The audio and visuals, black and misty blue, are ominous. It soon feels like we are walking in a forest at night, passing by men who are asleep on the ground. Some of them we now recognize as Jesus's apostles, and then see a large snake slithering among them, rapidly heading toward Jesus, who is on His knees praying! Jesus strikes the ground with His fist and turns to face the snake.
A woman suddenly awakes in morning light from her opulent bed, breathing heavily from her nightmare. Her surroundings are Roman. She hears distressed cries so goes out her door to investigate, and recoils in horror when seeing men being crucified outside her palace. Her husband is Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea. She says to him inquiringly, "Four more—and so early in the morning?" He counters, "What time of day is an ideal time to die? I'm a governor, not a philosopher." "It's excessive!" says his wife. "The people already resent you and Tiberius will be loath to hear of another insurrection." Pilate responds, "Four convicted revolutionaries, Jewish Zealots, darling. Leave the governing to me, hmm?" He urges her to go back to bed, but she tells him she has not been sleeping well. Before turning to leave, Pilate makes the light suggestion that his wife goes out to pick some flowers. She asks where he is going and he provocatively tells her he has a date—with an old friend. She says, "You don't have friends." He replies, "I do so." She clarifies, "You have valuable contacts, people you find useful, strategic acquaintances." Pilate quips, "Maybe you should be governor," fitting on a snake armband that catches his wife's attention, instantly reminding her of her nightmare. He lightly kisses her goodbye and leaves her wondering what her dream might mean.
Most of Jesus's apostles are grouped together outside, uncharacteristically sharpening weapons. Simon Zee, the former Zealot, is seated by himself. Matthew walks into the group and wonders why they are doing what they are doing. Thaddaeus says it is because the ministry is becoming more serious after the healing of the bleeding woman and Jairus's daughter, and they are becoming worried. Big James is concerned that power went out from Jesus without His consent. Thaddaeus says that Jesus looked like He was gut punched. Nathanael counters that if they used weapons, someone could have gotten hurt. Philip adds that their interfering might have kept the woman from being healed. Zee says, "I assessed that He was in no real danger." Little James says, "He just wanted to know who touched Him." Philip responds, "Yes, He praised Her faith. He called her Daughter." Now Thaddaeus wonders if their new paranoia is actually harmful.
The subject changes to Simon being too busy to sharpen his own wife's kitchen knives because he has been busy working with his new Roman friend, Gaius, on the town cistern. That surprises Matthew, who used to work for Gaius and the Romans as a tax collector before following Jesus. He responds, "Gaius is not an evil man." John objects, accusing Simon and Matthew both of being friends with a terrorist. Matthew responds, "Gaius has been ruthless, but he is not like other Roman soldiers I have met." Big James states, "Associating with him could hurt our reputation with the pilgrims in the tent city." Little James asks, "Do we have a reputation?" Philip observes, "Reputation has never really seemed like a priority of His." That prompts the apostles to quietly contemplate their Lord, but Matthew breaks the silence by asking if he should be sharpening a weapon. Simon, who once hated Matthew, pays him a surprise compliment in a joking way by saying Matthew has the sharpest weapons of all: his mind and his pen, for he has been faithfully recording what Jesus has been saying and doing.
Nathanael walks over to Zee, concerned, noticing he is intently sharpening a dagger, not a mere kitchen knife. Nathanael tries to draw him out, but Zee plainly states, "I'm not sure I can trust you with information." Nathanael says fine, but calls to Little James as he walks away and consults with him briefly. Little James walks over, sits down, and says earnestly, "Hey, Zee: what's going on?" Zee sighs, looks him in the eye, and says, "Members of the Order have tracked me to Capernaum." "Dangerous men?" inquires Little James. "Lethal," states Zee. "So tell Jesus," advises James. Zee says, "These men train a lifetime for one thing: to kill. Jesus cannot be involved." James reminds him, "You don't solve problems with a dagger anymore, Zee." Zee does not want to put Jesus in danger, but James says, "Let Him decide that." Little James is momentarily distracted by conversation about Big James and John's father, Zebedee, but when he turns back, Zee and the dagger are gone.
Gaius walks into the headquarters of his boss, Praetor Quintus, who is in a foul mood because he knows that his boss, Governor Pontius Pilate, is meeting with the imperial cohort Atticus, who openly disdains Quintus. Quintus grumbles, "He's telling on me like a meddling little brother! He's there right now, slandering our oversight of Capernaum. I need a recommendation from Pilate if I ever hope to receive a promotion." Gaius dryly states, "Your record speaks for itself, Dominus." Quintus angrily replies, "You have utterly failed me in the tent city, and worst of all, they have no money! No one works. They're waiting around for a spectacle from the Preacher, who I thought we were done with, and jailing them costs money." Gaius asks how he can make things right. Quintus hastily says, "Kill Jesus of Nazareth publicly! But then they will revolt and it gets bloody and I hate the wailing! Anyway, we're not savages. Let's get rid of the tent city." Gaius, stunned, asks how. Quintus gives a series of nasty suggestions on making the place too cold, dark and miserable to stay. Gaius says, "I know what I must do, Dominus," and walks away.
It is night and several apostles are asleep. From the inside of one of their houses we see that someone is attempting to break in. It is a young man straining to look at faces when he gets inside, but he stumbles, which wakes up Andrew and Philip. That gladdens the young man, who calls them by name and reminds them that he is Leander from Naveh, where they were preaching as a team. Judas brandishes a weapon and orders Leander to drop his knife. Leander humbly apologizes, setting it aside and saying he forgot he still had it in his hands, for he used it to lift the door latch from the outside.
Andrew and Philip are confused and want to know why he is there. Leander was the young man who escorted them out when the Council said they had to go. He tells them, "The Decapolis is up in arms because of you." "What are you talking about?" demands Andrew, adding, "We didn't go to any cities in the Decapolis." Leander explains, "People from there heard you in Naveh, like me, and not everyone took your preaching as well as I did. The consequences of your mission were disastrous! The Decapolis is mostly Hellenist (Greek), but it is also a melting pot: Jews, Romans, Seleucids (Syrians), and Arabians." Judas says that sounds messy and Leander agrees, stating they were barely managing to get along, but Andrew and Philip's preaching had an explosive effect. Philip responds that they were only preaching to Jews, but Leander explains, "It doesn't matter who you were there for: a few Greeks overheard and some Jews kept sharing what you said. Before you know it, a few Greeks quit worshiping Olympian gods or stopped reading the auspices. That made people angry so they turned on the Jews. The Jews closed ranks and sent the Hellenists and sympathizers out of their communities." Judas comments, "You guys really turned the place upside down!"
Leander continues, "You said your teachings were interrupted, incomplete." Philip quickly explains, "Not by choice—we were sent away!" Leander adds, "What you did say spread to the 10 cities of the Decapolis. The tensions we have in Naveh boiled up everywhere." "It's the new wineskins bursting the old," observes Philip, remembering Jesus's recent lesson on that topic. Leander says earnestly, "The people want to hear more. They're hungry for the words of your Rabbi, Jesus." Andrew tells him, "It was an isolated mission. We were sent out two by two for a specific time to strengthen and unify our people." Leander objects, "Your mission can't be over! It's brother against brother out there! Is that what you meant for us?" "Of course not," answers Andrew. "Then come back and finish what you started," requests Leander.
In the morning, Tamar greets Mary Magdalene, but soon starts complaining about the taste of the olives from the grove they invested in. She observed that the grapes taste sweet so decides they need to talk with the best growers to learn how they treat their soil. Tamar notices that Mary seems cold toward her so sits down where Mary is writing and asks, "Are we okay?" Mary stops writing and says, "I thought you were rude to Zebedee," James and John's father, who recently bought the olive grove. "At the oil tasting?" inquires Tamar. Mary says yes. Tamar says, "I didn't mean to be, but I believed he was asking our opinion." "Well, you gave it," says Mary. "I don't think I've ever heard a woman speak to an elder like that." "What else?" inquires Tamar, explaining, "I do have a right to be concerned when it comes to our work. This business is our contribution to the ministry."
Mary responds, "We have more to contribute that just supporting financially." "You're right," Tamar concedes, but then adds with a mild tone of frustration, "You always know what to say. You even correct the boys when they fight." This leads to feelings Mary has been holding back since Jesus healed Tamar's paralyzed friend: "You pushed your way forward, you tore the roof off a house, and then proclaimed for all to hear: 'I know You can do this!' And the first words out of His mouth were, 'Your faith is beautiful.' Do you know where Jesus found me? In a bar, drunk, possessed. I pray every day I will never be anywhere without Him again." Tamar wonders if Mary resents how Jesus met them. Mary says, "Of course not! It's just that I think we should be more humble. I'm doing everything I can day after day and I'm afraid I'm still broken. I worry I will never be enough."
Tamar says tenderly, "Mary, you are amazing! Can't you see it?" "I don't think we're supposed to see it," says Mary. "I can't imagine doing what you do. I struggle to understand your entitlement. Where is your curiosity? You don't even know the pain of our people or our ways. You just show up and do everything loudly and boldly! You do everything right." Tamar responds, "Well, I apologize—I am sorry for the shame and regret that you feel. Truly, it must be very painful. But Jesus forgave you, and you choose to hold onto it. And just because I'm not Jewish doesn't mean I don't know pain. You don't know what it cost me to get here." Tamar slowly removes the decorative necklace Mary previously suggested Tamar sell and points out the dried blood on it, explaining, "I come from a war-torn country. My brother and I were on a trip to unearth minerals for the family business. And when we returned, our village had been wiped out by a rival clan, including my father and my mother. This necklace, which has been passed down through generations—that I didn't want to sell for just oats!—still has my mother's blood on it."
Both women are softly crying by now. Mary helps Tamar reclasp the necklace and tells her, "I lost my father suddenly too, and the thing he gave me to remember him by, I tore up and threw away." Tamar says, "I should have told you sooner." Mary comforts her and responds, "I judged your strength against my weakness, and pitied myself. Forgive me? I'd do well to have some of what you have. My head is spinning! I don't know the right thing to say." Tamar says "Finally!" in a way that makes them both laugh. Mary adds, "I appreciate how hard you've worked on the olive grove." She suggests going for a nice walk to visit the best vineyard in town to learn about their soil. Tamar agrees they could use the fresh air, but stops and says, "Mary, I could use more of what you have too—maybe not the shame, but the gratitude." "Fair enough," says Mary before they head out together.
Pontius Pilate watches Atticus ride up to his fancy Roman tent for their wilderness meeting. Pilate giddily walks up to Atticus, saying, "Did I do it?" Atticus responds flatly, "What, announce your position to any opportunist that happens by?" Pilate is satisfied, saying he wanted to find a way to annoy Atticus, and all it took was six men and the stupid tent! Atticus responds, "What can I say, Well done?" "You know how easy I am to amuse," says Pilate. "No, you are definitely not easily amused," says Atticus, who obviously feels free to contradict him. "I was expecting wine and women," he adds. Pilate reminds Atticus he is married, but admits to reading Miles Gloriosus by Plautus while he was waiting: "It's hilarious! Have you read it?" "About the vainglorious, swaggering, braggard soldier. What are you saying?" asks Atticus with a serious look. Pilate suddenly looks concerned. Atticus says, "I had you!" "You did not!" counters Pilate. "I did," affirms Atticus. "Yes, you did!" admits Pilate. "Why are you charming? Haven't you been undercover for a year?" That's how long it has been since they have seen one another.
Atticus tells him he has had to deal with a foil the past several months, the Praetor of upper Galilee, adding, "He slips occasionally and claims the whole of Israel." Pilate says, "Hmm, I'll kill him. Wait, Galilee does well." Atticus affirms, "Yeah, don't kill him." Pilate says, "Let me think. His name is Quintus, revenues are strong, he was reprimanded for use of force last year." "That's him," says Atticus, "and he'd be all too honored by your recital. He's the kind of man that wants to be remembered." Pilate, looking reflective, says, "We are very different then. My problem with his reprimand is that I have been reprimanded for my use of force. If word spreads that everyone in Israel is heavy handed, then I have to be even less forceful. How was the repartee?" Atticus admits, "I tormented him just for you." Pilate thanks him, but wants Atticus to back up and tell him what brought him to Capernaum in the first place.
Tamar and Mary are digging through pots of minerals at Matthew's house, sorry for not having aprons on to protect their dresses. Mary says, "I think we are going to need a lot more wood ash." Zebedee walks in the room where they are working with a wondering look on his face. Tamar says, "We have been waiting for you. There is so much to do!" Mary explains, "We have solved the olive problem." Zebedee says, "I thought it was just the way the oil was made that upset you. There's a problem with the olives themselves, other than them being too dark?" Tamar says, "They were terrible: they tasted like sour milk and wet hay!" Mary adds, "We knew it had something to do with the soil." Tamar continues, "So Mary introduces us to some grape vendors that she used to know at The Hammer," the local bar. Zebedee asks, "Are these good men, Mary?" "Not really," answers Mary, "but they know the ground." "And they showed us ways to improve the quality of the soil of the grove that we purchased," says Tamar. "First, we add wood ash to the topsoil near the roots." Mary says they therefore need Zebedee to go to each of the disciples' houses and have them bring whatever ash they have, and then send them out to town, offering to clean out people's wood-burning stoves.
"All of the disciples?" asks Zebedee. "I'm not sure I have the authority. What if Jesus needs them?" Mary reminds him that no one has seen Him since the last healings, so she figures they should try to be productive with the time they have while they wait for Him. Tamar includes this reminder: "He did give us His blessing on purchasing the grove so we could support Him out of our own means." Zebedee inquires about the other soil nutrients they have on their table and learns they are water, vinegar, and pine needles. According to the grape growers, those things "make the trees sing." Mary adds, "They said it's like magic, but not sinful." Zebedee quips, "That's an important detail!" Tamar says there is one more ingredient needed, sulphur, which the growers said to add to the wood ash. "So we need you to go to the market and buy as much as they have available," adds Mary. Zebedee is taking all these instructions mildly, but when he takes a deep breath, Mary suggests he asks one of the boys to help him—perhaps Big James.
Zebedee says, "I'm not sure I have the cash to buy up all the sulphur the vendors have available." Tamar informs him that their Roman benefactor Joanna sent more money and Judas put it in the safe upstairs. Mary tells Zebedee she will get it for him. Zebedee says, "If James and John had been as enthusiastic and hardworking as you two, I'd be retired and living in a mansion because I'd be rich from catching so much fish, hmm?" Tamar is so hardworking, she keeps on working with the soil and doesn't get the joke. Zebedee remains patient and pleasant.
Mary, upstairs in Matthew's opulent house, approaches a bound chest with large key to open the padlock. While looking to find the money pouch from Joanna, she notices an antique box containing 4 tzitzit or prayer tassels ordinarily attached to a Jewish man's garment. She finds the pouch and relocks the chest, but stares ahead, wondering about those tassels.
Atticus, sitting with Pilate, tells him that the tent city outside Capernaum's walls is growing by the day. "In hopes of seeing the peaceful Preacher?" asks Pilate. "Peaceful and magnetic. I think Quintus is out of his depths," responds Atticus. They both take time to admire the view from where they are sitting. Pilate breaks the silence: "They say this is a backwater, you know? A bad assignment, a punishment even." "I guess we're sharing the same cell then," says Atticus. Pilate looks at him and smiles, saying, "I'm content. I don't want to rule over a warring nation in important times. I like the sea. I like the people: they're poetic and complicated, except Caiaphas—horrible man!" Atticus says, "For a moment there, you almost sounded like a holy man yourself." Pilate scoffs and says, "I wish! I can't see ten cubits in front of my face most days. I just want peace. I want the people to get what they want, for Rome to be sated." Atticus remarks, "Sometimes peace takes a war." Pilate nods slightly and then whistles and snaps at his soldiers, saying, "I do thank you, Atticus, for the intelligence and I trust you. If the Peaceful Preacher or His Movement ever become something I need to know about, I will need your counsel and I will listen. Unlike Quintus, I understand your interest. Until then, learn all you can." Atticus nods respectfully and Pilate concludes, "Take care of yourself, Atticus," who responds, "I will see you soon, Governor Pilate."
Simon is eating a meal with his wife and indicating that he finds it particularly delicious, but Eden looks down and away from him. When he compliments her on the soup and quizzes her about it, she says, "You've had it before, Simon." Not deterred, he declares, "Today it is a beautiful thing, fit for kings!" Simon extends his compliments to Eden herself, but just when it looks like she is starting to soften in her demeanor, they are interrupted by urgent knocking at their door. It is James and John, telling about two men who need to deliver a message from John the Baptizer to Jesus. They want someone to quiz those men to make sure they are legitimate disciples of John's and not spies, and discern the importance of the message. Simon rudely shuts the door on them, insisting it can wait until morning, and then turns to boast to his wife that he can say no to work. She is no longer there.
In the morning, James and John lead Simon to the two men, Avner and Nadab. The men are gracious, saying James and John are right to be cautious since there are strict edicts coming out of Jerusalem about false prophecy. Simon asks questions to discern if they know his brother, Andrew, who was one of John's disciples, but is not there since he went back with Philip and Leander to try to make things right in the Decapolis region. Simon first wants to know if Andrew is a fine dancer. The men immediately start laughing, which has a ring of truth since at the wedding where Jesus turned water into wine, Andrew is described as looking like a donkey walking on hot coals when he dances! The men handle another personal question about Andrew correctly, and when they explain they got the message from John in maximum-security prison through Joanna in Herod's court, Simon believes them and asks about their message.
Nearby Simon Zee is posing as a tent dweller, seated by his tent and carefully looking for members of the Zealot order. Soon he sees one staring directly at him, but the man suddenly vanishes. Zee rises to his feet and slowly walks to spot him. When he does, the man starts walking toward him. Zee turns around, only to face another Zealot. When he notices the first Zealot has his hand on a dagger at his waist. Zee quickly turns again, but faces a third Zealot ready to draw his dagger.
The scene shifts to Gaius in the vicinity, patrolling through the tent city, but not following Quintus's orders to cause trouble to the tent dwellers. Instead, he looks on them with compassion and actually helps some of the pilgrims move a heavy object.
Zee's breathing becomes heavy as the three Zealots close in on him. He folds his hands on his chest and closes his eyes as he silently prays, slowly falling to his knees. He faces the first man he saw and tells him, "I recognize you from the Order." That man tells Zee what he himself was trained to say: "Mine will be the last face you see." Zee nods his head affirmatively and says softly, "I suppose you could kill me, but my Rabbi's will be the face that awaits me in heaven." The man asks, "Is that why you turned traitor?" Zee explains, "I joined the Order to fight for the Messiah's coming. And He is here, brothers."
They suddenly overhear and then see Gaius in his Roman uniform as he talks kindly with tent dwellers, offering to help with a damaged tent. The first Zealot gestures and says, "I'm certain that is a Roman soldier. Taxes are still collected." "Yes," says Zee, "and the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand." The man objects, "This is no Kingdom that I've ever been promised," and spits at Zee, who calmly replies, "He is not what we thought, brothers." Zee rises to his feet with his hands outstretched peacefully, saying, "I have bet my life on it." He turns slowly to face all three, explaining, "I have given up the sica (dagger) and our way of life to follow the Christ after I witnessed the healing of my brother."
Simon, along with James and John, seem surprised by whatever message the Baptizer's disciples gave them. Simon says he will tell Jesus when He returns, but Avner and Nadab naturally want to know how soon that will be. They soon learn that Jesus's understanding of soon involves faith, waiting, and patience. A rush of many feet later on in the city tells them Jesus is back!
Gaius, Zee, and the Zealots slowly converge on the crowd gathering around Jesus and a woman who is now standing up straight from a stooping illness. The crowd cheers and applauds. When Simon and the others with him arrive, Jesus heals the leg of a man who was told it needed to be amputated. Simon is concerned when he sees Rabbi Akiva watching scornfully in the background, but is glad to see his new friend Gaius watching the healings. Next Jesus heals a woman's young son of his blindness. Simon approaches Avner and Nadab, saying, "Let's get you closer. Soon may be now! Let's get John's question answered."
A mute man approaches Jesus with an old sign around his neck, gesturing that he cannot speak. Jesus tells him He understands, ask Nathanael for a knife to cut off the sign around the man's neck, drops the sign, and places His hands gently on the man's neck. Sounds start coming out of his mouth! He says, "I have never said anything with my own words." The healed man cries and blesses God. The Zealots are visibly moved by these healings.
Simon takes this opportunity to introduce Jesus to Avner and Nadab. Jesus tells them He recognizes them from the day His cousin, John the Baptizer, introduced Him to Andrew. One of them quotes something John said about Jesus that day: "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." Jesus commends him for his good memory and asks what John wants to know. The men are reluctant to ask publicly, suggesting this type of question might better be posed privately, but Simon thinks now is a good time. Jesus asks openly, "Who here has experienced John the Baptizer in some way?" Most in the crowd respond that they have. Jesus says, "I know some of you rejected John, but some of you believed his message. He has had a profound impact on so many in this region, and these are two of his disciples, so let's welcome them." Jesus and most everyone else do so heartily, but Avner and Nadab look increasingly uncomfortable.
Jesus continues, "Some of you also know that John is currently imprisoned by Herod in Machaerus. I think it would be instructive to know what's on his mind in the midst of such challenge." Nadab again tells Jesus quietly it is a difficult question and might be better dealt with in private, but Jesus reassures him, saying with a wink, "It's fine. This is healthy." Avner clears his voice and says, "He sent us to ask You if You are really the One who is to come, or should we look for someone else?" Jesus says, "Hmm. For those of you who could not hear, John the Baptizer, My cousin, who has prepared the way for Me, is questioning if I am the Messiah or if maybe we should keep waiting." The crowd, especially the Zealots, are obviously listening intently. Jesus smiles and says, "John is getting impatient, yes? It's one of his quirks." Nadab comments, "He has been in prison a long time." Avner adds, "Word reached our ears about what happened in Nazareth, that You said the Spirit of the Lord is on You to proclaim liberty to the captives." Nadab asks, "If You say You are here to free prisoners, then why does he remain? He rightfully wonders why You would allow his entire ministry to be halted by an imposter king."
Jesus explains, "Proclaiming liberty to the captives can mean more than just freeing inmates. There are many kinds of captivity that keep people." Avner wonders, "Is that what we're supposed to tell him?" "No," Jesus says. "That's just for you." Nadab says, "We've heard our former comrades Andrew and Philip have gone to the Decapolis. Is that where You're planning to launch the revolution to overthrow Rome?" Gaius and the Zealots wait for the answer. Jesus says, "I have something in mind for the Decapolis, and it will be revolutionary, but probably not in the way you're thinking." Nadab wants to know what they are supposed to report back.
In the crowd is Jesus's friend Rabbi Yussif, who says under his breath, "Careful!" recognizing with many others what an explosive political issue this is. Jesus bows His head briefly and then addresses John's disciples: "Go and tell John what you hear and see. The blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the mute speak, and the poor have the Good News preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by Me." Rabbi Akiva, staring at Jesus at close range, says out loud: "I will always be offended by blasphemy. And so should all of you," staring around at the crowd. Peter points to Jairus next to Yussif and says, "You know what happened to his daughter. You know this isn't blasphemy!" Jesus puts a silencing arm on Simon. Akiva states, "I did not see what happened. Your supposed Rabbi disrespected me as a holy man, another sign of His evil spirit. He is hiding something and I cannot stand here and allow you all to be deceived by His sorcery, even if I'm the only one willing to protect you," shooting an accusing glance toward Rabbi Yussif and Jairus, the synagogue administrator.
Jesus steps forward toward Avner and Nadab, telling them, "Go to My cousin and tell him what you have seen and heard today, and add to that the dead are raised as well," which is what happened to Jairus's daughter. "And tell John I love him." He smiles at them. They smile and nod, turning away from the crowd to obey what Jesus told them to do. Jesus addresses the crowd, "Does My response to John's disciples sound to any of you like a rebuke?" Nathanael the forthright says, "Yes." Jesus says, "I can always count on you, Nathanael! Many of you were baptized by John. I Myself was baptized by him. You heard how strong he was, how passionately he believed, and yet now, even he has questions. When you went to the wilderness to see him, did you expect to see a reed shaken by the wind? Someone in fine clothing, like those in kings' courts? Or did you go to see a prophet?" Several in the crowd loudly say, "A prophet!" Jesus affirms them, saying, "A prophet, yes. And I tell you, John is who Isaiah and Malachi spoke of. What did they say, Big James?"
Big James clearly recites this biblical text: "Behold, I send My messenger before You, who will prepare the way before You." Jesus says, "Yes, and this should tell you something. Among those born of women, none is greater than John, and even he has questions." Rabbi Akiva openly describes John as "another demon-possessed blasphemer," criticizing Jesus for calling him great, adding, "He called Your religious leaders, Your men of God, vipers!" Jesus looks at him stonily and raises His hands, as if to say, "You said it!" Simon tells Akiva, "I think His silence is His response."
Turning His back on Akiva and toward the rest of the crowd, Jesus continues, "And here's what's so wonderful, though: none are greater than John here on earth. In the Kingdom of God, the one who is the least is even greater than he. And John himself would say the same. So please, listen carefully. Do not waste the time right now to hear the truth that I have for you." Pointing upward, Jesus declares, "The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand, yet so many in this generation are missing it!" Looking at Rabbi Akiva and then others, He urges, "Do not miss it. Those of you who have rejected John's message of repentance, and those who are now rejecting Mine, you remind Me of the children in the marketplace that play games while the adults are busy. And you know how they pretend to be adults in a wedding or even a funeral. You are like the children who refuse to play, whether it's a happy game or a sad game. It doesn't matter what it is. And like Aesop's fables, the others say, 'We played the flute for you, and you did not sing. We sang a dirge, and you did not weep.'"
Looking now at Rabbi Akiva, Jesus tells him, "You and those in your order say John has a demon because he lived in the wilderness, preaching repentance while refusing bread and drink. And now the Son of Man comes preaching salvation while eating and drinking and dancing, and I'm called a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners. It doesn't matter what is put in front of you: you will reject it." Turning around to look at people throughout the crowd, Jesus warns, "Beware of this: wisdom means nothing if it's not acted upon. Wisdom is justified by all her works."
Now Jesus faces the Zealots, saying, "As you see what is happening to those around you, as you see lives being changed by repentance and salvation, do not ignore the evidence of the Kingdom of God. Woe to you if you do not receive it." Akiva opens his mouth to speak again, but Jairus quickly speaks up instead: "I would like to remind everyone that Quintus has imposed a limit of 25 people for all outdoor gatherings in the latter part of the day. At my estimate, we will very soon be at risk of detainment." Gaius strides forward with his hand near his sword, saying with authority, "That man is right. All of you, return to your homes and shelters immediately!" Rabbi Yussif says in a friendly voice, "Let's all return to our homes." He smiles and slightly bows toward Rabbi Akiva, saying, "It's all right." The disciples quickly hurry Jesus away. Akiva shouts out, "I will report all of this!" Gaius unsheathes his sword and reminds Akiva, "I said go home."
Zee is standing with the Zealots as the crowd disburses. He asks the first Zealot, the one whom he recognized, "Do you understand now?" That Zealot momentarily covers his face as if dazed, saying, "I understand very little of what I heard, even less of what I saw." Zee smiles at him and says gently, "The Messiah does not need our daggers." One of the other Zealots tells Zee, "Maybe you have forgotten what the Order stand for, but we have not!" The first Zealot shouts, "Enough!" Looking at his two companions, he says, "Are you blind?" Pointing at Zee, he affirms, "This is not a traitor." Zee tells him, "You could join me." The man says quietly, "I'll find my own path, but I will return to the Order with the truth: Simon the Sicarius (Zealot) is dead." He nods toward Zee and turns to leave, followed by the other two. Zee sighs deeply in relief and gratitude.
Simon, walking swiftly with James, John, and Jesus, tells the Lord, "I can never decide which is more fun: watching You do the miracles or watching the reactions." John adds, "The miracles are so much better when the Pharisees are around!" Practical James states, "We need to get You to a new place. Is there a camp we should take You to, or do You want to stay at Simon's again?"
Jesus smiles at two old friends who walk up, Barnaby and Shula. Barnaby is lame and Shula is blind. Shula asks, "Who is it? Why did we stop?" Barnaby simply replies, "It's Him." Shula says humbly, "We don't need to bother Him." Jesus says, "It's fine, Shula. I'm grateful you brought Barnaby here for the healing of his leg." Barnaby says, "No, I brought her." Jesus laughs, saying, "I know, Barnaby. Shula, are you afraid to ask for healing?" She honestly answers yes. Jesus asks her, "Do you have faith that I can heal you?" "Of course!" she replies. "Then why haven't you asked?" Jesus asks. Shula answers, "You have so much to do, Rabbi—so many need You more. I am used to this." Jesus asks Shula to look at Him. He says He wants to see her face, adding, "You and Barnaby have been so kind and lovely from the first time I met you, and your faith has been so strong, even though you haven't seen a miracle." Shula replies, "You redeemed my friend. Mary's miracle was so clear to me, I didn't need sight." Jesus tells her, "I know. You see better than most in this region. But since your friend Barnaby here won't leave Me alone," eliciting a chuckle from Barnaby, Jesus looks up to heaven, covers Shula's eyes with His hand, and removes it when Shula gasps. She says, "It's been so long. I'm afraid to look." Jesus says, "It's time, Shula."
Shula looks up and the first face she sees is Jesus's. Barnaby laughs with joy and Shula looks toward her old friend, joking, "I can see you're not as handsome as you said!" Barnaby laughs harder and everyone joins in. Shula thanks Jesus, and they embrace with Barnaby joining in. John asks how long it has been since Shula has seen light. She answers, "Over 10 years." After thanking Jesus again, she looks at Barnaby and says, "Thank you, friend." He nods his head. Then she looks at Jesus and asks, "What about him?" Barnaby says, "No, I'm fine. This is about you." Addressing Jesus, he affirms, "This is about her. Some other time, maybe."
Jesus rests a friendly arm on Barnaby's shoulder, saying, "We'll see. You're a true friend." He suggests they all go home now and adds, "Barnaby, she will still need you to walk her home. It's getting late. Shalom, shalom." They wish Him peace as well and as they turn to leave, Jesus takes Shula's walking stick, saying, "I don't think you will need this anymore." Shula says happily, "No, I won't!" As Barnaby hobbles off with Shula, he suddenly says, "Wait a minute—my leg!" Barnaby drops his cane as he tests his legs like a boy stamping on the ground. "There it is!" Jesus says softly. Barnaby says to Him, "Did You—" Shula instantly replies, "Of course He did, Barnaby. Who else?" Barnaby quickly tackles Jesus into a bear hug, thanking Him with irrepressible joy. Jesus says, "You're welcome, Barnaby. Now get Shula home. You can do it faster than normal, huh?"
Jesus looks at His disciples and says with a smile, "No Pharisees around for this one." Simon returns that smile and says, "Still just as fun." Jesus sniffs back a happy tear and says, "Agreed!"
Back at Simon and Eden's home, Eden is washing her hair and looking sad. Simon comes in and says with a joyful voice, "Eden, are you here? Come here for a second." Not waiting for her, Simon bounds over, saying, "Do you remember Shula? Never mind, I'll tell you later. Anyway, so those guys ended up being Andrew's old friends. I used questions that only someone who truly knows Andrew would know, and it worked. Suddenly, Jesus was in the square healing people, and He recognized John's disciples from somewhere, and they wanted to know if He was the real thing, which was crazy, giving everything they had just seen."
Eden interrupts, quietly saying, "I lost the baby." Simon looks up at her, confused. Eden continues, "You didn't know." Simon shakes his head, asking her to say that again. "Our baby," Eden says. "You were with child?" Simon asks. She nods and explains, "You were gone when I found out." Simon says, "No, no, no." Eden repeats, "You were gone when I miscarried." Simon asks, "Were you working too hard?" She says strongly, "No, and that's not what causes these things." Simon wants to know why she didn't tell him. Eden answers, "Because I didn't want to distract you. I didn't want to make you regret your choice because what could be more important than—I thought I could keep it to myself, but I didn't know the hurt would go on so long."
Simon replies, "Eden, this happened weeks ago?" Noticing the disturbed look on his face, she says, "See, I was right. Look how you're handling this." "I have a right to grieve my own child!" Simon counters. Eden admits, "I know. There's no right answer." Simon says, "No, the right answer would have been to tell your husband!" Eden asks, "Are you mad that it happened, or that I didn't handle it the way you wanted?" "I'm not mad!" he states. "You're furious; I can see it," she says. "I'm furious? You were acting like I did something wrong! I had no idea what was going on!" continues Simon. "I was taking advice from a Roman! What did I do wrong?" Eden answers, "You didn't do anything! You did nothing! You asked nothing! You came home from being gone and you didn't even ask how I was. You didn't offer to help with anything. You just took a nap!" Simon replies, "You told me to!" Eden says, "Yes, because I was being considerate of you, because I was showing love to you while I was in pain, but I didn't know you would rush to bed and then have the boys over the next day."
Simon asks, "Am I expected to read your mind?" His wife replies, "Well, you were happy to read my body. It might be nice for you to try to read my mind." Simon says, "That's not fair and you know that!" Eden says, "I know that's not fair. I know I wasn't always right. I was a little distracted from losing my own—" and weeps. "You're upset I was on a mission," states Simon. "You're putting words in my mouth," Eden replies, but Simon asks if they were in her head. She tells him not to ask her that. Simon blurts out, "I'm sorry for everything! He should never have called me." Eden tells him, "Oh see, this is what I was afraid of!" Simon shakes his head and says, "Stupid mission to Caesarea with Judas!" Eden says firmly, "Leave Jesus out of this. This is between us. It is not His problem." Simon counters, "Well, He's the Messiah. If it's not His problem, whose is it?" He kneels in grief and covers his face. Eden embraces him. We hear discordant music as Simon says with irony, "You're the one comforting me?" Eden says, "I've had a lot more time with it." Simon moans, "Why is this happening? I don't understand. Why? Why? Why?" Eden says, "You're asking the wrong person." They both weep softly.
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