Thieves

By Othoniel Ortiz

Set during religious and political upheaval. Two totally different fellows, opposite in character and behavior, yet inseparable. Briefly mentioned in scripture, yet became part of the most earth-shaking event. Who were they and how they got there? Let's follow them.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Othoniel Ortiz
• Release date: Aug 30, 2016
• ISBN: 9781370010455

Othoniel Ortiz

Born in Puerto Rico in 1946 and retired since 2000, my main function at the company was as a graphics illustrator for company training manuals till retirement. I've worked with church ministries since my youth, and have gleaned some valuable truths along the way. As you read any of my short essays I pray God's grace will give you, the reader, greater insight and hunger to know God's truth even more.

Book preview

THIEVES

by

Othoniel Ortiz

Copyright 2016 Othoniel Ortiz

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Table of Contents

Preface

One: The Marketplace

Two: Eber

Three: The Prophet

Four: The Theft

Five: Prison

Six: A Week Earlier

Seven: Barabbas

Eight: Crowds

Nine: Shem’s Trek

Ten: Paradise

Afterthought

Contact the Author

Tony’s Other Books

Preface

The hustle and bustle of the marketplace in Jerusalem is the setting for this story. Two inseparable friends, a pickpocket and a pincher, are going to become part of an unforgettable narrative in history. It takes place during a time of religious, political, and social uneasiness that rocked the nation of Israel, a nation governed by a foreign power.

The events are well known from the scriptural accounts, but the characters of the thieves are mentioned only in passing. I just wanted to bring to life what might have been and why. The young men are confronted with the most important decision of their lives, and their responses are poles apart.

The Marketplace

It was their favorite hangout. When the monotony of their small village became unbearable, they would amble to the town market for some excitement. The village was not far from Jerusalem, fortunately, which made it an easy walk. Eber and Shem were always together, and occasionally others from the village would join them in their ventures at the bazaars and food courts.

When younger, the two fellows eagerly anticipated market day, and they never missed the chance to go with their parents. Bartering was an exciting way of