Lazarus: From Death into Life

By F.M. Bonevento

Two thousand years ago, a body lay lifeless, tightly bound in a dark cave. It rested in this tomb for four days until a friend called the dead man from death into life. It sounds like a hoax, but it was a miracle witnessed by many people.

The man restored to life, was Lazarus of Bethany. The man who called him back was Jesus of Nazareth.

At the time of Lazaruss rebirth, Jesus was in conflict, with the Jewish leaders of his day. The resurrection of Lazarus at the hands of Jesus made him a man, certain Jewish leaders wanted to suppress. In fact, the resurrection of Lazarus set in motion the events that would eventually lead to the Jesuss execution.

With a second chance at life, everything changed for Lazarus. He fled to escape death and began to live a life dedicated to teaching the words of Jesus.

This is the story of two dear friends, and the lives they touched. In it we encounter historical figures, saints, soldiers, ordinary people, and miracles woven into a tale that has touched Christians for centuries. It is the fictional account of Lazarus, a man only briefly seen in the Gospel of John.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Archway Publishing
• Release date: Jul 27, 2017
• ISBN: 9781480848870

F.M. Bonevento

F.M. Bonevento is a former senior software engineer and functional manager. He is the co-inventor of five computer hardware patents and is an expert in software engineering and project management. He is the author of Signs and Seasons of Love and Musings. He and his wife, Mary Ann, reside in Boca Raton, Florida.

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Prologue

"I, Lazarus Ben Isaac, of Bethany, give you this testimony as an eyewitness; that Jesus of Nazareth, is the promised Messiah of God. I write, that you might believe this good news. Now, as I sense, my days are winding to an end; I send you, these words as testimony that what I lived might not be lost.

In my presence, I saw many miracles Jesus performed to heal, and aid those in need. I heard his words and I saw their healing power at work in the crowds of those who heard him. Words, that promised peace, freedom, and joy to all souls.

When I, your humble servant, was given over to death it was Jesus, who called me back. He called me back from death to life. Jesus raised me up that I, might spread his words, wherever my life should take me.

Jesus was crucified, and died, I saw him raised up, and alive. I spoke to him again. It was Jesus who sent Saul to me, in Damascus. Saul, the man, who went from persecutor to become the great teacher of the Gentiles.

Thus, I shall begin, my testimony at the River Jordan. The river where I first saw Jesus, and heard the voice of God coming from a clear sky amid peals of thunder."

Quotation from the Lazarus Texts

of ancient Bethany

These are a few of the words, taken from the Lazarus scrolls. Texts found in a sealed jar in a cave, in Bethany. They were uncovered after they were first written, two thousand years, ago. These words are the prologue of the journey you are about to take into the world we call history.

Part One: Before He was Called Back

I. A Voice in the Desert

A voice calls out in the wilderness, repent

The assembly chamber of the Sanhedrin was filled with bearded men. These men ranged in age from middle years, to some, who were aged and gray, with long flowing beards. The chief priest Caiaphas rose to address the assembled men. Brothers, we are continually hearing the people speaking, about a new prophet. A man, preaching, and baptizing, in the Jordan River. He claims to be speaking of repentance from sins for those he baptizes. Maybe, we should send the temple guards to arrest him, and bring him to us. He should stand here so we may determine by what authority, he preaches to the people. There were rumbles of assent among the Pharisees, and the Scribes. Some of the more aged men nodded in silent assent.

At the rear of the assembly, a middle aged, man named Joseph rose to speak. He began in a soft but firm voice. To some in the chamber, Joseph appeared to be a man of contrasts. To those who knew him better he was a noted merchant, who achieved great wealth through his business acumen. He was also a man of deep religious beliefs known for honesty, and a learned, teacher of the law. His actions and attitudes always reflected, kindness, wisdom, and an unfailing adherence, to the laws of God. It was his scholarship, and beliefs, which earned him a seat on the Sanhedrin. This was the most well- respected council of religious leaders in Judea and Palestine.

Joseph began, Your Excellency, of course, we should inquire into the actions of this man but we should not judge him without careful consideration. Our laws make it plain that no one may be judged guilty, without a fair hearing, and having at least two witnesses.

The chief priest responded to Joseph with an indulgent smile. He wanted to say, I expected you to say this Joseph. Instead, Caiaphas responded, Joseph, is ever- prudent and slow to condemn, anyone who seems to speak of God. God chooses the Sanhedrin to safeguard and, interpret the laws of Moses, for all the children of Abraham. Thus, it falls to us to inquire about this man. There may be some good in this so-called Baptist". We shall send Joseph, Isaac Ben Brech, and Jonah Bar Simon, to speak to this so-called prophet. They can hear what he would say in his own defense. They will also inquire as to his authority to preach to the people.

Joseph, we shall send, for his wisdom, and mercy. We will send Brech, and Jonah, for their unmatched knowledge of the law. They shall form their opinions and inform the Sanhedrin how we should treat this man."

Thus, it was decided, the three must journey to visit with this man in the desert. They will seek him out and speak to him.

Joseph was willing, to undertake this task. He really wished to speak with this man who was said to be touched by God. On the other hand, Joseph was not so certain either Brech, or Jonah would approach this task with an open mind. Both of his companions were jealous of the authority of the Sanhedrin. They were likely to condemn the Baptist for presuming to preach to anyone. John, was clearly not a priest, or a member of the sect of Pharisees, Scribes, Sadducees, or Levites. For Brech, and Jonah that thought alone, was reason enough to condemn John.

Joseph wondered if his friend Lazarus Ben Isaac would join him on this mission. Joseph hoped to enjoy the benefits of the wisdom of his friend. Lazarus was young and well- respected for his knowledge of the laws. He also had a very acute mind. Thus, if Lazarus agreed to join Joseph on this mission a more balanced opinion of the Baptist might be reached.

Lazarus

The afternoon sun was past its zenith and still the heat of the day increased. The parched earth gave up the energy it had gathered during the blazing day making for great discomfort. In the shade of his courtyard a man sat by a pool shaded by some tall palms. He was absorbed in some scrolls giving him news of his holdings in Galilee. With the harvest weeks, away, the man knew he must soon make a journey to supervise this work. He wanted to ensure the work was completed safely. The livelihood of many families depended on the harvest. This was as it always had been through the ages.

This man, was called Lazarus. He was considered young for a wealthy merchant and landowner. He was wise and considerate in all his affairs. He was well liked and respected among his many friends, and family in Bethany, and the surrounding towns, and villages. Lazarus was a rather tall slender man with dark hair. He had an attractive face with large expressive hazel eyes. Many said, he had a visage that reminded them of his late mother’s lovely face. He was engaging when in conversation. He had a ready smile and a kind word for all he met. As a boy, many assumed Lazarus would become a scholar, or perhaps a teacher mainly because of his great interest in the law, but his family duties pulled him in other directions. Unlike some wealthy people, Lazarus was not overly preoccupied with commerce nor overly focused on acquiring vast new wealth. Lazarus was comfortable in his life and careful in his investments. He was never one to deal in dishonesty or fraud. He came from a wealthy family. Most of his wealth was inherited from his father, who had inherited it, from his father and those before him. It fell to Lazarus to husband these resources so that he in turn might pass them on to his own family in time.

As he read his correspondence, Lazarus could hear his sisters bustling and working with the servants in the house. His sister’s voices were a familiar and comforting sound, in his ears. They had cared for him since his parents died some years, ago. These sisters were the light of his life keeping his household running in fine order. Lazarus was unmarried and the prospect of marriage was not even a glimmer in his eye. He was content to live with his two unmarried sisters who spent their days caring for him with love and affection. He cared so deeply for them it made him unable to bring another woman, into his home. He worried that another woman might displease his sisters who were so dear to him.

The days in Bethany were often filled with matters of business. Lazarus always enjoyed a few quiet moments in the cool shade and the soft breezes that whispered in the palms around his home. He sat in his favorite place whenever he could. In these moments, he relaxed immersed in the familiar sights and sounds that surrounded his home. Lazarus found his mind often wandered into pleasant thoughts that served to refresh his soul from the business of the day.

Joseph’s Invitation

Out on the short road from Jerusalem to Bethany the sun was still ablaze. It had just started to settle downward in the western sky. The heat rose in sweltering waves from the dry road urging Joseph and his mount along. The blazing heat pushed him onward to seek shelter from the relentless sun. Joseph was bound to the home, of his dear friend Lazarus. He was anxious, to get out of the heat of the afternoon sun. He wanted to speak to Lazarus about his mission, to seek out the Baptist. As Joseph shaded his eyes he could see the stand of palms at the bending of the road ahead. He felt a sense of relief knowing that this the shortest stage of his journey would soon be over.

None too soon, Joseph reached the gates of the home where Lazarus lived. He pulled the rope announcing his presence. Soon he could hear old Micah’s sandals as they approached the gates calling out, who comes here? Micah, it is I Joseph newly come from Jerusalem. I have news to bring to your master Lazarus. The gates swung wide and Micah greeted Joseph with a welcoming smile.

Joseph, my master will be pleased to see you. Come, enter, and let me lead your mount to the stable. Lazarus is in the courtyard. You may announce yourself. You know the way. We are always happy to welcome you as a guest in this house. Joseph walked into the refreshing shade, of the courtyard halting for a second he spoke out:

Peace on this house and all who dwell here.

Lazarus, quickly recognized the familiar voice of his dear friend Joseph. Joseph was a middle- aged smallish man with vivid blue eyes. Eyes that blazed brightly from his dark face. A face surrounded by a large black beard streaked with gray. He was very strong for his size with a grip that was as forceful as a vise. He had a booming voice which seemed misplaced coming from a man with a kind and thoughtful manner.

Ah Joseph, you are a most welcome guest. Come, sit with me and rest awhile. Mary, Martha, come and see. Joseph has come to see us. Bring some refreshments and join us. We shall share the news and enjoy some fine conversation. Joseph was such a dear old friend. He was like, a member of the family. His visits were always occasions of great joy.

Martha, and Mary brought wine and fruit and some cool water for Joseph to refresh himself. The women’s faces, were alight with smiles. They were eager to share his visit with their brother. Joseph embraced the sisters whom he dearly loved thanking them for their kindness.

Dear friends, it does my old heart good to see you in such fine health. May God bless and keep you always. The road is always hot and dry during these days. It is a blessing to sit in the shade and rest with you.

As always friends were eager to share news and good tidings. Their separations, however short, always seemed too long.

Joseph quickly started to tell them about their friends. He laughed as he spoke of new of births and small events. Joseph said, I am on my way to the desert north of Jerusalem, on the morrow. The Sanhedrin has tasked me to undertake a mission. I have been asked to seek out the man, called John the Baptist. I go to hear what he is preaching. The Sanhedrin also selected Brech, and Jonah for this mission. I am concerned that they are too conservative to give this Baptist a fair hearing.

Lazarus smiled nodding, Joseph, I have often thought I should travel, to hear this new preacher myself. It would be an honor to join you on this journey. Of course, I would not presume to present my views to the Sanhedrin. Naturally, I would be happy to share my thoughts privately, with you.

Joseph was pleased that his friend was going to go with him. They quickly made plans to join a caravan on the road northward at first light. Their future trip would not be a long one, but the roads in Judea were not safe to travel without protection. Bands of bandits and zealots often attacked lone travelers so they must join a caravan for protection. The remainder of the evening was spent enjoying a fine supper and good conversation. Early to bed, to rest and make an early start on their journey in the morning.

Off to See the Baptist

Off they went, three hours before the rise of the sun. Joseph had previously agreed to join Brech, and Jonah at the oasis where the caravans northward always assembled.

As they rode along Joseph spoke words of warning to Lazarus, you need to be wary of Brech, and Jonah. They are arrogant men. They value no opinions save their own. Do not give them cause to argue with you, because both men have long memories. They remember every supposed slight, keeping grudges. They bear bitter regard for those, whom they feel have contradicted them. If they ask you anything simply speak the truth. Say that you intended to make this journey, on your own. You heard that I was going so you decided to come along with me. I will not add that I will seek your opinion on this matter. I will ensure that you will not find yourself at odds with these two.

Lazarus nodded, I know these men by reputation. I shall be respectful and cautious. My opinions are my own. If I form a different view I am honor bound to keep it. I appreciate the warning. I shall be cautious with these two.

At the rising of the sun the two men found the caravan forming at the oasis. They were soon heading northward among its riders. Brech and Jonah soon approached Joseph, and Lazarus. Joseph introduced Brech, and Jonah to Lazarus saying, I am pleased to present my dear friend Lazarus Ben Isaac. He is also going north to hear the Baptist preach. The two older men nodded looking at Lazarus with glances that were hardly cordial. Brech, broke their silence, It is wise that the young go to hear what some people presume to say concerning our laws. It is even wiser, to let those who interpret the law form the proper judgments on this so-called prophet.

Lazarus could readily sense the drift of this comment when he recalled the advice of Joseph so he simply replied. Of course, I shall be eager to hear the wisdom of my elders on these matters. I know I am bound by conscience to listen and form my own opinion of what I hear.

Jonah bristled, at words of Lazarus, the young are ever eager to speak without heeding the wisdom of their elders. Lazarus, you would be wise to listen well and yet be silent until the Sanhedrin speaks about this Baptist. The interpretation of the laws is never to be undertaken by the un-schooled. Lazarus, was not about to enter a dispute with either of these two men on such a delicate subject. He refrained from commenting out of concern for his friend Joseph, who must consult with these men. In his heart Lazarus knew the laws of God very well. He also knew he could not excuse himself from having an opinion on the preaching of any man who presumed to speak God’s words. Men learn the law and follow it. This is their duty. Men are never excused from forming moral judgments in such matters. One may not delegate one’s conscience to another man, when old enough to have one.

The caravan traveled onward as the heat of the day began to make itself felt. The four traveled on in silence, uncertain as to what sort of conversation might be appropriate between the teachers and the young Lazarus.

In time, several people in the caravan ahead of Lazarus turned off the road to the right. They seemed to be heading into the wilderness. One of the other men in the caravan noticed the movement remarking, there goes a group of pilgrims into the wilderness. They go to hear the Prophet speak. Look at these fools! They travel on a vague path formed by other fools who preceded them. They will need sharp eyes to avoid getting lost. When Lazarus and his companions heard this they also left the caravan. They followed the men who had veered to the right into the wild. Jonah felt compelled to remark, we must be wary and seek signs to travel on our own. We should take care lest we become lost following the blind.

Joseph looked at Lazarus, remarking; based on the many tales we have heard in Jerusalem we should not have any trouble finding our way. Surely, many feet have come this way to see John. Those footsteps, will make a well-worn path in this wilderness.

Sure, enough the four men and the others ahead of them, had no problems, following the well -worn signs of travel. In less than an hour of riding they came upon, a large assembly of people standing in a long line. These people were waiting their turn to go on the banks of the Jordan. They were going to wade out into the river to speak to John.

The Baptist Speaks

As they approached the banks of the Jordan Lazarus could clearly see John. He was an imposing gaunt man. He had wild brown hair, blazing blue eyes, and a large full dark beard streaked with red and black. The man in the river, was dressed in rough camel hair skins. He wore large leather strap, bound tightly around his waist. Even though they were still fairly- distant, from the river’s edge they heard John’s voice clearly carrying over the hum of the crowd. John words were sharp and direct:

To you gathered here beside the Jordan you must be ready to acknowledge your sinfulness before God. It is God who will grant your pardon and the reconciliation you need.

To the man, standing before him, in the river John said, have you come here, to acknowledge before Israel, and God that you are a sinner? Do you come here to confess your guilt seeking forgiveness from God? Will you vow to amend your life? The man standing before John nodded, and stood silent. John addressed the man again: Speak loudly clearly acknowledging your repentance, else depart from me steeped in your sin. The man raised his voice addressing John, I acknowledge, before God and man, I am sinner and I repent my sins, seeking God’s forgiveness. John reached out, grasping the man, in his strong muscled arms, thrusting the man’s whole body beneath the river’s surface. As the man emerged from the water, John loudly proclaimed, by the mercy of God your sins are forgiven, symbolized, by this baptism in water. Go forth and sin no more.

Brech and Jonah sneered silently mocking John’s words. Suddenly without warning, Brech called out loudly, you, John standing in the midst, of this river hear me. A deputation from the Sanhedrin comes before you to examine you. Come forward so we can speak with you!

Many of the people, standing in line waiting to speak to John turned to stare at Brech grumbling, why does he presume to speak to a holy man in such a haughty manner?

John heard the mumbling in the crowd. Striding out of the river he walked onto the bank speaking loudly: How is it you brood of hypocrites comes here to question me. Those who come here confessing their sins are seeking God’s mercy. Have you not read the words of Isaiah? A voice in the wilderness cries out. Make straight the way of the Lord and bring repentance to my people Israel."

Brech bristled at John’s challenge. Before, anyone in his party, could speak a word he shouted back at John. Have you no respect for the teachers of Israel or the authority of the Sanhedrin we represent? By what authority do you presume to baptize, and announce forgiveness of sin? Only the God of Israel can forgive sins. This is written in the law. I adjure you, cease in this blasphemy. You must come with us at once, to present yourself before the High Priest and the Sanhedrin! If you fail to follow us we will ask the Sanhedrin to send the temple guards to arrest you, and bring you before the High Priest in chains. Brech continued, who do you say you are? Are you Elijah, the prophet? If not, who are you?

At these words, the people in the crowd who came to see John shouted. They began to assemble, around Brech and the three others in his party. Some of the men in the crowd, began to gather stones to throw at Brech and his company. The crowd was angered that he had spoken to John in this haughty manner.

John spoke again addressing the crowd. Leave this sinner alone in his pride and ignorance. Let him ask God to forgive his sin of pride, and let him leave this place of God’s mercy, in peace. He must desist from disrupting those who came here across these wastelands to seek God’s Mercy. Neither the crowd’s noise nor the words of John did not dismay Brech, as he shouted out, all the louder:

By what authority do you John, claim to forgive sins and baptize these ignorant souls? John stared at Brech, responding with authority, you claim to be a teacher of the law in Israel. Your ears are deaf and eyes are blinded by your pride. It is not I, who forgive sins here, but God. It is God, who gives this water to us to symbolize the cleansing of sins. I am only the voice of God I am crying out to the children of Abraham to renounce their sins and make peace with God. Go back to Jerusalem and tell them my words. My authority comes from God and His scriptures. Send your soldiers if you must. I will do as God commands me.

Jonah spoke urgently to Brech, we have no need to tarry here, and bandy words with this wild man. Let us return to the Sanhedrin and report the heresy of this man as he has spoken it.

Jonah, and Brech turned to leave assuming Joseph, and Lazarus would follow their lead. They did not look to see if, Lazarus and Joseph were following them, the pair prepared to ride away in haste. Joseph, and Lazarus said nothing during this exchange with John. Joseph shouted, Jonah, Brech you are too hasty in your words. I have seen or heard anything here that speaks of blasphemy. We should stay and hear more of this man’s testimony. Jonah, and Brech ignored the words of Joseph, leaving the riverbank swiftly riding back the way that they had come.

John noticed, the two men who remained standing, before him, so he addressed them:

Are you not among those, sent here to question me? Joseph nodded. Yes, I was sent to hear you. My young friend Lazarus and I came to hear you speak. I am here to hear your words. By your leave we shall remain here. We will listen, and pray for the wisdom to see and hear God’s truth.

The Lamb of God

John nodded, about to wade back into the Jordan when he noticed a man, walking slowly, down toward the river. Suddenly, John cried out: Behold the Lamb of God, comes here. I am not worthy, to stoop down, and untie his sandals.

Everyone in the crowd turned to see whom John had singled out. There, coming forward was a tall man, dressed in a plain white robe. He appeared to be close to the age of Lazarus. He was not remarkable in most respects. He wore a short beard and his face had an aspect that drew people’s gaze to him. He had brown eyes that were wide, and soft. His eyes, seemed to hold in their depths an inner strength and kindness. Without a word, the crowd parted as the man came forward to take John’s hand.

John said, Why have you come here to me? It is I who should have come to you. The man in white, spoke softly, let it be for now. It is just. John took the hands of the man in white helping him remove his outer robe and leading him into the river. John, gently lowered him into the water. The stranger arose from beneath the water and enormous peals of thunder resounded from the clear blue, cloudless sky. Sounds, echoing loudly off the hills, surrounding the river, shaking the earth. Everyone near the Jordan recoiled at the vast sounds, and their echoes.

Lazarus turned to Joseph, did you hear that? I thought I heard words in that thunder! Joseph nodded, yes, I heard that too. The voice said. This is my beloved son, in whom, I am well pleased. Is that what you heard Lazarus? Lazarus nodded, yes those are the words I heard. What can they mean? Joseph paused. I believe, we have heard, the voice of heaven. What else can it be? There must be great holiness in this stranger in white, who came here. Who can tell, what this means for the people of Israel in these times? Perhaps, we will be able to learn more about him in God’s good time."

The man in white put on his outer robe. He turned, facing Joseph, and Lazarus and smiled. Several men who seemed to be with him quickly surrounded him. One of them said, rabbi shall we wait here while you speak privately with John? The man in white responded, you may stay here if you will. I must go to be alone to fast and pray. I must go to learn what My Father commands me to do. With that the man in white slowly walked off, leaving the crowd. Lazarus, asked one of the men who had just spoken to the stranger. Who is the rabbi you just spoke to? The man answered, he is Jesus the son of the carpenter Joseph of Nazareth.

A baptism in the Jordan

Lazarus and Joseph remained in the crowd, and in their turn, both went to meet John, standing in the Jordan. When Lazarus came to John, the prophet paused looking deeply, into his eyes saying: What is your name? I am Lazarus Ben Isaac he replied. Lazarus, have you come here to sincerely renounce your sins? Lazarus answered in a firm voice, yes teacher, I have come, to seek forgiveness, for my sins. I am asking for God’s guidance in my life. John took Lazarus, in his arms immersing him in the Jordan. Lazarus rose from the water, as John said, I see no guile or deceit in this face. Take my hands Lazarus and rejoice in the gift of faith and fidelity that God has given you. Live your life free from sin.

When Joseph came forward John said: What is your name teacher of Israel? Joseph said in a quiet voice. I am Joseph a humble merchant a man who seeks God’s forgiveness for my sins. John took Joseph in his hands saying, ‘here is a teacher, in Israel who has wisdom, and the willingness, to seek God’s forgiveness. Return to the Sanhedrin and remind them of the need for the repentance of sin by God’s children. Tell them of the holy work done here. I seek not glory or the fine robes of office, I seek only the grace to do what God ordains.

Lazarus and Joseph left the Jordan. They knew Joseph would be at odds with Jonah and Brech before the Sanhedrin. That was a foregone conclusion even before this journey began. Neither Lazarus nor Joseph could find anything that would warrant, John’s punishment by the Sanhedrin. John said, or did anything that contradicted the law. They knew as they rode through the wastes, to the road southward neither Brech, nor Jonah would hold such a view. Joseph knew he would have to make a strong case to offset their words. He would have to trust that God would give him the wisdom he needed to sway the Sanhedrin.

Lazarus and Joseph wondered silently about the man in white, and the words, they seemed to hear from the sky. The two men had a feeling that their paths would cross with this stranger again.

A Testing in the Wilderness

Jesus followed his need to go off into the wastelands to seek God’s guidance. He walked among the broiling boulders and sharp stones. He found a small place of shadows where he could sit and pray. The silence of the land soon led him into a state where he could refocus his mind. His thoughts moved in a myriad of directions. Focusing his mind, he prayed.

"Father, I have heard your call and still, I am unsure if my time is near. Here amid these rocks let me hear your voice and feel your hands upon my shoulder. Guide me, that I may act as you would have it. Thus, Jesus prayed and remained in a prayerful state, for many scorching days and freezing nights. He fasted, finding small drops of water among the rocks, to ease his thirst.

One day, as he felt weak feverish, and quite alone, a buzzing noise, aroused him from his meditations. He was suddenly alert and a sibilant voice called to him.

Why do you languish here, alone and unheard. You have only, to heed my voice and attend to my words and the world can be yours in an instant. Why suffer here in pain and uncertainty, when I can grant you power, and assurance. This is power, mine to grant to whom I will. Can you not, turn these very stones into bread by a single thought? Cannot water be brought from these rocks as in the desert ages ago? While you languish here I have come to free you from torment. You need only to adore me, and the power I am, and all you lack, will be yours.

In those final words Jesus knew who had come to assail him in his fasting and prayers. Gathering his spirit, Jesus spoke with power and strength. Be gone Satan. I know your lying voice lurking here, among these rocks. It is written, only God shall man worship and adore, none other. Men live not by bread alone but by the words of God who speaks always to those he loves. Flee back to your depths to brood and plot. You have no power over me. Jesus heard an angry hiss, and in that instant, he felt the hands of his father lying lovingly upon his shoulders. He felt a great surge of joy as he heard the voice he knew so well. My son, your time here is now done. Arise, and go back to those, whom I sent to you to teach and heal. I shall give you, the words and wisdom, you need, to change this world. Speak to me often, I will hear your voice, and guide your steps. Find strength, in my spirit that dwells within you. Arise and go forward, to meet the world that awaits you.

Thus, it was, Jesus was renewed. He was not abandoned in this blasted land knowing now what he was called to do.

II: Marching Men

Not all prisoners are in iron shackles.

Joseph and Lazarus approached the road south to Jerusalem. They suddenly saw a cloud of dust rising in the air just north of their position. The dust cloud meant groups of mounted men were heading their way. Given the dangers on the roads, both men were concerned. They hoped those coming their way were not a band of thieves or zealots. If this group contained either of those two they would be in mortal danger. Immediately both men retreated into the brush seeking shelter behind some large boulders. In time, they heard horses and the tramping feet of a large group of men. Soon, two columns of mounted Roman cavalry came into view scouting both sides of the road. Recognizing these were Roman soldiers, Joseph, and Lazarus rode forward and two of the mounted soldiers stopped to question them.

You two, why were you lurking in the brush? Lazarus addressed the rider, we are merchants, on our way south to Jerusalem. We have come from the Jordan where a great preacher is teaching the people. We paused here, when we saw a large cloud of dust. We feared an attack by a band of zealots or bandits. We are relieved to see the legion of Rome. May we follow your column southward for protection?

The trooper, who questioned them regarded Lazarus, and Joseph with some suspicion, very well come into the road and ride at the rear of our column. As they entered the road the marching column of a Roman cohort came into closer view. A mounted senior tribune was leading the column of marching soldiers rode by. The tribune, paid no mind, at all, to Lazarus and Joseph waiting to join them in the rear of the column. Joseph watched as a large group prisoners shuffled by. They were shackled in chains and bound