No Second Coming

By Caleb Glaser

When the young and newly married rabbi Zacchaeus, living in first-century Jericho, loses both his career and his social position, he must look for a way to support his young family outside what is deemed acceptable in his community. Struggling to balance his material needs with the demands of his conscience, he finds himself entangled with a powerful and dangerous man. Just as everything appears to have settled in his favor, events beyond his control shatter the young family and leave the former rabbi wondering whether God is punishing him for the choices he has made. Then, quite unexpectedly, he meets someone who revolutionizes how he sees himself and what he believes about God.

No Second Coming is the unexpected story of the life of Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector of Jericho from the Gospel of Luke, who climbs a tree to see the man from Galilee and finds a very different Jesus than the one we've come to know.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Covenant Books, Inc.
• Release date: Sep 18, 2023
• ISBN: 9798886449129

Book preview

Table of Contents

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About the Author

cover.jpg

No Second Coming

Caleb Glaser

ISBN 979-8-88644-911-2 (Paperback)

ISBN 979-8-88644-913-6 (Hardcover)

ISBN 979-8-88644-912-9 (Digital)

Copyright © 2023 Caleb Glaser

All rights reserved

First Edition

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods without the prior written permission of the publisher. For permission requests, solicit the publisher via the address below.

Covenant Books

11661 Hwy 707

Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

www.covenantbooks.com

For Liam

Don't look for the second coming when we haven't done anything with the first!

—Doug

Don't ask God to do alone what God has asked us to do together.

—Doug

It won't happen unless we happen it.

—Caleb

Acknowledgements

Thanks to my sister Catherine for all her tireless work, and especially to my dearest friend, Doug, without whom this novel would not exist.

1

The young rabbi stepped up to the table and carefully unrolled the scroll. He began to read. The spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.

He allowed the scroll to roll up. He looked out at those who sat before him. Many were men he had known since he was a boy. He cleared his throat and smiled. How much are we in need of a prophet like Isaiah today? So much has changed since those times, yet our needs are still the same. There are still the blind, the poor, and the oppressed, all of whom need the Lord's favor. This is why there are rabbis and scholars, this is why we come to the synagogue: to hear what the Lord has already done for us, to be filled with that hope of what the Lord will still do for us, and to spread that hope to others, as the prophet Isaiah did. We might not all be prophets. But we are all called to share in that same work of bringing this hope to others. The faces in front of him all smiled and nodded. The young rabbi gave a small nod and walked respectfully back to his seat.

An older rabbi stood up and addressed the room. My son Zacchaeus has only been married a few weeks and already it has made him so much wiser. Everyone laughed. Let us end today by praying in thanksgiving for prophets like Isaiah, whom the Lord has sent to guide us, and let us pray that we always listen to those whom the Lord sends. There were murmurs of agreement, and everyone stood.

Several of the rabbis approached Zacchaeus as he made his way out. Very well read, young man, the one named Solomon said. You are both eloquent and insightful.

Zacchaeus bowed his head. I just try to say what the words say to me.

You do it well. Solomon leaned in a little closer. A few of us get together at my house on Thursday evenings. You would be most welcome.

Thank you, I would be honored.

Good! Solomon smiled and then walked off, followed by the others.

Zacchaeus's father approached him. You did a fine job, my son.

The young rabbi smiled. Thank you!

And how is Sarah? A mischievous grin spread across the older man's face. I haven't seen or heard from you in almost a week, so I assume things are going well.

Zacchaeus beamed. Sarah is well, thank you.

I saw that Solomon spoke with you.

He said that I was insightful. He invited me to his house with some of the others on Thursday evening.

His father nodded. I thought he might.

What do you mean?

Solomon and the other Pharisees meet regularly at his house. The Sadducees meet at Mordecai's house. His father sighed. Just be careful. Don't let their flattery get to you.

I won't, Zacchaeus responded seriously.

His father patted him on the shoulder. Go, he said, I won't keep you from her any longer.

Zacchaeus grinned and walked off quickly toward his home.

Sarah was at the doorway when he arrived. As he stepped through the door, she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him.

He laughed and pulled her arms down. At least let me take off my sandals!

She grinned, then wrapped her arms around him again, this time more dramatically. No.

He kissed her. All right then.

How did it go at the synagogue? She asked as she led him inside the small house.

Zacchaeus shrugged and smiled. I think they liked it. Some of the rabbis congratulated me afterward.

That's good! I'm sure your father was proud. She smiled at him and then said, If only my father had been there and heard you preach, maybe he would be happier about our marriage.

Zacchaeus scoffed. I think I would have fainted if I saw your father in the synagogue when I got up to speak! They both laughed. I'm just grateful that he finally gave you permission to marry me. I don't need him to like me too.

Sarah squeezed his hand. Well, I like you enough for both of us.

Later, as they ate the meal that Sarah had prepared the day before, Zacchaeus said, My father believes that the council will offer me the position of Steward of the Temple Tithe. Normally, it's reserved for an older rabbi, so it will be an honor if they offer it to me. He paused. The position comes with a stipend.

That's wonderful! Will it be enough for you to continue teaching without looking for other work?

His face and voice became animated. Yes, I think so. Also, more and more of my students are asking for lessons in Greek, Latin, and arithmetic. If I can give enough lessons, we should have more than enough to live on, even when we start to have children.

Sarah smiled and said quietly, God willing.

Of course he wills it! Zacchaeus declared excitedly.

She gave him a look, and he calmed down. Then she said, Don't forget that we have to visit my father after Sabbath.

He sighed and nodded. We can go tomorrow, after my lessons.

2

Early the next morning, Zacchaeus went out quietly and walked up into the hills that surrounded Jericho. The sun had just risen above the Jordan when he reached the crest. He looked out over the city for a moment while he caught his breath. Then he found his usual spot and knelt down to pray.

After some time, he rose and went back down toward the city, but instead of tracing his earlier route, he turned south and walked until he came to a large house that stood on the outskirts of the city. He climbed the steps on the side of the structure that led up to the roof. There, under the shade of a canvas canopy, a young man sat at a table with a drink. The young man saw Zacchaeus and smiled but didn't rise from his seat. Good morning, my friend! Come, join me for some milk and bread.

Good morning, Daniel! Thank you, I will. Zacchaeus sat across from his friend and took a piece of bread. The view from the roof was exquisite. To the east, the city of Jericho sprawled out with the glittering Jordan beyond it. To the north and west lay the hills he had descended. To the south was the canyon of the Wadi Kelt, which during the rainy season ran from the hills into the river. On either side of the Kelt, only a short walk from the house, lay the grand summer palaces of the kings. So, how are things at the palace? Zacchaeus asked between mouthfuls.

Daniel swallowed his tea. I try not to think about my work while I'm home.

Zacchaeus chuckled. It must be difficult with this view, he said, motioning toward the palaces.

Fortunately, I'm not responsible for the grounds—not yet anyway—so for now I can enjoy the view without too much anxiety. He paused and then inquired slyly, How's married life?

Zacchaeus shrugged but couldn't conceal his smile.

Don't try to act all casual with me, Zacchaeus. I've known you since before you could walk. It's everything you've ever wanted, isn't it? Besides, Sarah is a very beautiful woman. She could have married any man she wanted, and she chose you, despite your stature.

Zacchaeus laughed and nodded. Everything you say is true. It is wonderful, but it's different than I had imagined it would be.

Daniel raised an eyebrow. How so?

Zacchaeus shrugged again. Sarah is lovely, but I've always wanted a family of my own. So now that I'm married, I feel impatient to have children.

Daniel laughed. Zacchaeus, you've always been the same. The moment you climb one hill, you look for another to climb.

That's strange to hear, coming from you. You'll be administrator for all of Judaea at the rate you're going.

Daniel chuckled. At least I get paid for my ambition.

There are many different kinds of rewards, my friend. Money is only one of them, and not the greatest at that.

Daniel raised his eyebrows. Don't start all that wise nonsense here, Rabbi. This house is hardly a synagogue.

Zacchaeus smiled affectionately at his friend, taking another piece of bread as he rose from his seat. I'll see you next week.

Always good to see you, Zacchaeus. Daniel watched his friend disappear and smiled to himself.

As he turned back onto his own street, Zacchaeus saw a small group of young men standing in front of his house. Their lively chatter quieted when they saw him, and they shifted about nervously. He approached and studied them all without speaking. Most were taller than he, but still thin and boyish in their features. Finally, he said, It's going to be hot today. Let's go down to the river and find a good tree to sit under. The group all murmured appreciatively.

They made their way through the city, chatting freely as they went. Zacchaeus asked each boy about his family's health. Their conversation was constantly interrupted by people on the street who greeted the rabbi warmly. His young students were used to this and waited patiently while he returned the warm greetings.

When they at last reached the river, it was already hot. The young rabbi led his group toward a large fig tree that stood along the road, close to the bank of the Jordan. The branches of the tree arced widely from the trunk, creating a shady area beneath it. Zacchaeus seated himself with his back against the trunk. His students sat around him.

It is written that Joshua entered into Judaea here, in Jericho, at the banks of the Jordan. It was a land full of hostile people, yet God decided that our ancestors should enter it and possess it. Why would God give us a land that was hostile? He looked at the faces of the young men seated around him. His gaze fell on one boy who looked down at the ground. Jonathon, what do you think?

The boy's face tightened in concentration as he looked up. Perhaps he wants to test us?

Zacchaeus smiled. It does seem that way sometimes, doesn't it? But why does God want to test us?

To make us stronger? another student ventured.

Yes, to make us stronger. What else? the rabbi persisted. Think of this, what would have happened if God had led our ancestors to a peaceful and bountiful place? There was silence from the students. Would Joshua have led the whole company of Israel together to march around a city praising God?

No, several of the boys said together.

Why not?

Because they wouldn't have needed to.

Ahh, Zacchaeus said excitedly. So, if God had given us a paradise, then perhaps we would have done the same as Adam and his wife in the paradise that God gave them. Perhaps we would have forgotten that we need God—he stretched out his hands toward them—and each other. The story of the nation of Israel and her many struggles is the story of God reminding us that we need him and that we need each other. Each time we forget that, God sends us painful reminders. This is what the prophets tell us.

Is that what the Romans are? Jonathon asked. A painful reminder from God?

Zacchaeus laughed and shrugged. Perhaps. We are told that his ways are not our ways.

After the lesson, they walked back into the city. The students thanked their teacher, and each went his own way. When all the young men had left, Zacchaeus turned toward home.

His father was waiting for him when he arrived. Under his arm was a bundle of scrolls. The older man smiled when he saw his son approaching. Zacchaeus embraced him. Abba, what brings you here? It's too hot for you to be waiting outside. You should have gone in with Sarah.

His father shook his head and smiled again. I wanted to wait for you here. The Council has approved you to take the position of steward of the temple tithe. Here. He handed the bundle of scrolls to Zacchaeus. I have brought you all the records so you can familiarize yourself with them.

Zacchaeus reached for the bundle eagerly. Oh, this is wonderful! We have to tell Sarah. Come inside!

His father hesitated. You tell her and enjoy it. I have some things I still have to do.

Are you sure? We won't keep you long.

No, no. Go in and tell your wife the good news. Congratulations, my son.

Zacchaeus hugged him again. Thank you, Abba.

The older man left, and Zacchaeus rushed inside.

Sarah put down what she was doing when he entered. She looked quizzically from the bundle of scrolls to his beaming face.

My love! Zacchaeus began breathlessly. The council at the synagogue has given me the position of steward for the tithe.

Sarah's eyes went wide. So soon? Then she smiled brightly. That's wonderful! Praise God!

Zacchaeus put the bundle down carefully and wrapped his wife in a passionate embrace. We've been richly blessed.

You can tell my father tonight! she said excitedly, pulling her face back from where it was buried in his robe and beaming up at him. He'll be so proud!

3

Sarah's father lived at the top of a hill overlooking the Jordan. The house was not large, but it had been carefully designed and comfortably furnished. The door was opened by a middle-aged servant woman, whom Sarah immediately embraced. Ruth!

Hello, my dear, the servant responded. Come in, come in! Your father is in the courtyard. She led the couple through the entryway into a small courtyard shaded by a canvas canopy. Sarah's father was reclining on pillows beneath the canvas. Asher, your daughter and your new son are here, the servant called out before leaving them.

Hello! Asher said as they entered. He sat up with apparent effort. Sarah immediately embraced him, almost causing him to fall back again.

Hello, Papa!

Hello, hello, he said again, patting her gently on the head.

Zacchaeus stood a few steps away with his hands clasped in front of him. After a few moments, the father looked up and said, Hello, young man. I trust everything is well?

Yes, sir, everything is wonderful. I—

Good, good. Asher turned back to his daughter, and the two began a conversation that lasted for some time.

The servant brought out more pillows for the guests, and the meal was served in the courtyard. Asher never moved from his place, and Sarah remained next to him. Every so often, she would look over at Zacchaeus and smile, and he would smile back. It was obvious that she was happy. When they had finished eating, Sarah insisted on helping Ruth clean up.

There was silence between the two men for a long moment. Finally, Zacchaeus said, My friend Daniel tells me that the king is making plans to add a large addition to the palace next season.

Mhhh, Asher grunted. They are always building more and more there. The Hasmoneans love to pretend they're real kings.

There was another silence. Sarah walked back in. She looked at Zacchaeus as she sat beside her father once again. Did you tell him?

Asher looked at Sarah and smiled. Tell me what?

Zacchaeus has been given the position of steward of the temple tithe.

Ah, that's wonderful. He turned to Zacchaeus. I hope there's a stipend for that.

Zacchaeus nodded. There is.

Good, good. Being a rabbi is a noble and holy thing, so long as you can support your family. He gave Zacchaeus a serious look.

Of course, the young rabbi replied quickly. I'll always find a way to support your daughter, sir. I made that promise when you allowed us to marry, and I intend to keep it.

Asher only gave him a thin smile in reply. Then he turned again to his daughter and took her hand in his. Oh, my girl, you look more and more like your mother every time I see you. A tear formed in his eye. Don't forget, he said quietly, if you ever need anything, you always have a home here with me.

Sarah embraced him again. Thank you, Papa! I'm so happy. Everything is working out so well.

*****

Zacchaeus was quiet as they walked back toward their small house. Sarah talked excitedly. He's so wonderful with me. He always was. I know that you both haven't exactly seen eye-to-eye on everything, but I knew the two of you would get along eventually. I think he was really pleased about your new position!

Was he? Zacchaeus asked.

Of course! You know Papa, he just doesn't say much.

Zacchaeus sighed. Well, I'm glad you think so. I think it'll be wonderful for us.

I know it will be! Can you imagine bringing our little baby to Papa's house for the first time?

Zacchaeus brightened. I can't wait.

Sarah gave Zacchaeus a long look. Well, let's not wait, then. She grabbed his hand, and they walked more quickly through the streets toward their home.

4

Zacchaeus stood outside the door of Rabbi Solomon's house and knocked. It was opened by an older boy who came up to the young rabbi's shoulders. From inside the house came the lively sound of children.

Hello, Jonathon! Zacchaeus said to the familiar face of his young student.

Jonathon smiled. Hello, Rabbi.

Who's at the door? boomed a voice from another room.

It's Rabbi Zacchaeus, Rabbi Eli's son, Jonathon shouted back.

Well, don't just stand there staring at him—show him in! Solomon strode into view. Come in, come in! He lightly pushed his son out of the way and beckoned Zacchaeus inside.

The house was buzzing with that energy that erupts when guests enter a house filled with children. Small voices chattered away, and there was an incessant patter of feet. Zacchaeus smiled as Solomon led him to a room at the back of the house where four other men were reclining on cushions. They were in the midst of a heated discussion. Zacchaeus recognized them from the synagogue. One of them, named James, was saying, And it's intolerable that they should be allowed to openly proclaim such ideas. It's practically blasphemy! To imply that somehow the Laws of Moses don't all apply to us today because—what? Because the world has changed? Because we are occupied? The world hasn't changed! We had been prisoners in Egypt when the Laws were given to Moses. Following the Law is how we freed ourselves from that slavery! When the Assyrians conquered us and exiled us in Babylon, it was because we had stopped following the Law, and it was returning to the Law that returned us here, to the land which we have been promised.

The other men in the room all nodded their heads in agreement. Friends, young Zacchaeus is joining us tonight, Solomon interjected. Please, make him feel welcome. They all smiled and murmured greetings. Solomon took a seat, and Zacchaeus did the same. We have been discussing how there are some Jews who believe and promote the idea that the Law of Moses is somehow outdated and needs to be adjusted to meet the changing times. It is my opinion, and the opinion of some of those who are here tonight—I don't think I'm too bold in saying—that Greek thinking has twisted the minds of too many Jews with its philosophy and tolerance of hedonism and decadence. Admittedly, there are some Greeks who argue against such things, but even they still deny God his rightful place. We, as his chosen people, must hold on to that and fight for that with every fiber of our being. He paused. I wonder what our young Rabbi Zacchaeus has to say about this.

Zacchaeus began slowly. I believe that we are the chosen people of God and that we must be careful never to forget that, or to forget what that means.

And what does that mean? Solomon asked.

"It means that we are one people and that we can't let anything divide us, whether it is Greek philosophy or Roman soldiers. We must stay together. That is