
Joseph paused to reflect on what he had said to his wife. Then he added “If Jesus had joined the Essenes, he might have been encouraged to be celibate. But I do not think God wants him to teach the Essene theology. God has gone to all this trouble because he plans to give Jesus a unique message. We can only wait and see what happens to Jesus as he continues to grow in stature and knowledge.”
Mary became more tranquil. Once again her husband’s judgement had calmed her thoughts.
“Besides,” Joseph added “look at us. We have a family and the blessings of good health. We should wish our son to have the good fortune of a happy marriage.”
Joseph looked with affection at his wife.
“It is true, Mary.... the best marriages are made in heaven.”
Mary sat down beside her husband, put her arm around his shoulder, and gave him a tender kiss on the cheek.
“God picked a good man of faith and wisdom to be the father of his son.”
****
Tabitha, Sarah’s mother, had just finished baking the daily bread and was putting the boards away when her daughter entered the kitchen. Sarah seemed distracted and distant as she gazed out the window. A gentle smile crossed Tabitha’s face. Sarah had been like this for two days. She knew her daughter had fallen in love. It was time to ask the important question.
“Who is he?”
Sarah was startled by her mother’s question. She had said nothing about Jesus, or her walk in the Olive Garden with him. But when she looked at her mother, woman to woman, her mother’s empathy was unmistakable. Sarah hesitated a moment and then spoke in a subdued voice.
“His name is Jesus. He is a carpenter and stone mason. I met him at our new house. He is handsome, and strong, and smart. And oh mother he is.... so.... “
Sarah could not continue; she was so excited to share her love for Jesus with Tabitha; words failed her.
Tabitha regarded her daughter with affection. She and Jamel had raised their daughter to be an independent woman. She was educated, spoke three languages, and often helped her father with patients. Like any virtuous mother, Tabitha was concerned her daughter would choose the right man to be her husband. Tabitha spoke with caution.
“What do you know about this man? What do you know about his parents?”
Although Sarah had regained her composure, the words seemed to tumble out her mouth.
“He seems to be very responsible, he knows the law really well, he can read, he can do math, he does good work, he treats me.... he treats me as though I am someone special.... And I met his father. You and dad would like him. He is gentle and speaks well.”
“Where does he live?”
“He is from Nazareth.”
Tabitha frowned. Jamel had a very low regard for the people of Nazareth. Very parochial and overly superstitious, they were often a problem to treat when they came to Sepphoris for medical care.
“Well, it will be up to your father,” Tabitha said firmly “he has always wanted to select your husband, and you know that is the custom of our people.”
Suddenly despondent, Sarah pleaded with her mother.
“I have to convince him that Jesus is perfect.”
Sarah tugged at her mother’s sleeve. “Please mom, please help me,” she said quietly.
****
As it happened, neither Tabitha nor her daughter had anything to do with Jamel’s decision. That’s because the next day, on a sunny and cool morning, he came to see the progress on his new house. Jamel wandered around the rooms, enjoying the aromas of fresh plaster and wood, talked with Decus, admired his mosaic work, and was delighted with the skill of the carpenters. Then he literally bumped into Jesus who was carrying a wood fireplace mantle into the big room.
“Oh, I’m sorry to be in your way,” Jamel apologized.
Jesus put down the mantle and turned to look at Jamel. His father had described the physician when they started to work on the house. Because Jamel was Sarah’s father, Jesus was anxious to impress him. He smiled and extended his hand for a handshake, but suddenly remembered it was covered with dust and shavings. He was unsure. What should he do? But Jamel didn’t care about the dust and shavings; he gladly grasped Jesus by the hand and shook it vigorously.
“You must be Jesus,” he said “I’ve talked with your father many times. But now I have the pleasure of meeting his son.”
“The pleasure is all mine,” Jesus said politely “I am glad you are here.”
“And why is that?”
Jesus looked intently at Jamel, - hesitated for a moment, - and made a spiritual connection with the soul of the man before him.
“I have fallen in love with Sarah,” he said quietly.
Jamel was stunned. But there was something about the emotional intensity of this young man that drew his interest.
“So you are the reason she has been so distracted these last three days...,” Jamel’s voice was very firm... but his friendly smile gave him away.
“We need to talk.”
Jamel started for the door and motioned for Jesus to follow him. Both Decus and Joseph watched them go out into the courtyard with great interest.
“Well,” said Decus with a big grin “do you think he will pass the test?”
“I sure hope so,” replied Joseph with a knowing smile “this falling in love business has considerably slowed his production. I’d like to get it resolved.”
Decus chuckled. “He’s your son. He will do alright.”
Jesus and Jamel talked for almost an hour. When they returned Jamel looked up and called out to Decus who was placing ceramics on the villa’s ceiling.
“Should I let this young man have my daughter?”
Astonished by the question, Decus carefully descended from the scaffolding. He thought for a moment and chuckled. Joseph was in the next room and Decus wanted to be sure Joseph would hear him.
“Of course!” he said in a deep loud voice “He has great promise!”
Jamel grinned. He was very pleased with Jesus. He could see they would have many long talks. Father to son-in-law. Jesus was not only intelligent, he was anxious to learn. Jamel left the room to find Joseph, who by now had given off a huge sigh of relief. It was settled. Mary would be very happy. And as for his son.... the happy look on his face said it all. He was totally elated.
****
Mary felt more confident after she met Sarah. Two weeks later, she walked with Joseph and Jesus to Sepphoris. There they met Jamel, Sarah’s father and Tabitha, Sarah’s mother. Sarah was very nice and easy to engage in pleasant conversation. Mary was also impressed with Sarah’s maturity and intelligence. Jamel and Tabitha were very pleasant, treated Mary and Joseph as good friends, and insisted they have lunch together. When Mary saw how happy her son was with his chosen bride, and her very obvious love for him, she felt a magnificent surge of her own private joy. This would work out. God would approve.
The three women were soon engaged in an animated conversation about the wedding. Jamel and his wife did not think the customary betrothal period was necessary. Mary and Joseph agreed.
Jesus and Sarah were married in December, 12 A.D. He was 16. Sarah was 17. The wedding was held at Jamel’s home in Sepphoris.
Chapter 5 Sepphoris
13 A.D.
It is a woman’s responsibility to have children. It is a man’s responsibility to plant his seed in her womb. Large families are highly desirable. After all, a man’s wealth is often measured by how many children he has.
If a woman is fertile, his seed will burrow into the “soil” of her womb and grow. If a woman is infertile, it was because her “soil” is unproductive. She is considered to be barren. The obsolete agrarian idea a woman could be “barren” was destined to last into the 20th century.
When Sarah and Jesus established their home in a little house on the edge of Nazareth, local townspeople naturally expected her to become pregnant. The women of the village watched every day for some sign Sarah was with child. But February passed with no evidence of any pregnancy. March passed without the anticipated announcement. When April came and went without a pregnancy, people began to talk. Rumors spread. Sarah is infertile. Sarah is barren. Her womb is not a safe place for a man’s seed. Jesus is too weak to father a child. They must have sinned against God. By 14 A.D. some women in the village would turn away from Sarah as though she were unclean. The men of the village gossiped and joked about Jesus.
****
14 A.D. Late Spring.
Jesus, Joses, Jude and Simon were working together with their father. Between the building projects they found in Sepphoris and odd jobs in Nazareth, they were very busy. James was scratching out a living as a farmer. He and Jude were talking about moving to Bethsaida on the Sea of Galilee. Deborah had started a family of her own. Joses was interested in a young woman he knew in Nazareth. Mary was maturing into a lovely graceful woman. Her husband Joseph provided a sense of calm wisdom and leadership for their active family.
Like Jesus, Sarah longed for children of her own. The criticism of the women in Nazareth weighed heavily on her and she gradually became despondent. As a diversion to deal with her depression, Sarah often visited with Mary to help her with the daily chores. Mary did everything she could to support the younger woman. To ease Sarah’s despondency, she counseled the young woman as a mother and as a friend.
****
On her birthday, Sarah finished up her chores in the little house she shared with Jesus and decided to visit with Mary. She walked through the village to the family home and entered through the courtyard gate. When she entered, Mary called out to her.
“Happy birthday Sarah. A bright and beautiful day for you.”
“Thank you, Mary,” Sarah responded with some sadness. “But it would be a better day if I was with child.”
“Hush, don’t even think about your problems. They will all go away. Think instead of your blessings.”
Sarah thought for a few moments and then brightened. “I have a wonderful husband. I’ve lived 19 years in good health, and I have very nice relatives. These are my blessings.”
“You have a good marriage.”
“Yes of course.... I love Jesus. He has unlimited tenderness and compassion. Our affection for each other seems to grow day by day. He even has a special name for me.”
“What is it?”
“I’m not supposed to tell anyone...”
A sudden loud screech and the screams of a terrified little girl interrupted their conversation. Ten year old Rachel ran into the kitchen, pulling a tiny little girl with her by the arm. Blood streamed down the little girl’s face from a bad cut on her forehead. She was crying and howling at the same time. Her thin body trembled with fear. Tears flowed down her dirty cheeks.
Sarah quickly knelt down, and gently pulled the sobbing little girl into her arms. Comforted by Sarah’s warm embrace, the crying subsided into a series of tearful sobs.
Then Sarah carefully examined the wound.
“Do you have any clean rags?”
Mary pulled a piece of cloth from a pile.
“Dip it in boiling water,” Sarah commanded.
Mary washed and squeezed the cloth. Sarah took it from her and began to gently clean the wound.
“Hush little one, hush. I will make it all better,” she said quietly.
Sarah hugged the little girl with one arm while cleaning the wound with the other. Then she carefully used the cloth to apply pressure to the cut. Mary was spellbound. Sarah’s compassion was unmistakable. In a few minutes the bleeding stopped and the little girl began to calm down. Sarah again took her into her arms and tenderly stroked her hair.
“Do not touch your face. Let the cut heal itself.... Rachel, can you sit here by her for a while?”
Rachel, eyes wide with wonder, came to sit beside the little girl. She tenderly put her arm around the girl’s shoulders. Sarah turned to Mary.
“Do you have any clean honey?”
“Yes, of course. We have a pot on the spice shelf. Stay there, I will get it.”
Mary found the pot and returned to Sarah. After examining the honey, Sarah took a spoonful to heat over the fire. When she returned, the honey had transformed into a liquid. Sarah again knelt down beside the little girl.
“Can you be brave for me?”
The little girl shook her head yes, but with a pout of obvious doubt. Sarah took a dab of liquid honey from the spoon with her finger and gently brushed it onto the cut. Although the girl was in pain, she somehow managed to be very brave. Just a few sniffles and a heaving sob while Sarah did her work. Satisfied she had done all she could, Sarah sat back and smiled at the little girl.
“Now remember.... do not touch your face.... It needs to heal.... If you don’t touch your face, your cut will go away in a few days.”
The little girl gave Sarah a small sad smile and nodded yes. Although she didn’t really understand Sarah’s instructions, she would do as this gentle lady had instructed.
Sarah stood up and began to clean her finger.
Mary looked at Sarah with wonder in her eyes. “Where did you learn to do the work of a doctor?”
“From my father. He loves to teach and I like to heal.”
****
The next Saturday Jesus read at the Temple. After the service he began to walk hand in hand with Sarah up the path that led to their little house. He noticed two women pointing at them and talking in hushed tones. Incensed and annoyed by the obvious negative comments, he stopped and tugged at Sarah’s hand.
“You go on home. I have some business in Nazareth. I won’t be long.”
Sarah looked up at him with a little smile, gave him a kiss on the cheek, and started up the path by herself. Jesus immediately went down the path to confront the two women. He put his face rather close to the one who had been pointing her finger at Sarah.
“How is your little girl? Is her cut healing well?”
Surprised by his dour tone of voice, the woman became defensive.
“Well.... yes, I suppose.”
“Have you had a chance to thank Sarah for helping your little girl?”
“I.... I.... no I haven’t.”
“But you have found the time to gossip about Sarah, haven’t you?”
The woman and her companion were clearly annoyed. But Jesus continued.
“If a woman treats another person with love and compassion, if she gives of herself without reservation, then - does she help God?”
The woman reluctantly nodded yes.
“If a woman attempts to humiliate another person with demeaning gossip, does she do the will of God?”
The woman began to get angry. She knew she was being chastised. But Jesus had a question to ask.
“Which of these women is closer to God?”
The gossipers backed away with a mixture of irritation and shame.
****
“I’ve made a decision,” Jesus announced. Sarah looked at him warmly and flashed her mischievous little smile.
“And what is that?” she asked.
“If you will agree with me, I am ready to leave Nazareth.”
Sarah was mildly shocked by his words. She knew he had been fuming about the criticism she was receiving from the people of Nazareth. But she also knew this was a big decision for him. It meant leaving his family; his parents, brothers and sisters; a family he loved with all his heart.
“Are you sure?”
“We cannot go on like this. It’s not fair. You have been very brave. You have been loyal to me and to my family. But I know the criticism adds to the ache in your heart. It looks like we will never have children of our own. We have to create another life for ourselves.... and it is not here.”
Sarah came to Jesus, snuggled into his arms, and put her cheek on his shoulder. They quietly embraced. Jesus felt her tremble. She began to sob softly. Warm tears flowed down her cheeks and onto his robe. He knew then - he had made the right decision.
****
Sarah and Jesus announced their intention to leave Nazareth at dinner the next Sabbath. Everyone was there. Twelve people: including Deborah’s husband and James with his wife.
“But where will you go?” cried Deborah.
“What will you do?” said Joseph.
“Have you given up?” asked Mary.
Jesus was subdued. “We will move to Sepphoris and live with Jamel and Tabitha.”
There was a murmur of surprise and understanding from around the table. James was especially vocal.
“It’s about time, my brother. You can only live with this gossip so long. There is no justice in what has happened. It’s either stop the gossip or leave.”
“I prefer peace, my brother,” Jesus spoke in a quiet voice. “We are confronted with ingrained superstitious attitudes. They are difficult to change.”
Mary spoke up with resignation and sadness.
“It is for the best. Sarah can be near her family and friends.”
Mary drew closer to Sarah and gave her a warm hug. “You will always be welcome here. We are family, no matter where you go.”
“We can find a way to work with you in Sepphoris,” Joseph said. “There is no need to change anything.” Then he grinned. “You’ll have a better place to sleep at night.... and better company.”
The family’s mood immediately brightened with a ripple of friendly laughter. After which Joseph called for a moment of prayer to honor the memory of Jacob, Ruth, Joachim and Anne.
****
Summer.
Jesus and Sarah had few possessions. With the help of Joses and Jude it took them only two and one half hours to pull the cart to Sepphoris. Sarah’s parents, Tabitha and Jamel, gave them a warm welcome. They were given a room of their own that opened to the compound courtyard. Sarah would share the chores with Tabitha, just as she had done as a little girl.
Jamel was determined to be close to Jesus. After Sarah and Jesus were settled in their new home, he took Jesus into the villa courtyard, put his arm around the younger man’s shoulders, and with a grand sweep of his hand toward the horizon, he spoke with delight.
“Welcome to Sepphoris, Jesus,” Jamel grinned broadly. “Someday this town will be the ornament of all Galilee.... come to the courtyard wall.... just look at the abundance in the valley below us.”
“We are truly blessed,” Jesus responded. “I fear I shall get used to the opulence of your villa.”
Jamel smiled broadly with obvious pride.
“Tabitha and I love this house.... and we know it is well built.... after all–you, your father, and your brothers helped to build it.”
Jesus looked around the courtyard. The entrance floor was done in beautiful mosaic patterns.
“Where is Decus?” he asked.
“My favorite artist has gone down the hill to work on another house. I’ll show it to you if you like. Decus would be glad to see you again.”
“That would be great.... and I have one big favor to ask...”
Jamel put his hands on his hips and looked intently at Jesus. He had already been impressed with his son-in-law’s intelligence and sincere devotion to Sarah. Jamel believed Jesus was capable of many things; perhaps even a life of distinction. Thus he smiled as though accepting whatever Jesus wanted to say.
Jesus drew a long breath, thought a moment, and said quietly “you are a physician.... and you have passed much of your knowledge to Sarah.... I know she loves to heal and..... I would like to learn.”
Jesus paused and looked with sincerity into the eyes of the man he would come to love as a father.
“Will you teach me to heal?”
......................
Greek medicine spread throughout most of Alexander’s empire and beyond. Alexandria become an important center of Greek medicine and this knowledge was infused into the Roman culture after they conquered Egypt in 30 B.C. Known as the Empirical School, it was open to experimentation including the dissection of dead bodies in order to understand human anatomy and discover how the body actually works.
An amazing variety of surgical instruments were developed before and during the life of Jesus. Although it is unlikely the Romans understood anything about germs, they did avoid a great deal of infection by boiling their surgical instruments before use, and washing the wound with acetum. After surgery, wounds could be stitched with flax, linen thread or metal pins. Linen bandages or sponges, used dry or kept moist with wine, oil, vinegar or water, served as a dressing.
Drugs and herbal remedies included poppy juice (morphine), autumn crocus (colchicine), henbane seeds (scopolamine), fennel (for better body function), rhubarb (for internal disorders), elecampane (for digestion), willow (as an antiseptic), honey (as an antiseptic), and Silphium (used for birth control).
Despite these advances in medicine, however, the common medical belief during the life of Jesus was that if a person incurred the wrath of the Gods, they could extract their revenge by causing the victim to suffer from disease or injury. Thus it should not be surprising that healing was often done in religious temples, cures were based on superstition, and remedial activities included rituals and spells to placate the Gods.…………
Chapter 6 Capernaum
Capernaum was a fishing village and busy trading center located on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Reasonably prosperous, Capernaum was also on the Via Maris highway between Syria and Egypt . Caravans often stopped at Capernaum to purchase provisions and secure maintenance services. Herod Antipas had a small military garrison East of Capernaum which oversaw the collection of customs taxes from travelers. The town had a reasonably wide north-south main street, smaller cross streets, and side street districts. Capernaum had a synagogue, a small harbor, and a cemetery. Building walls were usually constructed with blocks of black basalt sometimes reinforced with stone and sealed with mud. Cobbled floors often led to open courtyards shared by more than one family. With a maximum population of 1,600, it was approximately three times the size of Nazareth circa 18 A.D.
…………
18 A.D.
Jesus had worked as a carpenter and mason in Sepphoris for almost four years. When he wasn’t busy with work, he could be found close to Jamel, learning everything he could about healing the injured and sick. Jamel proved to be a good teacher, giving his lessons with patience, and helping Jesus to grow in judgement. “I will,” Jamel would say “teach you the medicine of mind, body and spirit.”
Sarah and Jesus grew ever closer as companions, friends, and partners. Their deep affection for each other was obvious. Few people cast doubt on their inability to have children, preferring instead to think of them as part of Jamel’s extended family.
****
The warm morning sun flooded the room with touches of gold. Jesus rolled over on the mat and propped himself up on one elbow to examine Sarah’s face. He brushed her hair back and gently traced his fingertips over her cheek. Already awake, she smiled, stretched, and then cuddled in his arms. Jesus had a serious question.
“Your father told me you still are upset.”
“About what?”
“Not having any children.”
Sarah sighed, but said nothing. Deep in thought and despondent, she briefly closed her eyes. Then she slowly opened them. Staring absently out the open window, Sarah quietly spoke to him.
“Jesus, you are a man who wants children. I have failed you. If you want to, you can divorce me. By our laws, you only have to declare we are divorced.”
Jesus was shocked by her comment. His heart gave a distinct hollow thump. The empty sensation in his chest was accompanied by an incredible feeling of sadness that swept over him. He felt terribly lost. What do I say? It was a struggle, but he was able to gradually regain his composure. He gently turned her head toward him and looked into her eyes.
“Don’t you ever say - or even think - that terrible thought again,” he said firmly “I love you, you are part of my very soul. We are one person and we shall be one forever.”
Sarah surveyed his face, as though trying to read his thoughts. A small smile graced her lips. She slowly relaxed in his arms. Her expression was of a woman deeply in love.
“Jesus.... We are one.... Together we are strong.”
They cuddled for several minutes; going over private thoughts; two people, happy to be close.
“I’ll be honest,” Jesus said “of course I wish we had a family, but not having children has increased our affection for the children we meet. Let us love them as our own. Jesus paused.... and don’t forget...”
What?”
“I will always love you Naomi.”
Sarah reached up and placed her arm around his neck. She drew him closer for a warm affectionate kiss.
“When you call me Naomi, I know you are in a romantic mood,” Sarah teased.
She put her finger to his lips and then stroked his arm. “I love you very deeply, Jesus. As long as we are together, I am a happy woman.”
Then she changed the subject. “My father examined you. What did he say?”
“Jamel told me I’m as healthy as any man he has ever examined...”
Jesus paused for a moment. “I know he has examined you since we came to Sepphoris. What did he say?”
“There is nothing wrong with me,” Sarah smiled. “I’m going to live forever.”
****
But their semi-idyllic existence was about to be interrupted by a devastating event. Sarah had learned how to perform the services of a mid-wife, often helping the women of Sepphoris to deliver their infants. In April she went down to the house of an older woman in the valley below Sepphoris. The birth did not go well. Upset with the events of the day and tired from her efforts, Sarah was struggling up the hill to her home when she was suddenly confronted by two of Herod’s mercenary soldiers. They were arguing about something when they spied Sarah. The larger of the two men began to stare at Sarah, hungrily inspecting every inch of her body. The malicious smile on his face alarmed Sarah. He moved to intercept her.
“A woman alone on the road” he exclaimed savagely “Don’t you know it is dangerous for a woman to travel alone?”
Sarah nervously pulled her robe up around her throat. But the man grabbed her arm and roughly forced it behind Sarah’s back. She cried out in pain. Her medical bag dropped to the dusty road. He started to pull aside her robe with his free hand. But before he could strip it away, he suddenly arched backward and cried out. Two men had emerged from the brush that lined the road. One thrust a knife into his back. The soldier fell to the ground, blood spurting from the wound. The man’s companion tackled the other soldier with such ferocity, he was able to throw him to the ground and bash his head with a rock; rendering him senseless.
The two men, breathless from the brief battle, stood up and looked at each other.
“You used a rock? ... You couldn’t use your knife?”
“I had more fun tackling this scum. He won’t bother anyone for a while.”
The two men relieved their tension with nervous laughter. They turned to look at a thoroughly frightened Sarah.
“My apology dear woman, we didn’t mean to upset you.”
“Who are you? … What do you want?” Sarah fearfully shouted at him.
“My name is James Boanerges,” he answered “and this is my brother John. We were hiding in the trees, waiting for the patrol to pass by and saw these two men,” he turned and spat on the ground “try to harm you.”
“You have nothing to fear from us,” James spoke up. “We....”
But before James could finish his thought, John poked him in the ribs.
“Damn!” he exclaimed, “there is the rest of the patrol.”
James turned to look down the road. Two soldiers, led by a man in a Roman uniform, were running up the road, swords drawn for battle.
“How fast can you run,” James shouted at Sarah. “It had better be faster than you have ever run before.”
Sarah quickly picked up her medical bag and bolted like a frightened colt up the road, lifting the torn robe with her other hand. Adrenalin driven fear has a way of producing the energy needed to run very fast. And run they did, up the road away from the three mercenaries. By luck, the mercenary leader and his two soldiers briefly stopped to determine the condition of their fallen comrades. That gave Sarah and her two companions just enough time to disappear over the top of the hill.
Running and stumbling, gasping for each breath, John looked at Sarah.
“I’m sorry; we seem to have gotten you into a lot of trouble,” he panted.
Without thinking, Sarah called out “Follow me”, and ran past John up the road. By the time she reached the gate to Jamel’s villa, she was fighting for every breath of air. Heaving mightily, she turned and motioned John and James to follow her.
“We have to hide!” James exclaimed.
Sarah pushed open the heavy gate. They rushed into the courtyard. James quickly helped Sarah close the gate behind them.
“There!” she exclaimed pointing at the doorway of a room that opened to the courtyard “you can hide in there!”
James and John rushed into the safety of the room and disappeared into its shadows. Sarah, eyes wide with fear, searched for a place where she could hide.
And there was Tabitha, shocked and surprised by the commotion, wondering what was going on? She was bent over a table, kneading the dough for their daily bread. Shouts could be heard outside the gate. Sarah quickly arranged her tattered robe to cover her body, plunged her hands into an urn filled with flour, grabbed a ball of dough, and began to knead it.
“Knead the dough, mother,” Sarah whispered. “Knead the dough.”
Two mercenaries burst through the gate, swords drawn, and scanned the courtyard for the two men they were chasing. They only saw two women making bread. Satisfied the women were alone; the two men ran back outside to the road, slamming the gate as they left. A very puzzled Tabitha sighed with relief and looked at her daughter. “OK. There is a story behind all this–and who are those two men?”
Sarah pushed the ball of dough away from her, stood erect, and struggled to catch her breath.
“On the way home I was stopped by two mercenary soldiers. One of them was about to rape me when those two men attacked the soldiers. They beat one soldier senseless and gave the other one a bad stab wound. They were hiding in the trees and came to my rescue when they saw what was happening...”
Sarah’s breathless story was interrupted by a booming voice.
“I am John Boanerges, and this is my brother James!”
The two men walked briskly from their hiding place to where Sarah and her mother were standing.
“We are fishermen from Capernaum and nationalists.”
“Nationalists?” Tabitha echoed cautiously.
“At your service. We were on our way home when we saw this beautiful woman’s predicament” he looked at Sarah with sympathy. “We couldn’t resist taking on those Roman tramps.”
Tabitha was quickly recovering from her surprise and alarm.
“Thank you for your help,” she paused and nervously looked at the brothers.
“I’m grateful for your courage..... But now,” she said firmly “you have endangered my daughter, this house and all who live here.”
John was crestfallen with the sudden realization of what had happened. “We didn’t think...”
“No you obviously didn’t think,” Tabitha said sharply “now we - and I mean we - have to decide what to do!”
James was more resolute. “Come dark, we can be on our way. You won’t see us again.”
Tabitha became increasingly angry. “But if the men you attacked recover, they will recognize my daughter and the Roman mercenaries will soon know where she lives,” Tabitha said gravely “and then we are all dead!”
“There are others?”
“My husband and her husband.”
Suddenly aware of the awful trouble they had caused, John and James backed away from the two women and sat down on a nearby bench. They began to whisper to each other with much energy. John stood up.
“May we stay here until dark?”
Tabitha thought for a moment and reluctantly nodded yes.
Sarah interjected “It’s for the best. They cannot be seen so soon after the incident.”
****
At nightfall, Jesus and Jamel returned to the villa. Tabitha and Sarah told them of the day’s events. Then a very angry Jesus and Jamel had an extremely animated conversation with John and James. But heated words eventually gave way to a more thoughtful discussion. The four men held a counsel with the two women.
“We cannot stay here,” Jesus said. “Tabitha is right, if the mercenaries recognize Sarah; they will kill or torture anyone living in this house.”
Jamel was especially gloomy. He loved having his daughter home and he was very happy to be friends with Jesus. Any father would be proud to have Jesus as a son, he thought. Then he looked at James and reluctantly spoke up.
“Can we trust you?” he demanded “Can I give you a challenge and be sure you will do it?”
James, his voice echoing throughout the house, gave his response. “We have put four people in danger. We are ready to do whatever it takes to help.”
“Then you must take Jesus and Sarah with you to Capernaum. There is no reason for these mercenaries to go there. The Romans in Capernaum want to keep the peace because doing makes it easier to collect their tax revenues from the trading caravans.”
Both James and John nodded their agreement. Jamel continued.
“There is no such thing as absolute safety, but they cannot stay here and Capernaum should be a good place to hide until this all blows over. Do you agree?”
James and John again nodded their agreement.
“Thankfully April rains and the darkness of night should cover your escape. Walking on that rutted road will be dangerous for you, but with God’s help, you should be able to make it in three days. We will give you provisions for the trip.”
Jamel gravely regarded John and James. “You will make sure my children reach Capernaum safely,” he said firmly “and when you get to Capernaum, I expect you to help Jesus and Sarah to settle there.... understood?”
John responded. “We will help Jesus and Sarah as we would our own family.”
“Besides,” James interjected with a smile “Jesus looks like he would make a fine nationalist.”
Tabitha and Jamel frowned, but ignored the comment. Jesus spoke up.
“What about our belongings and my tools?”
Jamel pondered for a moment. “I’ll send them along by caravan as soon as I can find one headed to Capernaum.” Then he stood up. “You should be on your way as soon as it gets dark.”
****
As promised, Jamel sent their few possessions and tools to Capernaum. Jesus found a modest house where he could live with Sarah and a small house on the same plaza where he set up a carpentry shop. He not only made furniture, he also learned how to make boats for the fishermen, and parts for the passing caravans. Sarah soon gained a reputation as a healer of the sick and injured, helped as a midwife, and learned how to dry fish to sell in the market. They also met some interesting people.
“Carpenter!” a booming voice called from outside the shop. A big man entered. It was James Boanerges. Jesus looked up and smiled. He had become friends with John and James. With his resonant voice, James could take command of any conversation. John was a smaller man and usually gentle of voice.
“Welcome my friend,” Jesus happily replied. “What brings you to my humble shop?”
“I have two new friends for you to meet. They are from Bethsaida where I used to live.”
“Are they fishermen?”
“Of course! That’s why they are good men! Come outside.”
Jesus followed James out the open door to the street. Two men stepped forward to shake his hand.
“Jesus,” James said with his customary gusto, “Meet Simon and his brother Andrew.”
As they shook hands, Jesus was impressed with Simon’s bold demeanor. Here was a man of conviction. Andrew held back, almost standing behind his brother. He looked at Jesus with curiosity.
“I’m trying to convince Simon and Andrew to move here with their families. I believe they could increase their income by providing services to the caravans. And.... they think like us about the Romans.”
“Are you trying to build an army?” Jesus asked with a mischievous smile.
“We need to strengthen our numbers,” James responded. “I think Simon is ready to make the move but Andrew is not so sure.”
Simon spoke up. “Although I like living in Bethsaida, I cannot support my family as a fisherman. Andrew and I are looking for a place here. I will probably build a house. James tells me you are a good carpenter.”
“No one has complained,” Jesus replied modestly. “What about you Andrew, are you thinking of becoming my neighbor?”
Andrew looked at the three other men and smiled with less conviction. “I will come here with my brother.”
“Then it’s settled,” James declared. “Five men against the Romans.”
Jesus frowned. “Violence almost got you two into more trouble than you could handle and put our lives in danger. Let us try to make peace.... before we start a war. There are many ways to restrain the demands of an enemy.” He turned to Andrew.
“How did you meet James and John?
“Through a friend; a fisherman and farmer.” Andrew’s demeanor brightened. “No one could miss their father. He had a voice like James, a voice like thunder.”
They all laughed. It was the beginning of a congenial friendship.
****
19 A.D. Early Summer.
James and John persuaded Jesus to go with them to help Simon and Andrew move from Bethsaida to Capernaum. It was an easy walk, just over 4 miles, across the Jordan River to a hill overlooking the fertile Jordan River valley. Because Bethsaida was the birthplace of Simon and Andrew, they had accumulated many friends. Although Simon was ready to make a change, Andrew was obviously reluctant to move.
“Welcome to Bethsaida!” called a voice from the hill. It was Simon, standing there with his wife and three young children.
“We have come to fetch you,” responded James. “Are you ready?”
James walked laboriously up the hill and offered his hand to Simon.
“We brought a cart to help move your belongings.”
“I borrowed two carts,” Simon responded. “That should be enough.”
“What about Andrew?” John asked.
“He needs more time to get ready. We will come back for him in a few weeks.”
Their lively conversation was interrupted by a woman’s voice calling Jesus. Jesus looked up and saw his mother’s sister, Salome. She called again as she walked down the path to them.
“Jesus!” she exclaimed “what a surprise.... I’m so glad to see you.”
She gave Jesus, and her sons James and John a warm hug. With a friendly smile, she extended her hand to everyone else, even the three young children, who were a bashfully embarrassed by the sudden attention of so many adults.
“So you came to see your neighbors before they left town,” Jesus said.
“I’m sorry to see Simon leave us, but I understand. Like my sons, he has a growing family. Simon and Andrew both need to increase their income to support their children. Capernaum is a good choice, and they can always come back for a visit.”
“You have always been a good neighbor,” Simon’s wife replied “we shall miss you.”
After a few minutes of friendly conversation, Jesus said goodbye to Salome, promised to see her again, and motioned to Simon.
“Let us start for Capernaum. It will be dangerous if we have to travel after sunset.”
James, John and Jesus helped to load the three carts. Simon and his wife said goodbye to Andrew and a few neighbors who had gathered to wish them God’s grace. Then they set off on their journey; James, Jesus, John, Simon, three children, Simon’s mother-in-law, and Simon’s wife. James, John and Simon each pulled a cart. Jesus and everyone else, even the children, carried a heavy load of belongings. It was dusk by the time they reached Capernaum. Sarah welcomed the travelers as soon as they reached the edge of town. After a brief rest they all pitched in to help Simon move into his new house.
Sarah was delighted to make friends with Simon’s three children.
****
19 A.D. Late Summer
Jesus was busy stripping the bark from a log when Simon appeared in the doorway of his little shop. Jesus and Sarah were quickly becoming good friends with Simon and his family.
Jesus,” Simon called into the shop. “Our neighbors are again upset with the mercenaries at the Roman garrison. There is no trust between us. What can we do?”
Jesus brushed a few slivers of bark from his arms and leaned back against the bench. Although the insurrection led by Judas of Galilee had been put down in 7 A.D., resentment still festered throughout Israel. Jesus longed to bring peace, or at least civil consideration, between his neighbors in Capernaum and the nearby Roman garrison.
“I think it is time for me to have a talk with the Roman garrison commander,” Jesus replied. “I understand he has been reasonably cordial to those who have talked with him.”
“Do you want me to come with you?” asked Simon.
“No, I prefer to see what I can accomplish by myself. Sometimes a quiet talk between two men can accomplish more than a confrontation.”
****
As he walked through the Roman garrison Jesus noted the mercenaries either ignored him or only looked at him with minor curiosity. But when he approached the commander’s tent, he was challenged by the guard.
“Halt! What is your business?
Jesus returned a friendly and correctly submissive smile. “I wish to have a talk with your commander… Is he here?”
The guard was about to answer when the Centurion appeared in the doorway. “And who is it that comes to see me on this fine day,” he asked with a warm smile.
“I’ve come to see if we can improve our relationship with you and your garrison,” Jesus replied.
At first the Centurion frowned, but then after a brief pause his face brightened. He then smiled as though pleased to see Jesus. He invited Jesus into the tent and they soon settled down for what was to be a long talk. An hour or two later, both men emerged from the tent. The Centurion clasped Jesus by the arm and asked him “How can we summarize our talk?”
“There is no need for us to quarrel. We both need a peaceful relationship in order to go about our respective daily tasks. You need a cordial relationship so you can focus your time on your border and toll collection duties. The people of Capernaum need to spend their time on the tasks of daily life. We can work together.”
“There is no need then… for any hatred between us?”
Jesus examined the Centurion’s face, determined the man was sincere, and said with some reverence: “Love is better than hate.”
The Centurion watched Jesus as he made his way to the road back to Capernaum. There is a man I can trust, he reasoned. I can depend on his judgement.
****
19 A.D. Fall.
James, John, Simon and Jesus returned to Bethsaida with two carts. As they climbed the hill into town, Jesus saw a familiar figure on the road ahead. It was Salome, his mother’s sister. She was smiling as though anticipating a big event. As soon as James and John had given their mother a hug and a kiss, she waved them off and came to Jesus.
“I have a surprise for you,” she said with enthusiasm “you’ll never guess who lives here.”
Jesus, tired from his journey, could only manage a small smile and shake his head.
“Come with me,” Salome took his hand and gently tugged him to follow her to a delta near the Sea of Galilee. It was not a long walk. As they approached the shore, Jesus saw three men sitting on a log, mending a fishing net. He suddenly recognized two of them and exclaimed with joy “James and Jude!”
Startled, all three men turned around. The smallest of the three shouted in surprise “brother!”
James and Jude dropped the net and rushed to greet their brother. James hugged Jesus. Jude clasped his hand.
“What a surprise. It’s been years. What brings you to this corner of the world?”
“I’ve come to help Andrew move to Capernaum. I have a home and a shop there. We moved his brother last summer.” Jesus paused and took a long look at his brothers. “It is good to see you. How did you connect with Salome?”
“She found us,” Jude answered “she thought James looked like Mary and asked where we were from. As soon as I said Nazareth, she knew who we were.”
“And so you are fishermen?” asked Jesus.
“And farmers,” James responded. “Come see, we are mending our fishing net.”
“And meet our partner, Philip,” Jude said tugging Jesus by the hand to the log where the men had been sitting. A tall thin man arose and extended his hand to Jesus. But when he took it, his face was overcome by a confused expression. Who is this man? Philip thought, he seems to have spiritual energy in his fingertips. But he quickly shook the thought.
“Welcome to Bethsaida. You are obviously the better part of your brothers,” Philip declared with a mischievous smile.
They all laughed in good spirits. The conversation, which became very animated, was interrupted by the approach of another man, struggling up the shore with a heavy net. He dropped the net when he saw James and came to join the group. James brought him to Jesus.
“Here is another good man, a fisherman, carpenter, and stone mason by occupation. His name is Thomas, Thomas Didymus from Tarichea.”
“My pleasure to meet you,” said Jesus warmly “I too am a carpenter, a stone mason and–only when the sun is shining–a fisherman.”
They all laughed at the humor. After several minutes of friendly conversation, Jude picked up the net to show it to Jesus.
“We seem to work more on our nets than fish in our boat.”
Jesus inspected the frayed net carefully and then looked at Jude.
“Jude, my brother, I think it is a lost cause.”
****
Jesus could hear the happy laughter and enthusiastic chatter of children outside the door of his little shop. He went to the doorway and looked out. There was Sarah, playing a game with three children; two small boys and a little girl. The joyful smile on her face said it all: she was elated to be in the company of children. She loved them all.
It’s all so sad, Jesus lamented. Sarah would have been a good mother.... Sarah noticed his dejected frown and came to him.
“I know what you are thinking,” she said with a gentle smile. “But do not feel sad, - these,” she said with a sweep of her hand “are my children. Every one of them. I can love all the children of Capernaum.”
Jesus could not help giving his wife a warm embrace and a kiss. “But you give too much...”
“Do not fret,” she insisted “they give me love because I give them love. They respond like my own children and the women of the village are happy because I keep an eye on them.”
Jesus turned to look at the happy little ones playing in his courtyard. “You have compassion.... like my mother.”
“Jesus,” Sarah said quietly “they are my children and they are your children.... all of them.... love them as I do.”
****
23 A.D. Summer.
According to local gossip, Matthew was the richest man in Capernaum. That’s because he was the local tax collector for Herod Antipas. Every time he collected a toll from the caravans that passed through Capernaum, he took his cut; and a substantial cut it was. He also collected taxes from the people who lived in the area. Matthew the Tax Collector was educated and literate in both Greek and Aramaic (the language of Capernaum). He made his routine visit to the little shop where Jesus worked on a lazy hot afternoon.
“Making another boat I see” a loud voice called into the shop. Jesus looked up from the wood he was trimming. He actually liked Matthew.
“Fishermen cannot caste their nets without boats.”
“And you have the respect of the whole village,” Matthew said with a smile “your carpenter skills are well known.... all the way to Tarichaea.”
Jesus looked at Matthew with an inquisitive expression “How much?”
“You’re an honest man, Jesus. Let’s keep your allegiance to the Romans affordable.”
“That’s very kind of you.”
“As you know, I have a quota to collect. The Romans really don’t care how I get it.... So I get a little extra the caravans and .... from the sinners.”
Jesus smiled. "You collect the taxes of sin to free the soul of the sinner."
Matthew regarded Jesus as a friend. Quietly he said: “Jesus, if you ever go into the soul saving business ... you have more wisdom than most men.”
****
23 A.D. Early November.
Jesus had just celebrated his 27th birthday.
James burst through the doorway of the little shop where Jesus was working on a cart frame. “Jesus, come with me, the Roman scum have done it again.”
Jesus sighed, dejected. “What is it this time?”
“The mercenaries murdered a man in Magdala.”
“Do we know why?”
“He resisted paying his taxes. The man told them if he did, he would not have enough to support his family.”
“Was Matthew there?”
James thought for a moment. “No..... he was here in Capernaum, or maybe Bethsaida. This is not his month to collect in Magdala.”
“Then the tax story doesn’t hold a cup of water. The mercenaries enforce the collection, but it is Matthew who decides how much too collect.... and when.”
James added frustration to his anger. “So what do we do? Nothing? I’m tired of these Roman clients.”
“James. Anyone who is angry against his brother shall be judged by those who hear his wrath. Anyone who commits an act of violence against his brother shall be judged by God.”
James snorted. He was still defiant. Jesus sought to calm him.
“Let us be practical. If we make a move on the Romans and the mercenaries of Herod Antipas, we better have more than 5 or 6 angry men with us.... You are right to be angry, but first you must be sure of your facts.... and your safety.... and your escape route. Otherwise you are committing suicide.”
“You won’t join us then?”
“I choose forgiveness over hatred, and so should you. Until you have more facts, you and your brother would do well to remain calm.”
Jesus stepped back to lean on his workbench. His grave demeanor revealed a man who was very depressed. “Besides James, I have other problems.”
Jesus spoke the heartbreaking words very slowly .... “Sarah is sick.”
James was stunned. “Sarah knows how to heal. What does she say it is?”
“Something is wrong in her chest. She coughs up yellow green pus and has a bad fever that alternates with periods of chills. Her breathing is not good.”
“What can we do?” James asked with sympathy “My wife will help. She knows something about healing.”
“Thank you,” Jesus looked downcast “but what I need is Jamel. Her father is a physician.”
“Where is he?”
“He lives in Sepphoris. I would go, but I do not dare to leave Sarah.”
“I’ll find John and we can fetch your physician.”
Jesus looked gravely at the big man standing in the doorway. “Thank you James.... but I fear it is too late.”
****
Despite the danger of contracting Sarah’s disease, Simon’s wife and his mother-in-law came to help. They took turns bathing Sarah and gave her hot fluids. Someone suggested a rare herbal tea. But nothing relieved her distress. Although Sarah was very brave, her breathing grew steadily more labored.
Thanks to James, word did reach Jamel. As soon as he heard the news, he borrowed a horse drawn cart, loaded it with a few medical items, and raced to Capernaum with Tabitha. They arrived two days later. Tabitha took over the chore of helping her daughter. Hours passed. Jesus was overcome with melancholy.
“Is there nothing you can do?” he asked Jamel. The unhappy physician could only shake his head.
“I am good with medicines,” he lamented sadly “but there is nothing I can do.... even for my own daughter.”
A day later, dozing on a sweat soaked mat, Sarah suddenly opened her eyes and looked up at her mother with alarm. “Does he still love me.... does he love me even though I am useless?”
Tabitha looked with tenderness and compassion at her daughter.
“Sarah, no man has ever loved a woman more that Jesus loves you.”
****
It became time. Jamel called Jesus to Sarah’s bed. He bent over and kissed her fevered cheek. She grasped his hand and held it tightly, as though she never wanted to let it go. Jesus closed his eyes and he began to weep. Sarah’s breathing became more labored. She began to slowly slip away. At first she was afraid, but after a few moments a gentle smile crossed her lips.
Jesus was astonished by what happened next. He had a vivid conscious image of the two of them walking down a path lined with flowers. It was like the olive garden where they had sealed their love. Everything was incredibly serene and peaceful. He could smell the aroma of the lovely blossoms. Still firmly clasping his hand in hers, Sarah appeared relieved and happy. Ahead on the path an open portal shrouded in white clouds appeared. Beams of golden light streamed through the opening. When they reached the portal, Sarah turned to Jesus.
“I’ll always be at your side. Our love will never fade”
And then she was gone.
Chapter 7 Quest
Friends and family came together as one for the funeral. His brothers James and Jude brought Salome with them from Bethsaida. Simon and Andrew, stunned by Sarah’s death, were overcome with sorrow for their friend. Even James and John Boanerges were unusually subdued. Tabitha and Jamel were drawn in by the warmth of his friends and their families.
They walked together up to the cemetery on the hill. It was a simple service. Jesus gave a brief eulogy. Jamel offered a heartfelt prayer for the daughter he loved. John presented the group’s condolences to Jesus. Then his friends left Jesus alone with his private thoughts and walked slowly back to the village.
Jesus stared absently at the mound of fresh earth.
“I have failed you,” he murmured “I don’t know how, but I feel I could have been more successful.... done more to make you happy.... supported your love for the children of Capernaum.... been more of a companion...” Jesus broke into tears. He sobbed with the deep sorrow of a man who had suddenly lost everything he loved. The agony of the past few days spilled out of his soul and down his cheeks. He slowly backed away from the grave, ...groaned softly, ...turned, ...and began a lonely walk to the village.
****
“I have to tell Mary,” Jesus spoke up “I know she will be unhappy at the news, but it must be done.”
Jamel took Jesus by the arm. It was clear his son-in-law was disoriented and a little lost. “Why don’t you join us as far as Sepphoris,” Jamel said “Tabitha and I will keep you company.”
Jesus looked uneasy. Unsure.
“Can we leave tomorrow morning?”
“Of course,” Tabitha replied. She put her arm around his waist and gave him a little hug. “We will always be family.”
****
It was a quiet trip to Sepphoris. Jesus remained silent, deep in thought. What am I going to do now? He thought. My life has been torn in half. Why did God let this happen? What did I do to deserve this? Why was Sarah punished?
Discouraging thoughts and questions, repeated over and over again. Each time they repeated in his mind, he became more depressed. This wasn’t fair. This wasn’t right. What had he done wrong? Did God hate him?
Jamel guessed what Jesus was thinking. When they reached the road to Nazareth, he stopped, took Jesus by both hands, and tried to counsel him.
“I have seen many patients die from common diseases. There is no one to blame. There is nothing you could have done to save her. Please Jesus, do not be depressed. You have been a good son to me – and to Tabitha. You gave our daughter the deep and enduring love she had been looking for – ever since she was a little girl. She could not have found a better man.”
Jamel gave Jesus a hug and stepped back. “You will always be welcome in our home.”
Tabitha moved closer and - sobbing gently - hugged the man she would always think of as her son.
****
It was an easy walk to Nazareth: perhaps too easy. Jesus pondered what to tell Mary. Did he need more time to think? How could he explain what happened? Would he be able to control his feelings when he talked to his mother?
By the time he reached Nazareth, Jesus had partially regained his composure. He was looking forward to seeing Mary, even if he had to be the bearer of bad news. He knew she would understand his grief. Jesus walked through the village and up the familiar path to the house where he grew up. To his surprise, Mary was waiting for him at the doorway.
“Mary!”
“You don’t have to tell me anything,” she replied sorrowfully “Micah came this morning and told me all about Sarah.”
“Micah?”
“God loves you Jesus. He is very sorry for your loss.... and so is Micah.... and so am I.”
Mary enveloped her son in her arms; soft tears of compassion slowly made their way down her cheek. She desperately wanted to ease her son’s pain. A grateful Jesus returned her spiritually graceful affection.
Mary stood back and inspected her son. He was dirty from his long walk, physically exhausted, emotionally shattered, and obviously hungry. She wanted to redirect his thoughts.
“Come inside and wash up. I have supper ready.”
“Where is Joseph?”
“He is in Sepphoris, working. He will be home soon.”
Still numb from the sad events that had enveloped his very being, Jesus followed Mary’s instructions. He bathed, but was somehow disconnected from his physical self. His thinking became even more pessimistic. He stumbled into the bedroom and put on a clean robe. Jesus returned to the kitchen and sat down to eat. His mother’s warmth and grace slowly eased his depression. Although he did not eat much, could not eat much, he felt better after supper.
Jesus absently began to help Mary with the chores. He was stoking the fire when he remembered the question he had asked earlier. Turning to Mary, he repeated the question: “Who is Micah?”
“Micah is an angel. He is the angel who knows and helps to fulfill God’s plan. He came to us before you were born–and he told us all about you.”
Jesus was astonished and puzzled by the revelation. It added to the confusion of his painful thoughts.
“God is interested in me?”
“I cannot tell you everything.... you’ll just have to be patient. But it is important for you to know.... God has a special place for you in his heart.”
A loud noise outside signaled Joseph was returning home. He emerged through the doorway with great energy, reached for his son, and embraced him in a warm hug. After he released Jesus, Joseph looked intently into his son’s eyes.
“I am very sorry for your loss. Sarah was family. We all loved her.”
“How did you know she passed away?” Jesus was clearly puzzled.
“I had a visit from Micah. He told me...”
“Micah again!” exclaimed Jesus, interrupting his father, “This angel tells you about me and about Sarah, but I have never seen him!”
Jesus was clearly upset. His depression suddenly gave way to increasing confusion. Joseph looked quizzically at Mary.
“How much have you told him?”
“Only that God has a special place in his heart for him.”
Joseph was not ready to have a long discussion with Jesus.
“I have been working in Sepphoris all week,” he said firmly. Let me wash up and have some supper. Then we can sit by the fire. It’s a long story.”
Joseph washed his face, arms and hands. Mary busied herself with Joseph’s supper. Hungry and tired from a long day, Joseph wanted to eat and relax before revealing anything to Jesus. But after what seemed to be a very long time, he at last finished his meal and was ready for a quiet talk with his son.
Joseph and Mary sat down by the fire. Joseph motioned for Jesus to join them. He positioned himself in front of his son. His words were sincere and thoughtful. He described Micah, how Micah came to them before Jesus was born, and why Micah’s words were important. Joseph also confirmed they believed God had a special place in his heart for Jesus.
Jesus was unconvinced.
“But if he has a special place in his heart for me, then why didn’t he allow us to have children and why did he let Sarah die.”
Joseph struggled for an answer. Mary came to his rescue.
“When God created us, he had a basic decision to make. Did he want to run our lives, every second of every day? Or did he want us to be free to make our own choices? If he ran our lives, he could protect us from every harm or disappointment, but what would we become? Mere unthinking animals totally dependent on a higher authority...”
Mary placed her arm around Jesus.
“God has always wanted his children to have enough intelligence to be independent. If we can make our own choices, then we are closer to the nature of God.... we are like him.... we have been made in his image. That means we have free will, to make our own choices, to be responsible for the results of our decisions, and to experience the joys and sorrows of our existence. In this way he has elevated us above all his other living creations.”
“There is, of course, a downside,” Joseph said quietly “our independence exposes us to whatever life has instore for us: both the good and the bad...”
Jesus was still skeptical. His father patiently continued to counsel him.
“God seldom interferes with the life he has given us. Sometimes he encourages his angels to help a battered soul or the innocent, and we can always ask for his help in prayer and meditation.”
Mary looked deeply into the eyes of her son.
“Jesus, you are experiencing life for all that it is..... And from these experiences you are gaining in compassion and wisdom,”
By now, Joseph and Mary had established a deep spiritual connection with their son. Joseph’s next words were sympathetic but firm.
“Mary is right. God loves you, as he does us. But God has a special task for you, a mission, and he wants you to pursue it with the passion of human experience. In addition to having an intellectual understanding of healing, theology and the law, you must also have the instinctive ability to deliver a powerful message. If you are to minister with a voice that resonates with your contemporaries, then you must first experience the joy of love and the agony of hatred.”
Joseph paused, absently poked at the fire, and turned again to Jesus.
“You are experiencing human life with all its joys, sorrows, triumphs, and tragedies. If he intervened in your life, you would miss the natural events that mold your character and wisdom.”
Jesus abruptly got up and walked aimlessly around the room. He was stunned by his father’s words. A thousand questions rushed through his mind, starting with Why me? What mission?’
“Have you tried to connect with God?” Joseph asked “Perhaps it is time for you to make a special effort.”
“I have prayed to our God many times as required by our laws and customs.” Jesus replied “I have also, from time to time asked for his help, and I choose to believe he has always responded….”
Jesus paused to look into the eyes of his father ... and then his mother, searching for a conscious connection. His confusion was slowly replaced with sense of awareness and conviction.
“There was, within me, a growing sense of a special relationship. But until tonight, I rejected it as nonsense. Now you have both confirmed there is something extraordinary about my bond with God. I have much to learn and contemplate.”
Mary was elated by the change in her son’s demeanor.
“We know God has a task for you, Jesus. When it is time, he will tell you what it is.... And if Sarah were here, she would be at your side to help you.... But now you will have to do it with only God at your side.”
****
Jesus was perplexed by the revelation. What could God possibly want him to do? He was only a humble carpenter from a family of carpenters. He had neither the training nor the experience to be of much help to God.
However, he trusted Mary’s judgement and his father’s wisdom. Jesus was content – for the moment – to suppress his curiosity because most of his thoughts were still centered on the death of his wife.
Three days later, refreshed and more reconciled with the events of his life, he started back to Capernaum. He decided to take a detour to visit with Jamel and Tabitha. As he trudged along, his thoughts kept returning to his life with Sarah and the heartbreak of her loss. An hour later, he paused for a moment at the top of a hill that overlooked a beautiful valley. There he stood in the crisp November air. Gazing over the landscape shimmering in the light of the moon Jesus raised his arms to the heavens, and shouted - with all the breath he could command –
“I’m angry at you!”
****
He reached the familiar gate of Jamel’s villa and paused for a moment before opening it to collect his thoughts. He turned the handle and began to push the heavy gate open. Jesus was immediately startled by the appearance of a woman he did not know.
“Who are you!” she exclaimed, clearly frightened.
“I am Jesus, a carpenter and son-in-law.” In his surprise, the words tumbled out of his mouth.
“Oh!–you are Sarah’s husband. I’ve heard all about you.”
“But you didn’t tell me who you are,” Jesus smiled as he regained his composure.
“I’m Joanna, wife of Chuza. He is the house-steward of Herod Antipas.”
A loud voice broke their conversation. It was Tabitha.
“Jesus! Welcome!” Tabitha quickly crossed the courtyard to where they were standing. “I see you have met my friend Joanna. She works in the house of Herod Antipas. We have known each other for years.”
Jesus smiled again at Joanna. She was, he noted, nice looking, slightly overweight and perhaps two or three years younger than Tabitha. He was fascinated by Joanna’s olive skin, just like Sarah.
“I’m pleased to meet you. But how does a woman from the house of Herod meet a physician’s wife?”
Joanna looked at Tabitha and back at Jesus. Impressed by his friendly poise and engaging charisma, she decided to respond.
“We met at the market.... several years ago. And you know how women like to talk.”
“Friendships make life worth living,” Jesus said. Then he paused. A frown crossed his face. “As you know, I just lost my best friend,” he said softly.
Joanna looked with sympathy into his eyes, took his hand, and gave it a gentle squeeze. Although she did not understand why, Joanna suddenly felt very close to this young man. She spoke softly to him. “I feel your grief.”
****
24 A.D. April.
Although the pain of Sarah’s death had ebbed away with the healing power of time, Jesus was lethargic, depressed and restless. His work languished. It no longer had any interest for him. He worked just enough to support his meager needs. James and John Boanerges tried to convince him it was time for a nationalist revolution.
“Let us establish God’s Kingdom on Earth,” James often said.
But Jesus knew those words were a sly way of proclaiming– Let us establish the Kingdom of Israel on earth. It was the goal of Jewish nationalists. The zealots believed only God had the right to rule Israel.
Jesus firmly rejected any thoughts of violence against Herod’s mercenaries or the Romans. War would bring death and destruction, but no resolution. Rome would win. It had the greatest army on earth. There had to be another way to bring about the peace and freedom everyone wanted.
Jesus also spent a considerable amount of time contemplating the words of Mary and Joseph. In prayer and in meditation he began to look for his God; the one he wanted to love; the God who loved him. In March Jesus asked God to forgive his anger about the loss of Sarah. He was almost immediately consciously aware of the answer: God had already forgiven him.
****
On a delightful spring day he walked up the hill to the little cemetery for a visit with Sarah. The hills around the Sea of Galilee can be beautiful: lush green grass, red anemones, poppies, purple grape hyacinths, iris blooms, marigolds, pure white lilies, and almond tree blossoms create a picturesque landscape.
Perhaps it was his imagination, but sitting there in the lush green grass by her grave, overlooking the blue waters of the Sea of Galilee, he began to sense her presence. But his pleasant thoughts were interrupted by the giggles and laughter of several children alternately running, walking and skipping up the hill to where he was sitting. Jesus was elated to see them. Their innocence and trust brought joy to his heart. One of the little boys came to him. He looked very serious.
“We know you come here to talk with Sarah. Can we talk to her too?”
Jesus, somewhat taken back by the boy’s question, hesitated in thought before he answered. An idea swept into his consciousness.
“I’m sure Sarah can hear you... her answer may come on the whisper of a breeze–or perhaps the thoughts of a dream.”
The little boy screwed up his face, trying to understand what Jesus had said. A little girl came to his rescue. “He means we can always talk to Sarah. She might not be able to talk to us the way we talk to each other.” She looked annoyed. “Can’t you understand that?”
Jesus marveled at her wisdom. Still puzzled, the little boy turned away and ran to rejoin the other children. The little girl looked at Jesus with wondering eyes. “Are you going to get married again?”
Jesus was thoughtful, and then he said with a sly smile “Does your mother have someone in mind?”
Embarrassed, the little girl looked away. Jesus teased her gently
“A sister, a maiden aunt, a friend, perhaps?”
Her cheeks turned crimson with embarrassment.
Jesus smiled “I do not think I will ever be married again. I have a friend. You knew her. Her name is Sarah. She will always be my companion.”
The little girl became very sad; she looked at Jesus for several seconds, and offered her hand. Jesus smiled as he shook hands with her. Then she abruptly turned and ran from him up the trail. Laughing and chattering, the other children joined her.
Jesus listened to their playful noise until they disappeared out of sight. He relaxed again and was lost in his thoughts when he felt the soft touch of a hand on his shoulder. He didn’t look up because he immediately sensed who it was.
“The children love us Jesus. Bless them with your love.”
And then, with a gentle squeeze of affection, she was gone.
****
August.
Jesus looked with pride at the cart he had just finished. It could be pulled by one or two men and its wheels were tall enough to clear the ruts and rubble of local roads and trails. The farmer who ordered it lived in Bethsaida and he planned to pick it up in a week.
But Jesus was restless. It was clear a big change was coming. Mary and Joseph had suggested God had a task for him. In his meditation he could sense something was about to profoundly alter the course of his life. But not knowing what to expect merely served to frustrate him. Jesus simply did not know what to do. He decided to relieve his agitation by taking the cart to Bethsaida. The walk would relieve his excess energy and it would be good to see Salome again.
Early the next morning he left Capernaum for Bethsaida, pulling the cart behind him. Although the cart was not very hard to pull, it did slow him down and before he reached the Jordan River he needed a rest. Jesus found a comfortable log, sat down, took a long drink of water from his bag, and stretched his tired legs. He sat there for several minutes, enjoying the beauty of the landscape around him. Jesus was about to stand up when he saw a shepherd walking toward him, guiding a small flock of sheep. The shepherd, a man of medium build, greying hair, and rumpled appearance, smiled and greeted him by name “Good morning, Jesus. The peace of our Lord is with you on this fine day.”
Startled that the shepherd knew his name, Jesus softly responded “And may the peace of God be with you, shepherd.”
The shepherd sat down beside Jesus. Looking thoughtfully over the plain to the Sea of Galilee, he said “The work of a shepherd is never done. Without a loving hand to guide them, the sheep will stray from safety. The wolves of their destruction are always there – waiting to devour the innocent and the guilty alike.”
“Shouldn’t they be free to wander where they will?’ Jesus asked. “Don’t they know where to eat and drink?”
“If they only ate nourishing grass and drank from pools of clear water, they would not need anyone to watch over them. But life is far more complex. Weeds, swill, conflict, animosity, greed, arrogance, ignorance, hatred; these things exist. The wolves of destruction hunger for the unwary. The shepherd seeks to elevate the consciousness of the soul above the path of self-destruction.”
“And how does the shepherd do this?”
“Lead them away from temptation, and deliver them from evil.”
Jesus grew impatient. “But again, how does the shepherd elevate the soul”
“By teaching them God’s commandments; By setting the example of compassion; By healing the sick and injured; and By leading them to the spiritual kingdom.”
They sat in silence for a few moments.
“I do not believe we are talking about sheep,” Jesus responded thoughtfully. “And where does one get these commandments you speak of?”
“From God, he will teach you by word, inspiration and example.”
Although Jesus was astonished by the shepherd’s words, he managed to keep his thoughts to himself.
The shepherd appeared to be finished with his discourse. He slowly arose, carefully collected his sheep, and started down the track to Capernaum. He used a light touch of his staff to keep them centered on the path.
Jesus called after him. “You are a good shepherd.”
The shepherd slowly turned and looked gravely at Jesus. “Who is your shepherd, Jesus?”
****
Jesus delivered the cart to the farmer, collected his reward in coin, and walked to the village. Salome’s husband, Zebedee Boanerges, had been a fisherman, farmer and trader. A man of some wealth, he left Salome with a gracious house and a substantial income from a thriving wine business. John and James had asked their mother to move to Capernaum. But thus far she had refused, preferring to lead the life of a landed mistress. Jesus thought his mother and Salome, who were sisters, looked very much alike. Jesus knew he would be welcome when he appeared at the gate to her courtyard.
Jesus was about to knock at the gate when Salome opened it just a little - recognized Jesus - and threw the gate open. “Jesus!” she exclaimed “how nice to see you, come in, come in.”
Jesus gave her a loving smile. “I have just delivered a cart to a farmer near here, and I thought it would be nice to see my mother’s sister again.”
“I’m so glad you did.... and guess what, I have another guest here you’ll want to meet.”
With that Salome took Jesus by the hand and led him though the courtyard into her kitchen. An angular and rather severe looking man stood up to greet him. But both men abruptly stopped any movement and looked intently at each other.
Jesus spoke first. Although the man was a stranger, he instantly knew who it was. “You are John.”
“And you are my cousin Jesus, God sent me to find you” John replied.
They shook hands, then instinctively hugged, and stood back to look at each other.
“I knew this day would come,” John said. Before my parents passed away they told me about Mary’s visit to Judea. They believed you are special in the eyes of the Lord.”
Puzzled by John’s words, Jesus was uncertain how to respond. Then John took Jesus by the hand again. He used both of his hands, one on top and one below the outstretched palm. This time the passage of spiritual energy that flowed between them was unmistakable. John motioned for Jesus to the table.
“Let us talk, we have much to discuss.”
Salome watched the two men greet each other with astonishment. It was as though both men had been expecting this day to happen. She scrambled to regain her composure.
“You two must be famished. Sit down and I will bring you something to eat. I have the best fresh bread in Bethsaida … cheese, dried fruits and nuts. I can cook up some chicken if you like. And there is wine from my own press. Help yourself to a cup.”
Both men thanked Salome for her generosity. Then John turned to Jesus. “Do you still live in Nazareth?”
“No – I haven’t lived there for some time. I have a carpenter’s shop in Capernaum.”
“Capernaum? I am not familiar with the name.”
“It’s a half days walk from here, - when I’m not pulling a cart. If Salome will put me up, I plan to go home tomorrow morning.”
“Good!” John was very decisive. “We will go to Capernaum and you can show me what you are doing.”
Jesus was humbled. “It’s not very impressive...”
He paused a moment, scanning the boney features of John’s face, and then asked “And what have you been doing?”
“I’ve been preaching in the countryside. Small groups of people.... here and there. There is much to be done in Judea. ”
“Have you preached in the synagogues or the Temple in Jerusalem?”
“No,” John laughed balefully “they chased me out. The Sadducees don’t think I’m qualified, and the Pharisees don’t like my message. However, while the Essenes have a strict ritual and severe rules of conduct, they have been most kind to me.”
“What is going on in Jerusalem?”
“Corruption is everywhere. The priests have turned Herod’s Temple into a market to sell sacrificial animals and birds. They change money for the poor and take a cut for themselves with every transaction.”
Jesus frowned. “Something must be done. But where did you preach last?”
“Hippos. Unfortunately for me, it is a pagan Greek and Roman city. The Jews there thought I was a lunatic. They chased me out of the city and down the road to the lake.”
Jesus could not help chuckling at the thought of a very angular John running down the hill from Hippos to escape the mob.
“Do you think you would like to become an Essene?” Jesus asked.
“Probably not, I prefer to live by my own beliefs. But I agree with some of their theology. When I visited with them in Qumran, they gave me a letter of introduction I can show to any Essene group. The Essenes will provide the traveler with food and a place to sleep.”
Salome interrupted their conversation with two plates heaped high with vegetables and meat. Her chores done, she sat down at the table to listen to their conversation.
Jesus blessed their food with a simple prayer. Both men were very hungry and gratefully began to eat. A moment later, Jesus looked up and asked John a question. “Have you ever married?”
“No. I’m too restless, and I am certainly not a farmer. I have adopted the Essene philosophy of Celibacy...” John paused to take a sip of wine. “Have you ever married?”
“I was fortunate enough to be loved by a gracious woman – Sarah. Unfortunately, she has been called to be with God. I miss her.... although I am sure she is by my side.”
Any children?”
“No.... although we wanted to have a family.... it was not to be.”
“Do you think you will ever remarry?”
“No.”
“Then why not adopt the Essene rules of Celibacy?”
“I need to think a great deal about my own beliefs before I make any commitment.”
“The Essenes believe a vow of Celibacy brings a man closer to God. Marriage gets in the way of commitment and study. We must focus all our energy on our relationship with God.”
Jesus felt a sudden wave of inspiration sweep over him. The feeling was both intense and sweet. He suddenly had many answers to the questions and doubts that had plagued him these last few months. He spoke with a conviction that surprised him.
“I want to focus on my connection with God,” Jesus said solemnly “My mother and father told me God has a task for me..... a mission. My conscious thoughts and my dreams are pushing me toward a different relationship with God. It would appear to be a partnership that will affect people of many nations. But preaching is not enough. Sarah and her father taught me the value of healing. I must include healing with my teaching.”
“Then what you want to do is way beyond what I have been doing,” John said “it’s one thing to preach to a Jewish audience, but if you want to expand your task to include people of other nations, then the first thing you have to do is understand them, otherwise you will appear the fool.”
John leaned back in his chair and stared at the roof of the house. After a long pause he looked intently at Jesus. “You need to do a lot of preparation before you begin your ministry. Where will you go to learn your healing skills? And how will you increase your knowledge of culture, theology and philosophy?”
“I haven’t figured that out.” Jesus replied. “I am astonished by the sudden intensity of my feelings. Talking with you has convinced me this is something I must do.”
John leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes as in prayer. Well Lord, I am doing what you asked me to do...
****
The next morning the two men said a fond farewell to Salome. She drew Jesus aside to say goodbye. “I think you are destined for greatness,” she said “you project an inspirational energy. God bless your efforts. Come here whenever you can. I’d like to follow your progress.” Then she drew a small purse from her rob and gave it to Jesus. “Take this; you will need money for your trip, no matter where it takes you.”
Jesus reluctantly took the purse. But he knew she was right. He would need money to achieve the goals he had set out for himself last night. “Thank you for your encouragement, Salome, I feel like I am about to embark on a great experience.”
****
John and Jesus crossed the Jordan and walked along the plain next to the Sea of Galilee. As they started to climb through the hills overlooking Capernaum, John stopped by a log.
“Let’s rest for a moment. I have an idea.”
They sat down on the log and looked out over the deep blue water. John asked a question.
“Where do they teach healing?”
“Jamel, Sarah’s father, told me the best place to learn healing is Alexandria. They used to have one of the best libraries in the world.”
“Egypt? John was curious “the Roman province of Aegyptus.?”
“Yes, Egypt. I am also curious about the many temples Jamar has described.”
John looked up and spoke with conviction. “Then that is where we must go.”
“We?”
“Now Jesus, you don’t think I would let you go alone, do you? Who is going to save you from the temptations of the big city?”
Jesus gave John a broad smile. He was very glad John had adopted him as a friend.
“I don’t know who will be watching whom on this journey.”
Jesus paused for a moment... “Last night I was awakened in the early morning hours by a conscious presence I do not yet understand... as a result... I have decided to adopt the philosophy of celibacy.”
He paused again... “And I am pleased you want to join me. ‘We’ it is.”
John was enthusiastic. “When will we begin this adventure?”
“Just as soon as I settle my affairs in Capernaum… But you haven’t told me how we get to Alexandria.”
John thought for a moment. “We can go to Caesarea Maritima. It’s a busy Roman port city. We can try to find work on a boat bound for Alexandria. Failing that, we can walk there by the coast route.”
“I want to stop and say goodbye to my parents in Nazareth.... They will probably think I’m crazy.”
“No they won’t, Jesus. Mary is sure to understand if she is anything like Salome.... And according to my parents, she is very much like her sister.... a woman of compassion. She will encourage your success.”
****
It took a few days to close his shop, say goodbye to his friends, and finish his affairs in Capernaum. Then Jesus and John journeyed to Nazareth. Mary was thrilled to meet John, a baby when she last saw him. Joseph counseled them about their journey and when they were ready to leave, Mary had a gift for Jesus.
“Many years ago, a Roman Centurion saved my virtue and...” Mary pulled a medallion from the top of her robe and carefully lifted the chain over her head “he gave me this.... It is his family crest. He told me that if I were ever confronted by the Romans, they would respect his family’s rank and leave me alone. ... Where you are traveling, you will need it more than I do.”
Jesus took the medallion and looked at it thoughtfully. “A Roman medallion and the will of God: I do believe we shall be safe.”
The next morning Jesus gave his father an emotional hug, kissed his mother on her cheek, and set out on his quest with John as his companion.
****
24 A.D. September.
Caesarea Maritima (named for Augustus Caesar) was the provincial capital, an important commercial center, and a headquarters for Roman Legions. Located on the Plain of Sharon next to the Mediterranean Sea, it had a large and busy harbor. Herod the Great built the city and the harbor ~25–13 B.C. He located his palace on a peninsula that extended out to the sea. In the year 6 A.D., Caesarea became the civilian and military capital of Iudaea (Judaea) Province and eventually the official residence of Pontius Pilatus. Although the city was largely populated by Syrian Greeks during the first century A.D., it was also the home of many wealthy Jews. Caesarea grew rapidly, becoming the largest city in Judaea with an estimated population of 125,000.
****
It took almost three days to reach Caesarea, and by the time they reached the city it was late in the afternoon. Jesus was amazed by the number of people in the streets, the size of the buildings, and the dissonance of unfamiliar languages. But his biggest surprise was the harbor, filled with boats of all descriptions, and then the sea itself.... blue waters extending forever into the distance. John found them a room for the night and some supper with an Essene group. The next morning, they arose early and wandered through the streets, finally ending up in the market.
It was the Sabbath. In the square two men were preaching. One man was standing on the steps of a building, earnestly talking to a small group people. The other man was directly across the square, bellowing out his words to no one in particular. John was energized by all the noise and commotion of the market. He could not resist the temptation to preach. John found a pile of rubble, made his way to the top, and began to speak with a very loud and commanding voice.
“Hear ye, oh Israel, the lord be with you!”
He continued on for a few minutes. Most of the people either ignored him or laughed at his gyrations. But then two women approached the rubble, curious about John’s oration. One of the women spotted Jesus and walked to where he was standing.
“Who is your friend?” she asked.
“He is,” Jesus responded “a man of God who has not yet found his way to success.”
“I am astonished;” she said “here he is, preaching in Aramaic right under the noses of the Romans.”
Jesus looked around the square. “I don’t think they care.... But I’ll admit his audacity surprises me.”
“And what is his name?”
“John,” Jesus smiled “and my name is Jesus. We arrived in Caesarea last night.”
Jesus looked at the woman and her friend more closely. They were well dressed, conservative in appearance, and looked to be somewhat older than he was.
“May I ask your name?” he asked politely.
“Susanna,” she replied “and this is my friend Mary. She is from Magdala.”
Jesus offered his hand. To his surprise, Susanna’s grasp conveyed both warmth and compassion. When he shook Mary’s hand, he sensed she was a woman of moral strength. Susanna searched his face with interest.
“What do you do?”
“I am a carpenter, mostly, and I also work as a stone mason.”
Susanna again took both his hands and inspected them, palms up. “You are going somewhere.”
“We are going to Alexandria. I hope to study healing and browse through the library there.”
“That, I think, is your true calling,” Susanna responded, her eyes fixed on his. She turned to Mary.
“This man is ambitious. He wants to be a healer.”
Just then John, who had failed to attract a crowd, came down to join them.
“I think,” he declared “I have too much competition.”
Jesus and the two women smiled in agreement. He introduced John to Susanna and Mary.
“We are going to Alexandria,” John said.
Mary was curious. “How do you plan to travel there?”
“By boat, if we can exchange work for passage.... Otherwise we will walk by the coast route.”
Susanna looked thoughtfully at Jesus. She placed her hand on his arm and tugged for him to follow her.
“I know several of the boat masters,” she said. “Perhaps we will be in luck. One of them might be willing to exchange a voyage for work to Alexandria.”
****
She was right. Susanna found the boat of an old friend on the commercial dock. He was the master of a trade boat. After a brief discussion, he agreed to take Jesus and John to Alexandria if they would help with cleaning the boat, loading and unloading the cargo and working the sails on their voyage. He immediately put John and Jesus to work.
Susanna and Mary started back toward the city. Susanna spoke in a quiet voice. “Did you feel the inner strength and energy that flowed from his hand?”
Mary nodded in agreement. “He seemed very intense.”
“He’s incredibly charismatic. When he looked into my eyes, I believe he was looking into my soul”, Susanna mused.
Mary thought about her friend’s impression of Jesus. “He wants to heal.... he wants to bring spiritual meaning to others.... that is his destiny.”
…………
Author’s Note
After researching the life of Jesus and John, it became clear to me they had a long term friendship. By age 27 Jesus had already discovered his special relationship with God and learned something about the task before him. John apparently inspired Jesus to prepare for his ministry and accompanied him for several months. It was a period of learning and contemplation for both men. John began his ministry at the river Jordan in 26 A.D. It should not be surprising Jesus would seek out his friend John for baptism when he was ready to begin his work in 27 A.D.
Chapter 8 Alexandria
Alexander the Great created one of the largest empires of the ancient world stretching from Greece, to Asia, to northeast Africa, to northwestern India. Alexandria, an Egyptian port city on the Mediterranean Sea, was founded by Alexander the Great in 332 B.C. as a link between Greece and the rich farmlands of the Nile Valley. It became a center of Hellenic scholarship and science. As the capital of Egypt, it was second only to Rome in size and commercial importance. Alexandria was also home to the largest Jewish community in the world.
The oldest translation of the Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible, into Koine Greek was completed before the birth of Jesus. By tradition, it was called the Septuagint (or 70 in Latin), because it was theoretically translated by 70 Jewish scribes living in Alexandria. The Septuagint became the basis of scripture for Greek speaking Jews, and played a key role in the development of the Christian Old Testament .
The Museum of Alexandria was home to many of the most famous thinkers of the ancient world. With its lecture halls, meeting rooms, and gardens, it was a center of scholarship from the 3rd century B.C. The Library was home to thousands of papyrus scrolls which contained the accumulated knowledge of hundreds of scholars. Unfortunately, it was apparently destroyed during a battle by Julius Caesar in 48 B.C. But later Caesars continued the scholarship at the magnificent Temple of Serapis, in the Serapeum, located in the Greek quarter of the city.
The lighthouse of Alexandria (the Pharos of Alexandria) was considered to be one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Almost 400 feet above the water, its beacon could be seen (at night) from a distance of more than 20 miles.
Egypt was conquered by Roman forces in 30 BC and became a province of the new Roman Empire upon its formation in 27 BC.
...........................
With the help of the trade boat master and his son, John and Jesus quickly learned how to handle the large square main sail and small front sail of the cargo vessel that carried them south along the coast from Caesarea. The rigging of the main sail had many small rings made from lead that were sewn onto the face of the sail. These rings guided a series of lines that could be hauled in by a man standing on the deck to reduce the size of the sail in stormy winds, or released to increase the area of the sail in lighter breezes. During the trip, they usually sailed well out from land in order to avoid pirates.
“Keep on the lookout for pirates,” the boat master commanded “they can appear from rocky inlets or brushy lagoons in an instant. They are much faster than this old trade boat.”
The boat master’s son echoed his father’s concern. “We steer by keeping land in sight by day and by watching the stars at night.... In this sea it is good to see Roman warships; they protect us from pirates.... usually.”
John looked uneasy. “Who is our enemy?”
The boat master looked darkly at John. “Any ship of thieves… Roman or not.”
John became even more distressed. “Is this really safer than walking the coastal land route to Alexandria?”
“Maybe,” the boat master said “maybe not.... If you go by way of land, you have to join a large caravan to be safe from small bands of thieves.... But larger caravans are a juicy target for marauding nomads.”
“But out here, there is no place to hide!” John exclaimed.
“Every trip is an adventure,” the boat master’s son grinned.
Jesus placed his hand on John’s shoulder. “God will guide our journey.”
****
It took two days for their boat to reach a tiny coastal village located near the border between Egypt and Palestine. They sailed slowly and quietly up the channel to a ramshackle dock. After unloading a few items from the boat, and receiving payment from a local merchant, the boat master took Jesus and John for a walk to an inland waterway. There they had a welcome bath and refreshed their water supply. They each carried a heavy water bag back to the dock. In less than three hours, they set sail again into the Mediterranean Sea and headed southwest.
Guided by the stars, they sailed into the night. On the second day, the sky was darkened by a thick layer of clouds, a wall of fog enveloped the boat, and it began to drizzle. Hour after hour, white capped waves roiled relentlessly over the grey green sea. The boat pitched and rolled endlessly. John became very seasick.
“If there is a hell,” he moaned with his hand over his mouth “this is it.”
Jesus, who was rather enjoying the turbulence of the rocking boat, could only give John words of sympathy. “This storm will pass.”
John was not reassured. “If I ever get the chance to return to Judea, I’ll walk.”
An hour or two later the boat master called out from the bow of the boat “clear sky ahead! This squall won’t last much longer.”
John looked to see where the boat master was pointing. He was glumly unconvinced and once again kneeled down to hang his head over the rail.
****
The third day dawned clear and sunny. By noon the warmth of the sun had dried the sail, the cargo, and the four sailors. A fresh breeze pushed their boat along on the gentle swells of a blue green sea. Although John had recovered, he still could not eat. The boat master gave him herbal tea to calm his churning stomach. After he recovered enough to sit up, John asked Jesus a question.
“When I suggested we travel,” John said “you were immediately interested. Why not go to Tyre or somewhere else to learn to heal?”
Jesus looked over the water and thought for several seconds. Then he looked intently at John.
“I was restless.... ever since Sarah died. I needed a change, not just to my life but also to my purpose in life. Then Mary told me something unexpected.... She told me God has a task for me.... I thought about it.... many times.... then it became obvious that if I am to serve God in some way, I must prepare myself.... I have these visions of healing and preaching.... that may be what God has in store for me. In any event, my preparation must include a greater knowledge of medicine and culture if I am to do his work.... then you came along.... you were the key that unlocked my decision to move on”
“Are you confident of your decision now that you are on your journey of learning and preparation?”
“Yes. Absolutely. And you are right. This is a journey.... I feel compelled by a force greater than I to take this journey. At this point, I do not know where my journey will take me. I only know I must follow the inspiration that dwells in my soul.”
“But why not Tyre or Sidon, or Caesarea?”
“Although there are cities closer to Capernaum, Jamel convinced me a long time ago that Alexandria is the place to learn about other cultures, other philosophies and healing. I can browse through the library and meet scholars from other lands.”
John shrugged. He looked pensively at Jesus. “I have a confession to make.”
Jesus turned to listen.
“Like you,” John said “I needed to make a change.... I was restless. A recurring theme began to flow through my mind. God wanted me to find you. Go find Jesus he said. That thought ran through my mind day after day. Then he told me you were ready to start on some kind of journey. He gave me a simple task. God sent me to start you on your way.... and I don’t know what kind of journey you are on or where it will end, but God has compelled me to go with you.”
“Then God brought us together for a purpose,” Jesus responded.
John looked solemnly at Jesus. “You are a good friend, Jesus. We shall travel this journey together. But when we return to Israel.... we shall walk.”
****
On the fourth day they passed the main channel of the Nile River. Although they were still 40 miles from Alexandria, and far from land, the sea was busy with all kinds of boats and ships. They even saw a slave powered Roman war ship with a bank of 50 oars on each side. The boat master turned away to make sure they gave the Roman craft plenty of room.
Then he called out and pointed to the west. “Another storm is headed our way.”
John groaned and shook his head in disbelief. They were so close to the welcome stability of land. Jesus went to help the boat master’s son reduce the size of the sail. The boat master took the steering oar. Thick grey clouds roiled above a rain squall headed directly toward them.
“If we could find a north wind,” the boat master called out “we could escape the worst of the storm.” Clearly worried, he scanned the sky for some hope of a friendly breeze. “That storm is strong enough to sink us.”
John turned pale. He could swim, but Egypt’s shoreline definitely looked very, very far away.
Jesus walked calmly to the bow of the boat, looked over the sea, and held up his arms. Several minutes passed. The ominous storm drew closer. Then the sail abruptly filled with a breeze that would blow them away from the path of the advancing storm. The boat master and his son both cheered.
After a few minutes Jesus returned to where John was holding onto the rail for dear life. Somewhat ill from the choppy swells that passed by the boat, he looked with awe at Jesus.
In an hour, they were out of any danger. A friendly breeze pushed them rapidly toward the harbor. John felt much better and had enough courage to ask Jesus a question.
“Did you actually calm the storm?”
Jesus smiled gently. “I asked for a little help.”
****
It was a sailor’s challenge to negotiate the congested harbor. Although busy managing the sails, Jesus and John had enough time to occasionally stare with awe at the majestic lighthouse and the buildings of a cosmopolitan city. It took an hour to reach the dock and another hour to unload the cargo. Their work done, they said goodbye to the friendly boat master and his son. Jesus and John climbed onto the dock and started for the city. They were both amazed by the variety and volume of goods stacked on the docks and stored in the warehouses that lined the seaport streets. Spices, incense, precious stones, gold, ivory, cloth, timber, grain, and carved figures traded by merchants from as far away as India and China were comingled with goods from all over the Roman Empire. They passed pens containing exotic animals and revolving stands of naked slaves who were being auctioned to the highest bidder. There were many bistros in buildings and in tents where one could buy food, drink, and sex.
While the main streets were relatively clean, many of the side roads and alley ways were littered with debris and garbage. Rats scurried about the alley ways from one dark shadow to another. A woman, stretched out in a pile of trash, raised a trembling arm to them as they passed. Her face and arms were covered with large sores.
John frowned. “Trade,” he commented “has created a cesspool of sin and disease.... Are you not troubled by what you see?”
Jesus frowned. “I am troubled. The scourge of disease is everywhere. Both the innocent and the sinner become ill. But how many can we help? Some are victims of their own folly.”
“We can’t help her,” John scowled “she will soon be consumed by her disease.... and in this city there are many more men and women who are victims of bad choices.”
Jesus was clearly unhappy with what he had seen. Troubled by his thoughts, he suddenly had an inspiration.
“Then my friend, we must teach them to make good choices.”
****
It was not a long walk to the Serapeum. But on the way, they met a troop of eight Roman soldiers led by a Centurion on a white horse. One of the soldiers went out of his way to bump into John, sending him sprawling onto the street. John quickly got up and was angrily defiant. He pushed the soldier so hard on the chest the man fell back into the troop, causing a commotion among the other men.
“Watch where you are going Roman!” John yelled.
The soldier was in the process of drawing his sword when the Centurion shouted an order.
“Stand down!” The soldiers backed away to make way for the Centurion. He rode up to where John was standing, pulled a spear from his saddle mount, and aimed the sharp point at John’s throat.
“Do not,” he commanded in a harsh voice “pick a fight with a Roman Auxilia.”
The Roman Centurion was clearly annoyed with the interruption to his assignment. He was about to push the point of the spear through John’s throat when Jesus pushed it away and stepped in front of John.
“If you must kill someone today,” he calmly said “let it be me.”
The Centurion was surprised and mystified by this man who would die for his companion. He carefully used the tip of his spear to clear away the shirt from around Jesus’s throat. The Centurion was about to thrust the spear into Jesus when he abruptly sat back on his horse. His demeanor was a mix of surprise and anger.
“Where did you get that medallion?” he thundered. “When did you steal it?”
Jesus reached up to his throat and calmly fingered Mary’s medallion. He suddenly realized the design of the crest on his medallion matched the crest on the Roman’s armor.
“My mother gave it to me.” he said quietly.
“Your mother!” the Centurion snarled. But then his anger began to subside. He was confused and astonished by the medallion. He never expected to see it again. Yet, here it was.... around the neck of an ordinary looking man. Puzzled, he calmly repeated his question.
“Your mother?”
Jesus managed to smile. From somewhere within his thoughts came the words He will not hurt you.
“Mary told me it would protect me from Roman harm.”
Although he was still suspicious and definitely confused, the Centurion sat back in his saddle. He began to study the face of the man who had saved his friend from certain death. Who is he? He thought. How does he know Mary? Why is he so calm? Impressed by the bearing of the man before him, the Centurion smiled warmly, and placed his spear back into its sheath.
“And so it shall my Jewish friend, and so it shall.”
He turned and spoke sharply to the eight men with him. “Return to camp! And don’t pick any more fights along the way!”
The men assembled themselves again and began to march away, several grumbling the Centurion had not punished the rabble Jew. The Centurion dismounted, ignored John, and walked to Jesus.
“How is your mother?” he asked quietly.
“She is in good health.”
“And your father?”
“He is healthy and wise.”
Jesus looked at the Centurion with a mixture of curiosity and wonder.
“Are you the man who saved my mother’s honor?”
The Centurion hesitated before answering. His answer was both thoughtful and nostalgic.
“Yes.... I confess.... there was something about your mother.... and now I meet her son.... why did this happen?”
“It is the will of God.... the God I believe in.... we were meant to meet here.”
The Centurion chuckled. “I doubt that.... But then – why are you here?”
“We are looking for the Serapeum,” Jesus said.
“Ah, the Temple of Serapis and its library. A place of learning and study. A magnificent edifice in the Greek quarter.”
The Centurion again looked puzzled. “Are you going there to worship multiple Gods all rolled into one great statue? Who do you favor? Osiris, Apis, Zeus, Isis, Harpocrates, Helios, Dionysus, Hades or will just plain Serapis due?..... The Ptolemies created a God with a little something for everyone..... The ritual is purely Greek. You two don’t look like Greeks to me.”
Jesus looked intently at the Centurion. “I go there to study healing. Is the Serapeum known for its medical instruction?”
“Yes, of course. I just came from there.”
The Centurion pondered what to do with Jesus and his friend.
“You two look like you would get lost in the Greek quarter.”
“I came here to learn whatever God wants me to learn.... especially how to heal.”
The Centurion was silent for a moment, and then spoke thoughtfully “I can see Mary’s son is a brave man.... or perhaps just lucky. I could have killed you.”
“But you didn’t want to,” Jesus responded “I could see it in your eyes.”
The Centurion was stunned by what he heard. “You are a good judge of character, Mary’s son. You are right; I was only going to make you bleed a little. The scare my spear left on your skin would be warning enough for most men.”
Jesus self-consciously felt his throat with his fingertips. He was unharmed.
“Mary told me about you,” Jesus said. “Thanks to you she married a strong honorable man and has mothered seven children, all grown up by now.”
“She is blessed,” the Centurion said “it has all worked out for the best.”
“But why is a Centurion with your experience in Alexandria?”
“The legate sent our legion to Alexandria for a rest and to resupply our baggage train. We shall return to battle soon enough. But....” The Centurion looked at Jesus thoughtfully. “I still don’t know your name.”
“Jesus – and this is John.” Jesus responded tugging John by the sleeve of his shirt. John nervously stepped forward to join the conversation.
“And what are you called?”
“Maximus, my family lives in Rome.”
“Then we are both far from home,” Jesus said.
The Centurion looked at Jesus with sympathy. “I miss my home. But I cannot go back...”
Then Maximus abruptly ended the conversation by climbing onto his horse. He motioned for Jesus and John to follow him.
****
When they reached the Serapeum plaza, Maximus dismounted, tethered his horse, and motioned for Jesus and John to follow him into the largest of the buildings. He briefly searched the lobby of the building and then started toward a hallway. The figure of a man dressed in white robes appeared out of a side room, looked up and was clearly startled to see the Centurion.
“You just left here,” he said “what brings you back?”
Maximus motioned for Jesus and John to join him and pointed toward the man in the white robes.
“There,” he said with some authority “is the most intelligent Greek I know.”
The man blushed slightly and came forward to shake hands. Jesus noticed he had the mark of a slave on his shoulder.
“My name in Raphael.... I try to keep this place organized,” he said warmly.
“I am Jesus, and this is my friend John. We are amazed at this magnificent building.”
“We are very proud of our institution.... What brings you to Alexandria?”
“We want to learn. John and I favor the knowledge of those who have contributed to this library.”
Raphael’s face darkened. “I am afraid the Romans burned many of the papyrus rolls. But we can still keep you two busy for a long time.”
Raphael turned to Maximus. “Will you vouch for these two men who seek human knowledge?”
Maximus smiled thoughtfully at Jesus. “Yes, he comes from good stock. I know his family.”
Jesus, somewhat embarrassed by the Centurion’s embellishment of the truth, shook his head in agreement.
“I am a carpenter and a stone mason, by trade. Can you turn a carpenter into a healer?”
Raphael spoke with conviction. “We have turned many men into honorable sons of knowledge.”
He looked at John and then to Maximus.
“What about his friend?”
“I think Jesus will vouch for his friend.... and of course you will ask the next natural question.”
Raphael winked at Jesus and looked at Maximus. “All we need is money.”
Jesus spoke up. “I am willing to work, and so is John. Can we earn our keep?”
Raphael smiled at the two men. “That will help to pay your way. But your best work will be learning.”
The Centurion contemplated his choices and then spoke quietly to Raphael. “Will you mentor this Jesus, as a favor to me?”
Raphael looked at Jesus. A voice in his mind urged him to say yes. Puzzled by his conscious thought and his sudden connection with Jesus, he shook his head in agreement.
“He seems to be intelligent enough. Yes, I will mentor both of them.... But there is still the issue of money.”
The Centurion smiled at Raphael.
“I will pay for their keep. Teach them well.... as I know you will.”
Jesus started to protest, but Maximus waved him off. “It is family money,” he said “I’ve spent it for less worthy choices.”
Maximus turned to leave. “I commit them to your care,” he said as he started toward the door.
“Wait, I must have a word with you,” Raphael called as he followed Maximus out the door and onto the plaza.
The Centurion stopped and waited for Raphael to join him.
“Where is your personal guard?” Raphael asked, a worried look crossed his elderly face.
“I sent them back to camp without me.”
Maximus smiled. “Few people know who I am and I don’t think they care.”
Raphael frowned. “Be cautious, Maximus, Tiberius is a jealous and unpredictable ruler.”
****
Jesus and John were amazed at the beauty of the Serapeum. It had spacious rooms, rows of columns, incredible statues, works of art, and a beautiful garden plaza. When Raphael returned he motioned for Jesus and John to follow him. They went into a large room that served as a library. Piles of scrolls, stacked one on the other, seemed to envelope the shelves that lined the walls of the room. In the center of the room there were four long wood tables where the scrolls could be spread out to read. Raphael waved his hand toward a section of shelves.
“You read all these scrolls, and you will have the healing knowledge you seek.”
Raphael pulled one of the scrolls from a shelf and walked over to a table. He carefully rolled it out.
“Start at the beginning,” he commanded.
Jesus looked at the characters and began to read out loud. He read a few sentences and stopped.
“You read Hebrew,” Raphael was very curious “not many carpenters can read any language.”
Jesus smiled. “My mother insisted I learn to read Hebrew while I was growing up.... she could be very insistent.”
“Perhaps that means you are destined for something far more important than working in wood and stone.”
“I like working with my hands. Being a carpenter is a praiseworthy occupation. But I am driven by something within me to do more for the people I meet. I would like to use my hands to heal both the body and the mind.”
Raphael was thoughtful. “A very philosophical answer. It reveals creative intelligence.”
Jesus looked at the mark on Raphael’s shoulder. “Who is your master?”
Raphael eyed Jesus for a moment before responding.
“My parents were very poor. In desperate times they sold me to a man of some wealth. He became my master.”
“Is he still your master?”
“No, he is my friend. He gave me my freedom when he understood I could be of service to the Temple of Serapis.”
Jesus looked puzzled.
Raphael was a gentle and kind man. He understood Jesus was too polite to ask his question.
“You want to know the name of my master.”
Jesus was somewhat embarrassed Raphael had guessed what he was thinking.
“You just met him. He is the Centurion who brought you here. I am now a citizen of Rome, a libertus. Maximus is my patron.”
****
Within two weeks Jesus and John had settled into a routine. They would study in the morning, work for Raphael or take a walk through Alexandria in the afternoon, and then return to the library to study by oil lamp at night. However, both men were struggling with the Greek language inscribed on many of the scrolls. Raphael assigned another libertus who was fluent in Greek to help them with their study. This work was supplemented with lectures by healers, philosophers, and other students.
The Jewish Sabbath is a day of prayer, leisure and contemplation. On the third Sabbath, Raphael came to their simple sleeping room with two other men.
“Jesus, as you know most of our scholars are Greeks and Egyptians. We also have many Persians, Syria Phoenicians, and Jews. And we have been home to men from other nations. I have two teachers I would like you to meet and get to know.”
Jesus and John stood up and respectfully shook hands with both men.
Raphael motioned toward a man wearing a long robe.
“This man is from India and speaks Hindi as well as Greek. And this man,” he said turning slightly to the other man at his side “is from Balkh. He speaks your language and Greek. They will help you with your studies.... and you will find them very well versed in the theologies of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Zoroastrianism.”
Jesus was impressed with the quiet demeanor of both men.
“And we are well versed in Judaism,” the taller man said “perhaps we can share the message of our faiths.”
The two men gave Jesus and John a friendly smile. Raphael motioned for them to follow him out to the plaza. At first John was reluctant to follow them. He was, after all, very sure of his beliefs. But Jesus was more open to other ideas. His curiosity aroused, he nudged John to follow the three men into the plaza.
“We came here to learn,” he said to quietly to John “that is the purpose of education. We should be open to the opportunity for discussion, even if we do not fully understand, or disagree with some of the things we hear.”
They all found a place in the plaza. The man in the robe spoke first.
“I come from Mathura, one of Hinduism’s holy pilgrimage cities in India. My friend here is from Balkh, an ancient city that has become a center for Buddhism and Zoroastrianism. We have studied your Septuagint. We have, it would appear, many beliefs in common.... There are, of course, differences. But they need not create a quarrel between us”
Thus began the first of what would be several interesting discussions. When the man from Mathura talked about the Hindu reverence for water, John was especially intrigued.
“All water is sacred,” the man said “and we especially revere the seven sacred rivers. We believe in the importance of physical and spiritual cleanliness. By immersion in a sacred river, the pure are made even more pure, and the impure can be cleansed of sin – even if only for a while.”
Jesus smiled when he noticed the impassioned look on John’s face.
He has found his calling, he thought. John will combine preaching with baptism.
****
25 A.D. Late Spring.
Jesus was able to find occasional work as a carpenter and this helped to pay for their stay at the Serapeum. He was also a diligent scholar. By late spring he was ready to leave Alexandria. When he announced his plans to John, his cousin was clearly relieved.
“I was ready to return to Judea weeks ago. I confess, I am glad you are ready to leave Alexandria. I long to see my homeland again.”
“You could have gone home without me.”
“I could not break my promise to God. I was challenged to be your companion until we return to Judea.... Bedsides, you have learned a great deal about the art of healing, and now you have enough knowledge to help many people. So it has been worth my time.”
“I thank you for your friendship, John. You have been a welcome companion.”
“But I have a question. Even with your new healing skills, what will you do if you are unable to assist a sick or injured person?”
Jesus spoke with quiet confidence.
“I will place my trust in God. He will help me.”
****
Before leaving Egypt, Jesus decided to go south to visit the towns along the coast of the Red Sea, and then return to Alexandria by way of the rich farmlands of the Nile River. Although John would have been happier if they had gone directly home, he was true to the task God had given him, and agreed to accompany Jesus on his journey.
They walked to the bustling commercial town of Memphis, a center for trade with the peoples of the East. Like Alexandria, the streets were lined with warehouses, stalls, and bistros. The air was filled with the sound of strange languages. Several days later they boarded a cargo boat in Clysma (near Suez) that was bound for the Arabian Sea. As they sailed south on the Red Sea, they were able to visit several villages. Jesus and John spent a few days at each village talking with farmers, fishermen, and local clerics. John was even invited to preach at one village. This, of course, made him very happy. But throughout this trip, John was careful to keep an eye on Jesus, as God had instructed him to do. John noticed the people they met were usually attentive to his friend. Jesus was acquiring the quiet charisma of a man anyone could trust and love.
Three weeks later a cargo boat dropped them off at Marsa Alam on the mountainous Red Sea Coastline. This area was an important source of granite, copper, lead, gold, emeralds and semi-precious stones for the Roman Empire. It was also an area of filthy slave encampments where men and children often worked until they died from disease and exhaustion.
John was so shocked at the filth and hopelessness, he wanted to stand on the shore and preach against the dreadful conditions. Jesus was equally shocked, but he wisely suggested they move on least they be enslaved on the spot. The eyes of the Roman soldiers told him they hated everything about this dreary place. Sullen faces conveyed the irritation of brutal men.
John spotted a small caravan ahead and quickly went to find the caravan leader. He soon returned.
“He says we can join them. They are headed for Apollonopolis Magna (Edfu) on the Nile River. From there we can follow the Nile to the temples and back to Memphis.”
Jesus nodded in agreement. He knew it would be a hard trip of several days over desert hills, unending plains, and dry river beds. But he wanted to visit the temples described by travelers he and John met while in Alexandria. It was in these temples early Egyptians formed their ideas about the role of Gods in everyday life, the nature of evil, and the possibility of an afterlife.
Jesus was not disappointed. Built during the Ptolemaic period, the magnificent Temples of Esna, Kom Ombo, Philae and Dendera exceeded his expectations. They spent several weeks visiting temples, pyramids, and villages along the Nile River. Fortunately, Jesus and John had learned sufficient Coptic speech and Koine Greek in Alexandria to help them communicate with friendly local villagers. It was not hard to find new friends. The farmers and boatmen were willing to take a break from their labors to greet them and share a few stories. Jesus appeared to be in his element, often gathering small groups of men, women and children for a lively - if occasionally verbally awkward - conversation.
They traveled through Memphis and visited the Serapeum of Saqqara near Pharaoh Djoser's Step Pyramid.
“I do not like this Serapeum,” John said “a bull as the reincarnation of a God.”
“Ptah and Osiris are revered by the Egyptians, just as we revere our God,” responded Jesus. “But I sense these people, like the citizens of Alexandria we think of as friends, are ready to discover a single God that they can turn to as a source of moral values.”
They found a branch of the Nile, and turned toward Alexandria. In a week they were back in familiar territory.
****
It was early afternoon when they reached the Serapeum. Raphael was jubilant with their safe return. Of course he wanted to hear about the journey, down to every detail. He sent a messenger to fetch Maximus and after he arrived they had supper together. The conversation was very lively. Over the prior months, these four men had become good friends.
But after supper Jesus became uneasy. Something was wrong. He could not shake the feeling of dread. Jesus decided to take a walk by himself along the shore of the Mediterranean Sea. By the time he reached the shore, the sunset had painted the western clouds with an orange hue that contrasted with the dark grey of a calm sea. He walked along the shore for a few minutes and entered a grove of trees. Jesus was watching a flock of birds circle for a landing on the water when he felt a firm hand on his shoulder. Jesus knew it was not Sarah’s touch. It was much stronger. Apprehensive, he turned to face his visitor. Jesus gasped.
“Father!”
Joseph smiled with the compassion of a man who truly loves his son.
“Hello Jesus.... I have come to say goodbye.”
Jesus looked more closely at his father’s figure. There was something ethereal about it. Dazed and overcome with grief, he immediately knew why his father had come to see him.
“When did you.... pass away?”
“This evening–while you and John were having supper at the Serapeum.... I first said goodbye to Mary, and then your brothers and sisters. When I asked God where you were he immediately brought me here. I have been waiting for you to come.”
Tears in his eyes, Jesus could hardly speak. “Are you in any pain?”
“None. God’s angels have taken care of everything. I am as robust as I have ever been.... But I am concerned about Mary.... Jesus you know your mother is a gentle and loving woman. She is taking my passing very hard. She needs you Jesus. You must go to her as quickly as you can.”
“Of course.... I’ll tell John and we will return home immediately.”
Joseph became tranquil. He looked at Jesus thoughtfully.
“I must tell you something else before I return to God’s Kingdom,”
Joseph gently placed his right hand on his son’s shoulder. “God loves you as I do. He is as much your father as I am.... You must reach out to him.... try to connect with him through your thoughts. You were born with a special gift that will help you to communicate with God. But you must learn to use it.”
Jesus was puzzled. “I pray in earnest every day.... Is there more I can do?”
“You must clear your mind before you pray or meditate. Relax every muscle. To find God, you must look for him. Reach out with your conscious thoughts. If you try to make a connection, he will come. Just remember, you - above all other men or women - have been given the ability to make a conscious connection with the Holy Spirit.”
Having finished his advice, Joseph stepped back to look at Jesus one last time.
“I love you my son,” he said softly.
Then he disappeared.
****
Stunned, his body shaking, Jesus stood for several moments looking over - but not seeing - the calm waters of the Mediterranean Sea. He suddenly felt guilty. Why did I leave Galilee? I was wrong to leave. My family needs me and here I am miles away!
Suddenly galvanized into action, Jesus turned away from the river and ran as fast as he could through Alexandria to find John. Stumbling through the Plaza, he found John in the small sleeping room.
“I have seen my father!”
John looked at Jesus with a mixture of disbelief and amusement.
“Have you been painting pictures in your mind? Your father is in Galilee.”
“He has passed away,” the words stung Jesus as he uttered them. “He came to say goodbye.”
John was instantly sympathetic. He knew Jesus was, among other attributes, extremely honest. He would never fantasize about the death of his father.
John spoke to his friend with quiet compassion. “I’m deeply sorry for your loss. What can I do?”
“We must go home as fast as we can. He told me Mary was very upset. She needs me, John!”
“Then tomorrow we will find the road that will lead us to the coastal route. We will say goodbye to Raphael and your mentor and be on our way by noon.”
Jesus gave out a long moaning sound. He would have gladly run all through the night. But the reality of what they must do next began to sink into his consciousness.
****
They found Raphael in the great hall. He was delighted to see Jesus and John, but saddened by the news of Joseph’s death. Upon hearing what Jesus wanted to do, he immediately sent one of the servants for Maximus. He then insisted they wash up and have some breakfast. An hour later Maximus arrived.
“I am sad to hear about your father. You must tell us about your meeting with him.”
Jesus told his story in detail. When he finished, Raphael and Maximus looked at each other in wonder
Maximus understood how Jesus was able to make a connection with his father. “I’ve witnessed this kind of thing in men near death, but I’ve never known the departed to physically come back for a talk.”
“You made a spiritual connection with your father,” Raphael said “and I believe every word. Finding closure with your God may be more difficult.... but I also believe you - among all men - can do it.”
John looked upon Jesus with wonder. He was both elated and confused by his friend’s charisma. Jesus was changing before his eyes.
Maximus stood up and looked at Raphael.
“I must return to camp. I’ll say goodbye to my two friends.”
Maximus warmly shook hands with John and Jesus. Then he placed his hand on Jesus’s shoulder.
“I sense Mary’s son is destined to be a teacher of men.... as well as women and children. Good journey my friend. God protect you from harm as you make your way to Galilee.”
Chapter 9 Connection
25 A.D. September.
Every day they followed the same routine. Up at sunrise, wash, eat something from their meager rations, and walk until late afternoon; stopping only to rest, have a drink of water, and eat dried fruit. Supper consisted of some cooked grain, a few nuts, and long drinks of water. Always exhausted, they would then bed down for a deep sleep. It took over three weeks to walk the coastal route to Ashdod (Azotus) and then another four days to reach Nazareth. Blessed with generally dry weather on the coast, they experienced several days of rain as they traveled north from Ashdod. Wet, cold and tired, the two men arrived in Nazareth at dusk in October. Mary sensed they were coming and opened the gate before they reached the house.
“Jesus!” she exclaimed “and John! You have returned home!”
Jesus labored slowly the last few steps, overcome with emotion when at last he saw his mother.
“We came as soon as I got the news,” he replied “we were in Alexandria”
“I suspect you got the news like your brothers and sisters, I’m thankful you did.... come in and dry off.... warm yourself by the fire.”
“I am very sorry for you, Mom,” Jesus clutched his mother’s hands “I know you and Dad were very close.”
Mary gave her son a long and emotional hug. The despair and loneliness of the last few weeks drained away with a warm rush. Her son was home, safe and sound. Then she turned to John and hugged him with such passion he was somewhat embarrassed.
“John, you kept your promise, you brought my son home to me unharmed. How can I ever thank you?”
“He was an interesting companion,” John responded with a self-conscious chuckle. But before he could say more, Mary took his hand and led the two men closer to the fire. She busied herself finding dry cloths, stirring a pot of stew, and filling the washing pot with warm water. Exhausted from the day’s walk, Jesus and John were only too happy to comply with her instructions. In an hour or so they had washed, and consumed a nourishing meal of stew and bread. Then they settled down in the sitting area. Mary described how Joseph had fallen ill and passed away in less than two weeks.
“I miss him;” she said “he was always there for me.”
“Joseph came to me while I was on a walk in Alexandria,” Jesus replied “He told me to come home as soon as I could.”
Mary understood what happened between father and son.
“Deborah told me about seeing a likeness of Joseph, as did Joses and Simon, but they all rejected their experiences as just an emotional response to Joseph’s death.”
“It was very real for Jesus;” John interjected “he was very upset when he came back from his encounter.”
Jesus took Mary’s hand and clasped it firmly.
“Mary, this all connects with the conversation you and Joseph had with me after Sarah passed away. God knew I would want to see my father, and he used his power to make it happen. In a way, this confirms the relationship you encouraged me to establish.”
Mary smiled. Her son was gradually learning what lay ahead. Then the conversation turned to Alexandria. Jesus and John recounted their adventures of the last 12 months, described the places they visited in Egypt, and talked about the people they met. Jesus reached into his shirt and removed the medallion Mary had given to him before they went to Egypt.
“This,” he said as he handed it to Mary “saved me from harm and introduced me to a new friend.”
“He made friends with a Roman Centurion,” interjected John “and the smartest man in Egypt.”
Mary’s eyes widened with wonder. “Who was the Centurion?”
“The man who gave you the medallion,” Jesus replied.
Mary responded with a little gasp. “Is he all right?”
“Yes, he is quite healthy and he introduced me to Raphael, the man who managed my education.”
Mary wanted to know more about the Centurion, Raphael, what they had learned, and Egypt. The discussion would have gone all night except John, his stomach full of good food, fell asleep.
“I guess I should let you go to bed,” Mary said wistfully. But I have one more question before you go off to the sleeping room. “Can you tell me anything else about your meeting with Joseph?”
“He came to me while I was meditating by the Mediterranean Sea. I was standing in a grove of trees when I felt his hand on my shoulder.... He came to me to say goodbye.”
Mary looked at him with wonder.
“Did he say anything else?”
“Joseph said something I don’t understand. He said God loves you. He is as much your father as I am.”
Mary smiled with tender compassion at her son. “We can talk about that in the morning. Right now, you two need to sleep.”
That night in her prayers she asked God, Should I tell him everything? The answer came back. Not yet, but soon.
****
John stayed the next day, walked with Jesus through the village of Nazareth, and was introduced to Jesus’s sister Deborah and her husband, as well as his brothers Joses and Simon. Deborah had developed an inner strength that gave her considerable stature among the other women of the village.
She wanted to reassure Jesus. “I know you are worried about our mother,” she took his hand and clasped his fingers “but Joses, Simon and I will look after her. We will keep her busy.... she loves to visit our children. Joses looks after her firewood needs and Simon helps with chores. I visit every day. We always seem to have a nice conversation. And now that she knows you are safe, she will be her old self again.”
“I was contemplating taking Mary to Capernaum with me”, Jesus said “but I know she is not ready to leave the house she shared with Joseph. Moving now would be very hard on her.”
****
That evening Mary, Jesus and John sat close to the fire and talked about the future. Jesus appeared to be deep in thought.
“What are your plans?” Mary asked.
“Deborah told me she will take care of your needs. Joses and Simon are here for you. And you will be very busy with your grandchildren. If anything goes wrong, I will come back.”
Jesus paused for a moment, looking into the fire as though his future could be found in the flames.
“I will go back to Capernaum. I have friends there. They will help me to reestablish myself as a carpenter. I will have enough income to feed and clothe myself. If I run out of work in Capernaum, I am sure to find it down the coast in Tiberias. And I need time to think about my future. Alexandria was a great experience for me as it was for John. We both learned a lot. Although my thoughts lean toward healing and teaching, he has become more interested in baptism and preaching.”
Jesus turned to John and grinned at his friend. “I do think he has already made up his mind.”
Jesus turned back to look into his mother’s eyes “I feel as though I am being encouraged to have a special relationship with God. He wants me to do something. Both you and my father have suggested I should think of God as my father.”
Mary smiled with deep affection for her son. Now? She thought. Not yet, God responded.
Mary knew she needed to change the subject. With some reluctance, she turned to John. “And what are your plans?”
“I would like to spend some time with the Essenes in Qumran. Like Jesus, I am being encouraged to establish a closer relationship with God. Meditating with the Essenes will clear my head and give me direction. If I am to be a successful preacher, I must have a strong message that will resonate with my audience. And Jesus,” John smiled at his friend “has told you I plan to combine baptism with preaching.”
“Baptizing like they do for children?”
“Oh much more than that,” John responded enthusiastically “here let me show you.”
With that John quickly got up and took a stance with his feet spread apart.
“See how I stand with my feet positioned so I have a flexibility of movement?”
Mary nodded in agreement.
“This is full immersion baptism. I place one hand under the person I am baptizing to support them and one hand on top of the person so I can hold on to their hand or arm. I lower them into the water until their face is completely under water. Then after a moment of prayer, I bring them up out of the water and help them to stand up.”
“Where did you learn this?” Mary asked.
“From a Hindu we met in Alexandria. They believe all water is sacred. By immersion in a river, the pure are made even more pure, and the impure can be cleansed of sin–even if only for a while.”
“Complete immersion is a cleansing process?” Mary asked.
“Yes. We wash away past sins and create a new life that is, at least for a time, without sin.”
Mary glanced thoughtfully at her son. “And what if the person being baptized is without sin?”
“For them, baptism is an act of dedication and a commitment to a virtuous cause.”
John paused for a long moment and then added “when I do a full immersion, as I bring them up out of the water, I will be creating a new life.”
Jesus grinned at John’s enthusiasm. His friend had found his calling. All he needed was to think out his message. John turned to Mary.
“Have you been called to do God’s work?”
Mary did not answer right away. Then she said: “Joseph and I were called long ago. Our first obligation has been completed. From now on, I will help my son to do his work and” she paused again ... deep in thought “I believe I am destined to be the mother of all God’s children.”
****
26 A.D. January.
Jesus said goodbye to Mary and started for Sepphoris. He wanted to visit with Jamel and Tabitha; to tell them about his journey to Alexandria. He knew Jamel would be pleased to hear about his experiences and the people he met in his travels.
Sadly, both Tabitha and Jamel were suffering the aches and pains of old age. Despite their problems, however, it was a warm and loving experience. After a two day stay, Jesus reluctantly left them. He made his way cross country to the rutted road that would lead him to Capernaum. It was late in the afternoon when he reached the crest of a little hill and looked down upon the village. Jesus felt a sense of elation. He would soon be among friends.
John and James Boanerges were repairing a large net when James spotted Jesus walking into the village.
“Well I’ll be blessed, here comes a welcome stranger!”
He put down the net, dropped his threading tool and started walking toward Jesus. John quickly joined him. James, arms outstretched, enveloped Jesus in a friendly bear hug. Then John also hugged Jesus, although with a little less energy. James suddenly bellowed in a terrifically loud voice.
“Simon and Andrew! Come and see what God has returned to us!”
Roused from their labors, both men were surprised to see Jesus. They quickly came to welcome Jesus home. With a broad sweep of his arm, Simon pointed toward the little shop where Jesus had worked as a carpenter.
“It’s still empty,” he said with a chuckle “no one wanted to move into a house that small.... and besides; they were all dismayed by the mess.... too many wood chips.”
Simon led the five men toward the shop. “We left everything where you instructed. There is even wood for a fire.... It should not take you long to restart your work.... carpenter.”
Jesus entered the little courtyard and walked to the open door. He could not help but feel a little sad. Somewhere, from deep within his soul, he felt a felt the presence of Sarah. Standing in the doorway, surveying the dusty shop, he was temporarily overwhelmed with grief. My precious Sarah, you could have married any man you wanted to be with, he thought, but you chose me.
****
Simon was right. It took Jesus only a day or two to clean up the little shop and reorganize his tools. Thankfully, there was plenty of work to do. No one had stepped forward to repair the fishing boats while he was gone. From minor fixes to major renovation, the fishing boats of Capernaum needed his expert touch. The days went by swiftly. Jesus was busy and happy. He had time to think about what he had learned on his trip to Alexandria, and the people he met. His father’s last words and Mary’s comments echoed through his mind, over and over again. In his prayers he tried to make a conscious connection with God. Moments of inspiration began to guide his thoughts. They helped him to create and organize a new theology that enveloped his very being.
One morning, as he was finishing a new wood tie for a sail guy line, he heard a loud and very angry commotion from somewhere in the village. Jesus walked to the door and out the gate of his courtyard, looked up the street, and saw nine or ten men arguing with increasing furor. Four of the men were Roman mercenary soldiers. Swords drawn, they had nicked a man who was bleeding from his arm. The man’s wife lay at their feet, sobbing with fear. One of the soldiers kicked her with his foot. James and John had already drawn their swords. Jesus quickly walked up the street and stepped between the two groups of men.
“Stop!” he shouted “There is no need for anyone to die!”
One of the soldiers leered at him, sword in hand.
“We have come to collect our taxes!”
With grim determination, Jesus looked directly into the soldier’s eyes, as though he could see through them into the man’s soul.
“If you kill the taxpayers, you will no longer be able to collect taxes from them.”
Startled by the intensity and the boldness of the man before him, the soldier backed away. Jesus continued to look with intense concentration into the soldier’s eyes. Some voice within the man’s mind told him to obey this sawdust covered peasant. He looked at the other four men with Jesus and saw they were ready for a fight. He stepped back again.
“Don’t make us come back,” he said gruffly.
He motioned to the other soldiers, and they began to walk away. After they were safely out of hearing range, Simon breathed a sigh of relief and placed his sword back into its sheath.
Jesus helped the woman to get up and turned to her husband. “Come to my shop, I will bind your wound.”
James, John, Simon and Andrew followed Jesus and watched while he cleaned, treated, and covered the man’s bloody arm with a soft clean cloth. After he finished Jesus said “go to your wife, she needs your strength.” The man got to his feet, murmured a few words of praise, and left to find his wife.
Jesus turned to his friends. He spoke with unsmiling intensity. “Our nation has been dominated by Assyria, Babylonia, Persia, Greece, Egypt, and Syria. And now we have to deal with Roman oppression. Let us look forward to the day when we can be an independent nation, obedient only to the laws of our God. Until then, let us deny Roman rule and their carnal religion. We do not serve a human master.... Let us work together to bring the Kingdom of God to Israel.”
Simon was taken back by the energy of the words he had just heard. Electrified by their meaning, he spoke slowly and distinctly to Andrew, James and John, “my friends, I do believe we have found our leader.”
****
A strong, robust, self-confident and charismatic man had begun to emerge from the humble image of the carpenter. Without any hesitation, he decided to see Matthew the tax collector. Matthew was usually good-natured. His house was not hard to find. Among the largest homes in all of Galilee, it was surrounded by a stout rock and mud brick wall several feet high. An ornamental wood gate opened into a courtyard of lush gardens. Several days later, Jesus pushed open the heavy gate. A servant spotted Jesus and quickly came to stop him from entering the house.
“Who are you? What do you want?” he asked.
“I am here to have a talk with your master,” Jesus responded. “Please go and fetch him.”
“I cannot let you enter the house or even stay in the courtyard,” the servant said sternly.
Jesus brushed the man aside and walked briskly into the house.
“Matthew! I have come to ask you a question!”
From somewhere in the back of the house a man’s voice mumbled a response. A large bearded man dressed in flowing robes appeared down the hall. Annoyed at the interruption of his work, Matthew never-the-less smiled and walked toward Jesus with open arms as though to hug him. Jesus stopped him and held one arm while he closely scrutinized Matthew’s face.
“I have a question for you, Matthew. Did you send the Romans to harass a man in our village?”
Matthew was quite surprised at the question. He stepped back and examined the man before him.
“I have never done that,” he said forcefully “if the Romans came; it was something they wanted to do.”
Then Matthew smiled at Jesus, lifted a hand to summon a servant, and motioned for Jesus to sit down in a very comfortable chair.
“A glass of wine for our guest,” he commanded.
At first Jesus resisted but Matthew was most insistent.
“I heard about the incident in Capernaum. Please believe me, it was none of my doing.”
Jesus was still angry. “Then who ordered it?”
Matthew looked thoughtful for a moment. “That family has been blessed with a beautiful little girl.... about 12 I think. Well on her way to be an equally beautiful woman. Herod Antipas saw her in Tiberias and wanted her for his court. Her father refused. I can only guess those soldiers were looking for her.” Matthew smiled with some amusement. “Are you the man who threw the Romans out of the village?”
Jesus was unsure what to say. Matthew had the power to have him arrested.
“I confronted them,” he said warily.
Matthew spoke again. “Like you, I am sympathetic to the families that live in Capernaum. Yes, I collect the taxes, but I try to be fair. I have a quota to collect each year. Some families are struggling, so I try to take a little more from the families that can afford it and a little less from the families that need help. It all evens out.”
“Do you know anything about my confrontation with the Romans?” Jesus asked.
Mathew took a long sip of his wine. “Those soldiers were likely from Tiberias. It is unlikely they will bother the people of Capernaum again.” Mathew paused and looked intently at Jesus. “You have established a friendly relationship with the Roman Centurion who commands the Capernaum garrison. He even built a synagogue (in 20 A.D.) to show his friendship for the people of Capernaum. There is peace here… most of the time. Drink up my friend.”
Jesus held the cup to his lips, and took a sip of the red liquid.
Matthew became more solemn. “Is it not better to make friends.... than to make enemies?”
Jesus understood Matthew’s intent. “Yes, it is always better to make friends.”
“Then let us be friends.”
Relieved, Jesus smiled and took another sip of his wine. Once again he had turned a potential enemy into a future friend.
****
26 A.D. Late Fall.
His friends held a birthday party for Jesus by the waters of the sea. His brothers Jude and James came from Bethsaida to join the celebration. They enjoyed many moments of happy conversation with Simon, Andrew, the Boanerges brothers, and their families. Jesus had just turned 30. In the course of the conversations, his brother James spoke up.
“Remember John, the man who came to visit with you?”
“Yes, of course. John accompanied me to Alexandria.”
“Jude and I were mending our nets on the shore of the Sea when we were interrupted by a man walking to Seleucia. He needed directions. In the course of the conversation, he mentioned he had experienced a full immersion baptism in a pool by the Jordan River, near Jericho. We asked the man’s name. He said it was John the Baptist. Can this be the same man?”
“Yes, it is the John I know,” Jesus answered. “He has begun his ministry of preaching and baptism.... How did he look?”
“Gaunt and severe. But according to this man, he was very convincing.”
Jesus smiled at the thought of John baptizing in the Jordan. He is on his way. Jesus withdrew from his companions to consider what he had just heard. Am I ready to follow in John’s footsteps?
27 A.D. Early Spring.
Jesus wanted to focus his attention on the spiritual health of his people. He knew he wanted to heal both spiritually and physically, but although he was welcome to preach in the local synagogue, he was unsure of what to do.
Then, on a lovely spring day, it happened. He was walking along the rocky shore of the Sea of Galilee, deep in thought. A playful breeze danced among the ripples of blue water. The delightful fragrance of spring flowers filled the air. Jesus was relaxed and happy. Suddenly an inspiration flooded through his consciousness. Thoughts flowed easily.
He became aware of a voice. Jesus, it said.
Then again: Jesus.... you and I are one. We are of the same mind.
Jesus was filled with joy. It soared through his very being. He had finally made the connection he wanted with God.
My God, My God.... Where are you?
Although you cannot see me, I am everywhere. The passing breeze, the rustling grass, you can hear me pass–I will speak to you everywhere.
But will I ever see you?
I can take any form I decide will best fulfill my needs at the moment. Sometimes to comfort those in pain, sometimes to teach a lesson, and sometimes to help; I may appear as human, an animal, a sunset, or a flower. You will see me in due time, I promise.
What do you want me to do? Just tell me and I will do it.
For now, I just want you to know I will be at your side on the journey that is to come.
Is Sarah with you?
Of course, she loves you as I do.
Jesus was filled with the love of the God he wanted to serve and the woman who would be with him forever.
Now what?
You want to become a healer and a teacher. To that I will add a prophet who will carry my message to all who will listen. Focus on where you are going with your life, Jesus. Close your shop and go to your mother.
Because he wasn’t looking where he was walking, Jesus tripped over a stone.... and his connection with God dissolved.
****
John sat down on the bank of the Jordan River to rest. It had been a good day. Of the 23 people who forged the river on their way to Judea or the Decapolis, six had stopped long enough to hear him speak and be baptized. In fact, two had come all the way from Jerusalem to be baptized in the Jordan. John was about to lean back against a tree when out of nowhere he saw a man approaching him. Puzzled, John sat upright and then stood up. With his medium build, greying hair, and rumpled appearance, the man’s demeanor appeared to be friendly enough.
“Hello, John,” he said “peace be with you.”
“And to you,” John replied “how did you know my name?”
“My name is Micah; I am the angel of God’s divine plan.”
John was stunned, but he had no doubts. Instead, he was filled with joy. Something inside him urged John to listen to Micah.
“I have heard your name.”
Micah sat wearily down beside John, looking as though he carried the weight of all creation on his shoulders. He spoke softly, but with authority.
“Your friend Jesus is the one,” he said “he is the perfection of God in the flesh of a man. Heed his words. God will give him a message to deliver to the people of Israel.... and to the world.”
John was incredulous. God had instructed him to accompany Jesus to Alexandria. He had become friends with Jesus and he certainly respected him, but was his friend really the one.... the Messiah?
Micah knew and understood John’s thoughts. “Yes, he is the one.... and in time you will be given the task of announcing who he really is.”
Exhibiting the aches and pains of age, Micah slowly got up and turned to John.
“Now you know who he is. Keep it to yourself until Jesus comes to you.”
“He will come to me?” John was astonished.
“Before the summer has passed.”
Then, he made a circle motion with his hand, and vanished.
****
27 A.D. May.
Jesus followed God’s instructions. Without saying a word about his conversation, he closed up his shop, said goodbye to his friends, and left for Nazareth. Mary, by some means unknown to him, knew he was coming. Upon his arrival, she told him to wash, and then gave him something to eat. After he finished, Mary sat down in the big room with Jesus, face to face.
“And so now you know,” she said with an earnest look on her face “the things Joseph and I told you are true. You are both a man and the perfection of God. While you were in my womb, God made sure you were perfect in his image.”
Jesus was humbled by her words. In ways he could not understand Jesus knew God was somehow his father, just like Joseph. His thoughts echoed through his mind for several moments. Then he looked at his mother.
“What do I do now?”
Mary smiled with a mother’s compassion.
“God will give you a message. Learn it well. Think about how you will teach his message to others. This process will take some time. I believe it is important for you to visit with the Essenes in Qumran. They will help you to meditate, to reason, and to establish a flowing connection with God.”
****
27 A.D. Late May.
After giving his mother a long warm embrace, Jesus left Nazareth for the Essene communal structures of Qumran. He walked into the Judean desert and arrived at Qumran on June 14. As his mother had promised, he was welcomed by all those he met there. He soon became familiar with the sacraments, including the ritual baths. They helped him to meditate, to think positive thoughts, and to reject negative evil ideas. He was soon able to establish a conscious connection with God whenever he, or God, wanted to have a conversation.
****
But he also had dreams. Sometimes they were powerful dreams that frightened him. He was always the victim. He desperately wanted to escape from his dream, but could not. In one dream a man he did not recognize came to him; a thin man with a long beard and intense evil eyes.
Jesus, he said. Come with me. And in his dream Jesus was swept into a tent on the dessert. Maidens danced almost naked in a circle around him. There was food and wine, more than he had ever seen. Let me guide your life, Jesus. Let me show you the pleasures of life forever, the man said over the noise of the music, you will always be satisfied. Just follow me.
Jesus was tempted. The maidens were very beautiful and lustfully captivating. The food looked delicious. Jesus was suddenly very hungry.
But he fought off the temptation and spoke with determination. This is not the world of my father!
Jesus immediately awakened; his entire body was hot with sweat.
In a second dream, the man came to him again. Jesus, he said. Come with me. And Jesus was taken to the rooftop of the Temple in Jerusalem. The man swept his hand over the city and countryside. You can have the riches of this city and far beyond. You will be the richest man on earth! You will possess gold, jewels, palaces, and even cities. Just follow me.
Jesus was tempted. He made a good income, enough for his needs, and certainly more than most of his peers. But he had never been rich. And like everyone else, he had suffered through the famine that crept over Israel when the dry land was barren of food.
But he fought off the temptation and spoke with determination. This is not the way of my father!
Jesus immediately awakened; his entire body ached in pain.
In a third dream, the man again came to him. Jesus, he said. Come with me. And Jesus was swept up to the top of a mountain.
You are strong Jesus, the man said and you can be stronger. You can be the king of all you can see, from Syria to Egypt, from the Decapolis to the Sea. You will become the mighty warrior Messiah who banishes the Romans from all Israel. Just follow me.
Jesus felt a sense of euphoria. He could be the Messiah his people dreamed would come!
But he fought off the temptation and spoke with determination. This is not the message of my father!
Jesus immediately awakened; his entire body shivered in the cold night air.
****
He made friends with an old priest who had been banned from Jerusalem because of his radical beliefs. The priest guided his thinking, reinforced his knowledge of various plants and minerals, and helped Jesus to understand the physical properties of the immune system. In his conversations with the old priest, Jesus learned why spiritual healing is just as important as physical healing.
“I have thoughts and dreams,” Jesus told the old priest “Sometimes when I dream I have unstoppable power over all I can see. I am invincible; a mighty King. But there is always death and fear all around me. I am powerful but afraid.”
“We are good and evil,” said the old priest “our dreams are a reflection of the conflict within our soul between wanting to help and wanting to dominate.”
“How do I know the difference?”
“That which is good in the eyes of the Lord is always constructive, positive and compassionate. Evil is bad because it is always destructive, negative and heartless. We become confused because to be good one must also understand what is bad. That is why you must continue to develop good judgement; always focus on the ultimate truth of what you are doing.”
“Where does evil reside?”
“Within your mind, we make our own hell.”
****
By late July Jesus was thoroughly proficient in the message he was to deliver. But he still had some doubts. The old priest understood it was time for a final conversation with God before Jesus assumed the responsibilities of his ministry. He encouraged Jesus to join him in meditation. They went to the top of a cliff that overlooked the valley and the Dead Sea. After a brief prayer, he left Jesus alone.
Jesus had learned how to make a conscious connection with God. As the old Priest made his way back toward the Essene settlement, he once again easily connected with the presence he had come to trust.
“You are ready,” God said. “Do you have any questions I can answer?”
“Why me?” Asked Jesus. “I am but a man of no consequence. … I am but a carpenter and a mason by trade.”
“Jesus, your entire life has been one of preparation. Of all the people in the world, you are the one who has the best understanding of my message. Whatever experiences you have had: the cry of a baby, the love of a woman, the friendship of men, the joy of living, or the pain of great sorrow; these things have made you conscious of all that is Holy. You have a very deep love for all life: human, animal, …. even for the birds that fly, the fish that swim and plants that reach for the sky. Because you feel all these things very deeply, those who hear your voice will feel your love. They will share your love and respect your message. That has always been my objective. It is why I created you to live on this earth for 30 years. Jesus, you are ready. You know the law, you know my message, and even more important, you sense all of these things with your heart, your mind, and your very being.”
Jesus was visibly shaken. .. “I am humbled by your thoughts.”
Jesus looked up to the heavens. His mind raced over the meaning of what God had said to him.
“What do you want me to do?” He asked. “Just tell me.”
“I am going to trust you with a great mission. For hundreds of years I have inspired individual men and women with my counsel. I have selected you to bring my message to all humanity.”
“But how can I expect to do the things those who came before me have not done?”
“I will be at your side throughout your ministry. When you speak, it will be what I have taught you. When you need inspiration, I will inspire you. When you need logic, I will counsel you. If you need to perform a miracle, just ask in my name and it shall be done.... We shall do this mission together. I will never leave your side.”
Jesus was overwhelmed by a sense of conviction, joy, and determination. He looked around to be sure no unseen man was trying to make a fool of him by saying things to him from a place of hiding. But he quickly dispelled the thought and was ashamed of his doubt. He knew deep down in the consciousness of his heart he was having a very real conversation with the God he loved.
Then a thought came into his mind.
“But am I a man or a God?” Jesus asked.
“You are, and will be, a man with free will until you join with me in heaven. I expect you will have all the strengths and weaknesses of a human. But you are on a mission to carry my message to humanity. I trust your judgement, your conviction, and your love for those around you.”
“And when I ascend into your Kingdom?”
“We shall become one.”
Another pause: Jesus looked wistfully over the valley.
“What shall I call you?”
There was a pause, and then God replied:
“Father… It is a familiar and natural name for one who goes before you.”
Another pause: Then God said:
“And I will call you son. That too is a familiar name for someone whom I love.”
“Am I your son?”
God spoke with the love of a father. “Yes, my beloved son...”
****
Jesus had been with the Essenes for forty days and forty nights.
On his last morning in the compound he washed, ate a light breakfast, and said goodbye to his friends. Jesus felt invigorated and eager to start his journey. The old priest joined with him for the short walk to the place where he had his conversations with God. “Where are you going?” he asked.
“I am going to find John the Baptist. He is near the Jordan River. I will ask him to formalize the start of my ministry with a baptism of dedication. It will confirm my commitment to the task God has given me.”
Jesus smiled at the old man, gently shook his hand, and turned to walk down the path to the road that would take him across the valley to the Jordan River. The old priest called after him.
“Jesus: who is your shepherd?”
Looking up to the blue sky of a beautiful morning, the air fresh and clean, Jesus looked back at the priest and gave his response. The words and images flowed into his consciousness from a spiritual source.
The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.
He encourages me to lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for He is with me;
His rod and staff comfort me.
He prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
He anoints my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Chapter 10 John the Baptist
During the ministry of Jesus Christ, Pontius Pilate (ruled 26 A.D. - 36 A.D.), was the prefect of the Roman province of Judea. His palace was located in Caesarea Maritima. Herod Antipater, nicknamed Antipas (ruled 4 B.C. – 39 A.D.) was Tetrarch (ruler of a quarter) of the Roman client states of Galilee and Perea.
…………
Baptism is a Christian sacrament of admission into the Christian community, often accompanied by the ritual use of water. It is seen as being a basis for unity amongst Christians. Baptism is also called a christening when baptizing an infant. It is given a unique name that will be recognized by the baby’s parents, its family, and members of the community. The blessing that follows welcomes the infant to the Christian community and establishes a spiritual relationship with God.
Christian theology recognizes two kinds of baptism.
A christening focuses on the dedication and responsibility of the parents to care for their infant and to raise it in a way that is consistent with the beliefs of Christian Theology. A name is given to the baby that will distinguish it as a unique individual within the community. There follows a blessing that unites the infant, its parents, and the Holy Spirit in a bond of love.
The second Baptismal service is also a ceremony of dedication. An individual, usually an adult, has made a personal decision to seek a closer union with God, ask for a forgiveness of sins, and to pursue a lifestyle that embraces the doctrines of Christian Theology. The individual may also make a commitment to pursue a specific mission or task in God’s name.
…………
John was baptizing on the east bank of the Jordan River where the road from Jerusalem and Jericho crosses into the lands of Peraea. The location of the river has changed over the last 2000 years and the site is now called Bethany Beyond the Jordan. When Jesus went to see John, he had been preaching and baptizing for about a year.
John’s reputation had spread all the way to Jerusalem in the west, Philadelphia in the east, Qumran in the south, and Capernaum in the north. He often delivered an apoplectic message, challenging his congregation to consider all they had done that was sinful, and urging them to repent. Some of those who heard him speak began to wonder if he was the true Messiah. Even the priests in Jerusalem became alarmed that John might be able to overturn their authority. But to all of them, John had the same answer:
“When you come to me for repentance, I will baptize you with the waters of the Jordan. But one who is more powerful than I is coming, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit. He will separate the wheat from the chaff–and the chaff will burn in a never-ending fire.”
****
It had been a busy morning for John and he was pleased that twelve travelers had volunteered to be baptized. He was feeling compassionate. In his message he had even encouraged his listeners to be kind to tax collectors. The road was now empty and John decided to have something to eat. Resting under a tree, eating his lunch of bread and dried fruits, he noticed a man coming toward him from the direction of Jericho. The man drew closer. John felt compelled to get up to greet the stranger. The man motioned for him to remain under the tree and - after a brief handshake - sat down beside him.
“Do you know who I am?” the man asked.
“I believe I should know you,” John answered.
“I am Gabriel, the angel who told your parents about your conception and announced the birth of Jesus to several people.”
“My mother Elizabeth told me about your message, and your punishment of Zechariah for his lack of faith. I should know you for your deeds.... I thank you for giving my father his voice. ”
“Your father was a good man, John. He was just a little suspicious of my message. As soon as he believed, I let him speak again.”
John felt a little uncertain. “And what are you going to tell me?”
“I have good news.... God urged you to go north to find Jesus, did he not?”
“Yes. I found him in Bethsaida.”
“And you accompanied him on his travels?”
“Yes. His wife had just passed away. He was lost and depressed, so I encouraged him to travel. As it happened, he wanted to learn about other cultures, other philosophies and more about how to heal. So we went to Alexandria where he could receive the best education.”
“Micah and I want to thank you for your service–and so does God...” Gabriel paused to adjust his place under the tree.
“We have another task for you.”
John was not surprised. He had been thinking of Jesus and was sure his friend would soon be ready to start his own ministry as a preacher and healer in Galilee.
“How can I help?”
“As Micah has told you, Jesus has become the man you have been expecting. Jesus is the Messiah. He has made a conscious connection with God. He now calls God his father. God calls Jesus his son. God has given Jesus a mission. He is to deliver God’s message to all who will listen. Jesus is ready. He will come to you to be baptized. It will be a baptism of dedication to his ministry.”
John was stunned. Gabriel’s words were far more important than anything he could have anticipated. All he imagined was happening. All his prayers had been answered. He was overwhelmed with the realization his friend.... his friend Jesus is the son of God!
“This is glorious. I knew my friend was an exceptional man. On our trip to Alexandria I believe he was able to project the power of God on several occasions.... And now I know he really is the one we have been waiting for.... And to think I was able.... I was able to help him make the transition.... I am humbled by your words.... When is he coming?”
“Late this afternoon. Complete the baptism and encourage your disciples to follow him.”
“That will not be difficult. Andrew, Simon and Philip are looking for a leader who will take them on a spiritual quest. They are here – but of course you already know that.”
“You don’t mind encouraging them to follow Jesus?”
“If Jesus is the son of God, then they must follow him!” John responded with conviction.
“Then may God bless your efforts.”
Gabriel stood up, gave John a benevolent smile, and vanished.
…………
John the Baptist was a priest (because he was the son of Zechariah), and he had a legal right to perform the rite of Mikveh. In first century Judaism certain human discharges, animal parts and any blood were considered unclean. The purpose of immersion was, and still is, to ritually wash them away to achieve spiritual purity.
John the Baptist was at Bethany (Bayt ‘Anya) on the eastern side of the Jordan River (Bethany beyond the Jordan). It is likely the Jordan River was considered unclean for baptism because there was silt in the water. However, clean, pure water was available from springs and tributaries that ran into the Jordan. From one of these John was able to create a Mikveh basin (pond) where he could perform the ritual. For Jesus and many others it took the form of Tevilah (full body immersion).
John’s use of full immersion as a means of washing away the past and starting a new future suggests that at some point he was influenced by the Hindu ritual of full immersion. It is not necessarily a ritual of cleanliness. Instead, he apparently used it to separate a person’s past from the life they would lead in the future. Old sins are washed away and we are free to begin a new life without the burden of our past mistakes.
Jesus understood the significance of John’s beliefs. When Jesus crossed the plain to find John, he was ready to begin his ministry. God had given him a mission. There was no turning back. The Mikveh ritual would have a specific purpose. Full immersion baptism would confirm the truth of his dedication.
…………
27 A.D. July
Jesus was in his 30th year and would turn 31 in late fall. As he walked across the plain toward the Jordan River, God’s final words echoed in his mind: “Jesus It is Time. Now is the hour for you to begin your ministry. You have been well prepared to deliver my message.”
It was a very solemn moment. Jesus wanted to mark the beginning of his ministry with a baptism of dedication to God’s mission. He was determined to find his friend, a man people called “John the Baptist”.
The angel Micah guided his journey. He traveled north east and soon found the road from Jerusalem to the Jordan River. He turned east and within an hour he was at the edge of the river. On the eastern bank stood an angular and very thin man, preaching with energetic passion to a group of maybe 50 people. Jesus smiled to himself. He had found his friend.
Rather than call out to John, Jesus decided to cross the river to mingle with the informal congregation. John was so focused on his message he did not see Jesus.
John was earnestly calling to the people assembled on the river shore.
“What are you waiting for? Do not be sad because you are caught up by the treachery of your sins.... Repent! Those who genuinely repent their transgressions can start over again.... Start a new life! Baptism will set you free. Arise and wash away your sins!”
A large burly man pushed his way through the crowd and came down to the edge of the water. Jesus noticed the strap marks on his right shoulder were like those made by the sword sheath of a Roman Centurion. He had three scars from cuts that had not healed well on his arms.
“I am ready to be baptized,” he said firmly.
John looked at the man and without any hesitation asked “Are you sure you have truly repented your sins?”
The man looked at John sadly and replied “There are too many sins to tell in seven days. I wish to put them behind me. I need to change my life. I want to be friends with your God.”
John motioned for the man to come into the pool with him. He grasped the man’s hand warmly.
“You can be friends with my God and our God. If you are sincere, he will set you free from your past.”
“I am ready,” the man replied “to have my sins washed away.”
He stepped closer to John and looked earnestly into John’s eyes.
“Help me to start a new life”
John took the man by the arm, placed one hand under the man’s back and grasped the man’s forearm with his other hand. He lowered the man into the water and as it washed over the man’s face he prayed:
“I command you to caste away your past life and all its sins.... Let the refreshing water of life give you a new beginning.... Today you are free.... The spirit of God’s love is with you Centurion.”
Then he brought the man out of the water and helped him to stand up. The man was astonished by the experience. He was jubilant. He was obviously grateful for John’s baptism. He smiled at John.
“Thank you, thank you for who you are.”
He turned and called out to the crowd: “I am what I believe.... free.... free from the past which I came to hate.... free to start again.”
He staggered up from the water onto the shore. The crowd made a path for him as he walked away toward the road. When he passed Jesus he suddenly stopped, turned, and looked at him intently.
“Teacher,” he said quietly, and walked on.
****
Yona, a woman whose name in Hebrew means dove, was prompted by some unknown force to find Jesus among the people standing on the river bank. When she found him, she instinctively knew what to do. Yona took him by the hand and walked with him to where John was standing. John was stunned, delighted, joyful, and full of compassion - all at the same time.
“Jesus! You have arrived!”
John embraced Jesus with an emotional hug. Then he abruptly backed away, somewhat awestruck. This, he thought, is the Messiah! John turned to his audience.
“I have been a voice calling in the dessert.... I have seen and I testify that this is the son of God. Make straight the way for the Lord!”
But then John was so excited he could not, for a moment, think of anything else to say. Jesus came to his rescue.
“I have come to be baptized in the name of God by the one man who knows why my baptism is important.”
But John protested. “It is I who should be asking to be baptized.... You are closer to God.”
“No John. Remember our conversations about baptism. Mine will be a baptism of dedication and commitment to my mission… You know how to give birth to my future.”
John could only stare at his friend for a moment, then energized by the words of Jesus he jumped back, excitedly waved his arms to the people standing on the bank of the Jordan, and said “we shall all witness the baptism of God’s messenger!”
John took his friend’s left hand and started into the pool. The people on the shore whispered among themselves. Who is this man? Why is John the Baptist so excited about baptizing him?
John ignored their whispers. He led Jesus into water about four feet deep, placed one hand under his friend’s back and used his other hand to hold Jesus by the shoulder. He carefully immersed Jesus in the water, and said a short prayer:
“Dear Jesus, this is the moment for which you have been created. Bless your commitment to God and your dedication to the task that lies ahead. May the Lord bless you and keep you safe.... Amen.”
John raised Jesus out of the water. As he did so, the people on the river bank, energized by an excitement they would never be able to explain, began to clap with enthusiasm. Then a very loud voice came from somewhere above:
“This is my son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Those words would echo all over Israel – and beyond.
And so it was.
Baptism washed away Jesus the man. As he is raised up, Jesus the Son of God is revealed.
****
John said a final prayer and dismissed the congregation. He motioned for Jesus to follow him up the hill to his campsite. Jesus was in for another surprise. They met Andrew carrying an armful of wood to the camp. As soon as he saw Jesus, he was so surprised he dropped the wood and immediately exclaimed “You have found the Messiah!”
Andrew rushed to hug Jesus and then stepped back. “And he is my friend!”
Andrew began to talk so fast neither John nor Jesus could understand him.
John held up his hand to silence Andrew. With a big happy grin he said “Where is your brother?”
“He is out there,” Andrew pointed to the woods “gathering wood for the fire.”
Andrew was wide-eyed with excitement. He turned and started to run up the hill toward the woods. “I’ll go find him!” he called back.
It was only a few minutes before three men ran down the path to where Jesus and John were standing. Andrew had found both his brother and Phillip of Bethsaida. The three men stopped to gaze upon Jesus. Phillip recognized Jesus and spoke first.
“You are the savior. I have no doubt. Show us the way and we will follow.”
Jesus smiled at Phillip. “Thank you for your faith in me. You and Andrew are most welcome to help my mission.”
Then Jesus turned to Simon. “And what about you, my friend?”
Simon thought for a moment and then he answered. “I am ready to follow you, but I am not ready to believe you are the Messiah.”
……….
Author’s Note: Jesus, baptism, and the question of sin.
In Christian tradition Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist near the Jordan River. But the idea Jesus had to be baptized has bothered some Christians over the centuries. John clearly baptized people to wash away their sins so they could start a new life free of sin. Why, they ask, did Jesus need to be baptized? Was he not the son of God (or God) and therefore sinless?
First, let us address the question of sin. According to Jewish (religious) law, Jesus was certainly a sinner. Jesus apparently had his own interpretation of the law, and he occasionally challenged theological convention. His beliefs also got him into hot water with the Sadducees and Pharisees more than once during his ministry. Being a man, he also must have had “sinful” thoughts from time to time. Thus baptism did serve to divide his past as a man who had sinned, however innocently, from his future as the sinless son of God.
Second, although a separation from the past may have been important, it was never his primary reason for baptism. For Jesus, and likely for John, the ceremony was a baptism of dedication. Jesus was making a sacred commitment of purpose to all present, to God his father, to his friend John, and to himself.
Jesus was a very intelligent, creative, compassionate, and charismatic man. He was well aware his ministry would contravene Jewish traditions and Roman rule. One does not challenge the established order without consequence. He may have even realized it could lead to his death. This simple ceremony of dedication was thus deeply significant for him, and – as we see in the later exchange of messages between the two men - for John.
And finally, his dedication was also a very joyful and momentous occasion for his father who responded to the ceremony with: “This is my son… in whom I am well pleased.”
Or: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
Or: “This is my son whom I love, and in whom I am well pleased.”
Given the context, God was announcing to all who were
present that Jesus was his son and God the father was very pleased with his
son’s commitment to the task ahead.
Chapter 11 Disciples
Temples were intended to function as the center of government, judicial, religious, and economic life. The Temple Mount in Jerusalem (also called ‘The House of God’, and in ancient Hebrew ‘Mount Zion’), is believed to be where rabbinic sages produced the Jewish Talmud. According to Jewish tradition, the first Temple in Jerusalem was built by King Solomon, the son of King David in 957 B.C. It was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 B.C. A second Temple was built on or near the site of the first Temple in 516 B.C.
Herod the Great built a third edifice known as Herod’s Temple. Herod wanted to perpetuate his name through extensive construction projects. His Temple renovation and expansion project in Jerusalem was his greatest achievement. Although the most active construction period was from ~ 19 B.C. to 9 B.C., Herod’s Temple was under renovation until 64 A.D. It was looted and destroyed by the Romans in 70 A.D.
Herod greatly expanded the platform for the Temple Mount to approximately 36 acres. Walls up to 16 feet thick and in many places over 150 feet high protected its courtyards and buildings. The exterior dimensions of the Temple Mount exterior walls were roughly 900’ x 1600’ x 1050’x 1550’.
Located within the Temple Mount was Herod’s Temple. Built of white marble (or covered in white plaster), adorned with heavy plates of gold in front and rising high above a succession of terraces, it had the appearance of a snow-covered mountain. The Temple was a prominent and dazzling object from every side. Its marble covered courtyards and inner buildings were protected by a separate 60 foot high wall within the Temple Mount. It apparently covered an area of roughly 3.3 (or 3.5) acres. Some believe the Temple building itself was 150 feet long, 150 feet wide and 150 feet high. There was an extensive use of gold and silver ornamentation throughout the Temple.
Of the Temple gates Josephus writes that ‘nine were completely overlaid with gold and silver, as were also their door-posts; but one, that outside the inner sanctuary, was of Corinthian bronze, and far exceeded in value those plated with silver and set in gold’. This gate is usually identified as the Nicanor Gate, which stood majestically between the Women’s Courtyard and the inner sanctuary.
Only Jews were allowed to enter the courtyards of Herod’s Temple. They entered by climbing twelve steps and going through a gold and silver covered gate into the Court of the Women. In this area, one might find any Jew, even the unclean. There was frequent music, dancing and singing. From the women’s courtyard (open to all Jews), entrance into the inner sanctuary courtyards was accomplished by climbing 15 semicircular steps and passing through the huge (75 feet high and 60 feet wide) bronze covered Gate of Nicanor. The inner sanctuary courtyards included the Israelites Courtyard (reserved for ritually pure Jewish men), the Priest’s courtyard (reserved for Levite Priests), a two room sanctuary called the Holy Place (the outer room used by all Priests, the inner room only accessible to the High Priest), and several chambers. Sacrifices were offered daily. Special offerings were made on the Sabbath and on Jewish holidays. Animal sacrifices were slaughtered and offered to God on the Altar of Burnt Offerings in the Priest’s courtyard. These sacrifices were accompanied at appropriate moments with recitations (usually Psalms) by the Levites.
The vast 32 (?) acre area outside the walls of Herod’s Temple was called the Gentiles Courtyard. It was open to all visitors. It is likely Jesus preached here, standing on the upper steps of the Temple entrance and looking down on the Israelites gathered in courtyard below him.
The huge Court of the Gentiles can be characterized as a bazaar. There were vendors selling food, drink, sacrificial animals, and souvenirs. Jews would change their everyday Greek and Roman money (considered to be profane) for Jewish or Tyrian money (considered to be religiously acceptable) in order to purchase sacrifices, make contributions, and buy goods or services. Upon leaving, they might exchange whatever religious money they had left for profane money. The money changers, who were notoriously dishonest, became very wealthy (and as we shall see, hated any interruption).
Guided tours of Herod’s Temple courtyards were available for visitors. Aaronic priests in linen robes and tubular hats were everywhere, directing pilgrims and giving instruction on sacrificial requirements. Population estimates vary (by a lot), but Jerusalem in the time of Jesus probably had a permanent population of more than 45,000. Big events, like Passover, would attract over 150,000 pilgrims to the city.
It is written: “Three times a year all your males shall appear before the Lord your God at the place that he will choose: at the festival of unleavened bread, at the festival of weeks, and at the festival of booths. They shall not appear before the Lord empty-handed; all shall give as they are able, according to the blessing of the Lord your God that he has given you.”
Passover is a seven-day religious observance in the spring which includes the Feast of Unleavened Bread. It is a celebration of Jewish freedom from Egyptian enslavement. Shavuot, known as the Feast of Weeks in English, usually occurs in May or June. Shavuot celebrates receiving the Torah from God and becoming a nation. Sukkot, the Feast of Booths or - in English - Feast of Tabernacles, is a celebration of the harvest that occurs in September or October.
Although it was not unusual to see families at these events, the audience would have been predominately male. There were frequent fracases between Pharisee and Sadducee pilgrims.
…………
You Are The Son of God
August 27 A.D.
After two days Philip, Simon and Andrew joined Jesus for his trip to Galilee. Jesus wanted to return to Nazareth. His companions wanted to return to Capernaum. Even though it was out of their way, they decided to visit Jerusalem before turning north. The four men crossed the Jordan and walked west to Jericho. Jesus and his companions arrived in the village just as the sun was reaching its highest point in the sky. Thirsty, they stopped at a community well for a drink and to rest. Andrew and Philip were still somewhat mesmerized by the baptism of their new leader at the Jordan. A little boy came to the well for a drink of water. Having quenched his thirst, he looked up and saw the four men resting on the well platform.
“Where are you from?” he asked.
“The river,” Simon replied “where John the Baptist preaches and baptizes.”
The boy’s eyes widened with excitement. “Did you hear what happened there?”
Simon was perplexed. “What do you mean?”
“God spoke to a man and told everyone he was his son!”
Simon was startled. He hadn’t expected the news to travel so fast. “Well,” he pointed majestically to Jesus “here he is.”
The boy looked with astonishment at Jesus. The he turned and raced off up the village street. In a few moments he returned with a woman dressed in an old tattered dress. Her face brightened when she saw Jesus.
“It is you. I could not believe my son. But I had to come. I witnessed your baptism.... oh I’m so sorry, I have been cleaning and I am so dirty.”
Jesus smiled as he looked into her eyes.
“Come to me just as you are,” he said “I interrupted your work. It is your thoughts that make you clean or dirty.”
The woman wanted to bow to Jesus but he would not let her. Instead he held her hand and lifted her chin so he could again look into her eyes.
“And what do you think?”
“You are.... you are close to God.... You are the son of God.”
“Your witness is welcome; may your faith bring you strength.”
The woman had an inspiration. “You must speak to us!”
She backed away and looked at the four men one by one. “I’ll call the village elders. Please stay.... have bread and fruit.... all of you.... and do stay the night.”
****
And so it was. The news of the baptism raced ahead of them and began to spread all through Israel. The next evening, when they reached Bethany, a group of people met them at the edge of the village. Again Jesus was asked to preach and again there was a spontaneous celebration of his arrival.
On the third day they reached the top of a low hill called The Mount of Olives and gazed across the valley to the Temple Mount. The white and gold of Herod’s Temple seemed to shimmer in the light of the declining western sun. The majesty of the Temple Mount was breathtaking.
Jesus turned to his companions. “I do not have any money. So I will have to wait to visit the Temple. But I shall return at Passover. And then, I will preach to all those who will listen.”
That evening, the four men walked the through the streets of Jerusalem and spent some time in the Court of the Gentiles.
****
The reception was the same in Bethel, a village with a long Scriptural history. They reached Bethel the following day in mid-afternoon. Crowds surrounded Jesus and his companions, asking questions and eager to touch him. The next morning the four men set out for Sychar. It was a long two day walk, made more difficult by the terrain. Tired and hungry, his companions were surprised when Jesus elected to take a small detour to the site of Jacob’s Well south of Sychar. Long ago Jacob pitched his tent here, erected an altar, and later decided to construct a deep well sculpted from solid rock. Jesus found the well and sat down to rest. Andrew took a goat skin to the well and brought back water for the four men to drink. Simon built a small cooking fire, and roasted some meat they had been given in Bethel. After a meal of meat, bread, lentils, and water, the four men relaxed and talked about the day’s journey. As the sun was setting, Jesus stood up and walked to the top of a rock ledge. He closed his eyes, raised his arms to heaven, and began to pray. When he had finished, he came back to where his friends were sitting. Philip had a question.
“Did you connect with God?”
“Of course,” Jesus responded “God in the form of the Holy Spirit is living spiritual energy – the essence of life and love.”
****
Late August 27 A.D.
The next day they reached the Samaritan village of Ginae (Jenin). After a good night’s sleep they were able to descend into the Plain of Esdraelon. There they made camp for the night. By early afternoon the following day, they reached the crossing where the road to Nazareth goes north and the road to Magdala and Capernaum goes northeast. Jesus hugged his three friends, said goodbye, and headed for Nazareth. He arrived home just before sunset. Mary was expecting him.
“Jesus, my son. You look tired and hungry. Welcome home.... I’ll stir the fire and prepare a hot meal for you.”
“It has been a long and hard journey,” Jesus responded “but I found John by the Jordan River. He baptized me.... a baptism of commitment and dedication. And I met three friends who accompanied me on the trip home until the crossroad at Nain.”
“I know,” Mary answered quietly. Then she looked away and busied herself with the preparation of a hot meal and added. “Tomorrow I’ll send for your brothers and your sister Deborah. We can have a family reunion.”
Jesus smiled. He would be glad to see his family again.
“We have been invited to a wedding in Cana.” Mary said “you have a cousin in Cana by the name of Simon Zealotes. He is marrying the daughter of an old friend of mine.”
****
On the Sabbath Day Jesus was invited to read at the synagogue in Nazareth. The news of his baptism had not reached the village and to these people he was just the son of Joseph and Mary. The attendant handed him a scroll with the words of the prophet Isaiah. Jesus unrolled the scroll and read this passage:
“The Spirit of the Lord is with me. He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the humble in spirit, heal the sick and injured, and to set the oppressed free.”
Then he rolled up the scroll, and gave it back to the attendant. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him.
“Today this scripture is being fulfilled. God has given me a message. Those who follow the commandments God has given to me will witness The Kingdom of God.”
There was a snicker in the congregation, then a wave of laughter. Only a Messiah could free them from the hated Romans, and Jesus certainly did not look like a King, or even a warrior.
“Aren’t you the son of Joseph, the one who ran away from Nazareth?” someone called out.
“Why should we believe a man who is unable to father even a single child?” shouted another.
Jesus looked upon the congregation with a mixture of dismay and sadness. He spoke slowly and with conviction.
“No prophet will be accepted in his hometown. Nothing will happen here. ”
Jesus started for the door. The men in the synagogue grew angry. What, they thought, makes this man so special? Who does he think he is; pretending to be a Messiah? He is a liar!
The people gathered around Jesus and roughly pushed him from the synagogue, shouting at him with ill-mannered rage. But Jesus held up his hand to quiet them and then spoke with conviction.
“I know you will never accept who I am. I know what is in your hearts.”
Then he passed through the throng, and went home.
****
In September, Jesus accompanied Mary, his brothers Simon and Joses, and his sister Deborah on the 2.5 hour walk to Cana. The village was located on a limestone outcropping over 300 feet above the Beit Netofa Valley. There they were greeted by his sister Rachel and her husband.
Jesus was also surprised to find Philip among the wedding guests. He immediately took Jesus to meet Simon Zealotes, the bridegroom. By now, the events at the river Jordan where Jesus was baptized had reached Cana. As it was passed from person to person, the story had been substantially exaggerated. Everyone was therefore excited to meet Jesus. Simon Zealotes was no exception.
“I hear God has chosen you for a mission,” he said with some excitement. “You will need help and I am ready to follow you!”
“And have you heard the nature of my mission?”
“You are going to bring the Kingdom of God to Israel, and bring a new sense of justice for all people.... You are the man we have been waiting for all these years!”
Jesus carefully contemplated his response.
“I may not be the man you expect. But if you will follow me, our accomplishments will be worthy.”
Just then the local Rabbi called for the start of the wedding service and Simon Zealotes quickly assumed the bridegroom’s place before the rabbi. Before ending the service, the rabbi called for Jesus to offer his blessing for the newlywed couple. He went before the Simon and his wife:
“Honor the one you love above yourself.
Show consideration in word and deed.
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in commitment.
For true love must be sincere in purpose and honorable in act.
A good husband values his wife.
A good wife respects her husband.
Be your partner’s best friend, and most trusted companion.
Your love will be measured by your devotion to one another.
These are the efforts that bring you together as one.
And make your union precious in the eyes of God.”
Then Jesus blessed the wedding feast and, smiling broadly at the congregation, he called out: “Let the joy of this occasion begin!”
There was dancing and laughter. It was indeed a joyful occasion and Jesus was elated by the happiness that surrounded him.
Philip found Bartholomew in a group of his friends. He told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”
“Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Bartholomew questioned. “Come and see,” said Philip.
The two men made their way to where Jesus was standing. Bartholomew gazed at Jesus with admiration as though inspired by an unknown force. After several moments, he spoke out with excitement: "You are truly the Son of God as they say. You will–become the King of Israel!"
Jesus was humbled by Bartholomew’s assertion. “Thank you for your conviction. But let us take our task one step at a time.”
Philip tugged at Bartholomew’s coat and they went to find Simon Zealotes. Jesus looked around at the people gathered for the wedding feast. He could see from the look on her face the hostess was very troubled. He went to her and asked: “What troubles you on this joyous occasion?”
“I do not have enough wine,” she responded. “I do not know why, I thought we would be well supplied.”
Jesus looked around for the amphorae that might contain wine. Can we help this woman? He enquired of God.
Look to your right, where the water amphorae are stored. Look for three with stains on the rim. They contain wine.
Jesus did as he was instructed and saw three containers with red stains on the rim. He called to the hostess.
“Have your servants look inside those three amphorae,” he beckoned to her.
Her eyes followed his gaze to where he was pointing. She instructed one of her servants to look into the amphorae to see if they contained wine. As soon as the man removed the lids, he knew the answer. ”We have plenty of wine. It is here among the water urns.”
“Oh thank you,” said the hostess to Jesus “you have saved the day.”
Jesus smiled, “and may I have a cup?”
A woman in a group near them was watching Jesus. She saw what happened and said to her companions “Jesus just turned water into wine!”
Both Simon Zealotes and Bartholomew were told of the miracle. Together with Philip they approached Jesus. “We have decided to follow you wherever you go.” Simon said. “You are the one.”
****
The senses are assaulted by the life of the village. The smell of animal dung mixed with the fragrance of freshly baked bread. Snarling dogs and the laughter of children. Littered streets and pots of colorful flowers. Squabbles and cheerful song. Odors of cooking fires and rotting garbage.
The following Sabbath Jesus went to the synagogue in Nazareth for a second time. By now, even the people of Nazareth had heard about his baptism, and the stories quickly became more and more incredible. But their parochial doubts lingered. His being the son of God did not matter. New ideas were automatically rejected in this community. They were absolutely convinced only the priests could tell them what to believe. Any other ideas were sinful. And so, Jesus was again rejected with the venom of functional illiteracy.
Jesus, upset by his rejection, made a decision. He would move his mother to Capernaum. “These people,” he told Mary “do not know how to think, and therefore cannot decide what to think. They are incapable of intellectual free will.... At least in Capernaum we will find a community that is open to new ideas. They do not live in the prison of narrow-minded thought.”
Mary looked at him and then around the small stone building that had been her home for so long. She was reluctant to leave, but she also knew Jesus was right. The return of Jesus had brought forth nothing but scorn and criticism from the village women. Both of his brothers Joses and Simon were openly ridiculed by villagers who appeared to be afraid of Jesus, and scorned his brothers.
“Simon has good roots here. He can ignore the village gossip. But I shall ask Joses to come with us,” Jesus said firmly “he is not doing well here. I can help him in Capernaum.”
“Yes,” she said quietly “your decision is wise. We must move.”
“Then my mother,” Jesus said gently “we will celebrate my birthday in Capernaum.”
****
January, 28 A.D.
The move to Capernaum had been completed. Joses was happily working with Andrew as a fisherman. One evening, just as the sun was setting in the western sky, Jesus again went to find Simon, Andrew’s brother. He knew Simon had been fishing all day, so the first place he looked was from the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Sure enough: Just offshore he saw Simon struggling to pull a net into his boat. The man was grunting and occasionally cursing in frustration. Even though he had been fishing for the entire day, he only had a few fish in his boat. Jesus was sympathetic. My father, he asked, can we help this poor man? A few moments passed and then came the answer. Have him caste his net on the other side of his boat.
Without hesitation, Jesus called out to Simon.
“Simon.... Simon caste the net on the other side of your boat!”
Simon looked up and scowled unhappily across the water toward the man on the beach.
“And how in the name of God will that help!”
“Simon, oh yee of little faith, put your trust in God.”
Mumbling something unintelligible and probably not complimentary, Simon did as he was instructed; fully believing it was nothing but madness to think casting his net on the other side of his boat would do any good. But then to his absolute surprise and incredible relief, when he pulled on the net he found it was full of fish! Simon and his helper hauled the heavy net into his boat, and then paddled it to shore.
Jesus helped him beach the boat and confronted Simon. He looked at Simon thoughtfully, and quietly asked: “Now do you believe?”
Simon searched his soul for an answer. Then he shrugged.
“I believe you are the Messiah,” he said quietly “All our friends say you are. I have witnessed how people come to you. I have witnessed your sermons. Now I have witnessed this miracle - when you filled my net with fish.... I am compelled to follow you. You are most certainly the son of God.... But what can I do to help you? I am nothing but a poor fisherman.”
Jesus smiled at his friend and said firmly “I will make you a fisher of men.”
He paused, placed his hand on Simon’s shoulders and said:
“Son of Jonah, I will call you Peter.”
****
The next morning Peter came to Jesus at his little shop. He stood in the doorway and said: “Jesus, I understand you studied healing in Egypt. Could you please help me? My mother-in-law is deathly sick. She is having trouble breathing. My wife and I are very worried.”
“Of course I will help,” Jesus responded. “Let us go to her.”
They walked the short distance to Peter’s house, entered, and found Peter’s mother-in-law on a straw mat. She was coughing up mucus. Jesus knelt down beside her and placed his hand on her forehead.
“She has a fever,” he said.
He then placed his head on her chest and listened for a few moments.
“She has a great deal in congestion in her lungs.”
Jesus then closed his eyes and prayed. Father, can we help her? Thoughts cascaded into his consciousness. She has a very bad case of pneumonia. I will kill the bad flesh and instruct the good flesh to do its work. You must tell her to cough up as much mucus as she can. She will be well in three days.
Jesus opened his eyes and looked at Peter, and then Peter’s wife.
“She needs to cough up the mucus in her chest. Have her stay in bed and rest. Drink all the water she can hold.... Peter, she will be well in three days.”
Although he was doubtful at first, Peter wanted to believe in Jesus.
“I trust your words.... Thank you.”
Peter’s wife came to Jesus and gave him a grateful hug. Jesus smiled and hugged her with compassion. He loved them both. Then he left Peter’s house.
In three days, as God had promised, the woman was well enough to resume her chores, talk without coughing, and join in the laughter that often rang from Peter’s house.
Peter’s faith in Jesus was strengthened.
****
28 A.D. February.
Jesus again visited with Matthew the tax collector who by now had become a friend. He was sitting in the tax booth. Jesus challenged him. “What can you do to help the people you tax?”
Matthew was hesitant at first. Then he sat back in his chair and shrugged, as though resigned to a future he did not understand.
“I knew this day would come. Word of your miracles precedes you.... And I have been thinking. I can afford to help these people of Galilee. But it is more than money they need. They need the word you bring to them.”
Matthew, called Levi, pondered his own words for a long time. Jesus waited for him to reach the conclusion he knew his father would encourage in Matthew’s heart. Finally, the Levi spoke:
“I do not know why I am doing this. But I know you have a mission. I will follow you.”
“You have great wealth, Matthew. But material wealth cannot provide us with lasting happiness. It is transient in time and space. Metal will rust, and wood will rot. Wealth provides an empty vessel for the soul.”
“But what do you encourage in the place of wealth?” Matthew asked.
“Lasting friendships are the joy of life. To love, and be loved, is forever welcome. As my father has said: I love those who love me. If you seek to be my friend, you will find me.”
Jesus smiled. “I welcome you as a friend. The reason you have chosen to follow me will become clear soon enough.”
****
A few days later Matthew gave a huge dinner for Jesus at his house. The Levi also invited several other tax collectors and officials from the towns around Galilee. It was a festive occasion. But the next day a group of Pharisees complained to Peter and Andrew: “Why does your leader eat with the rich and powerful? Isn’t he supposed to be of the common people?”
Upon hearing of their question later that day, Jesus gave his disciples the answer. “Our flesh has no money value. It goes the way of all matter when we die. Our soul has great spiritual value. Believers nourish its growth in wisdom and faith. Resurrection transforms the worthy soul. It is this person who dwells in the Kingdom Of God.... I have not been asked to save those who are close to God; my mission is to turn the sinners away from their sins. My message is for those who have lost their way.”
****
And so it was. Many people came to Capernaum to be healed. Jesus was able to help them all. Word of his healing spread north all the way to Tyre and Sidon, and south to Gaza and Masada. With God’s help, Jesus became more confident of his ability to heal. He applied what he had learned from Sarah, Jamel, and his teachers in Alexandria. Afflictions of the mind and nervous system could usually be cured with a moment of solemn prayer. Minor cuts, bruises and abrasions would heal in a day. The flesh and bone of the body only needed redirection. Bad flesh was eradicated. Good flesh would then be reinvigorated to do its task. Other diseases and deformities needed time to heal because the flesh needed time to correct its mistake. In all these things, Jesus was a compassionate healer, offering his love to all who had faith in his work. Jesus also developed a very close relationship with God – whom he now called his father.
****
One morning Jesus called Peter, Andrew, Simon Zealotes, and James and John Boanerges to pray with him near the cemetery above Capernaum. They were very angry about the news. One of Herod’s mercenaries had beaten a woman and murdered her husband. Aside from the revulsion they felt toward the mercenary, they were also incensed the murder had left four children without any means of support.
Simon Zealotes was furious.
“The Romans must be stopped. Let us kill them with swords and tear them to shreds with knives!”
James Boanerges could not contain his anger.
“We should raise a force of good men and find that killer!”
His brother John agreed.
“What right do they have to kill the innocent? Is there no justice?”
They began to grumble among themselves. Their mood was dark and hostile. Then a very despondent Peter spoke up.
“What shall we do, Jesus?”
Jesus slowly looked from man to man. He understood their frustration.
“We should not automatically strike back in anger when assaulted or insulted. Let us turn the other cheek. Have I not taught you that violence begets violence? If you go to Tiberias, and if you are lucky enough to find the murderer, and if you kill him … then what will happen? Herod will hunt you down, and your families, and perhaps some of your friends. He will slaughter and torture them just to set an example.”
“But we have to do something!” exclaimed James.
“We are, and we will,” responded Jesus “we will deliver the message God has given us. It will take root in the minds of the oppressed. It will spread like the wind throughout the Roman Empire. Eventually, even Emperors and Kings will accept the words we have been preaching. When that happens, we will have won a greater victory than anyone before us has ever achieved.”
Jesus scanned the face of each man. “I have asked you to help me precisely because you have this passion for justice and righteousness. You must direct your passion to what is constructive and positive. And above all, preach in the name of God and according to his commandments. Turn your thoughts to the one true God who teaches love and compassion. Follow me. I will show you the way.”
****
March 28 A.D.
One evening Jesus gathered together with Peter, Andrew, James and John Boanerges, Simon Zealotes, and Bartholomew around a fire. They were soon joined by his brothers James and Jude along with Philip, all from Bethsaida. Jesus addressed the group.
“I plan to preach in Magdala and Tiberias. If two or three of you could find the time to go with me, I would be pleased to have your company.”
Immediately five hands went up. Andrew, Simon Zealotes, Bartholomew, Philip and John Boanerges all volunteered to go with Jesus.
“I will go in two days. Remember, however, we are not trying to start a war with the Romans. We go to preach the message God has given us.”
John Boanerges spoke up. “If we cannot make a political revolution, perhaps we can revolutionize human faith,” he said with a smile that showed he understood what Jesus was preaching.
The others murmured in agreement. They talked long into the night about the mission God had given to Jesus. They were learning to be disciples.
In the morning his brothers James and Jude came to see Jesus. James spoke first.
“We went to see this man you call Peter this morning. He was both gracious and convincing. I am ready to follow you, my brother.”
Jude stepped closer to Jesus and gave him a brotherly hug.
“Count me in,” he said quietly.
****
Two days later, Jesus and five of his disciples left for Tabgha, a very small village not far from Capernaum right on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. They found lush grasses and trees because there was plenty of water from seven springs. They paused briefly for a drink and then continued south to Ginosar (Gennesaret or Kinneret, may also be known as Dalmanutha) halfway between Capernaum and Magdala. Elevated on a small hill, Ginosar overlooked the Sea of Galilee and the Plain of Ginosar. From there they walked south near the shore of the Sea of Galilee to Magdala (Magdala Taricheae in Greek) where Jesus found the synagogue and began to preach. His disciples walked through the village, encouraging the people of Magdala to hear Jesus. Among those who heard the disciples call was Mary of Magdala. She immediately went to the synagogue where she found Jesus talking with his disciples.
“Jesus, what a surprise!” she cried out. Their earnest conversation suddenly interrupted, the men turned to look at her. Jesus responded.
“Mary Magdalene. I hoped to find you here. We have been preaching the word of God to the people of Magdala.”
“And preach you must,” Mary responded “we have all heard about your healing in Capernaum. There is much you can do here.”
Mary Magdalene gave Jesus a warm hug and clasped the hands of each disciple one by one. Then she had an inspiration.
“I will tell the whole village you are here. We must have a feast in your honor!”
“But Mary,” Jesus protested “we do not have enough money to pay for a big event.”
Mary Magdalene smiled with affection at Jesus and his disciples.
“Do not worry. It will be great fun. You can heal the sick and injured. It will be a celebration of God’s love.... I’ll pay for everything.”
Jesus was about to protest again and his disciples were amazed that a single woman could afford to be so generous. But before they could speak, Mary rushed out the door and was gone.
That evening, after sunset, Jesus did speak again to a large crowd of people. He taught them God is a supernatural being; creator of all that exists; the source of moral values; and the essence of perfection. God provides us with a message of love, and teaches us how to become one with the transcendent values of his Kingdom.
Jesus closed by saying “God is both a teacher of values and judge of individual conduct. For many of us, faith in the word and character of God provides life with its intrinsic value.”
The local rabbi offered a closing prayer, wishing Jesus and his disciples the blessings of good fortune on their journey. Jesus walked among the congregation, exchanging pleasant conversation and warm handshakes. They left the building and went to an outdoor area where a feast had been prepared.
As soon as Jesus left the synagogue, a young man rushed up to him, seized both his arms and spoke with great excitement.
“I heard about you, but I had my doubts. You could not possibly exist. But you do.... My name is Thomas Didymus. I’m a carpenter, stone mason, and fisherman. But now I want to follow you!”
Jesus looked with affectionate amusement at the young man’s enthusiasm.
“You are welcome to join my little group, but are you sure you are ready? It will not be easy.”
“My work here is not important. But if I work with you, my work will be very worthy!”
“Why don’t you talk with that man over there,” Jesus said pointing to Philip “he can tell you more about the life you can expect to lead. Perhaps you will change your mind.”
“Oh no, I won’t change my mind. But I’ll ask him just in case I should.”
Thomas left Jesus and he began to talk with Philip and Bartholomew. Jesus felt a hand on his shoulder. It was Mary Magdalene.
“Please come to my house, all of you, I have room. Tomorrow you can tell me all about your plans.”
****
They stayed two nights in Magdala. Jesus preached once again at the synagogue, but this time in the street because the crowd was so large. He had a long talk with Mary and when they had finished she told Jesus she would be coming to Capernaum to visit him from time to time.
They left in mid-morning and headed south along the shore for Tiberias. Established in 18 A.D. as the new capital for Herod Antipas, and named after Tiberius the Emperor of Rome, it was located near 17 natural hot springs called Hammat Tiberias.
Herod’s Roman mercenaries were everywhere, forcing them to walk through the city in pairs so they would not attract too much attention. They gathered at the synagogue, found the local priest, and asked if they could stay the night. Jesus also asked permission to preach in the synagogue. The priest readily agreed, having already decided Jesus was no ordinary man.
It being Friday, Jesus preached in the afternoon before the Sabbath. As in Magdala, several people came to him to be healed of various afflictions. The crowd was so impressed, Jesus was asked to preach again on the Sabbath day. The disciples, now including Thomas, were enthusiastic about the success of their leader.
On the Sabbath, Jesus taught them as follows:
There is only one God.
God is eternal. He has always existed and always will exist.
God is omniscient. God knows everything there is to know.
God is omnipotent. God is the most powerful force in the Cosmos.
God is omnipresent. God is everywhere in the Cosmos.
God is sovereign.
God is the creator. God created everything that exists, seen or unseen.
God will continue the process of creation forever.
God is immutable. The nature of God will never change.
God is Holy: He is eternally separate and distinct from all impurity.
God is love. God’s love is pure and genuine. God is the essence of love.
God is righteous. We are all judged by God and his judgment is just, moral and irreproachable.
God created us as a likeness of his being.
After he had finished a man came to him from the congregation. He held out a shriveled hand to Jesus and said “Lord, I know you can do this. Please make my hand whole again.”
Jesus looked upon the man with sympathy and compassion. He took the man’s shriveled hand in his own two hands, one on top and one from below, and closed his eyes. This is a challenge. What do I do and what shall I say? A moment passed and then the words came to him in his thoughts. Ask his flesh to heal and it shall be done. His pain will be removed right away and his flesh will relax, giving him more dexterity. But the complete healing will take several days. The flesh will obey my commands and become whole again as the man has requested.
Jesus quietly said a few words to the man. The people in the audience were tense with anticipation. They watched Jesus as he prayed and released the man’s hand. The man held up his hand in wonder, his eyes bright with tears.
“The pain is gone!” he exclaimed “and my hand is better!”
The crowd cheered, sharing the man’s joy. But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law were not as happy. In their minds, healing on the Sabbath was forbidden. They began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus. But Jesus saw them and knew what they were thinking. He called out to the Pharisees and the teachers of law.
“I am a man of God and I will do God’s work any day of the week. Would God not do the same?”
A Pharisee in a prayer shawl responded. He was very upset. “Shabbat is a day of rest for people and for God. It is forbidden to ask God to work on a holy day.”
Jesus answered him in a voice that carried to everyone in the crowd.
“My father is at his work, every day.”
An expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “who is my friend?”
Jesus replied. “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. A Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, also passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two coins and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’”
Jesus paused. “Which of these three do you think was a friend to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
The expert in the law was humbled. Jesus looked directly into his eyes and told him, “We help others so that they may become independent, resourceful and confident. Go and do likewise.”
Another Pharisee came forward to challenge Jesus. “Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid.”
Jesus answered, “Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going. You judge by human standards; I stand with the Father who sent me.”
The Pharisees grumbled. They dare not rebuke Jesus in front of the adoring crowd that had gathered near the synagogue for fear of their lives. They decided they would wait for another time.
Then a man came forward and touched Jesus on the shoulder.
“You can heal; you have clearly shown your skills to these people and to me. But you have more to do in this land. I believe you shall be King!”
“I am but a servant of God. I am not a political leader.”
“You can be my leader.”
“And what is your name?”
“Judas.”
****
Jesus gave Judas the name Iscariot, and the man joined his disciples as they headed south again to Philoteria, a very old fortified settlement located on the plains just north of where the Jordan River leaves the Sea of Galilee. Jesus preached and healed in the synagogue. He and his disciples were welcomed by the Jews who lived there.
From there they journeyed north to Gergesa, largely a gentile village near the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee. The gentiles welcomed Jesus and his disciples as friends. They appeared to be open to the message he preached there; so much so that Philip remarked:
“Jesus, I do believe your message will resonate with the Gentiles, perhaps even better than our kin.”
The next day they walked along the narrow shore to Bethsaida. Jesus preached and healed in the synagogue. Philip went to find James and Jude, but they had gone to Capernaum. He did find Salome who was very excited to see Jesus again. She came down to the shore to visit with Jesus and his disciples.
“Your brothers, James and Jude, have gone to Capernaum to be with you. They told me your mother Mary insisted they follow your footsteps, wherever you go.”
“Mary is determined I complete my mission. Bless her heart” Jesus responded. “James is very special. He looks at me as though waiting for me to tell him something. Sometimes he seems content just to hear my voice.”
Salome surveyed the group with Jesus, his disciples and several people who were curious enough to follow him.
“You are on your way,” she said “you have begun your mission for God.”
“I am doing what my father wants me to do. He is my constant companion.”
“Your father is in his Kingdom. I will come to Capernaum to be with my sister. We can be your companions on earth.”
“My father watches over her as he does you. Please join with us.”
For a moment, Salome looked pensively at Jesus. But then she became bold enough to ask him a question. “I know you are the Messiah. When you go to Paradise, will you take my two sons to sit with you, one on each side?”
“It is up to them. Are they willing to suffer martyrdom and share my suffering?”
Salome was unsure of what to say. After some thought, she responded. “To join you in heaven is to have unshaking faith in your mission and in the father you love. My sons will have to decide that for themselves.”
Jesus smiled with empathy at Salome. “I believe John and James will be faithful.”
Salome looked away at the group of men lounging nearby, obviously tired by their long walk from Gergesa.
“You will need food, and lodging, and clothing for your disciples. And that” - she smiled - “will be my mission.”
****
The next day Jesus arrived in Capernaum. Peter immediately came to welcome Jesus and he was soon joined by James Boanerges who wanted to know all the details of their tour. Jesus and Andrew sat down with them and began to relate their adventures. As they were breaking up for the night, Jesus summed up the success of their tour by saying:
“God has guided our journey. I left Capernaum with five disciples and I returned with seven. He pointed them out one by one: “Andrew, Simon Zealotes, Bartholomew, Philip, John Boanerges, Thomas and Judas.” Then he turned to look fondly at his brothers. “With the arrival of my brothers Jude and James, that makes nine. To these we can add Peter, James Boanerges and Matthew.”
Chapter 12 Momentum
Two important events occurred in early 29 A.D. - Jesus selects his Apostles and gives what is known as The Sermon on the Mount.
The selection of his Apostles signals Jesus is ready to expand his missionary effort. Once trained and familiar with his doctrine, they will be able to conduct their own missions. After his death, the Apostles were motivated to spread his message throughout the eastern Mediterranean, south into Africa and Egypt, east into Asia, north to the Baltics and west into Rome itself.
Although it is unlikely the entire Sermon on the Mount was given at one time, the following story does give us an outline of the theology and philosophy Jesus incorporated into his message.
………...
Late March 29 A.D.
There were many people who came to Capernaum to see and hear Jesus. He had already selected some of them as disciples and he gave them special responsibilities which they gladly accepted. Late one morning as the sun was nearing its zenith; Jesus summoned all who would come to a hill near Capernaum. He walked to the top of a rock ledge, not much higher than the crowd that followed him. He surveyed them with affection and began to speak.
“In order to continue my work, I will need the help of constant companions who can help to organize my activities wherever I go”. Jesus looked intently at the upturned faces of the crowd. He knew many were ready to help him from time to time, but he needed twelve of them to be his constant companions. The Apostles would help to organize his travels, buy food and lodging as needed, announce and coordinate his public activity, provide crowd control, and discourage would-be critics. The Apostles would also provide Jesus with protection from bandits and zealots.
“There are twelve of you who are close to me and believe in my mission. I will call you Apostles.... because you will also carry God’s message throughout the land. You will be given the authority to preach and heal in my name.”
Jesus paused and looked at each person in the crowd below him.
“I call Peter, whose name is also Simon, to be the rock of my mission. I call Andrew his brother, a man who will become a natural evangelist. I need the courage and strength of James and John Boanerges, two brothers who will defend my body and my mission. I call Philip who will follow my way and urge others to believe in my message. I call Bartholomew, who thinks I should be the King of Israel, and Simon the Zealot who knows I am the King of the world.”
There was a ripple of affectionate laughter through the crowd. Many knew of Bartholomew’s convictions and Simon’s proclamations.
“I call Thomas Didymus because even though he sometimes has doubts about what I preach, he has a quick and honest mind. I call my brother James who has shown his everlasting concern for justice, and my brother Jude who has said he will follow me to the grave.”
Jesus paused for a moment, letting the people before him whisper among themselves about his choices.
“I call a man who has repented his sins and has shown he has a good heart - Matthew the Levi.”
A murmur of disbelief rose from the people. But although many in the crowd did not like Matthew, they were willing to accept his selection. Jesus waited for the whispers settle down and continued.
“I call Judas, known as Iscariot, who - like James and John Boanerges and Simon the Zealot - wants to bring God’s Kingdom on Earth. Judas has shown he understands the power of my mission.”
Jesus motioned for the twelve to stand and come before him. Then he prayed.
“May the Lord bless you and keep you, may our mission be a success.”
Then Jesus waved for the crowd to find a place to rest. He knew many had made a long journey to find him: Tyre, Sidon, Judea, Jerusalem, Caesarea and many other places. In the crowd were Mary Magdalene and her friend Susanna from Caesarea, Joanna, wife of Chuza, and Salome, his mother’s sister. All these women had come because they believed in his message and wanted to help him.
Jesus began to speak to the crowd.
Follow God’s commandments; your reward is in God’s Kingdom
The humble will be welcome; theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.
The hungry will be welcome; they will be satisfied.
Those who mourn will be welcome; they will be comforted.
The oppressed will be welcome; they shall find the joy of freedom.
Those who are merciful will find mercy.
The pure of heart shall see the purity of God.
Those who try to be peacemakers shall be called the children of God.
Blessed are you when people hate you, exclude you, insult you and reject your name as evil because you follow me. One day you will be full of joy. Great is your reward in heaven.
Love your enemies, and help those who hate you.
Bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you.
If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also.
If someone takes your coat, give them your shirt.
Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Do not judge, that you may avoid unjust judgement.
Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.
Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Give–and it will be given to you. Give a good measure, for the measure you use, will be the measure given to you.
Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back.
And above all: Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
Jesus paused for a moment, scanned over the faces in his audience, and then continued.
“Woe to you who are extravagantly rich, for you have already received your comfort.
Woe to you who are too well fed, for you will go hungry.
Woe to you who laugh profanely, for you will mourn and weep.
Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for great is their deception.
Beware. If you only love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them.
And if you only do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners are willing to help those who promise to help them in return.
And if you only lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to others, expecting to be repaid in full.
Instead, love your enemies, be constructive and positive in your thoughts and deeds, and lend to them without expecting to get anything in return.
I ask you: Can the blind lead the blind? Both will stumble and fall. Knowledge which has been confirmed as truth is your companion. The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher and walks with the companion of knowledge.
Why do you look at your brother’s faults and pay no attention to your own faults? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me help you to correct your faults,’ when you fail to see your own faults? You hypocrite, first seek your own perfection of a humble spirit, and then you will see clearly to help your brother.
No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own production.
A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For what is in the heart will flow from the mouth and energize the body.
Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and then fail to do what I say? Those who hear my words and put them into practice are like the man who built a house on a foundation embedded in rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on sand without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it was swept away and its destruction was complete.
Hear my words. Those of you who heed God’s word will be invited into his Kingdom. I will show you the way to salvation.”
Jesus thus finished his Sermon on the Mount, gave his blessing to the crowd, and came down to be among them. Many wanted to touch him to receive the blessing of his healing power. Among the crowd there were Pharisees, Sadducees, and spies who worked for Herod. They grumbled among themselves.
“What does this mean?”
“Is he a nationalist?”
“Will he start a rebellion?”
“What gives him the right to preach as he does?”
****
Jesus returned to Capernaum, followed by his Apostles and many people. Before he reached his little carpenter’s shop, he heard a voice cry out. It was the Roman Garrison Commander. The centurion approached Jesus and took his hand.
“Jesus, please help me. My servant is very ill. He cannot move and is suffering.”
At first, Jesus was surprised that a Roman Commander would ask for his help. Yet the man’s obvious faith overwhelmed any doubts Jesus had.
“How shall I heal him?”
The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you under my roof. But I know if you say the word, my servant will be healed,” he paused to organize his thoughts.
“Jesus, I am a man who has authority over the soldiers under me. I tell this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and that one, ‘Come,’ and he will come to me. I say to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it. I have heard about your work.... I know you have the authority to heal my servant.”
When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those with him, “Truly I tell you, I have not found many in Israel with such great faith.”
Jesus asked his father a question, Can you help this man? There was a momentary pause. Then the simple answer Yes.
Jesus turned to the centurion, “Go back to your camp. Your servant will be healed, ... just as you believed he would.”
And the Roman Commander’s servant was healed at that moment.
****
When Jesus returned to his shop, two men were waiting for him. They bowed slightly to show their respect. Then one man said “John the Baptist sent us to ask you a question.”
Jesus motioned for the two men to sit down, and leaned against his work bench.
“This is a surprise. What does John ask?”
Both men appeared to be despondent. One of the men looked at Jesus and with great sorrow and announced:
“John has been sent to prison in Herod’s fortress at Machaerus.”
Jesus was shocked at the news. “He has been imprisoned? Why?”
“John has acquired a great deal of influence over the people of Judea. Herod is afraid John could start a rebellion. The people seem ready to follow him. But the final straw that broke the camel’s back was John’s condemnation of Herod for divorcing his wife Phasaelis, daughter of King Aretas, so he could marry Herodias, the wife of his brother Herod Philip.”
“The people will never forgive him for the sin he has committed,” Jesus said.
The two men shook their heads in agreement. The smaller of the two men spoke again.
“Even though he is in prison, he was able to ask us to find you. He wants to know for sure. Are you the one who he believes was supposed to come? Or should we continue to look for someone else?”
Jesus guessed what happened. Under the pressure of living in that filthy prison, John had become depressed. So he sought to assure John his first revelation was still correct.
“Go back to John. Tell him what you have seen and heard. Go outside. Look around you in Capernaum. Blind people receive their sight. Disabled people walk. Those with skin diseases are cured. And the good news of God’s message is preached everywhere in Galilee. It is true; those who have faith in me have been blessed.”
Upon hearing those words, the two men appeared to be relieved. They talked with Jesus for a few minutes and then went with him out to the street.
Jesus called out in a loud voice.
“John the Baptist has sent these men, his disciples, to find the prophet. John’s disciples have found what they were looking for.”
Many in the crowd that had formed around his shop murmured their agreement. Several of them had been baptized by John. They understood his importance and the meaning of his prophecy. They also knew Jesus fulfilled John’s vision.
Convinced Jesus was the man John asked them to find, John’s disciples started for Machaerus. John had challenged Jesus. When his disciples returned to the prison, he would be satisfied.
****
The next day Jesus left Capernaum for Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. He was accompanied by his Apostles, and several disciples including Mary of Magdala. Jesus decided to stop in Nain, but as they were approaching the village they were met with a funeral procession headed for the cemetery. There were several mourners, a cart carrying the coffin, and a woman just behind the cart. She was weeping. Jesus stopped the cart and asked the woman “does this coffin contain your son?”
The woman was puzzled. “Yes. How did you know?”
“Your grief was easy to see, and your thoughts were easy to detect. When did he decease?”
“Two days ago. He had been sick with fever.”
Jesus closed his eyes and asked his father “Is here a way to restore this boy to his mother?”
In a few moments the thought came to his conscious mind. His name is Aaron. He is with me now. The angels are looking after him.
Jesus opened his eyes and looked intently at the woman.
“Aaron is with God and the angels. He will find new friends.... He is no longer sick.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, I’m sure. Grieve not woman.... your son is at peace.”
Then Jesus motioned to the others with him to proceed into Nain. After they made camp, Judas and Thomas came to him. Judas spoke.
“Doesn’t God have the power to bring back the dead?”
“You need to listen to my words. Of course God has the power. But for most people the line between physical life and spiritual life is final. That is the way God has made our world and his kingdom.”
“But Aaron is a big loss to his mother. She grieves without rest.”
Jesus was thoughtful for several moments.
“Let us look at this from Aaron’s point of view.
Is it better to live the poverty of life.... or the prosperity of heaven?
Is it better to endure the struggle of life.... or enjoy the peace of heaven?
Is it better to suffer the pain of disease.... or experience the joy of good health?
I tell you true.
Aaron will find love more nourishing than any he ever experienced in this life.
He will acquire knowledge far beyond anything we can even imagine.
He will delight in the discoveries of each day.
He will learn to treasure friendships, both old and new.
He will gain in wisdom and perhaps.... perhaps he will become an angel.”
Judas challenged him again.
“But what about his mother? Does God care about her grief?”
Jesus frowned and became depressed.
“Judas, God feels what we feel. Of course he senses her sorrow.”
“Then can he do anything about her misery?”
Jesus thought for a moment and then brightened. A small smile graced his lips.
“Of course.... and so will I...”
With that Jesus slowly got up and motioned for Thomas and Judas to follow him. God showed him the way to the woman’s house where he found her in tears, sobbing without pause. She was alone, seated on a chair.
“Woman, it is time for you to stop feeling sorry for yourself.”
The woman looked up at Jesus in wonder.
“But why shouldn’t the loss of my son bring me the tears of suffering?”
Jesus tenderly took the woman’s hands into his own. The power of his affectionate compassion flowed through his hands into her whole being. She gradually became calm. Thomas handed her a handkerchief. The mother dried her eyes and looked at Jesus with astonishment.
“You have the power of love. I no longer feel sad. You have shown me death is not the end.”
“And I have a surprise for you. Close your eyes until I tell you to open them.”
The woman did as he instructed because of her trust in his love. Jesus raised his hand and made a circular motion. Aaron appeared before him, smiled, and shook his hand.
“Give your mother a hug,” Jesus said softly.
Arron turned toward his mother. He looked at his mother with the affection of a good son.
Jesus said gently to the woman “Open your eyes.”
The sudden look of joy and relief in her face was overwhelming. The woman jumped out of her chair to embrace her son. Aaron hugged his mother with the deeply felt love only a son can truly express.
“I’m OK, mom.”
His mother pushed him just far enough away so that she could see his eyes.
“I was so sad. I cried. But this man has shown me God’s love.... Yes, I know you are OK. God will see to that.... he will bless you and keep you in peace.... I need not worry.... and someday we can be together again.”
Aaron smiled with affection at his mother and left her to shake hands again with Jesus.
“Thank you for what you have done.”
“May God bless you and keep you.” Jesus responded.
Aaron walked by Jesus, looked steadily at Judas and Thomas for a moment, and then proceeded toward the door. A soft radiance of golden light appeared beyond the door. It was a portal to God’s Kingdom. Aaron walked into the light.... and was gone.
Jesus talked with the woman for a few minutes and then, assured she had found the joy of God’s love, he left the house.
Judas and Thomas were astonished. They had been walking behind Jesus for several minutes when Thomas summoned enough courage to ask Jesus a question.
“You said the line between physical life and spiritual life is final. Then how come Aaron came back to us?”
Jesus turned and said to them:
“Never underestimate the power of God’s love.”
****
Jesus and his disciples continued south toward Jerusalem through Samaria and into Judea. Jesus and his Apostles preached and baptized many people. His word was well received.
On Wednesday they reached the Mount of Olives near Bethany and made a camp. They could hear raucous noise from the Temple Mount. Smoke from the cooking fires of Jerusalem hung over the city like a thick blanket. Jesus asked Bartholomew and James his brother to go into the city to buy food. Then he settled under a tree to rest. When they returned, James and Bartholomew complained about the high price of food. James was particularly annoyed.
“They raise their prices higher each day until Passover. There are dishonest peddlers everywhere.”
“And the money changers cheat,” added Bartholomew.
****
The next morning, the Apostles walked through the local streets to invite people to meet Jesus and hear his word. By noon, the appointed time, a large crowd had gathered on the Mount of Olives. They were restless. Most had heard about Jesus and wanted to touch him. But his Apostles prevented them from overwhelming the place where Jesus stood. In a loud, rich voice, he began to preach. The crowd settled down for a few minutes but soon became agitated again.
“Are you the Messiah?” a Sadducee yelled.
“Where is this kingdom of god?” a Pharisee jeered.
“How can love kill Romans?” another man shouted.
“Twelve armed followers is not much of an army!” another Pharisee snickered.
“Where is your healing power?” a woman called. “We have come to be healed!”
The noise was so disruptive, Jesus was unable to continue. He turned to his Apostles.
“You now have a chance to prove your healing skills, both to them and to yourselves. Go among the crowd. Seek the sick and injured. Heal in my name and they will believe.”
The Apostles did as they were instructed and soon there were 12 groups of people, either receiving the healing power of the Apostles or watching them work. Satisfied and wanting to have a private talk with his father, Jesus slipped away from the crowd. He went down the hill toward Bethany. A woman stopped him as he reached the road.
“Can you help me?” she pleaded.
“Who are you?”
“Martha of Bethany. I think my brother is dead. But I am not sure.”
Jesus felt a surge of compassion for Martha, and he certainly wanted to get away from the unruly crowd. So he agreed to follow Martha to her house. At the gate a woman approached them and held up her hand.
“He hasn’t moved.”
“This is Jesus,” Martha responded. “He will save our brother.”
Jesus followed Martha and her sister Mary into the house. There, on a bed covered in the finest cloth, lay a tall thin man. He appeared to be dead, yet his skin color was normal. Jesus laid his head on the man’s chest, inspected his body, and felt for a pulse.
“How long has he been like this?”
“Four days,” Martha answered.
“He fell ill after he returned from the Temple Mount,” Mary added.
“Lazarus told us one of Herod’s mercenaries hit him on the head with a club.”
Jesus had an inspiration and returned to inspect Lazarus more carefully. On the top of his head, there was a black and blue splotch. Is this the problem? He asked God. Lazarus has a mild concussion. He will awaken soon with a very bad headache, God responded. Jesus stood up and looked at the two women.
“He is not dead. He will wake up soon with a bad headache. Give him water and let him rest.”
Mary spoke up. “How do you know?” she asked.
“My father is with me, Mary” Jesus answered. “I will return tonight to be sure your brother has recovered.”
Jesus smiled with compassion at the two women. Lazarus and his sisters would become a friendly family for him to visit.
****
That evening, after sunset, Passover began. The noise from the Temple Mount and the smoke from many sacrifices made sleep nearly impossible. Jesus returned to the house of Lazarus and found the man sitting up in bed. He did what he could to help the man and had a long talk with Mary and her sister Martha. They loved their brother and were grateful for what Jesus had done. They were convinced Jesus had brought him back from the dead. Lazarus insisted on giving Jesus a small purse of coin.
“You will need this to pay for your purification bath and entry to the Temple Mount.”
“We must give him enough to pay for his Apostles to enter with him,” Mary said.
Lazarus brought forth a larger purse of coin.
“Here, take this, you have earned it.... I owe God more than I can ever repay.”
****
The next morning Jesus and his Apostles went up to the Temple Mount, bathed in the living water of the purification bath, and entered the Temple Mount through the Shushan Gate to the Court of Gentiles. There were more than one hundred thousand people in the Court of Gentiles. Farmers, fishermen, laborers, tradesmen, and their families mingled with slaves and Priests. There was ceaseless noise, interspersed with music and vendors calling out their wares. Haze from the smoke of the sacrificial fire in Herod’s Temple hung over the entire Mount. The smell of cooking food mingled with the odor of garbage, sewerage and animal dung. There was an endless line of booths selling all kinds of goods, including sacrificial animals and birds. But of all the things he saw, the booths of the money changers annoyed Jesus the most. By Jewish law, there was a restriction on the exchange of money on a Holy Day. Peter and James Boanerges came to him.
“They cheat these poor people. They know most of them cannot count more than the number of their fingers. They know not the value of sacred coins.”
Jesus was incensed. He charged with great energy into the money changer booths, one at a time, turning over the tables and scattering the coins into the dust.
Jesus denounced the money changers. “You sinners! You liars! You clothe your values in self-serving arrogance. You willfully break God’s commandments. Then you break into tears on the day of retribution. You beat your breast, sing a song of repentance, and cry out in a hymn of supplication, all in the vain hope you will escape God’s justice.”
People quickly gathered and began to pick up the coins.
The money changers, some of whom were relatives of the High Priest Caiaphas, were furious.
“Who are you? What right do you have to do this?” they shouted at Jesus.
“I am Jesus and I have every right to put an end to your evil crime against these people!”
“Who gave you the authority to stop us from changing money?”
“My father!”
Then Peter stepped closer to Jesus, took his arm, and pulled him away from the money changers.
“The Romans are coming! There is nothing to be gained if they arrest you. Let us leave this evil place.”
Jesus agreed. Being in a Roman jail would not help his mission. So he followed Peter into the crowd and disappeared from the scene. His other Apostles got in the way of the Roman soldiers until they lost sight of Jesus.
Later that day, Thomas Didymus asked Jesus “Why do you break the law? Why don’t you sacrifice a lamb, or a goat, or a dove as others do?”
“Blood does not please my father,” Jesus said “It is the love of those he made in his image he wants. I do not need the blood of an animal to protect me. God is my shepherd. ”
****
June 29 A.D.
Accompanied by his Apostles and several women, Jesus began his second tour of Galilee. The Apostles were wary of having unattached women with them, fearing the presence of women would be viewed as sinful. They gathered with Jesus to ask for his advice. Peter spoke first.
“We are blessed with the presence and help of several women when we travel, and we see you are willing to select women as disciples. The Pharisees look upon this as sinful and the Sadducees condemn the status you give women. How do we answer them?”
Jesus responded to Peter saying: “Do you see anything evil in Mary of Magdala and her friend Susanna of Caesarea, Joanna the wife of Chuza, Mary the wife of Clopas, Mary my mother, Salome my mother’s sister, Hannah, or any of the others? They follow me as you do, contribute to our needs, and are chaste in their conduct. They are not a burden. Women seek my father as you do. I welcome them as does my father.... and so it is that you should also.”
Thomas was not convinced.
“Are they not unclean for half a month? Should we avoid touching them? What happens if they touch us?”
Jesus frowned. “Ritual cleanliness was introduced into our beliefs long ago to protect a woman’s health. Let us continue to protect their health. But ritual has added an unnecessary burden. A woman is never unclean.”
Judas spoke up. “There are those who believe a woman is twice as dirty as a man. Therefore she should not be allowed to touch a man.”
Jesus was clearly annoyed. “You appear to think blood is unclean. Many of our people believe fishermen are ritually unclean because they handle fish all day. But I ask you, is Peter unclean? What about his brother Andrew? Do you think my brothers James and Jude are unclean? They are all fishermen. Does the blood make them unclean?”
Judas responded. “If blood does not make a man, woman or child unclean, then it must be a natural part of the living body. Are you telling us it is simply a healthy habit to wash after touching it?”
“Washing to be clean is a good habit. But the ritual washing for the sake of performing a dogmatic ritual does not make one cleaner. Let us not be obsessed with ritual superstition.”
****
Jesus preached in Bethsaida, Gergesa, the Decapolis, Philoteria, Tiberias, and Magdala. In Magdala they were confronted by several Pharisees.
“Who is your God?” one asked.
“Where is this Father you talk about?”
“How do you plan to bring the Kingdom of God to Israel?”
Jesus walked toward the men, and scowled.
“The existence and nature of God is beyond ordinary mortal comprehension. We only know what he is through our relationship with him. If we want to find God, we must look for him.”
Jesus paused to look directly into the eyes of a Pharisee. The man looked down in shame. And then Jesus turned to address them all.
It is true; we have searched for God since the beginning of time. Our descriptions of God have been drawn from our fears, and our desires. God is a woman. God is a man. God is an animal. God is a star, the sun, or the moon. God is an invisible being. God exists in the earth. God lives in the sky. Our search for God has produced contradictory beliefs that have often been the source of bloody human conflict.”
Jesus paused to look again at each man.
“I have given my description of God. It has been written by the scribes. Heed the words I gave them.... and know this.... If we wish to know God, we must be willing to discover and embrace that which is revealed to us.”
Then Jesus smiled with absolute confidence at the Pharisees.
“I call God my father - because he is my father !”
****
Matthew, Peter and Thomas came to Jesus with a question. They were soon joined by the other Apostles. Thomas spoke up.
“Jesus we see how the Romans worship their Gods. Why don’t we do the same?”
Jesus motioned for the Apostles to sit before him. When they were comfortable he answered.
“The Romans love their many Gods. They venerate them all with statues. We believe it is forbidden to make any image of God because we cannot possibly know what he looks like, and to do so would demean his dignity.”
Jesus looked at Thomas. “Remember, our Father in heaven wants us to come to him as an individual, as a person with a soul, not as one who worships an idol.”
“I have another question about the Romans,” Matthew interjected. “You have steadfastly avoided any words that would brand you as a nationalist zealot, yet we also know from your words you are critical of Roman government. What should we believe?”
Jesus thought about his answer before speaking to them. He became very serious.
“Government should always serve the people. When people are put in the position of serving the needs of the political elite, as the Romans do, they become slaves to government power.”
Judas protested. “But we are not all slaves. We belong to different groups; each one has its own privileges, duties and rights.”
Jesus frowned. “There are degrees of slavery. We live with the illusion of freedom. Yet none of us dare stray from the identity of the group to which the Romans and our own people have assigned to us. No matter how arbitrary they are, deviation from socially imposed restrictions invites ridicule and punishment. We are expected to behave according to their preconceived expectations. We live in a strict class system that defines which group we belong too. Class systems always restrict the exercise of free will. We are slaves to a class status enforced by the Romans and parochial intolerance.”
Matthew spoke again. “Doesn’t that enforcement support public morality?”
“Virtuous values are based on God’s commandments. Have you not noticed? The Romans fail to provide a transcendent system of moral behavior. By contrast, our theology creates a cultural environment that encourages individual free will, freedom from oppression, personal responsibility, moral behavior, and equal justice. These values support and sustain the integrity of those who govern wisely. When the institutions of government stray away from these values, deception and corruption soon follow.”
****
July 29 A.D.
Evening. Jesus asked Peter to gather the Apostles together. In an hour Peter was able to bring them all to the campfire. As had become their custom, they sat in a semi-circle around Jesus. He looked at each man, one man at a time. The Apostles knew what this meant. Jesus was ready to teach them.
Judas spoke up. “Rabbi, if God is good, who is bad? If we are to love the one, what should we feel about the other?”
Jesus stood up, gestured first to the heavens and then to the ground. “The one we call God is our Father, and he is the Holy Spirit. He is the essence of life, love, confidence, knowledge, trust and security. The one you ask about Judas - is called Satan. He brings us the vile substance of death, hate, doubt, ignorance, despair, and fear. God values truth. Satan values deception. When we include our Father in making a judgement, we are more likely to be right than if we allow Satan to frame our thoughts with human centered reason. Satan encourages us to believe we can embark on independent thoughts and actions without regard to the moral consequences. When we allow Satan to cloud our judgement, we are driven away from God and all the wonderful characteristics of a righteous life he brings to us.”
“But how should we feel about Satan?” asked Peter.
“Always know Satan is among us, trying to drive us to the desolation of unbelief. Be on guard in word and deed that you do not allow Satan to influence anything you do. Do not hate Satan, for even the hate of Satan gives him a victory. Rather, be aware of him as a potential risk to your relationship with our Father. Keep Satan at a distance as you would a hungry beast.”
But Judas was not satisfied with the answer Jesus had given.
“How,” he asked, “do we know if what we are doing is what God would want us to do or if it belongs to the wishes of Satan?”
“Hear me, Judas,” Jesus commanded. “If that which you do is positive, constructive and righteous, then it will please God. If, however, it is negative, destructive, or immoral, then you are probably sinking into the trap Satan has set for you. Satan is very happy to bring out the worst in us because doing so leads us to our own destruction. The more indecent and disgusting our behavior, the more we act like feral animals, the better he likes it.”
Then Jesus turned to address all the Apostles.
“Satan encourages us to believe we will be rewarded for our acts of hate. If we hurt ourselves or others, if we kill or injure others in the name of any arrogant cause, we are doing Satan’s work. He laughs at us. We are victims of his deception. He knows there will not be any reward in this life. Those who do Satan’s work die a terrible death. They cease to exist. For them, there is no reward and no resurrection...”
Jesus raised his hands, to make a point.
“Satan exists.... inside us. He is the deceiving voice of self-justification. Satan massages our ego with thoughts that feel good but in fact are evil. Thus.... always be aware of who you are and what you are doing. A moment of careless inattention can be devastating. This is your responsibility to me and to our Father.”
Jesus paused, paced back and forth for a minute, and looked carefully at each of his Apostles: One by one. Then he gave them his instructions.
“I have shown you how to teach the message God has given to me...”
“I have shown you how to heal in my name...”
“I have shown you how to caste out the many demons who imprison a tortured soul...”
“I have shown you how to save the sinner from the ravages of a personal hell...”
“We seek to transform and elevate the value of all human life, one soul at a time...”
Jesus paused.
“Let us work together. When you go out, do all things in my name...”
Then Jesus smiled warmly and again regarded each apostle, one by one.
“God will fill you with the Holy Spirit. For some of you that joy will come soon enough, but for others.... (he looked at Peter) it may take a while.”
“I have given to you the power and license to preach, to heal, and to drive out the demons of disbelief. Tomorrow I want you to go forth in my name to bring the word of God to all those who will listen. Go two by two into the cities and villages along the Mediterranean Sea. Take nothing for your journey; neither staves, nor money, nor bread. If you are invited into a house, stay only so long as it pleases the host, and then depart. If you are rejected, then leave with grace and shake the dust from your feet as a testimony against them.”
The next morning, the Apostles departed as Jesus had instructed. He felt a sense of private elation. They were learning to carry on his work.
****
August 29 A.D.
The Apostles had returned with many stories of their journey and the people they met. Jesus had a question.
“Who do they say I am?’
Andrew responded. “Some believe you are John the Baptist. Others believe you are Elijah. Many are ready to accept you as the reincarnation of an ancient prophet.”
“But what say you?” Jesus asked. “Who do you say I am?”
Peter stood up and spoke for the Apostles.
“We believe.... we all believe.... you are Jesus the Christ.”
Jesus became very serious.
“Hear this,” Jesus said gravely. “The son of man and the perfection of God will suffer. The Pharisees will hate him. The Sadducees will scorn him. The elders will not accept him. The High Priest and the teachers of the law will devise a way to kill him. But on the third day after his death, he will arise and ascend into God’s Kingdom.”
The Apostles looked at each other in wonder. They did not understand.
****
Jesus was busy shaping the wood for a window frame when the familiar figure of Simon Zealotes appeared at the door.
“I have a question for you,” he said slowly “it has been bothering me for some time.”
Simon came into the shop, looked for a place to sit among the wood litter, adjusted the sheath of his sword, and sat down.
Jesus looked up from his work. “And what is this question that has been bothering you?”
“You have said, many times, that we should turn the other cheek when insulted, or challenged, or physically assaulted,” Simon paused to collect his thoughts “and I understand we should not automatically strike back but rather seek to soothe our assailant. But what should we do if that doesn’t work?”
“Did I not teach you that love is better than hate, and peace is better than war? We should always seek a peaceful solution. By turning the other cheek, we make an effort to end aggression. Simon, I know it will be hard for you, but I urge you to back away from confrontation.”
“But what happens if that doesn’t work?”
“If you truly believe you have made every attempt to avoid a conflict, then your choices are to run away or fight back. If you choose to fight back, even then you must try to make a measured response. Friends are more valuable to you than enemies.”
“Jesus, I know that is the word of God, but we are in constant danger. So far we have been lucky. John and James Boanerges, Bartholomew, Peter, and I have been able to discourage anyone looking to make trouble. All twelve of us have carried swords at one time or the other. But how long will our luck hold?”
“Simon.... Simon.... we must always try to stop a possible conflict before it begins. Because we have been united against the Pharisees, the Sadducees, and our other enemies, they have not been able to disrupt our mission. If we make a united effort, we shall always be strong.”
“Our strength is in our resolve to be united?”
“Hear me Simon, if we love one another, and work together, we can accomplish great things.”
****
Early September 29 A.D. Two men approached the shop where Jesus was working. He recognized them. They were disciples of John the Baptist. The look in their eyes told Jesus something was very wrong. The taller of the two men spoke slowly and with reverence.
“John the Baptist has been beheaded.”
Chapter 13 Conflict
Herod the Great decreed that his granddaughter Herodias marry her half-uncle Herod II, in Rome (~2 A.D.). They had one daughter, Salome (~14 A.D.). While on a visit to Rome, her brother-in-law Herod Antipas had a passionate affair with her. He proposed marriage. Herodias agreed. He divorced his wife Phasaelis, daughter of King Aretas. She divorced Herod II. They married, and she moved to Tiberius (~23 A.D.) All of this activity was in violation of Jewish religious law. Although John the Baptist condemned the marriage on religious grounds, it is more likely he was put to death by Antipas because he feared John had a seditious influence on the Jews.
…………
September 29 A.D.
Jesus walked to the shore of the Sea of Galilee with Peter, Matthew and his brother Jude. It was a glorious morning. He was deep in thought. He looked gravely at his companions.
“The Romans have beheaded John the Baptist. I knew they would. John was a thorn in their side. He held them to a high moral standard. Our people were beginning to rally around him as a teacher. The Romans didn’t like him because he continually challenged their authority. The priests did not like him because the people believed he was closer to God.”
Jesus paused and then continued. “Herod Antipas took Herodias, his half-brother’s wife Phasaelis as his mistress and then married her. When John criticized Herod, Phasaelis encouraged him to put John in prison at Machaerus. When he continued to be critical, even from prison, she urged Herod to have him beheaded.”
A sad and depressed Jesus turned slowly to look at his companions.
“Now they will come after me.”
“But you are in Galilee,” Mathew said “Herod Antipas has not bothered you. He is preoccupied with his building projects in Tiberius.”
“But I cannot leave Judea out of my ministry,” Jesus responded “we’ve had visitors from all over Judea come to hear our teaching in Capernaum.... and we have preached in Jericho, Bethany, and several other villages near Jerusalem.”
Jesus stopped to pick up a stone which he absently tossed into the water.
“No.... we cannot forget our mission.... we have to preach in Judea again. And that means.... I am on a collision course with the elitist authorities in Jerusalem.”
Peter understood the implications of challenging the religious establishment in Jerusalem. Most of the city depended on the annual religious celebrations for income.
“What do you plan to do?”
“I will have to change the emphasis of my work. I will reduce my preaching and healing, and spend more time teaching the Apostles and our disciples how to spread God’s message. Others will carry on my work after I am gone.”
Jude became very grim. The words ‘after I’m gone’ echoed through his mind.
“What will you teach?” Jude quietly asked.
“I will focus on delivering the message God has given to me. It is a message of love, responsibility, and spiritual renaissance. I am compelled to bring this message to all who will listen.... We need God’s inspiration and guidance because we humans don’t have the ability to maintain high ethical standards. We always fail.... Greed, privation, fear, hatred, conceit—there are a million excuses for our failure. Thus if we want to sustain a high sense of right versus wrong, we must look to the word of God for counsel.”
Jesus stopped and looked over the sea.
“Even those who disparage our message need an enlightened vision of the spiritual. We humans have always embraced a sense of the sacred, a connection with something beyond the physical. Therein is our mission. Our response must fulfill those needs with a positive and constructive message.”
****
When they returned to his little shop in Capernaum, Jesus asked Peter to call the Apostles together. By noon Peter had rounded them up and they sat with Jesus in a courtyard.
“I want to make one last trip to reach as many people as possible with our message.... I want to know how our message will be received in cities like Tyre and Sidon. So as soon as you can prepare for our journey, we will leave for Cana, Nazareth, Sepphoris, Tyre, Sidon and any town in Phoenicia Syria we are welcome.”
In three days, they left on their journey. Jesus and his Apostles walked for almost two days on the rough road to Cana. After setting up camp, he found his sister Rachel and her husband. Like her sister Deborah, Rachel had been blessed with several beautiful children. Her children obviously saw something in Jesus. Their trust and love was unmistakable. Jesus spent two days with Rachel and her husband while his Apostles preached and healed in Cana.
It was a relatively short walk to Nazareth. Once there, they set up camp for the night. In the morning, Jesus went to look for his sister Deborah and his brother Simon. He found his sister doing her morning chores among a throng of happy and very animated children.
“Jesus!” she exclaimed. Deborah ran to give him a warm hug. She pulled away to look at him from head to toe. “What a surprise. Come and meet my family. You must be famished. Where did you come from?”
Deborah chattered on and on. Jesus smiled with affection at his sister’s enthusiasm and energy. The children gathered around him and began to tug at his tunic.
“Who are these children?” he asked.
“Oh. I’m sorry, are they bothering you?”
“Not at all, responded Jesus.” He was a happy man. Jesus sat down on a stool and began to grasp the hands of each child, one by one. As he did so, Deborah called out their names: three children and seven grandchildren. Two of the littlest girls insisted they absolutely must sit on his lap.
“You are very wealthy,” he said.
Deborah smiled at the children.
“They love you Jesus.... They trust you.”
She placed a plate of food on the table and motioned for him to eat. Then Deborah told her oldest son “Go and fetch Uncle Simon. Tell him his brother has come for a visit.”
Jesus had just finished his lunch when his brother appeared in the doorway. Simon was seething with anger. He didn’t smile and reluctantly shook hands with Jesus.
“Hello brother.... What brings you to our little village?”
“We are on a mission to Cana, Sepphoris, Tyre and Sidon.”
“And how many of us will the Roman’s kill because of your silly nonsense?”
Deborah was shocked by her brother’s antagonism.
“Wait!” she commanded. “Children, go out and play.... shoo.... all of you.”
Puzzled by the anger in Simon’s voice, the children were reluctant to leave. But Deborah prevailed and they left the house.
“Now,” she said “you two – be civil!”
Simon was very unhappy. “Are you completely mad!” he scolded. “You prance about the countryside, pretending to be a prophet. You arrive in Nazareth with several armed men. I hear you have even enlisted our brothers and our mother Mary in your madness.”
“I am doing my father’s work on earth,” Jesus responded. “My Apostles are armed only for protection.”
“The Roman’s believe you are raising an army.... a rebellion to bring God’s Kingdom on earth! You know that that means. They will cover the countryside to kill anyone who even knows you.”
“The work we are doing... the work your mother, James and Jude are doing... has little to do with political power. We teach the values God has given to me to anyone who will listen. With God’s help, we have successfully healed many men, women and children.”
“My brother you are a heretic. The priests hate you, the Sadducees scorn you, and the Pharisees despise you.... You call that success?”
“Whenever anyone teaches a new or revised theology, they are despised by those who are tied to previously established beliefs.... they do not understand new ideas, even if they are true, because they do not think, cannot think, or even want to think. They are only capable of mindlessly repeating the mantra the authorities tell them to believe.”
“What gives you the right to do this – this madness you preach?”
“My father in heaven,” Jesus said with conviction.
Simon was astounded. “Your father! – You mean you talk to Joseph?”
“My father is the Father of all men, all women, and all children. We call him God.”
Exasperated, Simon almost shouted. “You talk to God? How the hell do you do that?”
Jesus sat back in his chair and looked with compassion upon his brother. In his mind he asked God for guidance. What shall I tell him? God the Holy Spirit responded quietly. Say goodbye to Simon with grace. He will come to understand everything - after you have gone from this earth.
Jesus spoke softly to his brother. “Someday you will understand.... My mission, my relationship with God, and perhaps even the message I bring.”
“And in the meantime the Romans will slaughter us like spring sheep.”
“No my brother, they will not come after you or Deborah, or Mary, or our brothers. Once they find me, they will kill me alone. That is their way. They end a rebellion by killing its leader.”
Deborah was shocked at her brother’s words. Tears came to her eyes. Simon was unapologetic.
“I can see there is no use showing you the error of your ways. I’ll say goodbye.”
Jesus stood up and offered his hand to Simon. But his brother refused to touch Jesus, and walked out the door. Deborah came to Jesus and put her arms about his shoulders.
“I do not understand all that you are doing,” she sobbed “but I will always love you.”
“I am saddened by his wrath. Is he not capable of reason?”
“Simon works in Sepphoris for the Romans. They pay him well. He dare not challenge them. He needs the money for his family.”
****
After his confrontation with Simon, Jesus also learned from Deborah that Tabitha had died. That news made it even more important for him to visit with Jamel in Sepphoris. Still tired from their walk from Cana, Jesus and his Apostles were not ready to leave Nazareth until the next morning.
But as they walked through the village, they were confronted by an obstreperous mob. They were soon surrounded by people shouting with hatred as they pushed and shoved Jesus and his Apostles. Peter drew his sword, but Jesus motioned for him to put it away. Jesus pushed his way through the mob, followed by his Apostles.
Suddenly, a very loud voice called out. It was so shrill the mob turned to see who it was.
It was Deborah.
“Oh you children: you ignorant, superstitious, gullible offspring of social oppression. You only believe the arrogant words of imperious high priests who seek to enslave you with their lies. You are ignorant because you want to be ignorant. There goes a future you cannot understand because you cannot think for yourselves.”
The people in the mob were amazed at the fire and passion of their neighbor and - with God’s conscious urging - began to disperse.
Jesus and his companions trudged on for several minutes. Then he stopped, turned and looked sorrowfully at the distant houses of Nazareth.
“It is written,” he said “a man cannot be a prophet in his own hometown.”
****
They arrived in Sepphoris that afternoon. Jesus led his companions to Jamel’s house and told them make camp. When he rang the bell at the gate, it was opened by an old servant who immediately recognized Jesus.
“Come in, come in!” he was obviously very happy to see Jesus. “Jamel is in bed, but I’ll get him up.”
The servant hurried across the courtyard and into the house. In a few moments several grunts and groans issued from the house, followed by the appearance of a very old Jamel. He shuffled over to Jesus and hugged him with affection.
“Jesus, I’m so glad you have come to see me. I am at a loss since Tabitha passed away. It’s so lonely. Not even my former patients come to visit. I live here by myself with only my lifelong servant.”
“I could not come through Sepphoris without visiting my friend and mentor,” Jesus replied.
Jamel’s face brightened. “I hear you learned your healing lessons well. Your success is one of the few things I cherish in my memories.... besides Tabitha and Sarah.”
His heart filled with emotion; Jesus prayed in his mind.
Dear God, thank you for the love of these wonderful people.
Jesus looked again at Jamel. “How is your health?”
“I do not want to live without Tabitha. My life is empty without her at my side.”
Then Jamel smiled softly. “I even miss her nagging.”
Jesus smiled at the remark, Tabitha never really nagged Jamel. But she could be very insistent and she was usually right.
“You’ve stopped eating,” he said sadly.
“Yes. Yes and I grow weaker by the day. I’ll soon be with Tabitha and Sarah.... God willing.”
“God has already judged you, as have your peers. You will join them in heaven.”
Jamel looked very despondent. “I do believe it will not be long before you join us, Jesus. You have challenged the establishment. They will not put up with your mischief for very long.”
“I also need the love of a good woman,” Jesus said. “Being together in heaven will bring joy to my heart...”
“But,” he said forcefully “in the meantime, there is much work to be done.”
****
Jesus and his companions left very early in the morning of the second day. Three days later they arrived in the busy shipping port of Tyre.
Tyre was an important port that served the trade routes from the near East to the cities that dotted the Mediterranean Sea. In the warehouses one could find ingots of copper and tin, luxury goods, wine, bulk raw materials, pottery, glass, and jewelry manufactured with gold, silver and precious stones. The Phoenicians invented a rudimentary alphabet and gave it to the Greeks who added vowels and structure before Jesus was born. Tyre was famous for the manufacture of purple dye used in the robes of royalty and high priests.
While they were walking through the street of this island city, a woman approached Jesus with her arms outstretched. Tears in her eyes, she asked Jesus to heal her daughter who had been afflicted with a strange disease.
“I am not a Jew,” she said in Greek “I was born here in Syrian Phoenicia. My parents are Greek. But I heard others talking about you.... I know you can help my little girl.”
At first, Jesus did not say a word. His Apostles begged him to send the woman away. But he did not.
To the amazement of Philip and Matthew, Jesus spoke to her in Greek. “I have been given a mission to bring God’s message to all people. We teach all who will listen and heal all those who are suffering.”
The woman dropped to her knees and pleaded. “Lord, please help me!”
Jesus was astonished by her faith. Then a voice entered his consciousness. Help her Jesus. She has more faith in you than most of the people you have helped before this day.
Jesus immediately followed God’s instructions and went with the woman to see her daughter. He laid his hands on the little girl as was his custom. She slowly stirred, stretched, and smiled up at him.
“Hello? Who are you?”
Jesus smiled at her with compassion. The woman was filled with joy. The Apostles were astounded because Jesus had just reached out to a woman of another culture.
Jesus gave the woman a gentle hug, waved a friendly goodbye to the little girl, and left the house with his companions.
They walked for several minutes in silence. God spoke to Jesus about the scope of his mission. You are delivering my message to the humble in spirit. They are everywhere.
Inspiration and joy filled Jesus. Elation swept through his entire body. He stopped and turned to his Apostles.
“I have been saying my mission is to bring the word of God to all who will listen. Today I again realized the truth of that statement. When God told me to bring his message to everyone who would listen, he excluded no one. It is his plan to have us spread the message he has given me to every village, city and nation in the world.”
****
Jesus stayed in Tyre for two nights and then went on to Sidon. The response to their message was invigorating. Jesus and his Apostles were especially happy with the reception they were given by the gentiles. Finished with their work, they started for home.
When they reached Sepphoris, Jesus stopped for one last time to see Jamel. But when the servant answered the door, the look on his face told Jesus all he needed to know.
“Jamel was my master,” the servant said slowly “but he was also my friend.”
“Jamel was a good man,” Jesus responded “his relationship with those around him was always cordial and caring. He understood friendships are an expression of love.”
They stopped again in Cana. Jesus wanted to say goodbye to Rachel for the last time.
“I am on my way to Judea and Jerusalem.”
Rachel was enthusiastic. “You are going to Jerusalem?” she echoed, “Are you going to kick the Romans out?”
Although Jesus loved all of his brothers and sisters, he had a special place in his heart for Rachel.
“Rachel, you were always the feistiest of our family. I still remember how you screamed at those bullies when we were young. But I go to Judea and Jerusalem for a far greater cause.”
“And what is that?” Rachel asked.
“I am bringing God’s message to all who will listen. You may not understand what happens in Jerusalem. Our mother will explain it to you in good time.”
Rachel was puzzled by his answer. But she instinctively knew he was doing something very important.
“My brother, I honor your courage and commitment. No other man has been so close to God. People who know you love you. And my brother, I too will always love you.”
****
October 29 A.D.
Judas came into the shop where Jesus was working, stood for a moment as though uncertain what to say, and then sat down on the bench. Jesus knew what Judas was thinking.
“What would you like to talk to me about?” Jesus asked.
“You seem to have a very close relationship with God.”
“God has always been my ever present companion and friend,” Jesus responded. “This is my Father's world. He speaks to me everywhere.”
“You talk to him. It’s like you are having a conversation.”
“We are very close. I call God my father and he calls me son.”
“Did you always talk with God?”
“No. Until my mother confirmed my physical relationship with God, I simply knew he was present. He is everywhere around us. I sensed his presence but never attempted to have a conversation. Although I prayed often, the idea of a two way exchange never occurred to me. But after Mary told me about my birth, I tried to create a path of conscious communication with God. It took a while, but he responded with compassion and wisdom.”
“Do you believe there is a connection between the physical and the spiritual? Or is our only connection with our Father.... when we go to heaven.”
Jesus was thoughtful for a moment. “Despite the chaos we may observe, there is an orderly harmony in the Heavens. We are all interconnected with this reality …this unity …this interaction of the physical with the spiritual, and this interaction has become central to the healing I have done.”
“Did God help you?”
“The Lord is my shepherd.... and Judas, it is time you thought of our Father as your shepherd.”
“But who is this God? You have described God.... a supernatural being; creator of all that exists; the source of moral values; and the essence of perfection. I understand he provides us with a message of love. But what are these transcendent values you speak of?”
Jesus thought for a moment. He brushed some shavings from the workbench, and turned to look Judas in the eye.
“Judas, your questions are good and true. They probe beyond the simple explanations most people accept. So you will have to contemplate more deeply about God. Think of it this way: our thoughts are influenced by an intelligence whose universal principles frame our understanding of what is moral, what is virtuous, what is beautiful, and what is true. This omniscient intelligence is the creative source of our universe and all forms of life.”
“But can you prove what you say?” Judas interjected.
“Again, there is an underlying philosophy that you must accept.... I ask you a question. Did our universe which had no intelligence, no will, no mind, and no consciousness devise the laws of nature and then create itself out of nothing? Isn’t the existence of a loving God more logical?”
“And can we connect with this spiritual force?”
“We have the ability to connect with the spiritual. We discover the energy of the spiritual flows around us. It is everywhere. We are connected to God’s Kingdom as a whole: all life and energy. If we are sincere in our effort, it is possible to sense, and then share, our thoughts with God.... Never underestimate the passion and joy that discovering spiritual reality can release within us. We all benefit from having a sense of contact and interaction with the spiritual force that exists all around us. Our understanding of honor, integrity, compassion, justice, and love all flow from the influence of Spiritual energy. It encourages moral behavior, personal responsibility, and loving procreation. It can be a source of great personal strength.”
Jesus turned to look intently at Judas. He was very firm.
“God cannot help you unless you are willing to give him your trust. Are you ready to teach, support and live my message? ..... If not, walk away.”
Judas spent a few moments contemplating the words of his teacher. Then he spoke with quiet conviction.
“I know where our mission is going. The Pharisees, the Sadducees, and the Romans cannot tolerate any competition. They will slander you; demean you, and kill you, along with anyone else within easy reach. We have to prepare.... to carry on after your death. That means we must concentrate on the message God has given to you, and how you want us to continue your work - after you have passed away.”
“You are right, Judas.... and that is the plan until we leave for Jerusalem.”
Judas stood up and came to Jesus. He took the hands of his teacher into his own. “I believe in you and your mission. You can depend on me.... even to your death and to the work that must go on after you leave us.”
****
Jesus walked slowly up the hill to where Sarah was buried. He sat down by the grave of the woman who had captivated his heart with the wonderful warmth of her love. His thoughts turned to his ministry and the events he knew would unfold in the weeks ahead.
This is the last time I will be with you on this earth. I must go to Jerusalem for Passover. I will not come back. He sat in silence for a few moments. I pray we will be together again in God’s Kingdom.
His entire being was suddenly immersed in the warmth of her love. He knew Sarah was there by his side.
…………
One does not annoy the Pharisees, infuriate the Sadducees, challenge the Temple Priests, and irritate the Romans. It is just not done. Once sufficiently aggravated, they will retaliate.
Jesus was a very intelligent man. Despite his growing popularity and the success of his teaching, he knew the climax of his ministry was near. Perhaps Jesus anticipated he would only be arrested and imprisoned like John the Baptist. But those thoughts had to have been accompanied by a sobering reality. John had been beheaded and if the Romans were sufficiently angered there was the possibility of crucifixion. That was their way. They crucified anyone who had the impudence to seriously challenge Roman authority. Even though it is unlikely the Romans thought of Jesus as a political threat, he was disrupting the population. Many wanted to believe he was a political Messiah. Wherever he went, Jesus was also challenged by the Pharisees and Sadducees.
And once in Jerusalem, confrontation with the Temple Priests was inevitable.
…………
March, 30 A.D.
Traveling to Passover was a mixture of fatigue, discomfort, aggravation, fear, elation, happiness, noise, and ceaseless activity. Pilgrims traveled in large groups in order to protect themselves, and their children, from robbery, kidnapping, injury, and death. They were accompanied by animals; some to be eaten and some destined to be sacrificed on the Temple alter. Sanitation and water were a recurring challenge. Many of the travelers who accompanied Jesus and his Apostles to Jerusalem were either disciples or familiar with his teaching.
Despite the constant rains that turned roads into mud and soaked their robs to the skin, Jesus and his Apostles started for Jerusalem. Several women, including his mother Mary, her sister Salome, and Hannah (a disciple) walked with them. They were also joined by a large group of people, many of them disciples, who wanted to be with Jesus for Passover.
When they reached Magdala, Mary of Magdala, her friend Susanna, and another large group of pilgrims joined the caravan. Jesus intended to have his companions preach and teach along the way. He was determined to bring his message to the people of Samaria and Judea. Thankfully, as they walked south, the weather began to improve. The second night they camped near Nain. James and John Boanerges were able to get a roaring fire going, giving them a chance to dry out. After the evening meal, Jesus gathered with his Apostles around the fire to talk and rest. James asked a question.
“We all washed before eating, but it was not our usual ritual washing of the hands. Are we therefore condemned because we are not clean?”
Jesus responded "Nothing outside a man can make him unclean inside his body. Rather, it is what a man speaks or does that makes him unclean.... it is the evils of sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, profanity, arrogance, and folly, which make someone unclean, not what or how they wash or eat.”
In the morning, Jesus was surprised to find there were even more disciples camped near them on the plain from as far away as Tyre and Sepphoris. Jesus summoned Peter.
“Go among the camps and find out how many are disciples willing to help us preach God’s message in Samaria and Judea. Bring their leaders to me.”
By mid-morning, a gathering of disciples had joined with Jesus. Among them were Priscilla and Aquila, who seemed very enthusiastic to meet him. Jesus motioned for them all to sit in a semi-circle around him.
“How many disciples are ready to go out and preach the word of God?”
Many hands were raised. Peter walked among them and then approached Jesus.
“I count seventy two who are ready to do what you ask.”
Jesus was very pleased.
“I will send you out before me, preaching the message God has given to me. Some of you will be given the gift of healing.”
“Where shall we go,” asked Aquila.
“Some will go to Jerusalem by way of Jericho and Bethany. Most of you will go by way of Samaria. In seven days, we shall meet again at the Mount of Olives.
“But what shall they preach?” asked Thomas Didymus.
Jesus turned briefly to look at his apostle. Dear doubting Thomas. But his question was appropriate. These people would need a simple message.
“Teach them a prayer,” Thomas suggested.
Jesus smiled at his apostle. It was a good suggestion. He raised his hands and called out to the disciples. “Here is my prayer. Teach it to everyone who will listen.”
Our Father, who lives in heaven,
Hallowed be thy name;
Thy kingdom come;
Thy will be done, on this earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and
Forgive us our trespasses,
As we forgive those who trespass against us.
Help us to avoid sinful temptation;
And deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
The power, and the glory,
For ever and ever.”
Jesus paused and repeated his prayer. Then he taught them the Ten Commandments.
“We have free will. We make choices. But the willful commission of sin will always get in the way of our ability to exercise free will, resulting in unhappiness – or worse. These are God’s commandments.
I am the only true God. You shall not worship any other
God.
Do not create idols or images of me or any other deity to worship.
Never use my name in vain or as an expression of profanity.
Keep the Sabbath holy by honoring your Lord God and those whom he loves.
Honor your father and your mother.
Do not murder another human.
Do not commit adultery or imagine adulterous lust.
Do not steal.
Do not lie or make false statements about anyone.
Do not want to take your neighbor’s house, family, or possessions.”
Jesus paused again to survey the rapt attention of his audience.
“I know our theology has not been approved by those who rule Jerusalem. It is obviously not in keeping with a traditional view of the Scriptures. It will be regarded as heresy by zealots. Some may even think it is illegal or not genuine. But I do not believe it would be productive to change or delete the Scriptures. Rather, we seek to view them from the perspective of the message God has given to me. Whatever we do, all of us.... let us strengthen God’s message.”
Peter took James and John with him to talk with the disciple leaders. Within an hour they were on their way south, chanting the prayer Jesus had taught them. Jesus was in no hurry. In two days they were camped near Jacob’s well in Sychar. That evening, several Samarians came to visit. Peter invited them to join the Apostles around the campfire.
“We must apologize for the bad reception you received in Samaria,” one said “our people were rude when they rejected your attempts to preach.... But you must understand, they fear the brutality of the Romans. Many Samarians were slaughtered when Varus marched through on his way to Jerusalem.”
Jesus, distressed by the excuse, spoke thoughtfully. “You can ignore me and refuse to believe the message I bring to you, but if you ignore the Lord, and his commandments, you will never enter his Kingdom.”
Jesus paused.
“And remember this: If God wants to speak to us, we should listen.”
****
When they reached Emmaus, both the Pharisees and the Sadducees were waiting to question Jesus. They were arrogant, condescending, smug, and disdainful of this simple preacher. They sought to smear his name. Yet they also feared his growing influence on the people. They confronted Jesus as he was getting a drink of water from the community well.
“Where do you get this message you claim is from God,” asked a man dressed in a white robe with a gold trimmed purple sash. He was obviously a man of some authority.
Jesus looked steadily at the man for several moments, took a sip of water, and then began his response.
“All our knowledge is based on what we can see, hear, smell, touch, and taste. We assume our five senses tell us everything we need to know. But that is wrong. We have another sense, one that is linked to the conscious mind, a spiritual connection - which you frequently choose to ignore - with the Holy Spirit.”
“But why can’t I make this connection you speak of?”
“Because you do not try,” Jesus said firmly. “You think you know everything. Because of this, you know nothing.... If you want to find God, you must look for God.”
“But we pray three times a day! Is this not enough to find God?”
“Mechanical recitations with objects that have imaginary powers block the senses from that which you seek.... Finding the path to God is a personal, private, and deeply intensive spiritual experience.”
“But we have been doing these rituals for years!”
“Again - Repetitive ritual is not a path to God. You must make a personal connection in the privacy of your own mind.”
“But we are the priests!” the Sadducee protested “we are the experts in the law and the rituals of our faith. Everyone recognizes our authority.”
“We cannot be smug about our knowledge. We cannot be arrogant because we have achieved success. We cannot be patronizing because we have authority. These are tricks of the mind. In truth, we have only a limited perception of social reality...”
The Sadducee was exasperated. “But I cannot contact this God you believe in.”
“If you are unable to sense all there is that merely demonstrates the limits of your experience.”
“This man speaks nonsense!” growled a Sadducee “Is God the creator?”
“Of course,” responded Jesus “creation requires intelligence.... A rock cannot create life. A rock cannot create light or days. A rock cannot even create another rock. Creation would not have occurred without the intercession of our Father who created space, light, time, life, energy and matter.”
His tormentors began to grumble among themselves. Then they started to walk away toward Jerusalem, occasionally looking back with confusion for the man they did not want to understand.
****
April 30 A.D.
Jesus was in Bethany, staying with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. The morning of the third day of April he awakened, spent some time with his father in deep thought, and then went out to the courtyard. In the distance he could see a large group of people approaching the house. They appeared to be excited and happy. Aquila was the first to reach him.
“Jesus, we have wonderful news!” he said enthusiastically “we have gone through Samaria and Judea as you instructed and our reception was absolutely wonderful!”
He was so excited he had to stop to catch his breath. “Our feet flew over the ground without effort, the weather was perfect, and we were received with enthusiasm wherever we went.”
Priscilla arrived and joined her husband. “Oh Jesus, you should have seen us. We preached the word you gave us to many people. They knew of you and your healing powers. Even the demons obey us when we speak your name.”
Jesus was elated. Then full of joy, tears began to stream down his cheeks. He had these thoughts: “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the vain and pompous. Instead, you have revealed them to your trusting children. Yes, Father, this is what you wanted and I am grateful to be the one who could help you.”
He spoke again to his new disciples. “I am encouraged by your reports. Find others and make them disciples, for as the number of my disciples increases, so shall the influence of the message God has given to me.”
He paused, surveyed the faces of his disciples, and finished by saying: “Follow me to be born again. Ask to be forgiven in my name. Even the worst sinner is welcome to repent and seek salvation. Acknowledge your sins and repent before God my Father. If you are sincere, the act of baptism will wash away the past and joyously inspire you with the blessings of his holy spirit.”
****
Wednesday April 5, 30 A.D.
A man dressed in a white robe with a purple sash appears on the top step of the entrance to the inner Temple Courtyard. It is the High Priest. He looks down at the throng of people below him in the Woman’s Courtyard. He scowls. Three other men, also dressed in white robes with smaller sashes join him. The High Priest surveys the crowd again and turns to one of his companions.
“There is too much excitement in the air. These fools can talk of nothing but this man Jesus. We must be ready to deal with him. Assemble the Sanhedrin Counsel.
“Only a few of the 71 are in Jerusalem. They are not scheduled to arrive until tomorrow.”
“Then find as many as you can and bring them to the Royal Porch tomorrow afternoon.”
“What do you plan to do?”
“We must deal with this man Jesus.... We will bring his blasphemy before the Council.... With their support, we can end his sacrilege.... permanently.”
****
Friday April 7, 30 AD.
By Jewish custom and convention, a new day begins at sundown. Passover started at dusk last night and will end at dusk next Thursday night. As his popularity grew, the people of Galilee, Samaria, and Judea began to look upon Jesus as their Messiah, the man who would defeat the Romans and free the Jews from the tyranny of a hated dictatorship. He was already held in high esteem as a venerated religious teacher. It was but a short step to imagine he also had overwhelming political power.
****
Sunday April 9, 30 AD.
It was a beautiful morning. Jesus went to the Mount of Olives with his Apostles. They had secured a donkey for him to ride when he entered Jerusalem. Bartholomew spread a beautiful robe on the donkey’s back. Then he helped Jesus onto the donkey. Jude took the reins to lead the donkey into the city.
As they came down from the Mount of Olives, Jesus and his Apostles were cheered by a large crowd of excited disciples and pilgrims. The closer to the city they got, the larger the crowd became: twelve apostles, 120 disciples, and a large mob of pilgrims. The joyful noise of the people who lined the road was deafening.
“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord,” called his disciples. “Peace in heaven and glory to God!”
The Pharisees in the crowd were very unhappy.
“Tell them to stop!” shouted one to Jesus.
Jesus looked down on the man. “If these people were unable to cry out, the stones on the road would cry out in their place.”
They crossed the Kidron Valley and slowly made their way up the winding road to the Temple Mount. Pilgrims and disciples spread palm branches in the road to keep down the dust. The cheers grew louder. Jesus began to weep.
“Oh Jerusalem, the day of your destruction is coming because you did not recognize the arrival of your true God.”
The procession stopped at the Temple Mount near the Shushan Gate. Jesus dismounted, climbed the steps, and began to speak to the crowd. The people were so excited, they frequently interrupted his speech with jubilate cheers. Many believed: Jesus was the Messiah.
Their King had arrived.
Chapter 14 Ordeal
Jesus lived in a time of social, political and religious conflict. Because his message was very close to what many people needed and wanted to hear, and because of his growing reputation as a healer of the sick, Jesus was soon regarded as an upstart whose popularity was dangerous to the authority of established political and religious institutions.
Scribes and scholars participated in a closed social structure that discouraged outsiders. Priests felt they had the exclusive right to teach about God and the law. The Romans dictated matters of State. Jesus was considered an outsider and a rebel to all three groups.
Jesus had a natural theology that was occasionally at odds with Jewish tradition. Although he was very familiar with Jewish (religious) law, he occasionally ignored it. Parochial Sadducees, and to a lesser extent intolerant Pharisees, were generally cynical about his teaching. Many considered his message to be unorthodox because it did not exactly match their concept of Jewish custom and (religious) law. There were also many zealots who took it upon themselves to sanction, or even kill, anyone who dared to violate their nationalist views.
Jesus frequently used the phrase “Kingdom of God” in his ministry. For him, it was a reference to a place where God lived (heaven). But most Jews believed only God had the right to rule Israel. For them the phrase “Kingdom of God” meant establishing an Israel free from Roman rule. Hence it was regarded as a rebellion code phrase for kicking out the Romans and restoring God’s rule over Israel.
Thus when Jesus entered Jerusalem to celebrate Passover for the last time, the adulation he received would have thoroughly annoyed his opposition. Many wanted to end his activity. The basis for a confrontation between Jesus and the Romans was already in place.
The ministry of Jesus was on a collision course with destiny.
…………
Monday
Jesus already knew what lay ahead. On Monday he entered the Temple Mount and went into the Court of Gentiles. The stench of animal dung mingled with the sweet aromas of cooking food. There was ceaseless noise from thousands of voices, crying children, and terrified animals. The air was thick with the smoke of the sacrificial alter fire where animals and fowl were slaughtered. Once cooked, the meat was sold to peasants in the Gentiles Courtyard.
He was enraged by what he saw. The area around Herod’s Temple had been turned into a giant bazaar, teaming with human activity: booth after booth of merchants and money changers. Jesus knew most of the pilgrims did not know how to value the money they received in exchange for their Roman coin. Incensed by the larceny, he stormed across the courtyard, overturning several money changer tables. His outburst was cloud and clear.
The merchants and money changers were so surprised at his wrath; they retreated into the center of the Courtyard. The pilgrims and disciples with him cheered. He climbed onto a table and began to speak to the assembled crowd.
“Believe in what I say. Prostitutes and tax collectors will enter the kingdom of heaven before money changers will.”
Jesus spoke for 20 minutes. His passion resonated with the crowd. Most of the people desperately wanted to believe that here - at last - was the Messiah who had come to free them from their hated Roman oppressors.
****
Jesus left the Temple Mount after speaking and went to the Mount of Olives to talk with his followers. Several children gathered around his Apostles. Jesus watched them as they begged for money and food. They had learned to be very insistent. They followed the Apostles, hands extended, and pleading as they walked.... He looked intently at their faces. They were mostly dirty, sullen, and desperate. Then three children broke away from the group and walked toward Jesus. Thomas rushed to stop them from reaching Jesus. But Jesus held up his hand and beckoned for them to come to him. Thomas was apologetic.
“I’m sorry. I know children are not allowed to approach High Priests... or a Prophet.”
Jesus responded with sympathy. “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God welcomes children. Truly I tell you, life is precious. We cherish the miracle of life. Let us protect the life God has given to us.”
Jesus looked at each apostle in turn, and said: “It does not matter if one is young or old, healthy or infirm, rich or poor, a man, a woman, an adult or a child. We know every soul is equally important to the Holy Spirit. We are therefore challenged to cherish and protect human life from conception to death.”
****
The meeting with the Sanhedrin priests and teachers of the law had not gone well. Caiaphas the High Priest was not amused. In fact, he seethed with frustration. He turned to the three Levites with him.
“Most of the Council members think Jesus is harmless. They believe he will fade away like a dying tree in the desert. But you wait, if he continues to disrupt Temple activity like he did today, they will change their minds.”
****
Tuesday
Jesus entered the Temple Mount on Tuesday morning with his Apostles and a number of disciples. He climbed to the top step of the stairs leading to the Temple Gate. He spoke to the crowd gathered below him in the Court of Gentiles. His popularity and the content of his teaching irritated the priests and Levites who feared Jesus would diminish their religious authority. It was on this day the Chief Priests, backed by other priests and Levites, as well as elders and scribes, came out of the Temple to challenge his authority to speak about God and theology. Jesus was talking about our relationship with God when a Levite spoke up.
“What gives you the right to speak about God? Are you a Levite? Have you any training?”
Jesus stopped for a moment and looked intently at the Levite.
“Who cannot speak of God? What is it that you teach? Do only the holiest of the holy have the right to speak of God? You think too much of yourselves. We all have the right to seek our Father in heaven. If we are sincere, then of course we can.... Every humble person who looks for God has a right to find God.... And he will respond.”
The Pharisees grumbled among themselves. One of them, an expert in the Law of Moses, tested him with this question:
"Teacher: which are the two greatest commandments in the Law?"
Jesus earnestly replied: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your thoughts. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like the first: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the words of the Prophets center on these two commandments."
A priest brusquely interrupted Jesus. His spoke with words of condescending arrogance.
“Do you really know what you are talking about?”
Jesus responded with conviction. “The second commandment encourages us to love others with the same sensitivity and empathy we have for ourselves. It assumes we are able to take a thoughtful view of our interpersonal relationships. People with a healthy outlook on life will not choose to hurt themselves either physically or emotionally. We are expected to project this same caring attitude in our personal relations with others. It does not matter whether our contact is casual and brief - as with a stranger we meet on the street - or the result of a long term relationship such as marriage. God wants us to love others as we would want others to love us. Our failure to obey this commandment is often the source of inexcusable sorrow, friction and hatred.”
Jesus paused for a moment. There was a murmur of agreement within the crowd.
“Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of God’s law.”
“So you dare to speak like a prophet!” jeered a teacher of the law “why should we practice what you are teaching?”
Jesus spoke again with conviction. “The more we try to follow these two commandments, the closer we come to creating God’s Kingdom on Earth, which is paradise. The further away we move from these two commandments, the greater the risk of creating personal and social hell here on earth.”
“But that means we have to love the Romans!” exclaimed a Levite.
Jesus gave a forceful response. “Unlike the Romans we do not believe in a strict class social system where there is a hierarchy of privilege. We believe in the inherent equality of each person. One is not condemned to forever be at the bottom of the sociological pyramid. Even the poor can have dignity and status. Within our community there is love and compassion for the sick, the elderly, the very young, the hungry, the widow, and the poor. No one need live in the loneliness of isolation. One can have a sense of belonging to a community of friends, all brothers and sisters.”
Then Jesus raised his arms as in prayer, but looked directly at his tormentors.
“We are created equal in the eyes of God, all humans, male and female.... That has always been God’s intention and we are the fruit of God’s labor.”
Jesus spoke again that afternoon on the steps of the Double Gate. Although his message was well received, many in the crowd assembled to hear him were disappointed in his message. Jesus did not speak about the Romans. He did not tell them how he would expel them from Israel. When he spoke again that evening, it was to a much smaller crowd.
****
Wednesday
Author’s Note:
In order to understand what happened to Jesus on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of Passover, we have to put these events into perspective.
When Jesus rode to the Temple on Palm Sunday he must have been seen by thousands of people – pilgrims and residents of Jerusalem. For a people who lived in very humble homes, existed on the edge of poverty, and were only one or two bad harvests from starvation, a man riding on a donkey (or mule) followed by a large contingent of disciples, must have been very impressive.
Most of the population depended on grains, chickens, goats and sheep for food; lost perhaps 40 to 50 percent of their children to accidents and childhood diseases; hated Roman oppression and the Roman disdain had for their deeply held religious beliefs; and often feared death, injury or devastation from bandits and nationalist zealots.
Jesus apparently refrained from doing any healing in the Gentiles Courtyard. That was a good decision. The news that a healer was available would have caused chaos. People with real and imagined ills and injuries would have lined up to see Jesus. There would have been scuffles among those trying to get near him. The apostles would have found it impossible to keep order. For some who came to be helped, the healing process would not have been instantaneous. God knows a cure or healing may take time as the cells do their work. That means those who did not experience instant relief would have complained. Jesus risked being seen as a fake... and that is something Jesus had to avoid. He wanted to be remembered for the message he brought to us from his father.
That was his mission.
Jesus was not, of course, the only man preaching in the Gentiles Courtyard. It is likely he had a great deal of competition from earnest believers, inflamed zealots, would be Messiahs, and Jewish Nationalists. While it is likely his arrival in Jerusalem would have attracted more attention than any other speaker, some of the other speakers had their own entourage of followers.
By Wednesday afternoon most of the pilgrims had made their required sacrifices, prayed as instructed, eaten sacrificial meat, visited all the booths, and met other pilgrims who were distant relatives and friends. They were tired. Many were thinking of the long journey home. If they paid any attention to any of the speakers in the Gentiles Courtyard, it would have been the ones who told them what they wanted to hear.
We can understand why, for some of them, Jesus initially offered hope and freedom from the Romans. We can also understand why the mob turned against Jesus. He did not tell them what they wanted to hear. Jesus had a different message.
……......
As they watched the crowds gather to hear Jesus, the Pharisees and priests were quite sure that Jesus was a threat to their authority. They were anticipating some kind of general revolt during the Passover season. Perhaps Jesus would perform a miracle and lead a rebellion. They were looking for a way to reduce or end his influence.
Many of the residents of Jerusalem depended on the Passover festivals and Temple visitors for some or all of their income. They built and tended the many booths that sold animal, bird and other sacrificial offerings, as well as souvenirs, wine and food to the pilgrims. When Jesus overturned the money changer tables, they turned against him. He was seen as a threat to their income.
By Wednesday afternoon the excitement Jesus had created was clearly declining. Some of the priests gathered to plot their revenge.
……..
Jesus had dispelled any notion he was a political leader. To the pilgrims and residents, he only appeared to be interested in repeating his father’s message. Even though he often mentioned God’s Kingdom, not once did he attempt to start a revolt against the Romans. On this day he chose to preach once again on the steps that lead into Herod’s Temple from the Gentile’s Courtyard. With the Temple’s Gold and silver plated gate behind him, Jesus spoke from the heart for over an hour. Although his presence on the steps that lead into the Temple thoroughly annoyed the priests, they did not dare censure him again.
The mob was becoming increasingly disillusioned. Rumors and whispers circulated among the thousands gathered for Passover. Jesus was not the Messiah they were looking for. Many felt betrayed. Betrayal led to frustration and frustration became anger. Disappointed, frustrated and enraged that Jesus would not free them from Roman rule, the crowds began to disperse. Adoration quickly became open hostility. Many of the men were Jewish nationalists, or nationalist sympathizers. For them his failure to lead a revolt was a bitter disappointment. Scuffles broke out between those who followed Jesus and the Jewish nationalists.
Caiaphas the High Priest sensed he had an opportunity to humiliate this outsider. He sent spies into the dwindling crowd to ask Jesus if he was loyal to Caesar. Jesus was careful, however, to avoid any words that could be construed as a challenge to Roman rule with the response:
“Render unto Caesar that which belongs to Caesar. Give to God that which God alone embraces.”
That reply, however, was overshadowed by his frequent allusion to the Kingdom of God. Jesus used the phrase to describe the world he wanted to create on earth. It was a phrase that could be interpreted as encouraging a rebellion against Roman rule. That was an act of sedition.
Late Wednesday afternoon, Caiaphas the High Priest called another session of the Sanhedrin Council. He spoke with grim authority.
“For three days that renegade has preached in the Court of Gentiles and below the Temple Mount. The first day, everyone who heard him was filled with joy. The second day, many began to have doubts he would be their liberator. Today the crowd dwindled down to a handful of disciples and curious pilgrims. He is losing favor with our people. Today someone even jeered that he has lost his magic power.... I have decided to act. With the help of the Levites, we can turn the crowd against him.”
“Why should we bother?” said a council member “his preaching is dying a natural death.”
“And he has the right to speak,” said another.
The other members of the council nodded in agreement. There was a whisper of conversation among them. Caiaphas was thoroughly annoyed.
“If we let him go, he will continue to be a thorn in our side. He is very charismatic and obviously smart. He has an agenda. This disappointment among the people is temporary. As soon he starts healing again, they will flock to him as before.”
Caiaphas raised his arms to appear as imposing as possible.
“We must get rid of him and his so called Apostles!”
There was more whispering among the council members. One stood up to speak.
“The Chief Priest is right. We must end this now, while we have him close to us. Let us turn the mob against Jesus, let us call him a traitor for his failure to get rid of the Romans, let us tell them his message is blasphemy, let us destroy his character and smear his name.... they will be angry enough to do our bidding.”
“No, no,” called out another priest as he stood up to speak. “Let us wait to see what happens tomorrow. If he still annoys us we can act then.”
Caiaphas looked over the members of the Council. “Let us decide what to do.... right now.”
That decision took almost an hour. But in the end, the Council decided to wait until Thursday morning to make a final judgement.
****
Thursday
Because he knew what was coming, Jesus spent most of Thursday morning in prayer and discussion with his disciples. The mood was both solemn and reverential. He invited them to join with him for a last supper, an idea that struck dread in the hearts of those around him. Jesus sent Peter with two other Apostles into Jerusalem to find a place and purchase food.
Then Jesus called Judas. The young man immediately came to him and took a seat next to Jesus.
“Judas,” Jesus began “you are one of the most intelligent of my Apostles. I know this because you have been a constant thorn in my side, questioning every word that came out of my mouth.”
Jesus smiled warmly at Judas. “On the other hand, you understand my message and you also know why it is so important for my Apostles to carry on my work after I am gone.”
Judas was puzzled and a little wary. He knew Jesus was about to ask him to do something important. But the grave look on his master’s face frightened him.
“Of course the Apostles will carry on your mission,” he said uneasily.
“That assumes, of course, they are all alive,” Jesus said slowly. He let Judas think about his words for a moment.... and continued.
“We all knew it would come to this. We have challenged the authority of the leaders in Jerusalem. They will not tolerate dissent, rebellion, or heretical theology. In order to protect their prestige, they must eliminate the threat we pose.”
“What do you think they will do to us?”
“Not us, my young friend, only to me.... they will put me in prison after a suitably painful punishment...”
“Will the Romans ever let you go?”
“No. Perhaps I will be beheaded.... Just like my cousin John the Baptist. ”
“What about the rest of us?”
“That is the real problem. If they catch any of you, they will put you in prison. I cannot take that chance. If you are in prison, or dead, you cannot teach our message to anyone. The priests will create a mob and come after me. They will take anyone who is with me back to Jerusalem for trial.”
“Do you want us to hide?”
“I want all of you to go to Jericho. If the Romans take me to prison, then you can go on to Capernaum. You will be safe there. In a few weeks you can preach again.”
“When should we leave?”
“This evening: As soon as we have finished our supper, you can travel to Bethany by moonlight. You can go on to Jericho the next morning.”
“But why did you call for me?”
“We must be sure the Romans find me, and only me. If there is no one else around, they will be too lazy to look for my Apostles.... and that is where you come in. You have the intelligence and the guile to deal with the priests. After supper you will leave us. I will go to my usual place in the Garden of Gethsemane. I’ll send the others to Bethany. Go into the Temple Mount. Find the Chief Priest and tell him that if he wants to find me, he should do it right away or we will be gone from Jerusalem.”
Judas frowned. “They will never believe me.”
Jesus paused for several moments. Then he had the answer. “Ask them for money. Romans and priests understand treachery. When you ask for money, they will believe you.... Then lead them to the Garden of Gethsemane. I’ll be there in my usual place. After you are sure of my arrest, you can find your way to join the others in Bethany.”
Judas was nervous. But he understood his instructions. As he left Jesus told him “Tell no one. This is between us.”
Judas walked away down the path toward where the others were resting.
Jesus knelt down and began to pray. Am I doing the right thing? Do I ask too much of Judas?
God’s response came quickly. Judas is a good choice for the task you have given him.... Although it is likely the Romans and your enemies in Jerusalem will be satisfied with your removal from public life, they may also seek to arrest and punish your Apostles. They may even punish some of your other disciples. It is best if you send them away from Jerusalem until the agitation of your arrest has passed. Then they can return. Judas is resourceful. He will deliver only you to the priests and then leave Jerusalem for the safety of Jericho.
Then his father paused, as though carefully contemplating his words. He spoke with love.
But you don’t have to go through with this my son. You can still join the others and go back to Capernaum.
The answer Jesus gave revealed his commitment to the mission his father had given to him and his determination to persevere.
No, I must prove the truth of my message to the pilgrims in Jerusalem, to my disciples, and to my Apostles. If I am in prison, the people will think my imprisonment is wrong and that will lead them to think of my word.
God then spoke a few words that depressed Jesus. You know, of course, that Pilate may decide you are more than a renegade preacher. If the Romans decide you are a traitor, they will crucify you on a cross.
Jesus spoke out loud. “Yes, I know.... Can you predict which option they will choose? Will they send me to prison or crucify me?”
I can guess, but not predict. When I gave humanity free will, I knew I would be able to judge, but not predict with certainty. If I take away free will, I will be able to predict with certainty, but I will have no right to judge.
Jesus began to tremble. A feeling of dread overcame him.
If you cannot predict, can you guess?
Yes.
And?
They will crucify you.
****
Thursday Afternoon
Thursday afternoon the Sanhedrin Council had a meeting to decide on a number of matters, including their rising concern about the rebellious preacher from Galilee. The Levites had assembled a crowd of pilgrims and Jerusalem citizens to protest against Jesus. It was not hard to find people who would join the crowd. The pilgrims and the Levites were upset by the heresy spoken by this man from Galilee. The citizens were angered because they believed he had disrupted their business activities in the Temple. For all who had heard his message, it had become obvious Jesus would not use his powers to banish the Romans from Israel. Their voices rose in an organized chant to condemn and mock Jesus just outside the Council Chambers.
Their raucous demonstration had the desired effect. Inside the chambers the mood turned against Jesus. Caiaphas, the High Priest, and Annas were given the task of convincing the Romans to punish Jesus.
****
After the meeting Caiaphas and his father-in-law Annas sat together with several priests to discuss how to secure Roman cooperation.
“We can ask Pontius Pilate to imprison Jesus, perhaps at the same prison where he kept John the Baptist,” Annas said.
“But John was still able to influence many of our people even while he was in prison,” Caiaphas responded “do we dare let him do that?”
Another priest spoke up. “He has far more powers than John ever did. What happens if he decides to walk out of prison? He could do it. He could walk right out of prison and start a rebellion against us.”
“And the Romans,” added Annas with a frown.
They all looked to Caiaphas for his decision. He was reluctant to have Jesus killed. During Passover the priests had to be very careful to preserve their image of purity and holiness. Having Jesus imprisoned before Passover began would be acceptable. But sending him to prison during Passover would cause a rebellion among his disciples and give the nationalists even more to be unhappy about.
“We have a problem. We cannot be seen as violating any of our religious laws, especially during Passover.... But that ends today after sundown.”
Caiaphas paused to look at each of the priests. His humorless demeanor was of a man who didn’t like his options. After all, perhaps he could control this teacher from Galilee. Maybe the punishment of prison would be enough to end his blasphemy. Or maybe it would not.
“We are out of time. We must be seen as protecting the laws of our faith and the sacred authority of our priesthood. The only way to resolve this problem is to give it to the Romans. Although the Council has the authority to banish Jesus, only the Romans can punish him with death. We will use the mob to convince the Romans this teacher is guilty of sedition. Then let them deal with Jesus.”
A sly smile crossed his father-in-law’s face. “Let us deal with Jesus tomorrow morning,” Annas said with authority, “Passover will have ended and we can place the blame for our decision on the Romans.... We will look for Jesus Friday morning and take him to the Romans. They will crucify him.”
****
Peter found a house for the Last Supper in Jerusalem. Mary the mother of Jesus; Salome of Bethsaida; Joanna, wife of Chuza; Mary of Magdala and her friend Susanna all came to the house that afternoon. They prepared the Last Supper with the help of several disciples. Jesus was the first man to arrive. He bathed his hands and feet, put on a white robe, and waited for his Apostles to arrive.
John and James Boanerges came first, followed in a few minutes by each of the other Apostles. One by one Jesus asked each apostle to sit down before him. He then washed the dust and dirt from the man’s feet. It was a symbolic act of humility. This was a task usually performed by the lowest person in the household, generally a slave or servant. When Peter arrived he asked: “Why are you washing the dust of Jerusalem from my feet?”
“The Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Puzzled by the humility of his master, Peter joined the others at the table. A feeling of despair hung over the entire room. There was little talk. The Apostles knew Jesus was planning to be arrested. After they finished eating, Jesus stood up. He took a piece of bread from the plate before him as an offering. The Apostles watched their leader in silence.
(Luke 22:19-20) (Note 1)
19 And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.”
20 In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.
The women and disciples who were present were awed by the sense of reverence and sorrow that seemed to echo through the room. Mary of Magdala began to weep.
Jesus spoke again. “We cannot stay here in Jerusalem. We will cross the valley together. I will go on to the Garden of Gethsemane. I want you to go to Bethany tonight and then to Jericho in the morning. Once you reach the Jordan, you should be safe from the Romans. Go home to Capernaum until you are ready to teach in my name once more.”
“But what about you?” Peter asked, clearly alarmed.
“I go to be tried by the priests and the Romans.”
Peter almost shouted his response. “I will never leave your side!”
Jesus, his face dark with sadness, looked thoughtfully at Peter.
“You will deny me, Peter, three times before the cock crows.”
Peter was about to protest, but Jesus held up his hand.
“Remember me. Remember me and the message I have given to you. Teach it to all who will listen.”
Jesus and his companions left the house in the late afternoon and made their way toward the Garden of Gethsemane. Crossing the Kidron Valley, Jesus stopped, gestured toward the Temple Mount, and addressed the Apostles and women.
“Tomorrow will be dangerous for anyone associated with me, especially near the Temple Mount. You must go to Jericho as I have asked.”
Then Jesus turned to Judas and whispered the dreaded words: “Do your duty Judas.
****
Judas slowly, reluctantly, walked up the hill to the Temple Mount and entered the Shushan Gate. He made his way to the Royal Porch where he hoped to find Caiaphas. Upon entering the chambers, he was able to bypass the guards and found the priest just as he was leaving to go home. Caiaphas was annoyed by the young man’s intrusion into his privacy.
“What on earth are you doing? If you don’t leave me alone, I’ll have the guards throw you into prison!”
Judas managed to look as humble as possible.
“Caiaphas, - sir I have news of Jesus. He is leaving Jerusalem tonight. If you want to catch him, you better hurry.”
Caiaphas was not amused. He was hungry, he was tired, gout had enflamed his joints, and he wanted to rest. Caiaphas shook his head in disbelief.
A voice interrupted his thoughts. It was his father-in-law Annas.
“Another problem?” he intoned “Will they never end?”
Caiaphas spoke to him. “This man just told me Jesus is leaving Jerusalem tonight.”
Annas looked with suspicion at Judas. “Who are you?”
“I am called Judas, a disciple of Jesus.”
“And why did you come to tell us this news?”
Judas hesitated. He suddenly felt nauseous. Shaking just a little, he made his case.
“Like many others, I have turned against Jesus because he doesn’t keep his promises.”
“What promises?”
“He promised to bring God’s Kingdom on earth.”
Caiaphas was impatient with Judas. “You mean because he has failed to free us from the Romans?”
“Yes, and I....”
Annas interrupted Judas. “Why should we believe you?”
Judas sucked in a breath and carefully phrased his response.
“Don’t believe me.... I only came because I thought you would pay me to lead you to him tonight before he escapes to Galilee.... “
Judas let that sink in and then said “Of course if you don’t care, I’ll be on my way.”
With that Judas turned and started to walk away. It was a calculated risk. They might just ignore him. But his ploy worked.
Annas called to him. “Wait.... let me talk this over with Caiaphas.”
Annas turned to Caiaphas. “He must be telling the truth. He would not be here unless he thought we would be willing to pay him for his treachery.”
Caiaphas looked at Judas with contempt. “How much do you want?”
Judas had planned his answer on the way to the Temple Mount. “Thirty silver coins.”
“That’s too much!”
“I am risking my life doing this for you. It’s worth more than 30 coins.”
Caiaphas was very tired. He just wanted to go home. But now his evening rest would be delayed by this cursed rebel from Galilee. Caiaphas shrugged his shoulders and said to his attendant “Pay him.”
…………
Flogging was a legal preliminary to every Roman crucifixion. The victim was stripped of his clothing. His hands were then tied over his head to an upright post. The weapon of choice was a short whip with several leather thongs to which small iron balls or sharp pieces of bone were tied. The victim’s back, buttocks and legs were whipped until his skin was cut into ribbons. The lacerations frequently dug into the man’s muscles. The objective was to whip the victim to a point just short of death or collapse.
The goal of crucifixion is to cause as much pain as possible for the longest possible time until a man dies in agony. The ordeal could take several hours. Women and children were not crucified. They might make it back to their community, be enslaved, or punished in other ways.
…………
Once at Gethsemane, Jesus waited in the cold night air for the mob to come. His mental anguish gradually became more intense. Jesus knew what was coming. His skin became fragile and tender, occasionally oozing a slightly bloody sweat.
****
The Levites were told to create an angry mob. It did not take much effort to provoke a group of pilgrims and citizens into a frenzy of disorderly behavior. Then several priests and elders, accompanied by a mob of chanting people, followed Judas out of the Temple Mount.
It was a short walk to The Garden of Gethsemane and Judas found Jesus sitting in his customary place. The priests took Jesus into custody, roughly securing his hands behind him. The mob was vulgar and hostile. Although the priests briefly looked for the Apostles, there was no one else in the Garden. Unhappy they were unable to find anyone else, but satisfied they had done what Annas had told them to do; the priests seized Jesus and led the mob back to the Temple Mount. Judas, thoroughly shaken by the arrest of his mentor, watched the mob disappear into the darkness. He stood alone for several minutes in the cool night air, struggling with his thoughts.
They held a mock trial before Caiaphas who had hastily called the Sanhedrin into session. The agony of the confrontation lasted for more than an hour. Jesus was condemned by false testimony and the contempt of all who were there. Tired and fed up with the turn of events, the Council condemned Jesus and decided to refer him to the Romans for prosecution. The Levites took him down stairs and brutally heaved him into a cold stone cell. Despite his mounting exhaustion, Jesus would not sleep.
After the commotion had quieted down, Caiaphas said goodnight to Annas.
“We will have to move quickly tomorrow morning to bring him before Pontius Pilate. He must be dead before the start of the Sabbath. It’s bad enough we are doing this on Preparation Day.”
“All the more reason we must blame his death on the Romans,” Annas responded.
****
Early Friday morning the Levites took Jesus to stand accused before Pontius Pilate, the Prefect of the Roman province of Judea. Summoned by the Levites, a crowd had gathered to vilify Jesus. They were in a vindictive mood, callous, malicious, and unruly.
Peter had not gone to Jericho with the others. Instead he cautiously returned to the Temple Mount from the Mount of Olives. Standing by himself in the angry crowd, he said nothing.
Rested, but still upset he had to deal with Jesus, Caiaphas was very persuasive. He presented a convincing case. But Pilate was less certain.
“So you believe this man is a threat to Roman rule. You know that means he should be crucified.”
“We have shown you proof of his planned rebellion,” Caiaphas responded with a shrug “do as you wish.”
Pilate thought for a moment. “Why do I have to pass judgement? Have you not said he is from Galilee?”
“Yes, of course.” Caiaphas was frustrated by Pilate’s indecision. But his frustration turned to outright anger when the Prefect announced:
“Take him to Herod Antipas. If Jesus is from Galilee, then he is Herod’s problem.”
With a wave of his hand, Pilate ended the hearing.
Fuming with increasing anger, Caiaphas quickly arranged for a trial to be set before Herod Antipas. Later that morning, he stood before Herod and again repeated his accusations against Jesus.
Like Pilate, Herod feared the crucifixion of a man as popular as Jesus would set off a rebellion. He was actually happy to see Jesus and hoped he would perform a miracle for his entertainment. But when Jesus refused, Herod grew angry. He asked Jesus several questions. But Jesus refused to answer. There was a brief silence. Then Herodias, his wife, whispered in Herod’s ear.
“He should be crucified. But you are in Pilate’s jurisdiction. Let him take the blame. If you do nothing, he will be forced to see that justice is done.” Herod looked at the poor man before him.
“Did you really think you could lead a rebellion against Rome? You have nothing, you are nothing, and by tonight you will be nothing.”
Herod motioned for the guards to take Jesus away. They began to punch him with their fists and poke him with their spears as they walked toward the door. Peter, standing among the people who were screaming obscenities against Jesus, did nothing.
Caiaphas closed his eyes in frustration. Would this never end?
****
Before Pontius Pilate started the third trial, he received a message from Herod. He walked through the halls of the fortress to a small waiting room. Herod Antipas immediately began to speak.
“How dare you send this upstart to me? He is your problem, so deal with him. If you fail, I will tell Rome you are too weak to rule against traitors. Then I’ll ask Rome to let me rule all of Judea and Samaria. Do your job or lose it!”
Herod abruptly turned away and walked out of the room. Pilate was stunned by Herod’s assertions. He knew Herod Antipas had been plotting against him in Rome. Angry at Herod’s nasty demeaning words, Pilate shrugged his shoulders and walked to the chamber where the trial would be held. He was greeted by a crowd of jeering people. He took a long look at Jesus. Here was a tired and pitiful man, dressed in a dirty robe. How could he possibly be the King of the Jews?
It was a very short trial. Pilate asked Jesus if he was King of the Jews.
Jesus responded: “So you say.”
The noise from the mob of people in the room was deafening. “Crucify him! Crucify him!” they chanted. For a third time, Peter did nothing.
Pilate had his guards bring another prisoner by the name of Barabbas into the room. He stood up and shouted to the mob.
“Shall I crucify Barabbas or Jesus?”
“Jesus!” the mob roared.
With a wave of his hand, Pilate ordered Jesus to be flogged and crucified. His Roman troops were eager to carry out the sentence.
But as he was being taken away, Pilate walked to the window and looked out over the mob below. He interceded one last time.
“I give you a choice,” he shouted to the mob “shall we crucify Jesus or punish Barabbas.”
The mob began to chant again “Crucify him! Crucify him!”
Pontius Pilate turned his back on the mob. Jesus was led away. Pilate went to his bath and ritually washed his hands.
****
The Romans flogged Jesus until his backside was bleeding from his neck to his ankles. Jesus almost passed out from the intense pain.
The Roman soldiers mocked Jesus after his flogging. They spat on this man who claimed to be a King. They found a robe, placed it on his shoulders, and crowned him with wreath of thorns. When they had finished amusing themselves, they yanked the robe off his body, reopening his wounds. Jesus cried out in pain. Deprived of water, food, and sleep; bleeding from his wounds; and suffering from intense pain, Jesus was close to collapse.
Ten of Pilate’s Roman soldiers, led by a Centurion, escorted Jesus to Golgotha just outside the wall of the City. To mock him, the soldiers again placed a crown of thorns on his head. Jesus was forced, as was the custom, to carry the cross arm of his own cross to the crucifixion site outside the city. The cross arm was placed across his shoulders behind his neck. His outstretched arms were then tied to the cross arm.
Jesus was able to walk with the heavy wood cross arm for less than a block. Exhausted and close to death, Jesus stumbled and fell to the street. Although the soldiers whipped him, he could not get up. Frustrated they looked around for another man to carry the cross. They spotted a man by the name of Simon of Cyrene who looked as though he wanted to help Jesus.
“Take the cross,” a soldier ordered “and follow this King to the hill where he will be crucified.”
Filled with compassion for this poor man he did not know, Simon did as he was ordered.
Once at Golgotha, Jesus was thrown to the ground on his back. The soldiers assembled the cross. Then the soldiers laid him upon the roughhewn wood of the cross which would bite into the ribbons of flesh on his back until he died. They nailed his wrists and ankles to the beams with 5 inch iron spikes, secured his wrists with rope, and placed a sign on the cross proclaiming he was Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews. The soldiers raised the cross into position. It was noon on Preparation Day. The mob began to jeer Jesus.
“Make a miracle!” shouted one “and release your body from the cross!”
Another spat in the direction of the cross. “There is no Kingdom, you liar!”
Numb with the agony of searing pain, and almost unconscious, the limp form of Jesus hung from the cross. A man to his right screamed out. Jesus managed to turn his head just enough to see a man who had been crucified at the same time. His wife and five badly frightened children huddled together down the hill. Jesus took pity on the man.
“Come with me,” Jesus managed to gasp out the words “follow me to the Kingdom of God.”
“Help me,” the man responded “help me to follow you.”
It took Jesus several minutes to get enough breath to respond. He was finally able to call out:
“Today you shall be with me in paradise...”
But Jesus could say no more.
The man looked at Jesus. “You are the one...”
A scream pierced the air as soldiers raised another man they had nailed to a cross. Jesus turned to his left to see him and spoke the same words.
“Come with me,” Jesus called out “follow me to the Kingdom of God.”
The man looked at Jesus for several moments, recognized who he was, and mocked him.
“Aren’t you the Christ? Save yourself! Save us..... as if you can.”
The man taunted Jesus again.
“You sinner! You liar! You hieratic! I’ll never follow you anywhere!”
Drifting into unconsciousness, Jesus could only manage to mutter his response.
“Go your own way.”
Weeping because of the horror they were witnessing, Mary, his mother, Mary of Magdala, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Salome of Bethsaida stood together on the street below the hill. Jude, James and Peter, despite the risk of staying in Jerusalem, were standing far away from the throng watching the crucifixion. Joanna the wife of Chuza, and Susanna of Caesarea stood across the road, devastated by the painful agony of their teacher. After an hour, the crowd began to disperse, leaving them alone with several Roman guards and a handful of disciples to watch as Jesus, in intense pain, slowly died. Blood continued to ooze from his wounds. Every time he moved, the ribbons of flesh on his back would be reopened. His breathing became more and more difficult.
Jude could not stand to see his brother in pain any longer, and left for Jericho to join the other Apostles. James, choked with sorrow, joined the women. Mary, Salome, Mary Magdalene and James came to the foot of the cross and looked up at the man they all loved. Just before three PM Jesus managed to gather enough strength to ask his brother if he would care for their mother.
“Of course I will take care of Mary,” James responded with tears in his eyes.
Then Jesus turned his head to look at his mother “Woman, here is your son.”
At three PM, Jesus - his lungs unable to exhale - delirious, thirsty, exhausted, and numb with intense pain called out "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
A Roman soldier carefully examined the dead man on the cross, and according to custom, thrust his spear into upward into the man’s chest in order to be sure he was dead.
…………
Jesus was crucified by Pontius Pilate, the fifth prefect (governor) of the Roman province of Judea (or Judaea) from A.D. 26 – A.D. 36.
Pilate would have regarded Jesus and his disciples as non-violent dissenters. Roman authorities normally dispensed with groups of non-violent dissenters by killing their leader. Hence while it is likely Caiaphas would have liked to eliminate all of the Apostles, his only recourse would have been to put them in prison. He did not have a sufficient reason to justify their death. Pilate would have believed the elimination of Jesus would prevent any further challenge to Roman authority by those who followed him. As a consequence, his desire to find and punish the Apostles quickly declined. Within weeks, Pilate was so busy with other matters in Caesarea Maritima, he likely ignored the Apostles.
The crowd that shouted for the execution of
Jesus was a mix of low level priests (who were doing what they were told to
do), citizens of Jerusalem who thought he disrupted their business activities,
nationalists who were upset because Jesus was not the Messiah they longed for,
and parochial self-righteous religious zealots who wanted to punish him for his
theology. Most of the pilgrims were on their way home.
Chapter 15 Glory
Joseph of Arimathea, upon hearing about the crucifixion, immediately went to Pilate. Because he was a member of the Sanhedrin Council, he was allowed to enter Pilate’s quarters.
“You have crucified an innocent lamb,” he said to Pilate.
“Yes, I know,” Pilate responded “but what could I do?”
Pilate appeared to be tired and frustrated by the day’s events. Joseph ignored Pilate’s irritation.
“It is our custom to be sure a dead body is not hung on a tree overnight,” Joseph said “with your permission, I would like to take him down.”
“But where will you take him?”
“I have a new crypt near Golgotha; I can take him there to be prepared for burial.”
A loud voice interrupted their conversation. It was Annas.
“But how will we know he is dead?”
“The Roman soldiers will see to that,” Pilate responded.
“And how will you prevent his disciples from taking his body away from your tomb in the middle of the night?”
“Why would they do that?” asked Pilate.
“It is rumored,” Annas said with authority “Jesus will arise from the dead in three days. If his disciples steal his body and hide it, they will say he has arisen and gone to heaven.”
Pilate scowled. He did not like what Annas said. If they succeeded in stealing the body, they were certain to claim Jesus was alive and had gone to be in that Kingdom of God he was always talking about.
“Is your tomb secure?” he asked Joseph.
“There is a very large stone door that can be rolled to close the entrance. They will not be able to get in.”
Annas was not satisfied. “If it can be closed, it can be opened. We have to be sure the Messiah prophecy has not been fulfilled.”
Pilate had a solution. “I will post a guard.... One they cannot bribe.”
He turned to a servant “Go find Maximus.”
****
Maximus had risen in rank to the number two position of authority in the legion stationed near Jerusalem. It was late afternoon when the servant brought him to Pontius Pilate. Tired and somewhat irritated, he saluted Pilate.
“I have just returned from Bethany. Your servant has demanded I come to see you. What do you need?”
Pilate looked agitated. “We have crucified three men this afternoon. I want you to personally make sure all three men are dead, and then report back to me.”
“As you wish, where are they?”
“At Golgotha.... oh.... and be sure the one who has been called the King of the Jews is sealed in the crypt Joseph of Arimathea has offered. We want to hold this man in Joseph’s tomb until we are sure he stays dead.”
Maximus saluted again and went to find eight Roman soldiers. A short time later he walked down the road to where the three crosses had been placed. Two of the men had already been removed. When he looked at the cross with the sign on it, he suddenly felt deathly ill. A woman came to him and tugged at the sleeve of his tunic. Maximus turned and looked down at the tear stained face of Mary, the mother of Jesus.
“Please,” she wailed “Please, please for the love of God. Please bring my son down. Don’t you see how he has suffered?”
A startled Maximus looked up again at the cross. Through the blood, sweat and dirt he recognized the lifeless form of his friend..... Jesus. The realization of what was happening stunned Maximus; he felt a hot surge of revulsion flood throughout his body. Mary grasped his arm and Maximus suddenly realized who she was.
Badly shaken by what he was witnessing, Maximus called to the soldiers.
“Bring that cross down and release that man. Be careful with him. Treat him with the same respect you would a fallen comrade.”
Puzzled by their leader’s compassion for the dead man on the cross, the soldiers did as they were instructed. They carefully brought down the cross, and removed the spikes. A tearful Salome gave them a shroud to cover the bloody body. Then Joseph of Arimathea spoke up.
“Have them carry the body to my crypt. It is not far. I will show you the way.”
Maximus motioned for two of his men to pick up the body of Jesus and they trudged off toward the garden and crypt Joseph had set aside for his own death. Salome and Mary of Magdala followed them, stumbling at times in their grief. Maximus came down the small hill and took Mary’s hand.
“Let us be sure he will rest in peace.... But I don’t understand.... why did the Romans crucify the innocent?”
“The Priests are full of treachery and deception, my son only thought of love. His teaching annoyed them.”
Maximus frowned, took Mary’s arm, and gently escorted her to the crypt. They caught up with the men carrying the body of Jesus. It was, as Joseph had said, only a short distance and in a few moments they arrived at the huge stone door. The soldiers went inside the crypt and placed Jesus on a slab of cold stone. Mary of Magdala made sure the body was completely covered by the shroud.
“Do you want to say goodbye to your son?” a thoroughly shaken Maximus asked.
“I would like to say a prayer.... alone if that is alright with you.”
“Of course, Mary.... we will wait until you come out. Take your time.”
Overcome with grief, Mary entered the crypt. In the darkness she could barely make out the still form of her son, so carefully placed on the slab of stone. She stood there; looking at the shroud and began to sob. Tears rolled down her cheeks. She gently touched the still form under the shroud with her finger tips.
“Oh my son, have we failed you?”
After she came out, the soldiers rolled the stone in place. Maximus placed the seal of Rome on the stone to discourage tampering with the crypt. He assigned four of his soldiers to guard the crypt, and after making sure the soldiers understood their instructions, Maximus and the three women left the crypt and walked slowly back to the city. It began to rain. The steady downpour soon soaked them all to the skin.
After they left, a young man emerged from the shadows. He walked to the crypt and slowly traced the edge of the huge stone door with his fingertips. Weeping uncontrollably, he walked quietly away.
****
Eight of the Apostles had left for Jericho early Friday morning, as Jesus instructed. Overcome with grief, Jude had left for Jericho during the crucifixion. Light-headed and sick to his stomach, James left Golgotha after Jesus asked him to watch over his mother. Ashamed for his denial of Jesus, a deeply troubled Peter soon followed James to the Mount of Olives.
Judas, however, stumbled more than walked as he made his way in the darkness toward Jericho after the crucifixion. He had seen the trials, witnessed the hatred, watched the flogging, and followed the crowd that escorted Jesus to Golgotha. Even so, he was not prepared for the suffering of his teacher on the cross. It destroyed whatever composure he had left. Like the others who witnessed the crucifixion, and the internment of Jesus in the crypt, he was caught in the drenching rain that blew over Jerusalem like a curse. He began to stumble in the mud. Blinded by a mixture of hot salty tears and incessant rain, Judas lost his direction and staggered into an open field. He lost his footing in the mud. Judas tried to see the road, but it was so dark he could only guess where to go.
“Oh God, what have I done,” he called out. “You told me to do it.... Jesus.... I did what you told me to do.... But I never expected them to kill you.”
The young man somehow managed to find the road, but bumped into a black figure he could not see in the darkness.
“Get out of the way,” a man’s voice cursed at Judas.
He was joined by several other men. Even in the darkness, Judas could tell it was a troop of Pilate’s mercenaries. The man spoke again.
“Get out of the way or I’ll kick you into the mud.”
From his accent, Judas guessed the soldier was from one of the northern territories somewhere north of the Baltic. But Judas was in no mood to yield. He pushed the man back and screamed in his face.
“Do you know what you Romans did today! You just murdered the Messiah! The son of God! You just crucified the most loving human on this earth!”
The soldier was in a foul mood. A long march to reach Jerusalem; drenched by the rain; hungry and tired. And now this stupid peasant was in his way.
“Get out of the way!”
Judas reached into his pocket and drew out the silver coins Annas had given him. He threw them at the soldier.
“Keep your damned money you heathen creatures!”
The soldier was in no mood to be insulted. He drew his sword and thrust it upward into the young man’s stomach. Blood instantly flushed out from the wound and soaked his tunic. Grasping his belly Judas stumbled backward into the field, turned, stumbled again, and fell face first into the mud. He struggled for a few moments and died. The soldiers eagerly picked up as many of the coins as they could find in the mud. The man who killed Judas found his lifeless body in the field and carefully cleaned his sword on the dead man’s tunic.
****
Saturday morning dawned cold and wet. Because it was the Sabbath, no activity was permitted at the tomb. The Roman guards posted at Joseph of Arimathea’s crypt, upset by the demeaning task they had been given, wet from the rain, and shivering because of the cold morning air, began to drink a blood red wine.
On the Mount of Olives, James woke up early, ignored the bread Peter offered to him, and started for Jericho. He and Jude would carry the news of the crucifixion to the other Apostles. The cold rain had turned to a fine mist that seemed to swirl around him as he stumbled through the mud. Storm clouds hung low over the land, as though to shroud all living things in a grey tomb.
James saw a group of people standing in a field. They were looking at the body of a man who was face down in the mud. Something prompted James to join them. As soon as he got a closer look at the man’s lifeless form, he knew it was Judas.
****
For Jesus, Saturday was the beginning.
His body lay on the cold hard stone bench, still covered with the blood stained linen shroud Mary Magdalene draped over him yesterday afternoon.
Jesus began to stir from a deep sleep and entered a semi-conscious state of images and sounds. In his dreamlike state he decided to determine how much pain he would have to endure. Jesus cautiously moved his right arm. There was no pain, not even the throb of an injured muscle. He tried his left arm: again, no pain and no throbs of an injured muscle. In fact it felt just fine. Jesus repeated a small movement with each foot, then his hands, then his legs. The results were the same: no pain and no sign of injury. Then exhausted, he rested.
Jesus lay there for several minutes, unable to break through the haze of his semiconscious state. His mind rambled through the events of yesterday, his ministry, Capernaum, his boyhood in Nazareth. Images and moments of conversation he could not understand flowed through his dream.
Then he felt the unmistakable gentle touch of a hand on his shoulder. In his dream state, he felt a sudden burst of joy. It was Sarah!
Jesus forced himself to wake up. Although his eyes were closed, he could sense her presence.
“Did you come to say goodbye,” he asked.
“I come to reveal new life,” Sarah responded quietly.
She pulled the shroud down from his face, gave him a sweet kiss on his cheek, and began to gently massage his shoulders.
“God is here,” she said. “He loves you Jesus.... he will be with you for the rest of the day.”
Jesus was suddenly very depressed. “Why? Of what use can I be now?”
Sarah stopped massaging his shoulders and pulled the shroud away from his entire body. “God has a plan for you.... tomorrow you will arise and show the world the truth of your resurrection... remember?”
“But how can that be? The skin on my back and legs is in shreds, my heart has been pierced with a spear and I...”
Sarah interrupted him. “Sit up, Jesus,” she said firmly. “God has healed your wounds... all of them.”
Jesus looked up at Sarah. There was no mistaking her compassion and love for him. He felt a surge of warmth flow throughout his entire body. Slowly, very slowly, he sat up, dangled his legs over the edge of the cold stone slab, and began to inspect himself. Sarah was right. He had no wounds. Not on his arms, not on his legs, not on his chest and not even on his back when he reached to feel his ribs. The only injury he could see or feel was the two angry splotches on his hands and the two equally angry splotches on his feet. But he felt no pain. None.
Jesus managed a small smile. His depression vanished. The joy of his resurrection suddenly burst through his doubts. Jesus was now wide awake. His faith fully restored, Jesus could only exclaim “God has kept his promise. I have new life.”
Jesus carefully stood up, took a few steps, and began to weep with joy. Sarah tugged at his arm and they walked out of the crypt into the sunlight. God was indeed waiting for him. He appeared in the form of an angel, clothed in a flowing white robe. He smiled warmly and extended his hand.
“Come Jesus, let us take you to a pool where you can bathe, eat, drink, and put on the robe I have prepared for you. Then we shall talk. We must prepare you for what is to come tomorrow.”
With that Jesus and God were swept up into a cloud and disappeared.
Sarah was a happy woman; she smiled as she returned to the crypt and carefully spread out the shroud on the cold stone bench. She knew Peter would find it tomorrow.
It was all part of God’s plan.
****
Sunday was a glorious sunny day. A warm playful breeze carried the sweet scent of flowers and grass. Munching on his breakfast bread, Peter left the Mount of Olives and started for the crypt. Crossing the Kidron Valley, he looked up at Herod’s Temple. It appeared cold, drab, and lifeless in the morning sun. Descending from the city toward the crypt, he saw Mary the mother of Jesus, Mary of Magdala, Mary the wife of Clopas, Salome of Bethsaida, Joanna the wife of Chuza, and Susanna of Caesarea just ahead. He knew they planned to ask the Roman guard to let them enter the crypt to anoint and wrap the body of Jesus for burial, as was the custom. Peter quickly joined them on the road. The women, fearful of what they might find, walked in silence. But when they reached the crypt, they were astonished by what they saw. The big heavy rock that served as a door to the crypt had been rolled aside. Peter and the women warily approached the open chamber.
Mary of Magdala hesitated for a moment and then cautiously entered the crypt, expecting to see the blood stained body of Jesus on the cold rock bench where they had laid him to rest on Friday afternoon. At first it was so dark in the crypt she thought it was empty. She gasped as her eyes adjusted to the darkness. Two angels in white appeared to her, sitting on either end of the empty bench where Jesus had been placed. She began to weep. Jesus was gone. There was only a large piece of blood stained cloth on the slab. Mary looked at the two angels.
One of the angels spoke to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?”
“Please sir, my teacher is gone and I don’t know where they have taken him.”
Puzzled and bewildered, she turned around to leave. But she abruptly stopped. There was a man standing in front of her, framed in the sunshine that burst through the open door. At first, Mary of Magdala did not recognize him.
It was Jesus. “Woman, why are you weeping? Who are you looking for?”
Supposing him to be the gardener, she said, “Sir, I am looking for my teacher. If you have taken him away, please tell me where you put him, and I will go and remove him.”
Jesus spoke in a gentle loving voice. “Mary.”
Then she instantly recognized him, “Teacher!”
Overwhelming relief replaced sorrow. Tears of joy filled her eyes.
“What happened!” she exclaimed “I cannot believe it is you.... “
Mary drew back and carefully looked over Jesus from head to toe. He was dressed in a beautiful white robe draped with a purple cape of the kind they made in Tyre. He looked refreshed, relaxed, and happy. He was clean, as from a ritual bath. Then she saw the ugly marks on his wrists, and glanced down to see them on his ankles. She was about to ask Jesus if he was in pain, but he interrupted her.
“No, Mary. I feel no pain. My father has cured my ailments, healed all my wounds, and given me peace.... And yes, I have risen as my father promised.”
Mary was overjoyed. It was her teacher. He was alive!
“Oh! I must go and tell the others!”
She gave him a warm hug and a quick kiss on the cheek. Then she turned to back away from him, her eyes never left him as she backed out the door, as though fearing he might disappear and her encounter would all be some kind of passing illusion.
Filled with a sudden surge of joy, she emerged from the crypt and turned to her companions.
“He has risen!” she exclaimed “Jesus has risen!”
Mary and her sister Salome, eyes wide with wonder, immediately entered the crypt and saw Jesus standing there, flanked by the two angels. Mary rushed to her son and embraced him for several seconds. Then she stepped back and looked at him, as Mary of Magdala had done, from head to toe.
“You look better than anytime during your ministry.... Except for those ugly scars, you appear to be glowing with good health.”
Jesus smiled with affection at the woman who had been his loving mother, companion and friend for more than 33 years.
“I must confess,” said Jesus “I lost faith in my father just before I died.... But he never left me. He didn’t forget me. He was at my side in the crypt and immediately healed my wounds. I felt no pain.... Then mother.... he had Sarah awaken me and took me up to heaven. It is more beautiful than I ever could have imagined. He gave me a place to bathe, a place to rest, and these fine garments to wear.”
“And so now you have arisen, as you prophesied.”
“Yes and now” Jesus stopped to look intently into his mother’s eyes, “I must prove my father has given me new life - as he has promised to all who heed his word.... Then my ministry here on earth will end.”
Mary looked at her son with a mixture of love and wonder. He had triumphed over evil. She had fulfilled her obligation to Micah and to God. Mary felt an incredible sense of unity with her son and her God.
“I must tell Peter,” she said.
“I will come with you.”
Mary, Salome and Jesus walked confidently out of the crypt and into the morning sun. Peter was astounded.
“Teacher!” he exclaimed “You are alive!”
Peter rushed to embrace Jesus, but then stepped back in awe of what he was seeing.
“You have risen. There can be no doubt. You have risen as you told us you would.... “
Then a thoroughly shaken Peter dropped to his knees, overcome with guilt.
“I doubted you,” he said solemnly “I even denied you three times..... I was afraid. How shameful of me. Please Jesus, please forgive me.”
“Peter, take my hand and rise up. Look into my eyes and tell me you will never deny me again.”
Peter reached up, took the hand of his teacher, and slowly stood up.
“I am wrong, I am wrong to doubt you. I am a poor man of little faith, just as you said. But Jesus .... My Jesus .... I can no longer doubt you. Jesus you are the Messiah - our Lord Jesus Christ. From now on I will be your grateful servant. I will do as you ask of me until death overtakes my very being.”
Peter felt a flow of sweet energy that swept throughout his entire being. Jesus looked into his eyes; here was a man who had repented his sins and would now pursue his mission with determination and dedication. Peter would never again betray his teaching or his love.
“Peter, you are the rock upon which my church will be established.”
Jesus paused and smiled at Peter.
“Go and fetch the guards, Peter. It is time to spread the news.”
Peter grinned with happiness. He was jubilant. Peter embraced Jesus and left to find the guards.
Jesus motioned to the women.
“Go and tell the others. They will be in Jericho.”
And then with a wave of his hand, Jesus disappeared from them.
****
Peter went to find the guards. He found four soldiers, wet and cold from the rain, sitting up with their backs against a wall. They were obviously grumpy and suffering from terrible headaches. Peter looked at them one by one with disdain.
“Where is Jesus?” he demanded “Why did you let him escape?”
The guards were stunned by his words. “You’re a liar,” the leader growled irritably. “No one could move that stone.”
“It would be illegal,” snarled another guard.
Angry at Peter for disturbing them, but suddenly alarmed by his words, they got up and reluctantly stumbled to the crypt. When they saw the entrance, the soldiers were astonished. The rock had been moved away. Inside the gloomy crypt they found nothing but a bloody shroud on an empty bench. Frightened by the punishment they would receive for not being more vigilant, they searched around the crypt and garden for the body of Jesus. Finding nothing, they hurried off to tell Caiaphas. The guards would seek his protection from an angry Pilate.
****
Of course Pilate was furious. Caiaphas had just told him the bad news. Both men were fuming. The tomb has been opened, the soldiers had come to the Chief Priest for protection, Jesus was nowhere to be found, and those blessed disciples of Jesus were running through the streets of Jerusalem proclaiming he had arisen from the grave.
For the priests, the news that the body of Jesus had disappeared was an unpleasant surprise. The disappearance could be construed as answering the prophecy of resurrection and that would vindicate all that Jesus had been preaching. Caiaphas asked Pilate to officially announce Jesus had disappeared, but Pilate was determined to find him and his cursed Apostles. A missing body created a quandary for Pilate. It was a challenge to his authority and a violation of the seal of Rome that had been placed on the tomb. He called for Maximus and demanded that he track down the body so they could put an end to the talk of a risen Messiah.
But Jesus had disappeared. And even though more than one hundred Centurions scoured the city, neither he nor his Apostles were found. Caiaphas was frustrated. Annas was furious. Pilate was desperate. Maximus was relieved and very happy. Herod Antipas was amused by Pilate’s predicament.
****
Peter and three of the women immediately left Jerusalem and headed for Jericho. At lunch time they paused to rest on a small hill. Mary Magdalene looked with apprehension toward Jerusalem.
“Do you think they will follow us?”
Peter peered down the road to Jerusalem. “No, the Romans will be preoccupied with combing Jerusalem for Jesus. They will not follow us.... today. But we were lucky to be able to slip out of the city unnoticed. There is no telling what they may have done to us is we were caught anywhere near the Temple.... It is best we keep on our way to Jericho.”
Mary Magdalene felt a sense of relief. But she had a sudden rush of guilt. “We should have picked up the shroud. It will forever be symbolic of Jesus. I was so upset; I didn’t think to take it from the crypt.”
Peter looked up at the three women. “I have it,” he said quietly.
Salome spoke with the voice of a woman torn by the events she had witnessed.
“Keep it with you. Keep it safe”
After a rest, Peter stood up and motioned for the three women to follow him. Mary, the mother of Jesus followed him to the road. But she longed to see her son, at least one more time. Pensive and sad she fell behind the others. She walked alone with her thoughts for several minutes. Then she heard a gentle voice call her from beside the road. She looked up and saw her son, standing in the brush. She looked at him, her heart began to beat faster, joy flowed through her being, a smile broke out on her face, and she uttered “My son, my son!”
Jesus came down to the road and spread his arms to give her a long affectionate hug.
“My father in heaven did not forget me,” he said quietly “he took care of everything.
Mary paused to once again make sure her son was healthy.
“You look well; Jesus,” Mary said “and you appear to be larger than I remember.”
“It is beautiful in God’s Kingdom. After I counsel with the Apostles, I will go into heaven for the last time and become one with my father. God and I will be of the same substance; just as Micah told you before I was born.”
Jesus backed away, squeezed both of his mother’s hands, and smiled with affection. A cloud appeared and began to envelope her son as he backed away. He smiled warmly and spoke to her one last time.
“I love you mom.”
Mary, the mother of Jesus began to walk with a quick effortless step; a small smile on her lips and joy in her heart. She caught up with Peter and the other two women. They quickly guessed what had happened. After that, everyone was in a joyful mood.
The next day they found the others in Jericho. James and Jude had already recounted the trials and crucifixion. Thus, when they entered the camp, the mood of the Apostles was subdued and depressed. Their leader had been crucified.
But joy and elation quickly replaced defeat when Peter and the three women told them about finding the empty crypt, the appearance of a risen Christ, and Mary’s second encounter with her son.
****
The next morning they broke camp and headed for Capernaum. Peter thought it would be best if they traveled in smaller groups to avoid recognition until they reached the Jordan. He didn’t think the Romans would bother them once they reached the river because they would be in Perea. Peter took the three women with him. The rest of the Apostles broke into groups of two or three men. Thomas Didymus and James Boanerges were the last to leave Jericho.
They trudged along the road, deep in conversation about the prior day. Just before noon, they saw another man who was also walking toward the Jordan River. They caught up with him and began a pleasant conversation about the Passover and the Temple in Jerusalem. They also discussed the trial, crucifixion, and extraordinary resurrection of Jesus Christ. The stranger seemed to know all about it. In an hour, the three men came to a small shop where they could buy lunch. They sat together under an olive tree to eat. James took a sip of wine and began to break his bread. When he looked up at the stranger, the man was giving thanks for his daily bread. James and Thomas joined him in prayer. Then they all began to eat. The stranger took a sip of wine. When he set his cup down, Thomas abruptly recognized him.
“Jesus!” he exclaimed.
James was overwhelmed.
“Brother!”
There was absolutely no doubt in their minds. Jesus was alive and with them. Overwhelmed by their experience, they were unable to speak.
Jesus smiled at them. “Always thank God for your blessings.... people and food, your health and your person; all the blessings of life which make you happy and content.”
Then Jesus stood up, and smiled at the two bewildered Apostles.
“Go in my name and deliver my message to all who will listen.”
He walked to the road, and faded from view.
****
Thomas and James hurried to find the others. It was almost dusk when they found Peter and his companions camped beside the Jordan. They rushed into camp and began to talk excitedly about their discovery of Jesus, his words to them, and how he faded from view.
“He actually broke bread with us!” James exclaimed “and he ate the bread just as we do.”
“And he drank wine with us.” Thomas said with excitement. He no longer had any doubts. Jesus was the son of God.
Mary, the mother of Jesus, shook her head in wonder. Her son’s prophecies had been fulfilled.
Peter was about to speak when a vision appeared near the Jordan. It was unmistakable. Jesus was coming to talk with them. At first they did not know what to expect. But Jesus soon put them at ease.
“Can you spare a piece of bread and a sip of wine for a friendly traveler?”
“Of course,” responded Andrew. He scrambled to find the bread and wine.
“May we hug you?” asked John Boanerges.
Jesus responded by giving each of the eleven men and three women a warm hug. They responded with admiration and affection. Mary, his mother, was perfectly at ease with her son. In her mind, she had completed the task Micah had given to her and Joseph. She gave him an affectionate kiss on the cheek.
Jesus spoke up. I have one request of you.... a request for all who choose to follow me.
“And what is your request?” asked Peter.
“From now on, I would like anyone who chooses to follow me to think of me as their friend. I am not your master. I am a friend who will teach you the word of God and help you to connect with Him. Even the sinner is welcome to repent and seek salvation through me.”
“But can we talk to God?” asked Bartholomew.
“Of course, I encourage all people of good will to reach out to God. But sometimes it is easier if you receive a little help from a friend. Encourage all who will listen to love me as you would God.... for we will soon be of the same substance.”
With that, Jesus sat down among them and took a sip of wine, broke a crust of bread, and began to eat with his friends. Philip gave him a piece of fish he had just cooked. Thomas found some dates they had purchased to share with Jesus.
When he finished, Jesus showed them his hands and feet. “As you can see, I still carry the marks of my crucifixion. But God has healed my wounds and calmed my soul. These things have fulfilled what is written about me by the Prophets. Open your minds to the scriptures. It is written the Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning in Jerusalem. You have witnessed these things. Now, you must fulfill your obligation to me. Preach and teach the word I have given to you to all who will listen throughout the world.”
Then Jesus turned to look at each of the women, one by one. He took his mother’s hands in his own.
“No man has been blessed with a more compassionate mother. I do believe you were my first disciple.”
Salome and Mary Magdalene came to him. Jesus gave each woman a hug.
“I want to thank you for your help and your devotion. You, your friend Susanna, Salome and others have helped to make our mission possible. Although many gave us food and lodging along the way, it was still costly to support the needs of 13 men and the others who joined us from time to time. Please accept my gratitude.”
Mary Magdalene spoke softly to him. “Teacher if I could have done more to help you it would have been my duty to God.”
Jesus smiled and turned to Salome. “I also owe a special thought to you. You not only helped us on our journey, you took it upon yourself to look after your sister. Your efforts made my work much easier.”
Salome looked upon Jesus with love. “James and I will continue to care for your mother, for so long as she needs our help.”
Jesus gave the women another warm hug, held their hands for a few moments, and then backed away.
“My friends hear me true. Peter, with the help of my Apostles and many other men, will plant the seeds and nourish the growth of my message throughout the land. But it will take the conviction and faith of women to confirm its success.”
The Jesus looked at them all with obvious affection and began to fade from view.
“May God bless and keep you, may God make his face to shine upon you, and give you peace.”
And then he was gone.
****
The Apostles and disciples were joyous in their discovery of the risen Christ. God had prevailed. The message of Jesus was confirmed. Even the most humble could cheer. Later that week, he would appear to travelers in Emmaus, and then to a large crowd of pilgrims in Sychar to once again prove the reality of his resurrection. In the meantime, the Apostles, accompanied by the three women, continued on their way to the Sea of Galilee. Several pilgrims from Jerusalem caught up with them before they reached Bethabara. Among them was a man named Matthias who had been a faithful disciple from the beginning when Jesus first began to preach in Capernaum. He told them about the excitement the risen Christ had caused wherever he went. It was another happy moment for the Apostles and the three women.
****
Each man continued on to his own family in Cana, Nazareth, Capernaum and Bethsaida. Mary of Magdala left their company as they passed through her town. Mary went to stay with her sister in Bethsaida.
Within three weeks the Apostles arranged for their return to Jerusalem. Loved ones would either return with them or they would find refuge with an extended family. Peter and Mathew decided to keep their houses in Capernaum. The news from Jerusalem continued to be encouraging. When the arrangements had been completed, the Apostles gathered in Capernaum. The next day they headed south to Jerusalem. Some of the Apostles brought along their families.
On the way, the Apostles stopped for a day in Tiberius. The next morning, Peter called them all together.
“We need to replace Judas,” he said “who shall we select?”
After some discussion of possible candidates, they took a vote. It was agreed to ask Matthias if he would like to join them. Matthias was summoned. He readily agreed to become one of the Apostles.
Peter was satisfied. They would go to Jerusalem to establish a congregation of believers. In time each apostle would begin his own ministry. The good news would spread wherever they went on their mission for Jesus the teacher and God the Father.
****
The Apostles settled in either Bethany or Jerusalem. Herod Antipas had departed for Galilee and Pilate had returned to Caesarea Maritima. The Romans were content to let the excitement run its course. Although Caiaphas the High Priest was annoyed by the story of the resurrection, he believed in time the teaching of this upstart Jesus would fade into oblivion.
But many people in Jerusalem were elated by the story of Jesus. The Apostles and the disciples were only too happy to tell it over and over again.
Forty days after the resurrection, Peter and the other Apostles gathered together on the Mount of Olives to celebrate. They were joined by a large number of disciples from Jerusalem, Bethany, Bethlehem, and Emmaus. Peter led them in morning prayers and then began to answer questions about establishing a permanent congregation in Jerusalem. He was suddenly interrupted by a swirling cloud that appeared in the midst of them. Jesus emerged from the cloud. A chorus of joy erupted that could be heard all the way to Jerusalem.
The disciples were astonished to see him. But his presence among them had a distinct purpose. Jesus spoke with authority.
“I see you have chosen Matthias to replace Judas. You have chosen well. I am also pleased Peter has begun to fulfill his obligation to me. He will be your leader. It is time to create a place of worship in my name. I now seek to confirm your missions.
Andrew - I am asking you to teach my word in Scythia; Bartholomew - I am asking you to do the same in Armenia and India; James Boanerges and my brother James - you have the strength to minister in Jerusalem; John Boanerges - I am sending you to minister in my name in Asia Minor; my brother Jude I am asking you to stay in Capernaum and show us your writing skills; Matthew - you would do well preaching the word to the Jews in Judea and anywhere else you may wish to go; Philip - your knowledge of the Greek language makes you a perfect apostle for Greece, Phrygia and Syria; Peter - you should plan to go west and preach in Rome; Simon Zealotes - your perseverance will do you well in Africa; and finally my friend Thomas - I am intrigued by what you may also do in India.”
Thomas responded to Jesus with a question. “Jesus, how can we do this if we do not speak the language of the people we seek to teach?”
“Go to Jerusalem. The gift our Father has promised will be given to you there. On the fiftieth day from my resurrection you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”
“You have done those things I have asked of you. God is pleased with your efforts. It is time for you to proceed on your own. But if you need my help, ask for it in earnest prayer and you shall receive it. I will be with you always.”
Jesus raised his hands as in prayer. “God bless your efforts to preach his commandments and teach the message I have given to you.”
Then he touched each apostle, one at a time, so they could feel the power of his love. He spoke one last time.
“You will receive the power of speech in many languages when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. Use this power in Jerusalem, all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Jesus looked upon his friends with compassion and began to ascend upward into the clouds. In a few moments he disappeared from sight.
****
Fifty days from the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit settled upon the Apostles. They were given the ability to speak many languages. Mary joined with the Apostles in prayer. After this, Peter proclaimed this day the Pentecost. It would mark the beginning of their mission.
The Apostles were galvanized into action. Inspired by the miracle of resurrection, and the vision of their teacher, they developed an overwhelming passion for their own ministries. With incredible personal intensity, they would begin to spread the message they had learned from Jesus. Despite the threat of torture and death, they successfully converted thousands to the wisdom of Christian theology. Within 50 years, this new theology would be able to challenge the religious authority of the Roman Empire.
It was the Beginning
Chapter 16 Epilogue
We do not really know what happened to Mary, the mother of Jesus. After she returned to Jerusalem to live with her son James, she may have stayed long enough to help him found the first Christian Church. But one can guess the agonizing memory of her son’s crucifixion would make it difficult to stay so near to the place where Jesus died. She could have returned to Capernaum to live with her son Jude, to Bethsaida to live with her sister Salome, or elsewhere. She apparently died in Jerusalem and was buried in the Tomb of the Virgin Mary at the Church of the Sepulchre of Saint Mary.
The first Christian Church was founded in Jerusalem, about 33 A.D. During the Pentecost Peter was able to convert many in the audience to become followers of Christ. Interest continued to increase and when a formal congregation was formed, James, the brother of Jesus, was elected its first leader. There were no church buildings. Early believers met mostly in homes. James created the early structure of the Church, composed the first Liturgy, and oversaw the resolution of theological disagreements.
Just before Roman general Titus destroyed Jerusalem in 70 A.D., members of the first Church fled to Pella in the Decapolis on the eastern bank of the Jordan River. Here the church absorbed Hellenic philosophy and gained adherents among the gentiles (people who were not Jews). After the Roman armies left Israel, the Jerusalem congregation returned to live in the ruins of the city. Christian communities were also established in urban centers such as Caesarea Maritima, Gaza, Bethlehem, Caesarea of Philippi, and Pella. The word of Jesus Christ spread throughout eastern Mediterranean lands from Africa to Italy. By 125 A.D. most of the original text of the New Testament had been completed (primarily in Greek).
During the Dominate period of the Roman Empire Christianity went from a persecuted sect to the national religion. Emperors from Nero (64 A.D.) to Diocletian (303-305 A.D.) tried in vain to stop the spread of this new theology by sending Christians into slavery, condemning them to work in the mines, subjecting them to torture, and condemning them to a painful death. But the message continued to spread and most converts were incredibly loyal to their adopted Christian faith.
The Roman Emperor Constantine was proclaimed Caesar by his troops in 306 A.D. Whatever his personal beliefs may have been, in 313 A.D. Constantine made Christianity a lawful religion throughout the Empire by his Edict of Milan. He also convened the religious Council of Nicaea (325 A.D.) to reconcile differences of Christian doctrine in order to bring unity to the emerging Church (and his empire).
While the Edict of Milan gave Christianity (an occasionally precarious) legal status and a reprieve from persecution, Emperor Theodosius I made the Trinitarian version of Christianity the official religion of the Roman Empire in 381 A.D.
Appendix 1. Is Jesus the Son of God?
The short answer: Yes. Of course Jesus is the son of God.
The relationship of Jesus Christ and God is a fundamental truth of Christian Theology. But the circumstances of how Jesus became the son of God are a bit murky, and have been the source of almost constant argument ever since the book of Matthew was written.
So … let us create a logical and credible explanation of this relationship based on 21st Century human knowledge.
During the time the New Testament was written and the early Church was developing (~33 – ~451 A.D.), it was generally believed that a woman contributed nothing to the creation of a baby. An agrarian culture took its conceptual beliefs from farming. They knew that if a farmer planted a seed in fertile soil, and it was properly watered, it would grow into a plant (a tree, a stalk of wheat, and so on). Thus it was believed a man planted his “seed” (a complete human) into a woman’s body and if she was fertile, the seed would attach to the womb and grow into a baby. The idea a woman could be infertile (or barren) and hence incapable of providing the “soil” for the seed persisted into the 20th century. Even as a young man, I can remember the women of our church would occasionally say things like” “She can’t have a baby because she is infertile,” or “what a shame she is barren.”
The discovery of how conception works had to wait for the invention of the microscope, attributed to Antonie van Leeuwenhoek 1632–1723. By the late seventeenth century, both key components of fertilization — the egg and sperm — had been postulated, but remained a theory. Oscar Hertwig (1875) showed how a sperm head fused with female genetic material in sea urchins, giving a conceptual basis for genetic inheritance. But the discovery of the human female egg and how it is fertilized would not be confirmed until the 1900s (by Edgar Allen 1928).
Conception (when the sperm penetrates the egg) creates a fertilized ovum called a zygote. The zygote's genome is a combination of DNA from each parent, and contains all of the genetic information necessary to form a new human. Cell division begins, creating the fetus that will become a human baby.
The importance of DNA was not clearly recognized until ~ 1953. A molecule of Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) contains the genetic instructions that govern the growth, development, function and reproduction of a living organism. Our physical characteristics are largely determined by our DNA, and the information contained in DNA also influences our intellectual and emotional persona. DNA instructions (information) are passed from both parents to baby during conception. We inherit half of our DNA from our father and half from our mother.
For most Christians, Matthew’s account of the birth of Christ to a Virgin Mary is a wonderfully uplifting and spiritually thrilling narrative. It represents the excitement of new life, the promise of spiritual grace, and a living proof of God’s love. We must always respect the beliefs of those who find spiritual joy and inspiration in the concept of a virgin birth. God certainly has the power to cause the birth of a man he would call “his son”.
But perplexing questions and controversy have always surrounded Matthew’s story.
It is highly likely both Matthew and Luke believed God’s “seed” would be a complete human baby (a tiny fetus), ready to grow in Mary’s womb. Because it was a seed created by God, they assumed it would have the divine characteristics of God (in effect, it would be the progeny of the Holy Father). Jesus was thus expected to be the son of God with the physical characteristics of a human male.
But a virgin birth creates several problems that have plagued Christianity for almost 2,000 years.
According to first century Jewish (religious) law, marriage was consummated by intercourse, and it was assumed drops of blood from the act would prove the virginity of the bride. It was also assumed consumption would usually result in conception. A consumption, conception or birth outside of marriage was strictly prohibited by Jewish religious law and cultural customs. Sex with Joseph before marriage would expose Mary to the risk of death by stoning (a quaint way first century parochial Jews punished fallen women), or (more likely) force her into prostitution as a social outcaste in order to survive. In the conservative Jewish family Mary belonged to, her pregnancy would be a severe embarrassment if not an outright disgrace to herself and all her family. It is difficult to believe either Mary or Joseph would even consider ignoring the tenets of their faith or the rules of their culture. God would never ask (or cause) Mary to commit a sinful act that would make her a harlot in the eyes of the community.
In order to assure it was God who seeded Mary, some early Church leaders decided Joseph was really an old man (who could not, presumably, seed Mary). But this conflicts with the image of Joseph as a young father and his role in fathering a total of seven living children.
Matthew, and many early church fathers, believed it was important for Jesus to trace his lineage back to King David. That link would have to be through his human father, Joseph, and he would have to be a descendent of King David. That reinforces the idea Joseph had to be the one who “planted” his seed in Mary.
But according to Matthew and Luke, Joseph was not the father of Jesus. Mary became pregnant by the will of God. Thus early church theologians were put into the position of trying to trace the lineage of Jesus though Mary to King David, an effort that failed because it was generally believed a baby’s lineage must be traced through the male (who “planted” the seed). If it was generally believed a woman contributed nothing to conception, then how could there be a connection? Thus we have a conundrum; neither Mary nor Joseph provides a link to King David because neither one contributed to the conception.
It is alleged that Matthew created the virgin birth story to support his contention Jesus was the Jewish Messiah. Having a God for a father and a human woman for a mother was a frequent claim of emperors and kings. This gave them political and theological status above ordinary people in a hierarchy of social order and privilege.
And finally, many early Christians wanted to believe Mary was never seeded by a human. She was “immaculate” and “innocent” of all earthly sin, including sex. This conflicts with the evidence of her six other living children.
On the other hand, if we accept Joseph was the natural father, and Mary was the natural mother, then Jesus was a natural human baby, and the connection with King David is theologically and biologically correct.
For Joseph, and early church fathers, it was an either or proposition. Either Joseph would be the father or God would be the Father. It would be Joseph’s seed or God’s seed. But of course God knew all about DNA, a woman’s egg, and the role of a man’s seed in the act of conception. God could have easily created a natural conception with all the right DNA for the human he would call his son.
There are three perfectly logical solutions.
1. God created the DNA of his son. He then placed it into Mary’s egg, and into Joseph’s sperm. Joseph’s seed makes its way into the fallopian tube, burrows into the egg, and a natural conception takes place. But the DNA was created by God.
2. God could also simply modify the DNA of Joseph’s sperm and Mary’s egg to be sure Jesus would have the characteristics he wanted his son to possess.
3. As an alternative, God could modify or replace the DNA of the Zygote to ensure it had all of the characteristics he wanted in a son.
In any case, Jesus was the son of God (or more correctly ... the son of man and the perfection of God). Conception occurred according to Jewish custom and law; it is possible to connect the blood line of Jesus with that of King David; Mary and Joseph had a natural conception according to the laws of their faith; and God has a son. After all, it’s his DNA. God’s divinity is transferred to the fetus that will become baby Jesus. In 21st century terms, think of it as a form of assisted fertilization.
Unfortunately, however, no one really understood these possible solutions until the late 20th century, and traditional Christian beliefs continue to center on obsolete first century medical knowledge. We can wonder. If Luke (a doctor) were alive today, what would he write in his Gospel? Would Matthew avoid the theological problems he created?
It’s time we revisited the birth of Jesus and revised it to reflect our 21st Century understanding of biology and medical technology. There is no biological reason why Jesus could not have DNA from two fathers (God and Joseph) or from God alone. There is no biological reason why Mary’s egg could not have contributed the DNA attributes God wanted in a son. God could have created Mary’s egg, or Joseph’s seed, or both sources of DNA. Medical science has rendered the early church’s concern, and constant argument, about the creation and lineage of Jesus obsolete. Jesus was (and is) God’s son and divine by God’s will. The lineage of Joseph’s seed can be traced back to King David.
It’s in the DNA.
Appendix 2. Why Was Jesus Successful?
Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness,
but will have the light of life.”
When I was a very small boy, I used to envision Jesus walking through the fields and towns, talking to the local merchants and farmers, occasionally visiting a fishing village, and telling stories – with a moral - to small groups of people. With the exception of the local temple Rabbis, I never thought he had much competition. He was preaching the word of God. Right? No one could possibly ignore his words of wisdom.
Wrong. Jesus had intense competition, both philosophical and physical. His voice was one of many in a cacophony of competing messages from would be Messiahs.
Two religions dominated Jewish life: the Sadducees and the Pharisees. Most Sadducees were associated with the upper class. They favored a strict, parochial, and legalistic interpretation of the Torah. The Sadducees conducted the affairs of State, collected taxes, equipped and led the army, and acted as a buffer between the people and the Romans. The Sadducees apparently believed man has free will, and since there is no afterlife, there is no need for the theology of resurrection. In this they clashed with the Pharisees. Although some Pharisees were priests and aristocrats, most were lower income farmers, tradesmen, and merchants. The belief system of the Pharisees allowed them to be more flexible in the way they interpreted the Torah, and they were likely to give oral tradition as much weight as the written word. A third sect, called the Essenes, had a more apocalyptic theology. During the life of Jesus, they had an enclave in the hills above the Dead Sea and it is likely this much smaller group of Jews protected the Dead Sea Scrolls. The Essenes may have had a great influence on John the Baptist, and it is entirely possible Jesus spent time with them just before the start of his ministry.
To all these groups, Jesus was an outsider. It is highly likely his preaching annoyed the high priests and most of the Aaronites. One can guess they were only too willing to cast the cloak of derision over this man who had no formal training for the priesthood, but was attracting larger and larger crowds to hear his message of faith. It was this irritation that would eventually lead to his crucifixion.
But what drove public perception to make the leap from viewing Jesus as an upstart teacher, to regarding him as a leader? And why was the theology and philosophy Jesus preached incredibility successful?
At first, his mission was ineffective. One can only guess at the disbelief and skepticism Jesus encountered when he started to preach in the towns of Galilee. Jesus and his disciples were religious reformers with a radical message that challenged ancient beliefs. It was a provocative message of wisdom that elevated the soul and gave meaning to life.
As we know, Jesus prevailed. He attracted attention when he began to heal the sick and help the injured. Because of his charisma, people wanted to be near him. They began to listen. His passionate demeanor held the attention of those who congregated to hear him speak. Here was a man who was obviously close to God. Sage, philosopher, teacher, and social reformer, Jesus offered a new conception of humanity. There is, he revealed, a spiritual future for the individual that will be free from the disease, poverty, oppression, hatred, and isolation of this life. He could bring peace and hope to the battered soul. Jesus began to attract ever larger crowds. His disciples took his message to other settlements. People began to listen.
There are four elements of his innovative message that attracted ever larger audiences:
1. In an age when oppression, deception, immoral behavior, and hatred were often painfully evident, Jesus brought a message of compassion and love;
The Pharisees gathered together to question Jesus. One of them, an expert in the Law of Moses, tested him with this question: "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus earnestly replied: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like the first: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the words of the Prophets center on these two commandments."
2. In an age when most religious expressions were usually male centric, Jesus taught us we are all equal in the eyes of God. He specifically included women and children in his message of equality;
The idea we are all encouraged to connect with a loving and personal God must have resonated with the women who heard Jesus preach. In that culture, men dominated political, military and religious institutions, created (and enforced) the rules of religious and civil law, carried out most of the community’s commercial activity, provided most of the labor for art and craft positions, were more likely to read and write, and were expected to be responsible for family affairs. The belief that a woman has value in the eyes of a personal and loving God must have been an uplifting and exhilarating message. It was certainly important to women of wealth who longed for respect within the community.
3. At a time when society was divided into a hierarchical system of social classes, Jesus offered a new conception of community;
In contrast to the strict Roman social system, which demanded one be viewed as belonging to a class of persons in a hierarchy of privilege, Jesus taught there is neither Jew nor Greek, male or female, rich or poor. Instead he emphasized our inherent equality. One is not condemned to forever be at the bottom of the sociological pyramid. Even the slave can have dignity and status. Within this community there is love and compassion for the sick, the elderly, the very young, the hungry, the widow, and the poor. No one need live in the loneliness of isolation. One can have a sense of belonging to a community of friends, all brothers and sisters in Christ. Salvation is offered to everyone. His message responds to a very basic, deeply felt, human need for a sense of belonging.
4. In an age when daily life could be a struggle, including death from disease, famine, accidents, and conflict, Jesus held out a message of hope;
He taught us to embrace a constructive theology, to have compassion for others, to follow the wisdom of God’s law, and to seek the reward of everlasting life. His words inspire a nobility of purpose, the courage of a positive faith, and the comfort of spiritual peace. Our faith can make us whole. If we believe in ourselves, nothing is impossible. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus summarized the blessings of hope in the eight beatitudes.
Yes, Jesus delivered a message that would resonate throughout the Roman Empire. Many were seeking an alternative faith to give them courage, hope, and spiritual strength in an age of amoral cultural norms. There had to be something or someone who was more divinely credible and morally just than a pagan idol or an emperor who claimed to be God.
They found their answer in the message Christ delivered. Life is important. Freedom from oppression is important. He brought forth a faith that valued all human life. It did not matter if one was a slave or a patrician, a man or a woman, an adult or a child. Every soul was equally important to the Holy Spirit Jesus described. Furthermore, this was a personal loving God. Although there were commandments to be learned and followed, one could approach and be at peace with the Holy Spirit. Prayer could be spiritually private. Jesus set the example, and his resurrection confirmed his message in a wonderfully positive and joyous way.
Jesus brought God’s message to us through the use of parables (short stories), metaphors (familiar images), sayings (proverbs), and sermons (longer lectures). Jesus was passionate in his belief that God loves us all. He knew God placed a great value on every individual, no matter how far he or she may have strayed from spiritual awareness. Because of these truths, we know that God is always with us, and we can become one with God’s kingdom on earth. Included in these thoughts is the concept that God wants us to love one another, and God will forgive those who earnestly and honestly seek to repent. Jesus taught that if we help another person, we are helping him (and God); the innocence of children is to be preserved; The Kingdom of Heaven is here (all around us); and God cannot help you unless you give him your trust. “If you believe in God,” Jesus said, “you are my brother or sister.” Jesus encouraged us to love our enemies, to refrain from judging others, and to treat other people as we would want them to treat us.
For Jesus, faith in a loving God is inclusive. There is no hierarchy of believers. We are all equal and free to search for spiritual serenity and salvation. He encourages us to follow him. He sets the example. That message was carried by disciples and converts throughout the Roman Empire
There are three additional elements that contributed to the success of his ministry.
Gentiles
The message of Jesus Christ was especially appealing to the Gentiles (people who are not Jews). They were generally unwilling to fully accept the polytheistic religions of Rome, and were reluctant to convert to the strict kosher dietary laws and circumcision practices of Jewish law. For them, Christianity offered an attractive theological alternative because these new congregations (particularly under Paul’s leadership) were less likely to insist on following Jewish traditions. During the first and second centuries, Gentile conversions quickly swelled the Christian population and the number of gentile Christian congregations increased throughout the Roman Empire.
Community
From the very beginning, Jesus inspired a sense of community. The basic foundation was (and still is) the family. Multiple families gathered together to form congregations. Jesus encouraged these congregations to welcome the stranger, the widow, and the young as extended family. In his eyes, anyone should be able to join and experience the courage, hope, and spiritual strength of a Christian community. This sense of family gave Christian congregations the strength to persevere, sometimes against overwhelming odds. Nowhere was this more apparent than in the tireless work of Paul, a wonderfully talented organizer who foresaw Christianity would be strengthened if local congregations were able to nurture a sense of unity.
The New Testament
The development of the New Testament, including the four Gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, and various letters provided a written continuity of theology for Christian faithful to follow. Early church elders were intent on developing a written theology, and the Council of Nicaea (which began in 325 AD.) established the initial foundation of faith.
Evangelism
Dedicated Christians have never been shy about proclaiming their convictions about the life, work and message of Jesus Christ. By preaching the gospel, evangelists share his message with all who will listen. Christians who specialize in evangelism are known as evangelists (or missionaries), whether they are preaching in their home town or away in another county, state or nation. One of the primary objectives of evangelism is to get members of the audience (congregation) to make a long term commitment to the values of Christianity.
The apostles were evangelists as was Paul and the Christian leaders that followed him. Their positive, constructive and compassionate message has resonated with people in almost every nation, contributing to the rapid growth of the international Christian community.
Unfortunately, cultural change, political events, and conflict has limited their success since the end of the 20th century. But people still need the message of Jesus Christ. Will we see a resurgence of Christian evangelism?
Appendix 3. Persons
Author’s Note: The following descriptions of the characters in this novel may be correct, partially correct, or the product of an over-active imagination.
Jesus
Physical Description
Given their diet and genetic heritage, Judean men of the 1st century were on average about 5 feet 5 inches in height. A typical Roman soldier was said to be 5 feet 6 inches tall. Although we can choose to believe God would want his son to be able to hold his own in a crowd, it is likely Jesus was less than 5 feet 7 inches tall. It is also likely he was of slender build and weighed less than 150 pounds.
Scholars have suggested it is likely Jesus followed Galilean cultural practices. That means he likely had shoulder length black or brown hair parted in the middle and a short cropped beard. There is a very practical reason for short hair: it was easier to comb out the lice, sawdust and dirt of daily life. Given the latitude of Galilee, he probably had brown eyes. Although in my novel Sarah describes him as having skin the color of almonds, it should be noted Italian artists used models from similar latitudes and often painted Jesus as a man who had a light honey-brown complexion. By age 30 when he started his ministry, Jesus was a strong, robust, and self-confident man. (Note 1)
Persona
Given his activities and ability to attract crowds, Jesus must have been intensely charismatic and a natural leader. The New Testament portrays him as having a compassionate and spiritually oriented personality. His ability to quickly respond when challenged suggests he was very creative and intelligent. His responses to questions also reveal he had developed his theology long before the start of his ministry. The attributes of high intelligence and creative capability are also supported by his knowledge of Jewish (religious) law, his creation of a middle class philosophy, the theology that would become Christian doctrine, and his organizational skills. God gave Jesus the wisdom to complete his mission. He was a good teacher. His passionate demeanor held the attention of those who congregated to hear him speak
We know he could read because he did so from the law in the Synagogue. It is highly likely he mastered the fundamentals of mathematics. In order to be a successful carpenter and stone mason, Jesus, like his father Joseph, would have to be proficient in addition, subtraction, division and multiplication, as well as the skills of basic geometry. These intellectual achievements meant Jesus had a better education than 85 percent of his peers.
Money
There is no reason to believe Jesus was poor. The skills of a carpenter and stone mason were in high demand during his life time. In addition to the work he could find in Nazareth or Capernaum, there were opportunities to work for wealthy people and Roman officials in Sepphoris or Tiberius. If we assume he had better than average skills, he could have earned more income than 90 percent of his neighbors. Jesus needed to earn enough money to support himself, his wife, his mother, and (occasionally) one or two of his brothers. His ministry involved travel, and travel meant he needed funds for food and lodging. It is likely he had to help pay the expenses of his Apostles while they were away from Capernaum either through donations or from his own cache of coins.
While it is apparent Jesus never desired to be rich, and probably gave away some of his earnings to help other people, he did have sufficient income to lead (by first century standards) an upper middle income life style.
Accomplishments
This man, this man who was the son of God, launched a theology and philosophy that would influence the values of western civilization for centuries.
The preservation, protection and support of the family unit, along with the physical, emotional, and intellectual well-being of family members, are fundamental components of Christian theology. Although these values can be found in other spiritual faiths and secular social structures, they find their best expression in the influence Christianity has had on western philosophy. Christian theology has been a key driver in the development of a strong middle class, and is the philosophical basis of modern democracy.
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Note 1: In the first century, eastern Mediterranean people were not quite as tall as we might expect. Access to meat protein from sheep, goats and chickens was sporadic. Bread was the primary staple of a first century diet. Legumes, vegetables, olives and fruits were available in season. Some fish, usually dried, was available from the Sea of Galilee and the Mediterranean. Breakfast and lunch likely consisted of water or goats’ milk, bread, cheese, and fruits (fresh in season or dried). Dinner might include bread, eggs, meats, fish, legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts and cakes. Olive oil, vinegar, wine and spices were available.
Goats were a valuable source of hides for transporting water and wine. Goat hide was also used to produce parchment. Farmers began to herd wild goats primarily for easy access to milk, cheese and meat, as well as to their dung, which was used as fuel, and their bones, hair and sinew for clothing, building and tools.
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The mother of Jesus is known by many names. They include: Mary, Saint Mary, the Madonna, Queen of Angels, Mary Mother of God, and the Virgin Mary. She has been venerated as the greatest of all Christian saints. She has been a favorite subject of Western art, music, and literature. Early Church fathers believed an immaculate Mary conceived Jesus with her virginity unimpaired, a position supported by most Christian doctrines. She is free from all stain of original sin. Some believe she remained a virgin after his birth and until the end of her life.
But is that realistic? Wasn’t she a Jewish woman, living in a Jewish village, bound by the customs of her community, and exposed to the realities of her cultural environment? Does our theological obsessive concern over her virginity mask Mary’s human life? Is it possible to construct an alternative portrait of Mary that is more consistent with 21st century knowledge?
One cannot describe the life of Jesus without also exploring the persona and life of Mary. She was, after all, his mother. Mary changed his diapers, insisted he wash before eating, prepared his meals, and did all of the other tasks we associate with motherhood. With Joseph’s help she taught him the ways of Jewish culture, insisted he learned to read, acquire basic skills in mathematics, understand Jewish (religious) law, and learn the rules of human interaction.
But who was she? Getting to know her is a complex challenge. We are forced to supplement Biblical text with cultural, historical, and archeological information. But what emerges from careful analysis is both credible and inspiring.
To research about Mary is to fall in love with her. It’s easy to think of Mary as a simple uneducated peasant girl, born in Nazareth, zealously protected by her parents, and naive to the ways of the world. But as I researched first century Jewish culture and whatever information I could find about Mary, it became evident Mary was, indeed, a lovely and very accomplished girl who grew up to be a virtuous woman of incredible inner strength.
God selected Mary to be the mother of his son because she was intelligent, creative, compassionate, levelheaded, and firmly committed to her beliefs. Even at the age of 14, it is likely Mary was more intellectually astute than 85 percent of her peers. In 5 B.C. it was extremely rare for a woman in a small village like Nazareth to be able to read, write, or have any substantial math skills. By contrast, Mary could read and recite passages from Jewish law. It is likely she understood addition, subtraction, division and multiplication. She may have learned some rudimentary geometry. We can wonder: how did that happen?
It is likely Anne, Mary’s mother, was born in Sepphoris. During the 12th century, the Crusaders built a Church honoring St Anne on the site they believed to be her home. Services honoring Saints Joachim and Anne are still celebrated there. It is obvious; therefore, Anne had family in Sepphoris. It is likely Mary was conceived in Jerusalem where her parents Anne and Joachim lived at the time. It is likely Anne went home to be with her family in Sepphoris when she gave birth to Mary (as was often the custom). It is likely Mary was raised in Jerusalem where Joachim could choose a succession of tutors to complete her education.
Thus her parents, Joachim and Anna, apparently raised their family in Jerusalem, then made a home in Sepphoris, and lived in Sepphoris until the threat of a pending rebellion forced them to move to the relative safety of Nazareth.
When was Mary born? How old was she when she gave birth to Jesus? How old was she when she died?
If we can rely on first century B.C. Jewish cultural customs to guide our thinking, the rest is mathematics. Research suggests Mary (Mariam) was born in April or May of 20 B.C. Under Jewish law when a girl began to menstruate she became a woman and could be married. This transition usually occurred when she was 14 years old. So Mary may have been betrothed at age 13 (7 B.C.), certainly married at age 14 (6 B.C.), and gave birth to Jesus when she was 15 (5 B.C.) Incidentally, these dates help to confirm the birth of Jesus in 5 B.C. She was 48 (almost 49) when Jesus was crucified. Mary apparently died when she was 58 or 59 years old in 39 A.D.
In the 1st century A.D. we humans were not as tall as we are today. Given her probable diet and genetic heritage, it is unlikely likely Mary was more than 5 feet tall. She had brown eyes, dark brown hair, and a slender build. Given the latitude of Nazareth, Mary had a light honey brown complexion.
Without question, she is the graceful personification of motherhood. To write about Mary is to develop a deep respect for this girl who became a woman at 14, always supported and loved her husband, was a good mother to seven children, faithfully supported the life and work of her eldest son Jesus, never gave up on the task God had given to her, and could be called the first Christian. And she did all this despite the incredible stress of ever present danger from famine, disease, villainous bandits, Roman soldiers, Roman mercenaries, Jewish zealots, the bloodshed of rebellion, and the constant -sometimes downright nasty - criticism of her son’s ministry.
Jesus moved Mary and two of his brothers to Capernaum after Joseph died. Once settled, she apparently helped to organize his ministry, frequently accompanying him as he traveled. It is likely she could be found among the many female disciples who adored Jesus and desperately wanted to believe his message. Mary may have been described in the Book of John as “the disciple who loved him”.
Mary witnessed the cruel and bloody crucifixion of the son to whom she had given her life. With tenderness and sorrow she laid him to rest on a cold block of stone. On the third day, we can only imagine how Mary felt when she explored the empty tomb with a mixture of hope and dread, elation and fear. Had God kept his promise?
Of course: the joy of his resurrection was her reward.
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Joseph deserves more credit.
Unfortunately, in their zeal to portray Mary as an untouched virgin, gospel writers and early church fathers diminish Joseph’s importance in the life of Jesus. They even argued he married Mary after God made her pregnant (which would have breached Jewish Law) or perhaps he was an old man too fragile to father a baby (which ignores the energy required to raise six additional children). But as I researched first century Jewish culture and whatever information I could find about Joseph, it became evident the only way to properly judge him is by his accomplishments and his devotion to the God he valued. To write about Joseph is to develop a deep respect for this boy who became a man at 14, always supported and loved his wife, was a good father to seven children, and faithfully supported the life and work of his eldest son Jesus. And he did all this despite the incredible stress of ever present danger from bandits, Romans, Roman mercenaries, and the ever present temptation to join the rebellion - an act that could have maimed or killed him.
Joseph's grandfather Mattan (descendant of Solomon) had a wife called "Esther" (not recorded in the Bible) with whom he fathered Jacob (Joseph's father). We know even less about Ruth, Joseph’s mother.
Under Jewish law a boy could transition to manhood at age 12 or 13. My hunch is Joseph joined the men at prayers when he was just shy of 14 years of age. Research suggests Joseph was born in 21 B.C., betrothed at age 14 (7 B.C.), married at age 15 (6 B.C.), and became a father to Jesus when he was 16. In my story, Joseph dies in 26 A.D., at age 46. Death at this age was not uncommon. In the 1st century, children who were still alive at age 10 could look forward to an average life expectancy of 47.5 years.
Given his probable diet, and genetic heritage, it is likely Joseph was less than 5 feet five inches tall, had brown eyes, dark brown or black hair, and a slender build. Given the latitude of Galilee, he would have a light honey-brown complexion.
Joseph was self-educated, picking up his knowledge from a local Rabbi in Sepphoris and his parents. We know he could read because he read from the law in the Synagogue. It is highly likely he mastered the fundamentals of mathematics. In order to be a successful carpenter and stone mason, Joseph would have to be proficient in addition, subtraction, division and multiplication, as well as the skills of basic geometry. It is likely Joseph had a working knowledge of Koine Greek, the language of commerce and government. These intellectual achievements meant he had a better education than 85 percent of his peers. Being a good father, Joseph would have passed whatever knowledge he accumulated on to his children.
With his job skills, Joseph would have been able to find work in Nazareth and the nearby town of Sepphoris. After the failed rebellion of 4 B.C., (King) Herod Antipas made Sepphoris the center of his administration. A relatively easy walk from Nazareth, work would have been available from the Romans and the wealthy people who moved there. It is possible Joseph found additional work in Tiberias when Antipater moved his center there in ~18 - 20 A.D. With these employment opportunities, it is likely Joseph was (usually) able to provide his family with a comfortable life style.
By age 12, it is highly likely Jesus accompanied his father to find work. Joseph provided an anchor of knowledge and maturity for Jesus, trained him to be a carpenter and stone mason, and helped to create the character of the man we encounter in the four Gospels. Joseph would have been acutely aware of his obligation to God, and he apparently carried it out with wisdom and determination.
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Apostles
Andrew was Peter’s brother, a fisherman, and a disciple of John the Baptist before he was called by Jesus. He lived in Bethsaida and moved to Capernaum to be with Jesus. A gentle man, Andrew at once recognized Jesus was the Messiah, and introduced him to his brother, Peter. He evangelized in Scythia, Epirus, Achaia and Hellas.
Bartholomew (Nathaniel) lived in Cana by Galilee. He may have come from royal blood. Bartholomew was a friend of Philip, recognized Jesus as "the Son of God" and believed Jesus was "the King of Israel". Known for his honesty and integrity, he is alleged to have been an Apostle in Armenia and India.
James (the elder) Boanerges; brother of John, was severe of temperament, likely a nationalist, a strong defender of the Jewish nation, and usually carried a sword for protection. He was a fisherman who lived in Bethsaida and moved to Capernaum to be with Jesus. After the death of Jesus, James ministered in Jerusalem with evangelical zeal until martyred by Herod Agrippa I in 44 A.D.
John Boanerges: brother of James, brave, intense, and full of nationalist zeal. He was, however, softer of temperament than his brother. He was a fisherman who lived in Bethsaida until he moved to Capernaum to be with Jesus. Until called by Jesus, he and James were initially disciples of John the Baptist. Jesus called James and John the Sons of Thunder because their father, Zebedee, was an outspoken critic of the Romans. Like the other Apostles, John was deeply influenced by Jesus. John went with his brother to Jerusalem after Jesus died. Apparently he became an Apostle and evangelist in Asia Minor.
James (the younger), was Jesus’s brother. Short in stature, he became (affectionately) known as James the Less and later on as James the Just. He lived in Bethsaida until he joined Jesus in Capernaum. James was present at the crucifixion, became the first Bishop of Jerusalem, and authored the first Catholic Epistle. James deserves a great deal of credit for his wisdom as he carried on the work of his brother.
Judas Iscariot, son of Simon Iscariot, was from Judah. Judas was a Jewish nationalist, young, impressionable, educated, and intelligent. Judas frequently saw things as amusing and could be sarcastic or deferential. Although Judas frequently challenged Jesus, he became a very close friend. His role in the crucifixion is debated. The idea that he betrayed Jesus is totally illogical.
Jude (Thaddeus), a brother of Jesus, was a fisherman who lived in Bethsaida. He was present at the crucifixion. Jude became known as the patron saint of lost causes, and was the author of the Epistle of Jude.
Matthew (Levi) was a tax collector who lived in Capernaum. He was educated, wealthy, and literate in both Aramaic (the language of Jesus and his Apostles) as well as Koine Greek (the language of government and commerce). He went on to preach the Gospel to the Jewish community in Judea, Samaria and elsewhere.
Philip is described as a tall, thin fisherman who lived in Bethsaida. He recognized Jesus as the savior and subsequently brought his friend Bartholomew and many others to meet him. Philip was an Apostle in Greece, Phrygia, and Syria.
Simon Peter (Cephas), known as The Rock, brother of Andrew, was a fisherman who lived in Bethsaida and moved to Capernaum to be with Jesus. Like his brother, Simon was a follower of John the Baptist before being called by Jesus. Emotional, impulsive, bold and charismatic, Peter was one of the greatest leaders of the early church. He spread the gospel in Rome until he was crucified. The Catholic Church recognizes Peter as the First Roman Pope.
Simon Zealotes was a cynical, suspicious man who lived in Cana, near Galilee, (also known as a Canaanite). He may have been a fanatical Jewish Nationalist or simply very zealous in his support for Jesus. Inspired by Jesus, Simon Zealotes traveled to N. Africa as an Apostle.
Thomas Didymus a carpenter, stone mason and fisherman who lived in Tarichea by the Sea of Galilee. Sometimes referred to as “the twin” or “doubting Thomas”, he apparently had a sharp intellect and an analytical mind. Thomas traveled as far as India to spread the message of Jesus Christ.
Two Notes:
Although many of his followers are described as fishermen, it should be noted that Jesus and his disciples were also part time farmers. Crops were a source of fresh vegetables and grains. In addition, some of them had fruit or olive trees.
It is likely that whenever they traveled away from Capernaum, Bartholomew, Simon Peter, Simon Zealotes, James and John Boanerges, and Judas (and possibly the other Apostles) were armed with swords. Because of bandits and errant Roman mercenaries, travel could be dangerous. All twelve Apostles were responsible for helping to organize his ministry, controlling the crowds that came to see Jesus, finding food and lodging, and giving him protection from overzealous Philistines and Sadducees.
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Disciples, Friends, and Family
Immediate Family
Anne: Mary’s mother. Born and raised in Sepphoris, she gave birth to Mary at the family home. She and Joachim moved from Sepphoris to Nazareth. She can trace her lineage back to the priestly family of Aaron.
Joachim: Mary’s father. Apparently he was relatively wealthy with business interests in both Sepphoris and Jerusalem. He belonged to the royal family of David. Like his wife, he was dedicated to the education and health of both his daughters.
Ruth: Joseph's mother. Unfortunately we know nothing about her. Given the demeanor and manners of her son, however, we can assume she was a good mother.
Jacob: Joseph's father. Alleged by some to be a descendent of Solomon, Jacob was a carpenter, a skill which he passed on to his son.
Jesus had four brothers: James, Joses (Joseph), Jude (or Judas or Thaddeus), and Simon; and two sisters whose names I have created, Deborah and Rachel.
Deborah: Sister. Deborah is the second child of Mary and Joseph. She takes her name from a heroine and prophetess who led the Israelites to defeat the Canaanites.
Joses (Joseph): A brother who lived in Nazareth. Joseph was critical of Jesus’s ministry, believing it would lead to Roman retribution (torture, death or both). Thus Joseph never became a disciple.
Simon: A brother of Jesus who lived in Nazareth. He did not like what Jesus was doing. Employed by the Romans in Sepphoris, he never became a disciple.
Rachel: A sister who moved to Cana to be with her husband. The seventh child of Mary and Joseph is a symbol of innocence and beauty. She introduced Jesus to Bartholomew and Simon Zealotes.
Salome: Sister of Mary the mother of Jesus. The wife of Zebedee and the mother of James and John Boanerges, she becomes a disciple of Jesus and helps him financially. She witnessed the crucifixion and later confirmed that Jesus' tomb was empty.
Sarah Naomi: In our story the Wife of Jesus. In Hebrew: her name means Princess and noble woman. In Aramaic: it means guardian angel. Sarah was the name of Abraham’s wife. A Hellenized Jew from Tarsus, she was a very intelligent, compassionate and beautiful woman. She had lovely brown eyes and beautiful olive skin.
Other Characters
Decus: Mason. A man from Carthage in the Roman Africa Province, he was skilled in both decorative and representational mosaic designs. Decus was a muscular man, clean shaven, had a darker skin, and taller than Jesus.
Elizabeth: John the Baptists’ mother: the wife of the priest Zechariah and from the lineage of Aaron. In fulfillment of God's promise, in her old age she bore a son, John the Baptist. She was a woman of unusual piety, faith, and spiritual gifts, whose witness to her Cousin Mary must have been incredibly joyful.
Genisia: Friend: a loving and resourceful woman in Bethlehem who helps Mary and Joseph with the birth of Jesus, and again in 2 B.C. when they come back from Egypt.
Hannah: disciple. She almost immediately recognizes Jesus as the Christ.
Herodias: Queen. The vain and arrogant wife of Herod Philip (relationship to Herod family disputed). Herodias divorced herself from her husband while he was alive and married Herod Antipas. When Antipas divorced his wife Phasaelis to marry Herodias, the Jews were outraged.
Jamel: Sarah’s father: a Biblical name meaning the right hand of favor. Physician. In my story Jesus learns many of his healing skills from his father-in-law.
Jethro: Uncle. A rather large happy man, he counsels Joseph to go to Egypt with Mary to protect Jesus from harm. His name means overflowing abundance.
Joanna: Wife of Chuza. Chuza managed the household of Herod Antipas. She was an associate of Mary Magdalene. Healed by Jesus, she later supported him and his disciples financially. Joanna witnessed the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
John the Baptist: A rather severe, angular and thin man who loved to preach (often with great enthusiasm), John was the son of Elizabeth and Zechariah and several months older than Jesus.
Lazarus of Bethany: The brother of Mary and Martha of Bethany. After Jesus awakened him from a coma, he and his sisters became very close to Jesus
Martha of Bethany: Sister of Lazarus and Mary of Bethany. She and Lazarus helped Jesus financially.
Mary of Bethany: Sister of Lazarus. She apparently lost her husband to the Romans.
Mary wife of Clopas: Cleopas may have been Joseph’s brother. She witnessed the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
Mathias: Apostle, chosen by lot to succeed Judas.
Maximus the Centurion: Born into a Roman imperial family that (in our story) apparently fell out of favor with the Emperor. Noble of character, he is entranced by Mary and privately vows to protect her.
Micah: Appears as a man of medium build with greying hair and a rumpled appearance. He always walks with a cane. Micah is the angel of knowledge and God’s divine plan. Gentle, Intelligent, and philosophical, Micah watches over our spiritual evolution, seeking to reveal God's Divine Plan and the next steps of our Life’s purpose.
Miriam of Magdala (also Mary Magdalene): Helped Jesus financially, often traveled with the Apostles, and witnessed Jesus' crucifixion. Immediately following the Sabbath, she was the first to testify to the resurrection of Jesus. While Jesus was alive, it would appear she had the stature and influence of an Apostle.
Priscilla: She and her husband Aquila were a first century Christian missionary couple and traditionally listed among the Seventy Disciples
Raphael: The old scholar who agrees to mentor Jesus in the Serapeum which was located in the Greek quarter of Alexandria. A former slave, he was given his freedom by Maximus.
Susanna: Disciple, a wealthy woman from Caesarea. She was chaste and somewhat older than Jesus. Her husband was a Roman. A close friend of Mary Magdalene, she became a disciple, helped Jesus financially, and often accompanied Jesus on his trips. She witnessed the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.
Tabitha: Sarah’s mother. From the Aramaic word for Gazelle, a woman of beauty and grace who was noted for her good works.
Yona: means Dove. She leads Jesus down to the river where John the Baptist baptizes him.
Zebedee Boanerges: Father of James and John, (the sons of thunder), and the husband of Mary Salome who was Mary’s (the mother of Jesus) sister.
Appendix 4. Geography
The Sea of Galilee (also the Sea of Kinneret); about 13 miles long, 8 miles wide and a circumference of 33 miles; is a shallow depression (not more than 145 feet deep) in the Jordan River as it travels from Syria to the Dead Sea. Little villages dotted the rich farmland and lovely hills close to its shores. Small fish were abundant. The relatively large city of Tiberias was established as the capitol of Galilee in 18 or 20 A.D. on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. During the time of Jesus, the Sea of Galilee was slightly larger and possibly more verdant than it is now.
The only way to travel was by walking. The people in our story walked everywhere; over trails, wagon tracks, or uneven cobble roads through woods, brush, plains, dessert, and mountains. Longer trips meant camping overnight, hopefully near water for cooking and washing, and where one could find a few sticks of wood for a fire. Sanitation could be a challenge. People frequently traveled in groups and often carried weapons for protection against bandits (which were everywhere). Traveling with children or animals could be a challenge.
Appendix 5. Notes
Did the Essenes Influence Jesus?
Even as a little boy, the idea of a hallucinating Jesus stumbling about in the desert for forty days and forty nights didn’t make any sense. Jesus was a very intelligent and completely rational man. Why would he deliberately endure hunger, dehydration, and the pain of blistering heat? Delirium served no useful purpose. Self-flagellation was not his style. And it is unlikely a loving God would require his son to suffer. What was the point?
It is also worth noting Mark, Matthew and Luke tell us Jesus goes out into the desert after he is baptized. Again, that makes no sense. Baptism has often been used to symbolically cleanse the soul, which is accomplished by immersion under water. The former life is washed away. Once free of the past, the person is raised up out of the water and encouraged to adopt a new way of life. It is a new beginning. Read between the lines in the New Testament and it is obvious to me both John and Jesus believed baptism is an act of dedication and a commitment to a virtuous cause.
So did the authors of Mark, Matthew and Luke make a mistake? It is likely they heard (from second or third hand sources) that Jesus spent time in the desert. Mark mentioned it in his text. Both Matthew and Luke included Mark’s thoughts in their narration. But young Mark may not have fully understood that baptism marks a turning point in the life of Jesus Christ.
It is logical to ask: Did Jesus actually spend time in the desert?
My conclusion is “Yes”.
During the course of my research into the life of Jesus, I was prompted to spend a considerable amount of time reviewing the beliefs and practices of a Jewish religious sect called the Essenes. Jesus apparently had many beliefs that paralleled Essene thought. But he would not have learned them in Nazareth or Capernaum. Where would he acquire his knowledge?
There is a perfectly logical explanation for why Jesus went into the dessert. Although by age 30 he was prepared for his mission, he needed to spend some time focusing on the content, organization and presentation of his message. His solution was to spend some time with the Essenes near Masada and the Qumran Caves in the Judean Desert (where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered). Here he could discuss his ideas with the Essene elders, formulate his message during deep meditation, and establish a stronger spiritual connection with his father.
The Roman historian Josephus gave a detailed account of the Essenes in The Jewish War (c. 75 CE). He tells us the Essenoi, the Pharisees and the Sadducees were the three primary sects of Jewish philosophy. The Essenes were pious, celibate, shunned personal property, and strictly observed the Sabbath. He further adds that the Essenes ritually immersed in water every morning, ate together after prayer, devoted themselves to charity and benevolence, forbade the expression of anger, studied the books of the elders, preserved secrets, and were very mindful of the names of the angels kept in their sacred writings. The Essenes believed that in order for a man to be truly close to God, he had to be celibate. They had a reputation for being honest, helpful to strangers, and excellent healers. The Essenes considered themselves the guardians of the Divine Teaching. For the Essenes, water represents life, purity, love, harmony and healing. Baptism gives a man the impulse to start a life that is more conscious of his soul. Once liberated, it becomes his link to the divine.
Does any of this sound familiar? Did the Essenes influence the theology and philosophy Jesus preached during his ministry? Was Jesus following Essene philosophy when he went to be baptized by John?
Given this information, spending forty days and forty nights in the desert (with the Essenes) is perfectly logical.
In Christian tradition, Judas betrayed Jesus to the High Priests at the Temple in Jerusalem for 30 pieces of silver. It makes a good story. Betrayal. Villains. Evil versus good. The drama of deception. The story of betrayal has been embedded in Christian tradition for almost 2 thousand years.
But I’ve always had my doubts about this sequence of events.
Why?
Because it’s illogical.
There are (at least) seven points to consider.
First: Jesus was a very intelligent man. His extensive knowledge of Jewish law, the wisdom of his theology, the incredible success of his ministry, and his compassionate understanding of human nature, all serve to demonstrate the depth of his intellect. With his astute powers of observation, it is highly likely He was very familiar with every Apostle: their strengths and weaknesses; attitudes; emotional state; and intelligence. It is unlikely Jesus would allow anyone to be close to him unless they were trustworthy.
Second: Jesus knew he was going to die long before his last journey to Jerusalem. At first he may have thought the Romans would arrest him, throw him into prison, and then behead him: just as they had beheaded his cousin, John the Baptist. But as Jesus approached the pandemonium of Passover in Jerusalem, he realized crucifixion was far more likely. Thousands of peasants regraded Jesus as the Messiah, a man who would drive the Romans from Judea. On Palm Sunday he was the symbol of triumphant rebellion riding into town on a donkey (or colt). Jesus knew He was in for a nasty confrontation.
Third: Caiaphas, a Sadducee and the Jewish High Priest in Jerusalem, was thoroughly irritated with Jesus. The Romans expected Caiaphas to keep the peasants under control, but everywhere Jesus went he stirred them up with his talk about restoring the Kingdom of God, a code phrase among Jewish nationalists for ending Roman rule. Fearing the loss of his authority, Caiaphas was likely plotting against Jesus long before he arrived in Jerusalem. When Jesus rode into the Temple area on Palm Sunday to the cheers of the peasants, Caiaphas was enraged. Not only was he teaching a blasphemous theology, Jesus was also inadvertently stirring up the Jewish nationalists. If Caiaphas failed to deal with Jesus, he would be in big trouble with the Romans.
Forth: As the week of Passover came to a close, both Jesus and Caiaphas had a logistics problem.
Jesus had to be sure that he, and only he, would be taken to the Temple Mount. Jesus knew the Temple priests would come with a mob of lower level priests and Jerusalem citizens to take him prisoner. He feared, however, they would also seize all of his apostles. If that happened, there was a risk his apostles would be tortured or murdered. His ministry would be a failure. Everything He had worked so hard to accomplish would be lost because there would be no one to carry on his work. Jesus had to control the timing and place of his capture.
Caiaphas had to make sure he did not enrage the pilgrims who would be in the Temple square until the end of Passover (which would occur after sundown Thursday). He also could not violate the rules for the Sabbath (which would start after sundown Friday). On Friday thousands of Pilgrims would be leaving Jerusalem. In the mass confusion a violation of preparation day (Thursday after Sundown until Friday after Sundown) would be considered a minor infringement of the law. It is likely Caiaphas intended to find, arrest, prosecute, and punish Jesus between 9 AM and 3 PM Friday. Since he had a persuasive influence over the citizens of Jerusalem, he knew it would not take much effort to provoke them into an aggressive mob.
Fifth: Jesus was well known and easy to recognize. Roman spies were everywhere. The people of Jerusalem knew where Jesus and his disciples were staying. It would have been easy for the High Priest to locate him. Caiaphas did not need Judas to find Jesus.
Sixth: Jesus sent his followers over the Mount of Olives after the Last Supper on Thursday afternoon. He may have even encouraged them to camp in Bethany (al-Eizariya). Doing so would protect them from the pursuit of Roman soldiers and give them a head start for the long walk home. He was also careful to separate himself from the others in the Garden of Gethsemane while he waited for events to unfold.
Friday would be a day of mass confusion as thousands of Pilgrims broke camp and headed home from Jerusalem. If Caiaphas sent for him on Thursday evening, his arrest was more likely to occur without incident.
Seventh: The alleged Gospel of Judas supports the idea he was sent by Jesus to the High Priest.
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There is no question Jesus wanted to be arrested. In the confusion of thousands of Pilgrims, he could have walked away from Jerusalem at any time. So, how could Jesus assure his arrest would occur Thursday evening? Send a messenger to Caiaphas. Tell him that if he wanted to arrest Jesus, it must be done right after sundown. Create a sense of urgency.
And who would he chose to be his messenger? Judas: because he was the one apostle who had the necessary guile to fool the Priests. Intelligent, well educated, and idealistic, Judas was a good choice. Judas would ask for 30 pieces (coins) of silver to convince the High Priest he was indeed a traitor.
I do not believe Jesus suspected Judas would be killed after the crucifixion. That was an accidental convergence of bad weather, a chance meeting with a Roman patrol, and the emotional state of his Apostle.
The days after the death of Jesus Christ can be characterized as a sequence of emotional shock, despair, depression, amazement, joy and wonder. Although the Apostles and many of the disciples gathered together in Jerusalem, they were disorganized and confused.
In Christian tradition Christ’s Ascension, which is marked as being 40 days from Easter (counting Easter as the first day), marks the last time Jesus was physically visible to the Apostles.
Pentecost falls on the seventh Sunday after Easter (again the 50th day counting Easter as the first day). Pentecost marks the nascent beginning of a commitment to spread the word of God throughout the (known) world. Although some believe it is the date the Christian church was born, it appears a formal organization did not occur until ~ 33 A.D.
According to Luke, Pentecost is the day the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles, giving them the motivation to start their missions. At this time they were also given the ability to speak the several languages of the people they would meet on their travels.
Their reception of the Holy Spirit in the Upper Room is recounted in Acts 2:1–6:
“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other languages, as the Spirit gave them utterance. And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when the Apostles demonstrated their ability to speak to each one, each in his own language, they were amazed.”
It was the beginning......
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