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    Paul: The Unstoppable: Intrepid Men of God, #2
    Paul: The Unstoppable: Intrepid Men of God, #2
    Paul: The Unstoppable: Intrepid Men of God, #2
    Ebook973 pages12 hours

    Paul: The Unstoppable: Intrepid Men of God, #2

    By Katheryn Maddox Haddad

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    About this ebook

    The Apostle Paul is strong. And unstoppable. He walks thousands of miles. He is driven by one goal: Tell everyone about Jesus, their new king. He allows nothing to get in his way.


    Dare to experience with him every rod slamming into his bones, every whip lashing through his skin, every breath struggled for when treading water a day and night. Survive with him through all the ship wrecks, going days without food, a snow storm in the Taurus Mountains, being robbed on the highway. Listen as, each time his body is mercilessly attacked, he calls out, "Jesus! This is for you!"


    Discover what makes this man tick. In this present-tense book, you will walk with him over twenty years of crisscrossing the often hostile Roman Empire, challenging pagan priests and trying to convince Jewish rabbis to listen to him. Understand what Barnabas, Silas, Timothy, and Dr. Luke go through to keep this man alive to do what he has to do. With Paul, it is never enough. What drives him? Why can he not stop? 

    Dare to walk with Paul.

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherNorthern Lights Publishing House
    Release dateAug 29, 2016
    ISBN9781948462648
    Paul: The Unstoppable: Intrepid Men of God, #2
    Author

    Katheryn Maddox Haddad

    Katheryn Maddox Haddad spends an average of 300 hours researching before she writes a book-ancient historians such as Josephus, archaeological digs so she can know the layout of cities, their language culture and politics. She grew up in the northern United States and now lives in Arizona where she doesn't have to shovel sunshine. She basks in 100-degree weather, palm trees, cacti, and a computer with most of the letters worn off. With a bachelor's degree in English, Bible and social science from Harding University and part of a master's degree in Bible, including Greek, from the Harding Graduate School of Theology, she also has a master's degree in management and human relations from Abilene University. She is author of forty-eight books, both non-fiction and fiction. Her newspaper column appeared for several years in newspapers in Texas and North Carolina ~ Little Known Facts About the Bible ~ and she has written for numerous Christian publications. For several years, she has been sending out every morning a daily scripture and short inspirational thought to some 30,000 people around the world. She spends half her day writing, and the other half teaching English over the internet worldwide using the Bible as textbook. She has taught over 6000 Muslims through World English Institute. Students she has converted to Christianity are in hiding in Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Uzbekistan, Somalia, Jordan, Pakistan, and Palestine. "They are my heroes," she declares.

    Read more from Katheryn Maddox Haddad

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      Book preview

      Paul - Katheryn Maddox Haddad

      MAP 1: PAUL’S TRAVELS

      IN EARLY YEARS

      00-MAP-Travels Early Years

      1 ~ The Fight

      H e is a disgrace, over there fighting at the stadium like that, Caiaphas says, pointing an arthritic finger at his daughter.

      It is his way of making a living, Father, and he earns what is necessary to continue his education.

      Mariamme crosses her arms, and her mouth forms into a pouty bow.

      Shaul draws first blood on his opponent. Sceva counters and Shaul catches it on his nose, then a sharp one over his right eye. Shaul’s feet are firmly planted, but Sceva closes in and throws Shaul to the ground, punching him with his left, then twisting Shaul’s right arm behind him.

      Shaul pushes Sceva away with his big feet, smiles, and is up again, countering Sceva on his left eye.

      Caiaphas tugs at his pre-maturely gray beard then twitches. He looks up at the ceiling. Most of the athletes are slaves. What is he doing, lowering himself like that? His back is now turned to his daughter.

      He thinks he can raise the standards, Mariamme says, undeterred, her brows lowering as menacingly as she can make them.

      Shaul dances back to buy time, then lets go of his left onto Sceva’s mouth. Shaul’s right arm swells and loses power; he keeps it down out of the way. Sceva lashes out with another crack on Shaul’s right cheek near his nearly swelled-closed eye.

      Caiaphas swings around. And what kind of men attend such sports as boxing? The lowest ruffians off the street, Roman soldiers, and gamblers.

      Those gamblers, dear Father, are some of the richest men in Judea. I heard a couple of them are on the Sanhedrin. She struggles to hold back a smirk.

      Sceva lets go of his left viciously onto the bridge of Shaul’s nose, knocking him over. Shaul rolls over, laughing. He snaps a straight one at Sceva’s nose. Sceva turns his back on Shaul and gets a right-hander on the back of his neck.

      Sceva tumbles, and Shaul jumps back, grinning, jumping nimbly away from his opponent.

      And further disgracing himself performing naked. Caiaphas continues, confident he has just had the last word in the whole matter.

      Mariamme puts her hands on her hips. You know, Father, that the arena in Jerusalem honors our Jewish traditions and participants in all sportswear a loincloth. Since women do not attend, you didn’t think I knew that, did you?

      Sceva scrutinizes his opponent, rubs his bare hands together, goes after Shaul, and lets fly his left. But Shaul jumps out of the way, grinning.

      Shaul creeps in, pops Sceva one with his left, then his right, and walks off laughing.

      Caiaphas picks up a scripture scroll on a nearby table and stares at it. Shaul has better things to do. What about his studies at the temple?

      You know good and well, Father, that he is Gamaliel’s most promising student and has been for years. Mariamme has been through this before with her father and knows she will again.

      Sceva retaliates on the bridge of Shaul’s already crooked nose. Shaul nails Sceva on the right cheek then sidesteps him. Sceva tries to take the lead, but Shaul jumps back. Sceva moves in again and hits Shaul again on the nose.

      Sceva continues to bore down on Shaul. Shaul drops, rises laughing, his nose now double in size.

      He can’t support you! Caiaphas retaliates, banging his free hand down on the table.

      He gets a percentage of what people pay to see him perform, and it is higher when he wins, which he always does. You know that, Father, Mariamme continues undaunted.

      Sceva tries to attack, but Shaul leaps out of his way. Sceva follows him and pops Shaul on the throat. Shaul counters with a pop on the nose, drawing blood. Sceva’s face is swelled and distorted.

      Sceva jabs again with his right, but Shaul gaily ducks, it passes over his head, then Shaul counters.

      Realizing he is losing, Caiaphas counters with a save. He is going to have to change occupations.

      I’m sure I can convince him. He has talked a lot about being a scribe someday, Mariamme says, now smiling.

      What kind of work does his father do? Caiaphas sits on a gilded chair inlaid with mother of pearl.

      His father is a tentmaker, and plans to run for mayor of Tarsus one day.

      Sceva catches Shaul on the jaw, then tries again, but Shaul jumps back.

      Shaul comes at his opponent slowly and cheerfully. After catching a small one on the side of his face, Shaul pops his left onto Sceva’s nose, once more drawing blood.

      After all his evasive maneuvers, Shaul feels rested and goes gaily after Sceva.

      Then why can’t Shaul be a tentmaker? Caiaphas asks, a vague hope in his voice.

      He says it is boring. He wants to spend his life doing something exciting.

      Well, being a scribe is not what I call exciting, Caiaphas says.

      He says it could be if he concentrated on transcribing matters of the Law. Mariamme senses she is beginning to win. She thinks about sitting on her father’s lap but decides it would be pushing fortune too far.

      Sceva plants one on Shaul’s jaw with his right, and Shaul staggers almost to the ground. Shaul shakes it off, and the two smash each other on the face.

      The two spar in order to rest a moment. Sceva’s eye is now quickly closing. They spar some more. Sceva takes a hot one on the left cheek, which all but closes his other eye.

      Who does he know that’s in the Law? That is not the type people he associates with.

      You’re wrong, Father. He has his eyes on transcribing for Tertullus. Gamaliel said he could recommend Shaul to him.

      Caiaphas looks down into his daughter’s eyes for the first time since their argument began.

      Now close infighting between Shaul and Sceva until both fall. Sceva rises, and Shaul withdraws. Sceva dashes viciously in and catches Shaul on the nose.

      Shaul gaily retreats, and Sceva follows, punching home on Shaul’s jaw with the right. Shaul turns and runs after Sceva.

      Once again, Caiaphas shakes his crooked forefinger at his daughter. I do not believe a word he says. He claims to change, but he never does and never will.

      But, he will listen to me, Mariamme says, her fleeting moment of hope ebbing away.

      He listens to no one. He is a headstrong young man from the Taurus Mountains in Anatolia, and that is all he will ever be, despite his education at our temple. Can’t take the mountain out of that boy.

      Mariamme is nearly in tears, believing she is about to lose. You know everyone in Tarsus is a Roman Citizen, and the city is known for its famous library, she says out of desperation. She looks down at the floor and fights back tears.

      Shaul grins and naps one on Sceva’s nose, then rushes in and catches him again on the nose.

      Sceva catches Shaul around the neck, but the shorter Shaul slips through his arms. They part, and Shaul gets Sceva again in the right eye, which is now fast closing, his left being in complete darkness.

      I wouldn’t care if Tarsus had God’s holy temple in it, Caiaphas counters. No one would worship in it. They are all pagans up there.

      Mariamme stares at her father, her eyes glistening with a slight appearance of tears. Not all. Shaul’s pious father sent him here for his Jewish education when he was twelve. He was even one of your students at one time. Don’t you remember? He is a good Jew, one of the best there is.

      No! A hundred times, no. You will not marry that ruffian, Shaul. Never.

      But, father, I love him.

      _____

      A WILD SCRAMBLE FOLLOWS, and both fall. It ends in a draw after two hours. Most of the time, Shaul’s right arm has been dangling at his side useless.

      A Roman centurion rises from his front-row seat at the stadium. Shaul’s punishment has been terrible, but he has taken it round after round without flinching, he tells his friend, and almost always with a smile on his face.

      Exciting brutality, his friend adds.

      Silas runs over to Shaul with a wet towel, which he throws over Shaul’s back and a smaller towel with which to cover his head. Shaul holds his long, hairy, but shattered right arm with his bloody left hand, and the two walk together back to the rooms under the stadium.

      I’ve never seen anything like it, they hear people in the bleachers say.

      Shaul grins. Always fight to win, he says through bloody lips.

      The two walk the few steps down into the underground rooms and work their way through a long hall toward the back.

      They stop at a shallow pool,  and Shaul wades to the middle. Silas fills a nearby pail with water and pours it over Shaul. The water is cold, but Shaul does not flinch. He reaches up his one good arm to wipe the water out of swollen eyes.

      A second showering of water gets most of the rest of the blood off Shaul, and the two walk a few more steps to the warm bath. Silas reaches over to help Shaul in, but Shaul breaks loose of his grasp and jumps in with a splash.

      Silas smiles. He lowers himself into the water opposite his childhood friend.

      Well, old pal, you have done it again. The odds were against you after that fall on your arm, but you came out strong. Well, you came out alive.

      You know what I always say, Shaul replies.

      Yeah, yeah. Always fight to win. You know you’re getting a little old for this.

      I am only twenty-seven. I have a few good years left in me.

      You need to be thinking of something else to make a living.

      Wait a moment. It’s time.

      Sure, Shaul. Prayer time.

      The moment of regulated prayer time over, the friends remain silent a while. Silas splashes some water onto his high forehead with strong arms, though not as strong, of course, as Shaul’s.

      Well, maybe I will quit fighting and get married.

      To Mariamme?

      Yes. She’s everything I ever wanted. She wouldn’t try to hold me back.

      She can be a little imp sometimes, can she? You know, you’re playing with fire to get involved in that family.

      A little fire never hurt. Destroys the weak, but makes the strong stronger, and I’m strong.

      Some people claim Caiaphas became high priest only because of his father-in-law’s influence.

      Well, that may have been the power behind getting him appointed, but he has been high priest eleven years so far, and most of them only last a couple years. I admire the man.

      Even though he hates you and will never let you marry his daughter?

      I will convince him. I will think of something and convince him. You have never seen me turn away from a challenge, have you?

      Well, as I said, you’re playing with fire. How did you meet, anyway?

      Oh, it was about ten years ago. She was only five then. She went to the temple with her father and apparently sneaked a ball in under her little robe. She was playing with it in the Gentile courtyard, bouncing it as she skipped, but it got away from her.

      If it had been anyone else’s daughter, she would have been thrown out as disrespectful to our holy place.

      Anyway, I caught it and rolled it back to her. She put her hands on her hips and announced to me, ‘I’m a big girl, and I can catch balls in the air.’

      The two men laugh.

      But that was ten years ago. What about since then? Caiaphas would not have allowed you, just a student, to associate socially with his family.

      You know how I always go out in the desert for my morning run to keep in shape. I ran into her, crossing the road to Bethany one morning. Well, not literally. Actually, she spotted me. I hadn’t changed much in the seven years since we met, but she sure had. Even at twelve, she was already becoming a rare beauty. Big black eyes, velvety white skin, a little peek of hairline on her heart-shaped face.

      Heart-shaped? You’ve got it bad, friend. So, that was still three years ago. What about since then?

      She sent her lady in waiting on ahead of her and whispered to me to meet her at the perfumery in the market that afternoon after prayers.

      And you’ve been doing it daily since then, I suppose, Silas says, skimming his hands across the water and splashing Shaul’s face.

      Well, not every day, but at least once a week. Sometimes one or the other of us couldn’t get away. But enough times that we knew.

      So, you’re serious about Mariamme.

      Indeed, yes. Father isn’t here to approach her father, so I’ll have to do it myself.

      How is your father, anyway?

      Since Mother died, he’s gotten harder to get along with.

      That’s because you and he are just alike—both stubborn.

      I can’t help it if he wanted me to be a tentmaker like my brothers. It just wasn’t me. I plan to associate with a much higher quality than common laborers.

      Didn’t you say he is running for mayor of Tarsus? That doesn’t sound so common to me.

      Well, he did run, but he was not appointed. Anyway, if I ever give up fighting, I’m going into law. Not as a lawyer yet, but a scribe to start with. I love the law.

      And Mariamme.

      _____

      Caiaphas and his daughter are interrupted with a knock on the door, to the relief of both. Caiaphas answers it.

      Sir, your worshipful, there is a problem in Bethany.

      Not again. My daughter was just leaving. Come in, Shlomo.

      The chief priest stands aside while Mariamme leaves then enters. Caiaphas motions to the servant—the Levite who had been waiting in the hall—to come in and close the door behind him.

      What is it this time?

      That Jesus. Selig keeps letting him speak on the Sabbath. He’s claiming to be the new king of the Jews.

      Caiaphas’ fists clench, and he grits his teeth. He has got to be stopped. It has gone too far already.

      Shlomo presses his lips together and nods his head. What is your judgment on this matter, sir?

      Caiaphas looks out his window, making his inferior wait.

      He turns, walks slowly across the room, stroking his graying beard. He takes his prayer shawl off a hook on the wall, lays it across his shoulders, and covers his hair. He paces quietly, sometimes pausing to close his eyes reverently as if waiting for God to speak to him.

      Shlomo waits still.

      The high priest pauses and looks at his subordinate. Selig must go.

      Yes, your worshipfulness.

      Then comes the grin. I know exactly who I will appoint to take his place, Caiaphas says, nodding to himself.

      Sir, before you make that austere decision, may I suggest my nephew? He is a Levite and knows the Law so well he will be able to outsmart that Jesus and discourage him from coming there ever again. Or, if he does come, to....

      Stop right there, Selig. You are overstepping your bounds. I know who I am going to replace that weak-hearted rabbi with.

      Yes, sir. May I ask who, sir?

      Caiaphas grins broadly and rocks on his heels. Yes, I know exactly who I shall appoint: Shaul. My future son-in-law. He dabbles in, well, being a scribe and is a superior student of the Law. I taught him myself.

      Yes, your worshipful. Shall I inform Selig?

      No, I shall let Shaul do it himself. I’d love to be a snake on the wall to watch the whole thing, but that is not possible. I am sure Shaul will give me a detailed description of Selig’s downfall.

      Caiaphas paces again, still grinning. Ah, yes. Shaul will not only get control of the synagogue, but he will get control of that Jesus. Brilliant. Just brilliant.

      2 ~ For Love

      S o, you wish to marry my daughter.

      Yes, sir, your worshipfulness, sir. Shaul is angry. He does not ever remember being nervous before, at least, not this nervous.

      Caiaphas is seated on what others call his throne. He steeples his fingers.

      Shaul waits. And waits.

      Finally, This is what you will do. Number one, you will stop that silly boxing you do over at the stadium. If you have any belongings there, you will not go get them. If you have any fights lined up, you will send a messenger saying you forfeit. If you owe a fine for forfeiting, you will pay it from your own purse.

      He waits for the young man’s reply. Shaul fights blurting out what he knows he must. He clears his throat. He feels perspiration rise on his low forehead and resists wiping it away, allowing it to fall instead into his eyes still healing from yesterday’s fight, and sting them.

      He purses his lips. For Mariamme, he tells his heart. He clears his throat again. Yes, your worshipfulness. Yesterday was my last fight. I was thinking of....

      Good, Caiaphas interrupts.

      "Number two: I am appointing you as a rabbi and representative of the temple. But, being a rabbi does not exclude you from having an occupation. You will not be paid to be a rabbi. Your occupation will support you. I have spoken to

      Tertullus and he has agreed for you to be his scribe. He expects you to report to him every morning two hours before daylight, regardless of the weather."

      Yes, your worshipfulness, Shaul replies, his eyes reflecting his pleasure.

      Number three: You will take over as leader of the synagogue in Bethany. You are going to have to contend with that Jesus. He needs a firm hand. You must close the door on all his preaching. In other words, you will not allow him to preach in your synagogue. And, if he makes comments when someone else is preaching, you will force him to leave and lock the door behind him. Do you think you can handle the situation?

      Shaul grins but quickly retakes control of his emotions.

      Caiaphas does not give him a chance to reply. Instead, he slams his fist on the table and rises. He walks over to Shaul and stands less than a handbreadth from the young man’s crooked and swelled nose.

      "You, Shaul, are the most stubborn, arrogant, self-debasing, shameful, and intelligent student the temple school has ever had. I wanted to expel you, but Gamaliel said to give you a chance to grow up and start acting like a decent man. If it had been anyone but him... Well, Gamaliel was my own teacher once, and so I listened to him.

      But don’t think I won’t be watching you. I have spies everywhere.

      Sir, your worshipfulness, Shaul whispers. May I ask a question?

      Caiaphas glares a little longer, steps back, walks over to his throne, and sits. You may speak.

      Does this mean I can marry your daughter?

      You have one month. You report back to me personally that you have done everything I told you to—and that means get rid of that Jesus—and I will set a date for your betrothal.

      The high priest pulls out a small scroll, writes on it, then continues.

      On the day of your betrothal, you will give me a list of what you will do in preparation for the marriage. That means a decent house to live in, servants, and anything else she will require to maintain the standard of living that she has grown accustomed to. I will give you one year to accomplish that for her. Do you understand?

      Shaul’s fists clench, he sets his wide jaw, and pronounces, Yes, sir.

      Here is your authority to take control of the synagogue, he says, handing the small scroll to the young man before him. Now leave.

      A servant opens the door, and Shaul rushes out, straining to not run through the halls of the high priest’s palace, using all the control he can muster to make it out the gate.

      Once outside, Shaul takes off in a run. He wants to see his Mariamme but knows it is not possible. He runs down the street, dodging pedestrians until he arrives at western Joppa Gate of Jerusalem. He speeds through it and races across the desert. He runs until he is exhausted, then runs more, his feet flying. At last, he slows, raises his eyes heavenward, and shouts, She’s mine. She’s mine, and spars into the air.

      His head swirls as he absorbs the reality until he realizes the sun is going down.

      I’ve got to get back into town and tell Silas.

      He sets off in another run, only this time it is more of a lope. He gets into a rhythm, and, just as the sun slips below the horizon and the gates are all closed for the night, Shaul, the embodiment of Olympic-quality athletes, glides inside.

      He turns to go to the room he and Silas share but changes his mind. Instead, he goes to the fine home of lawyer Tertullus. His stay is brief. I will be here tomorrow before daylight, just as you ordered, he tells his new employer while standing by his gate and not being invited to enter.

      By the time the glow of sunset is enveloped in blackness, Shaul arrives at his room. The two young men talk far into the night.

      It is nearly morning. Shaul rises, gathers up his pens, etchers, parchments, and clay tablets, and sets out for Tertullus’ house. Each day Shaul gets more settled in his new job, all the while planning how he will depose his competition, Rabbi Selig.

      The day before the Sabbath, Shaul walks to Bethany. He takes along a goat-hair tent made for him by his oldest brother, Andronicus, to use whenever traveling, and sets it up just outside the city.

      Morning arrives, the city gates are opened, and Shaul walks through wearing his best tunic and most impressive robe. He sets his jaw and becomes a new kind of fighter. He arrives at the synagogue in time to watch the last stragglers enter. His timing is perfect.

      When it seems the last worshipper has arrived, Shaul enters. He closes the door behind him but moves no farther. Still standing, he stares at Selig, speaking from the rabbi’s chair on the podium.

      Rabbi Selig finishes his sentence, then hesitates. May I help you, kind sir?

      Leave.

      What?

      Leave. You are no longer head of this synagogue. Further, you are no longer welcome here.

      Every head in both the men’s and women’s sections turns toward Shaul in the back.

      I beg your pardon? Rabbi Selig says, standing.

      Begging will do you no good. You have been dismissed by the high priest himself. You must leave. Now. I am here to make sure it happens.

      Shaul stands, legs apart, big feet firmly planted, muscles flexing, the veins in his neck throbbing, fists clenched.

      I will do no such thing, Rabbi Selig replies, taking his own stance against this stranger.

      Shaul takes one step forward, and Rabbi Selig flinches. The fighter takes two more steps and pauses once again. Rabbi Selig remains motionless. Shaul does not know if it is out of fear or insane stubbornness.

      Am I going to have to come up there and haul you out bodily? Shaul bellows.

      Hey, are you that temple apprentice who does bare-knuckle boxing at the stadium? one of the members of the congregation asks Shaul.

      The others in the audience stare at the inquirer seated near the front.

      Well, I’ve only heard about him, the same man explains, unsure he should have spoken out.

      If that’s who this man is, Rabbi, another says, you had better listen to him. I’ve heard he is the toughest man in all Jerusalem.

      All Judea, I heard.

      Headed for the Olympics, I heard.

      Rabbi Selig stands where he is, but with a slight tremble. His eyes dart around the room at the speaker in the middle row, the other men, Shaul, then over at his wife.

      Shall I come up there and get you, Selig?

      Rabbi Selig to you, sir.

      You’re wrong. You are no longer a rabbi.

      Really! Just who are you anyway, coming in here disrupting our worship to the Lord God Jehovah on high?

      I am Rabbi Shaul, your replacement.

      Never.

      Sparring time is over. Shaul walks forward, taking long strides. He arrives at the podium, grabs Rabbi Selig around the legs, tosses him over his shoulder, walks him to the exit, throws open the door, and empties his human load out into the street.

      The congregation rises and rushes after them.

      You have no right, Rabbi Selig squeals as he pulls himself up out of the dirt and attempts to brush off his holy, fringed robe.

      I see you haven’t had enough, Shaul replies. He walks forward, once more slings the petrified rabbi over his shoulder, marches down the street to a well, followed by the entire congregation, and dumps him into the water.

      Help, they hear echoing from below. I can’t swim.

      Rabbi Shaul laughs and swaggers back to the synagogue. The women and some of the older men remain behind to help the rabbi out of the water. The rest of the men are right on the heels of Shaul.

      Some grin. Some glare. None is left unaffected.

      Back inside the synagogue, Rabbi Shaul strides up to the podium, mounts it, and turns. He slaps his hands together as though flinging dirt off of them.

      The members sit and watch.

      Rabbi Shaul stands still and looks over his congregation. Inside, he feels like a giant. He stares. He keeps them guessing. He gets them under his control. Just like High Priest Caiaphas does.

      All right, he says finally and in his deepest, most threatening voice, from now on, things are going to be done decently and in order. You are now dismissed. Next Sabbath, there will be some new rules.

      Shaul raises his eyes and his hands. Great Jehovah on high. We are your humble servants. You are our protector and our salvation. Work through us. Cleanse this synagogue through us, oh divine one. Amen.

      _____

      Mariamme is dressed in a long white tunic of silk, and a long yellow linen veil extending to the floor. She has lilies in her plaited hair. Shaul watches her every move as she enters the room.

      Present are her grandfather, High Priest Emeritus Ananus, Caiaphas, and his beautiful wife Avishag, his brothers-in-law Jonathan, Theophilus, Mathias, and Ananus, the younger.

      Mariamme is accompanied by her maids dressed in white linen with garlands in their hair to match the bride’s.

      Standing with Shaul are his two older brothers, Andronicus and Junias, his life-time friend, Silas, and their mentor when they were new students, Joseph The Barnabas.

      Caiaphas steps forward. He motions for Shaul to step forward.

      Have you your list of promises for my daughter?

      Yes, your worshipfulness.

      Then make your vows before these witnesses.

      Paul clears his throat, reminding himself of his first interview with his beloved’s father a month earlier.

      Number one: I have purchased a home across from the synagogue in Bethany. I vow to spend this year enlarging it, supplying it with necessities for gracious living, and making it worthy of the daughter of our officious high priests, Caiaphas and Ananus.

      Shaul looks over at both men, then over at Mariamme, who has been looking at the marble-tiled floor but now briefly looks up.

      Number two: I have been employed by lawyer Tertullus as his scribe and will be paid in a sum appropriate for supporting the daughter of our high priest. In such case, there are extra necessary expenses...

      Mariamme takes in a quick breath. He is going to return to the fight arena? Then lets it out hopefully.

      ...I will act as a purchaser and seller of goat-hair tents which will be sent to me by my brothers.

      Number three: I have taken over as rabbi of the synagogue in Bethany, and have sent word to Jesus of Nazareth that he is never to enter my synagogue, lest he be treated like the former rabbi. Further, no one in my synagogue will be allowed to refer to Jesus as rabbi, prince, governor, prophet, priest, or king.

      Number four—and this is thrown in as an extra—I will build up my congregation so much, we will be able to send funds to remodel the Sanhedrin chambers and have enough left to double the size of our synagogue.

      Caiaphas hides a smile behind his beard. Gutsy young man that. What a son-in-law he is going to be.

      This is my vow, Shaul says, bowing before both high priests, taking a peek at his bride on the way down, and kissing both their holiness’s hands.

      Tertullus walks forward with a scroll and jar of blackener on a tray. Shaul picks up the pen and signs it. Ananus steps forward and signs for the family.

      A benediction. Then the celebrating. A small feast has been prepared. Shaul sits with the men at one end of the banquet room, and Mariamme sits with the women at the other end of the room. Sometimes they are able to steal glances at one another, but only sometimes.

      Thank you for coming, Joseph The Barnabas.

      Please call me one, but not both of those names. It makes me sound too pretentious.

      Then I shall call you The Barnabas, Shaul replies with a wink and a grin.

      Joseph Barnabas reminds some people of a bear. He is five years older than Shaul, tall and bulky, and has a square jaw. He seems to be strong, but is rather flabby and lacking in true muscles. Still, he can use his bulky weight in emergencies such as moving an overturned crate or attacking robbers on the road.

      Where is Mary, your aunt? She couldn’t come?

      She did not feel she knew you enough to come. So she and John Mark stayed home and sent me.

      Do you ever hear from home? Shaul asks. You know, back in Cyprus?

      I hear from my mother sometimes, wanting me to move back there. But being a Levite has its responsibilities, and I aim to keep them. Besides, I like serving in the holy temple.

      At the end of the feast, Shaul is whisked away by his man friends in a make-believe kidnapping and delivered to his house in Bethany, his very empty and small house.

      _____

      Crucify him! Crucify him! Shaul is at the head of the mob. Caiaphas had sent for him in Bethany around midnight. Shaul is at the forefront of the mob. Next to him are Chaim, Ariel Yigal, and Chananya, all known spies (at least known to the temple hierarchy). Shaul is proud to have been taken into their confidence.

      Testify against Jesus of Nazareth? Indeed. I have had to run him out of his synagogue as a trouble maker on more than one occasion. Had a standoff with Peter once, but Jesus called Peter off. Jesus knew Peter could never win. Not against strongman me.

      Crucify him! Crucify him, Shaul continues to shout. He looks around and sees some spectators doing just that—watching. He sidles next to them, pokes them in the side, and pounds them on the back hard enough to take their breath for a few moments.

      Well, are you for this heretic or not? If you are, just say so, and we’ll hang you next to him.

      Immediately, the spectators become participants. Crucify him! Crucify him!

      Everyone looks up. They see Governor Pilate standing on his balcony of the Antonia Fortress headquarters with a bloody mass of a man.

      Shall I crucify your king? the governor says in a roar.

      Down with Jesus, Shaul cries out. Crucify him! Crucify him! How I hate you, Jesus of Nazareth, he adds under his breath. How I hate you.

      3 ~ Winners and Losers

      S ilas, wake up, Shaul says, pulling off yesterday’s tunic.

      Wha... Huh? You don’t need me at Tertullus’ house. Leave me alone. It’s still dark.

      Silas turns his face to the wall and flops his blanket over his head. Shaul throws it back off Silas.

      Leave me alone, Silas grumbles, grabbing the blanket back.

      They’re going to crucify Jesus this morning. I just know it. What a day. Praise God, Shaul explains, grabbing a clean tunic off a peg.

      Silas springs up into a sitting position. What did you say?

      You heard me. We’re finally getting rid of that rebel madman. Shaul brushes the hair out of his eyes with his hand, long ago healed from his last fight, but revealing a crooked nose that will always remind him of his fighting days.

      But why? Silas asks, now standing beside his bed.

      No time. I’ve got to report into Tertullus, tell him what is going on, and see if I can get a little time off from work to go watch the last of that revolutionary get what he deserves.

      The door slams and Shaul is gone.

      He rushes down the street. Though there should be a full moon to guide him in the pre-dawn darkness, he senses menacing clouds moving fast overhead to hide the light. No matter. He knows his way everywhere, even in the dark.

      Tertullus, he says, knocking on the gate of his employer. I’m here.

      A servant opens the gate, and Shaul walks in only a few paces. He shifts his weight back and forth as Tertullus slowly makes his way to Shaul.

      Sir, they’re crucifying him today.

      You are talking about Jesus, aren’t you? Tertullus replies.

      How did you know?

      I just came back from the high priest’s palace. It has all been arranged. But it won’t happen until daylight. We will work here for a while, then go on up to Execution Hill after we have had a little breakfast. No need to hurry. The condemned live hard and die hard. It will take him a couple days of feeling the pain he deserves before he leaves this world for good.

      Shaul and Tertullus work until almost mid-morning. I guess we have given them enough time. Let us be going.

      Once again, Shaul becomes frustrated walking beside his employer, who walks like an infirm old man, though he is middle-aged.

      Son, why don’t you go on ahead? I am in no hurry. You go on, and I’ll meet you on the hill.

      Happy to comply, Shaul breaks into a run. Only this time, Shaul does not pace himself as usual. This time, it is a sprint.

      He arrives at Execution Hill just in time to see some soldiers carrying the condemned man up the last of the climb. A big man is right behind him carrying Jesus’ cross. Two other men are already at the top and are being secured to their own crosses.

      Shaul runs up the steep hill, passing everyone. He does not want to miss the shock of the first nail. No one ever thinks it is going to hurt as much as it does. He loves that part.

      After a few unbearable moments, Jesus and his guards and the miserable gullibles following him reach the top of the hill.

      Jesus is covered with blood already. Shaul knows the priests and temple guards had probably got first chance at him and assumes Pilate’s soldiers followed up with their own form of torture. Shaul is surprised he is still alive. Good thing they stopped when they did. Wouldn’t have been able to torture him on the cross too. That would have been a real shame.

      Jesus is thrown down on his cross.

      Erastus, come do the honors, Centurion Sergius calls out.

      Yes, sir. Erastus grins broadly and pushes back his steel-gray hair with big hands, then pulls at his large bulky nose turned up on the end like a menacing horn. He looks around at the other soldiers with a grin. Not everyone has the honor of administering the first shocking blow and producing the first scream. Erastus hurries with his short legs toward Jesus on the ground as though charging at him.

      He kneels and only briefly looks in Jesus’ face. He is careful never to look his enemy right in the eye, though he sees Jesus’ eyes are almost swelled shut. Erastus looks around the ground nearby.

      Where are the spikes? he mumbles. Someone bring me the spikes, he calls out. Achilles, get some spikes for me.

      Yes, sir.

      Achilles grabs three spikes out of his supply of execution paraphernalia in his pack and gallops over to his superior.

      Here you are, sir. Doesn’t look like they left us much to crucify, sir. Achilles’ eyes meet Jesus’, and an unexplained fear rises up in him. Sir, have you attended many crucifixions? This is my first.

      Well, don’t think you will get used to it. You won’t, Erastus says as he puts the end of one spike on Jesus’ wrist and raises the mallet above it. Just enjoy it.

      The scream. It has begun. Shaul is pleased. A man like Jesus does not deserve to live. But he also does not deserve to die easily. Make him suffer like he always made the Jewish hierarchy suffer. Always out of line. Now out of time.

      Tertullus arrives in time to see the last of the three crosses put in place and the roar of delight from onlookers. The crowd is larger than usual, but he finally spots Shaul and moves in and out among the throng until he is next to his apprentice.

      Shaul can restrain himself no longer.

      Hey, you in the middle! he shouts. Thought you could take over, did you? Well, you were wrong. Dead wrong.

      He waits for shouts of approval and looks around with a proud grin. You thought you could get by with challenging the greatest high priest in the history of the Jewish nation.

      Yeah, yeah, he hears behind him.

      It has been no accident Caiaphas has lasted so many more years than the other high priests. He knows what he is doing, and God knows too, Shaul bellows.

      Shaul looks over at Tertullus for approval and receives it.

      With the help and blessings of God, he crushes his enemies—his and God’s enemies. You chose the wrong man to attack, Jesus of Nazareth. Now you’re paying for it.

      Shaul looks over at the chief priests who have arrived. They are grinning. They like what they hear. Surely, they will report Shaul’s loyalty to the high priest himself. Once he marries the high priest’s daughter, his appointment to the Sanhedrin is as sure as his victories in the fighting arena.

      He looks over at the crowd of Jesus’ followers and is shocked. He walks over to his old friends.

      Silas? The Barnabas? What are you doing with these people?

      We’re not exactly with them, Silas says.

      We’re just not sure, The Barnabas says.

      How can you say that? He breaks Moses’ Laws on the Sabbath, he threatens to tear down God’s holy temple, he insults the priests.

      Shaul looks The Barnabas in the eye. Surely you, Barnabas, do not approve of him. He insults you too, every time you stand up with the temple choir and sing your songs. Not you, too, Barnabas.

      We don’t know, The Barnabas replies.

      Well, you’d better know. Think, man. Do you want to lose your job at the temple?

      Nervous standing so near Jesus’ followers, Shaul walks back over to Tertullus and resumes his gruesome watch. Now and then, he looks overhead. The clouds of the night before churn.

      Looks like a bad storm brewing, his employer says.

      Even God is angry at Jesus.

      As Shaul watches, he grows restless again. He paces. He rushes down Execution Hill and runs back up again. It is exhilarating. He does it again. Each trip, when he reaches the top, he looks over at the cross in the middle. It is still there. The guy who bragged he was going to take over our religion is actually being executed. Back down the hill and run up again. Still there. Down and up again. Still there. Life is good.

      After a while, Tertullus decides he needs to return home, rest, and have something to eat. Shaul goes along, more ready to walk slowly with him, having managed to take some of the energy out of himself.

      At the house, Tertullus and Shaul eat some cheese and grapes.

      Master, sir, Shaul begins. I know this is your nap time. Might I return to the execution? I know he won’t be dead until tomorrow, but I want to make sure his followers don’t take him down during the night.

      He will be guarded by the Romans. Don’t worry about that. But, if you want to go back so you can have something to tell your synagogue next Sabbath, go ahead. Not every synagogue will have a rabbi who was an eye witness to getting rid of this century’s greatest threat to Judaism.

      Thank you, sir. I know my synagogue will start to grow again, with Jesus finally out of the way. I will make up the work I am missing today. I will take some of it home with me after the Passover festivities are over.

      Shaul leaves and heads up the street toward the Jerusalem gate. But something is wrong. It is dark. The anger of God over that Jesus is being manifest in mysterious ways. Though Shaul sees people ducking into doorways and gateways out of fear. Shaul thrives in it. After all, he is on God’s side. God will not touch him.

      Despite everything, he sings a psalm of David about being delivered from his enemies and watches the gray clouds overhead as they grow angrier.

      Back up on the hill, Shaul asks Achilles, the soldier with the skull helmet, how things are progressing.

      I don’t know. Are all crucifixions like this? I’ve never seen one before. All the darkness.

      It is not normal, but that Jesus in the middle never was normal anyway. Don’t worry. So, how about it? I don’t suppose we can hope he is dead already.

      No, but I don’t think he will last much longer. He was beaten too much before we got him. He has been quiet for the last two hours. He is almost dead now.

      The crowd has thinned out considerably since the strange darkness. Shaul finds a rock jutting up out of the ground sufficiently to provide seating for him.

      Why can’t he regain consciousness and talk some more? It would make things more entertaining.

      Shaul walks up to the cross occasionally, pokes Jesus to see if he can wake him up, but it does not work. He walks over to the soldiers sometimes and jokes with them. He sees a game of dice but does not like games of chance, so does not join them. He sits back down, stares at Jesus, and notices lightning in the raging clouds above.

      Then it happens. Jesus wakes up. Shaul is delighted. Jesus calls for God. There he goes calling God his father again. He draws closer. Jesus’ words are just a whisper at first, but grow louder.

      He has gone completely mad.

      Father! Father! Here is my spirit!

      Jesus is dead.

      Yes! Shaul shouts. We did it. God and us. He is gone for good. Thank you, God.

      Thunder. Lightening. An earthquake.

      Shaul loses his balance, rushes back to the rock he had been sitting on, and hangs on to it. He looks back at Jesus. Good going, Jesus, he shouts over the wind. How can any one man make God so furious?

      He hangs on to the rock until the shaking stops. He stands, takes one last look at dead Jesus, and turns to return home.

      What a day to remember. Now to finish my house and get married.

      4 ~ The Good Life

      H ey, little brother.

      Junias, so glad you could make it. Is Andronicus with you?

      He’ll be here tomorrow. He had a last-moment order to fill before leaving. It was a big one. Had to keep the customer happy.

      I did not know you had repeat business from your customers. I thought your tents were better than that, Shaul says, pounding Junias on the back with his big hand.

      They have families, you know. Their kids grow up and need their own tents. By the way, how is yours holding up?

      It’s fine. Now come on in and see what I have done with the house so far. Marrying into one of the richest families in the country is no easy thing. Look at this tile I laid in the courtyard. Do you think she will like it?

      You did this yourself?

      Well, I had a little help. I hired an expert tile layer and worked side by side with him.

      You did well, little brother. Quite well.

      Now come upstairs. I put a second floor on the house.

      And who did you hire to help you with that?

      A member of my congregation is a bricklayer. I asked him if I would go out in the desert and bring in all the sand, then make all the bricks myself, would he give me a special price.

      Of course, he said yes. What did you threaten him with? Your fists?

      Didn’t have to. My charm did the job.

      So, when do you think you will be done?

      Once Andronicus arrives, you and he can help me move in the furniture, and I should be done.

      You’ve got furniture? What’s wrong with built-in benches and storage bins?

      Not for my Mariamme. By the way, since Father did not want to come to my wedding, I need you guys to go to the high priest’s palace and make the formal announcement that I am ready to finalize the marriage. You can go tomorrow when Andronicus arrives and tell High Priest Caiaphas I will be ready to marry her the next day.

      The two brothers spend the rest of the day cleaning all the rooms. That night they celebrate.

      You said you are a little out of shape, Shaul says. Me too. So we should be about equal doing a little sparring for the sake of old times. Put up your dukes, brother!

      The next day, Andronicus arrives. He is tall and slender like their father and looks almost like Junias’ twin. They both have brown hair, not like Shaul’s black hair.

      The brothers help with the furniture. That done, Andronicus and Junias, representing their father, go to the high priest’s palace to make the announcement.

      Shaul lays out his groom’s clothing: A long red tunic with yellow robe, and a groom’s crown he has borrowed from a neighbor.

      Upon the return of his brothers, the rest of the evening is spent celebrating and remembering old times.

      Did you know we were jealous of you, Shaul? I had already been at the temple school four years and Janias two years. Gamaliel used to brag about how smart I was. But, once you showed up, he started bragging on you instead.

      I had no idea, Shaul responds. I didn’t mean to...

      Andronicus slaps Shaul on the back. Don’t worry about it, little brother. You’re the reason we dropped out of school, but we were sixteen and fourteen by then. When we returned home, our father made us partners with him in our tent-making business.

      Remember, Shaul says, when you used to tease me because I was not as tall as you and was stocky? Well, I showed you. I turned that flab into muscles, and I could outbox you any day of the week.

      Ha. Ha. I’m sure you could, Andronicus replies.

      Would you like to hear an ode I wrote for your wedding? Junias asks.

      The next morning, the visiting brothers are up with the sun.

      Where is Shaul?

      Probably out on his morning run.

      Still doing that?

      I don’t think he will ever stop running. When he is an old man, he will be running. He would run around the world if he thought it was possible.

      Shaul comes in through the front gate, perspiring. He puts his hands down on his knees and catches his breath.

      Today, he tells his brothers, I am going to surprise that bride of mine.

      Are you sure about that? Andronicus asks.

      Absolutely. I am going to arrive in late morning. I know she is expecting me to arrive tonight, but I’m going to give her a taste of what it will be like being married to me. Always expect the unexpected.

      The rest of the morning is spent recalling more childhood antics and exaggerating them all.

      There is a knock on the gate. Shaul answers it, and a small crowd pushes its way in.

      Ha, ha! Right on time, Shaul says. We shall begin the procession now. Oh, and meet my brothers from up in Tarsus. Brothers, these men are from my congregation.

      Out on the street, people recognize Shaul and, by the gaiety, realize it is his wedding procession. People passing by wave and wish the groom happiness.

      Jerusalem is so close, we will be there just in time for a noon meal, Shaul shouts over the music. Anyone hungry?

      At the edge of town, he is met by two surprises.

      Silas! The Barnabas! How did you know my wedding was going to be this morning?

      We didn’t, Silas replies. We were just coming to visit with you. Looks like we’re just in time.

      _____

      I am pleased you could make it, Shaul, Caiaphas says. Have a seat, young man.

      Uh, sir, will I be here long?

      Indeed you will, young man. So have a seat.

      Shaul obeys, looking around for signs that something is wrong.

      Shaul, you have been married to my daughter for two years now.

      Yes, your worshipfulness. They have been good years. She will be delivering our first child in a few months. You have not been displeased with me, have you?

      Oh, no, young man. Not at all. That is what I wanted to talk to you about.

      Yes, sir.

      You have done well since you gave up, well, you know. That thing they call sport.

      Yes, sir.

      You have become a fine scribe. Tertullus has only praises for your work.

      He is a grand man to work for. He has memorized all of the Law of Moses. I admire him and hope to be like him someday.

      You have also built up the synagogue in Bethany so much, you are ready to add on to the building. You haven’t even asked for money from the temple to help you build it.

      No, sir, your worshipfulness. I have been able to raise the money myself.

      How in the world have you done that?

      Well, I give lessons.

      Lessons? Lessons in writing and the Law?

      Well, not exactly, sir. I give lessons in things like, well, like running and things.

      Running and things, you say? Caiaphas rises from his throne, walks a few paces from it while pulling on his ever-graying beard, then returns to sit again.

      Regardless, you are doing a good job, and I am proud of you.

      Shaul’s eyes brighten, and for the first time in a long time, if ever, he feels at ease with his father-in-law.

      There is something else, too, Caiaphas continues."

      Uh, oh.

      You have been doing your part to stop that growing menace, those Jesus people. I believe they call themselves The Way.

      Shaul loosens the grip he has had on his chair arm. Of course. Any self-respecting Jew knows people cannot go around starting new sects. That is up to the Sanhedrin.

      You are right, Son. And that is why I have called you in here.

      Yes, sir.

      You are now thirty years old. You are eligible.

      Eligible for what? I am not of the priestly tribe. I am of the tribe of my namesake, King Shaul of the Benjamites.

      That is fine, Son. And that is my point. We need a young man of your energy and knowledge of the Law. We think you will make a fine leader someday.

      Shaul does not speak. He shuffles his big feet under his chair and smoothes down his black hair for something to do with his hands.

      Young man, we have voted to make you one of us, a member of the great Sanhedrin.

      Shaul stares a moment, then stifles a grin. At last!  But sir, how could I be of any use to the ruling body of our country?

      We would like you to lead our fight against the Jesus people and put a stop to them for good. You will start at our next session.

      What do you want me to do?

      We want you to single out someone we can find an excuse to imprison and execute. The sooner we start executing them, the sooner the rest of their followers will give up and return to the fold.

      Shaul does not answer right away. His dream true, but he must look humble. Caiaphas lets him think.

      Well, there is one man. He is about my age. His name is Stephen.

      Good, we will start with him.

      Sir, I think I know how to infiltrate them and get Stephen. I can set it up, going home.

      Fine. Then you may go. By the way, we meet daily, but that is not a requirement for you. We would like you to continue with the synagogue in Bethany.

      Yes, your worshipfulness. I will report to you when I have enough evidence of blasphemy for a trial.

      On his way back to Bethany, elated, Shaul makes two stops. The first is to the inn where he and Silas had shared a room two years earlier.

      Shaul, my friend. Where have you been? Come in. Come in.

      Silas pulls up a bench for his old friend to sit on.

      I haven’t seen you much since you got married. What did you say her name was?

      Mariamme. And we’re expecting a child in a few months.

      Congratulations. Now, what else is going on in your life? And can I get a plate of grapes for you? I went to the market this morning.

      No, thank you. I was just wondering if you know anything about what is going on with The Way.

      Silas stares at his old friend a moment, stands, opens his door, looks down the hall, closes the door, and reseats himself.

      Uh, Shaul. I don’t know how you are going to like this, but I have become one of them.

      Shaul’s brows furrow. He glares at his lifetime friend. You? No. This cannot be. Not you, Silas. You have betrayed us. You have betrayed everything we have ever stood for.

      Listen to me, Shaul. Jesus fulfilled every one of the numerous prophecies made by the prophets of old about an eternal king. Every one of them.

      He contrived them.

      He could not have contrived them all. He could not have contrived being born in Bethlehem. He could not have contrived being able to perform miracles. He could not have contrived being a descendant of David. He could not have contrived being betrayed for thirty pieces of silver, or being pierced instead of stoned, or dying among criminals or being buried with the rich. Shall I go on?

      Shaul realizes he is about to lose his advantage and calms himself as he always had done before a fight."

      Okay. Sorry, Silas. I lost my head. So, how are things going with his followers?

      Fine. We recently appointed deacons. One of them is Stephen. The apostles gave the deacons the power to perform miracles so people will believe God has blessed them. I think Stephen is a shining star, even among his fellow deacons.

      That’s good to know. Shaul rises from his seat. Well, Silas, old friend, it was nice seeing you again. We shall do this again sometime.

      Indeed, we will, Silas replies.

      Back out on the street, Shaul backtracks to the home of another friend from Tarsus. He knocks on his gate.

      Well, if it isn’t my old friend, Shaul. How have things been with you? Come in.

      It’s good to see you too, Eligius. I just stopped by on my way home to see how you have been doing. We don’t see each other much since leaving home and coming to the Holy City. Are you staying busy?

      Have a seat, Shaul. Oh, and meet my wife, Dosia. Dosia, this is my old friend from Tarsus. My father worked for his father in the tent-making business. We used to play together as kids, so we had to do it in secret since my father was a slave. A few years ago, my father was freed, and that means I was free too. When I got to Jerusalem, I looked up Shaul, but we haven’t seen each other much.

      Welcome to our home, Dosia replies. I shall go fix some dates on a platter for you.

      She disappears, and Shaul comes to the point. So, what is going on with that movement they call The Way?

      Eligius twists his mouth and stares at the floor a moment.

      What I hear is that they continue to gain momentum. The synagogue I belong to keeps losing members. What about yours?

      I have managed to build mine up, but that is partly because a synagogue on the other side of Bethany lost so many members, they merged with mine. I am their rabbi, you know.

      Oh, I hadn’t heard. Well, our synagogue is hurting, and we have been trying to figure out ways to stop the Jesus Movement before it destroys us all.

      Then I believe we can help each other. I heard they have appointed some officers that they call deacons and that one of them is especially powerful: Stephen.

      Hmmm.

      If you can catch him doing anything the Sanhedrin can condemn him for, we will vote to have him executed.

      We? Only the Sanhedrin has that power, and even then, Rome will not allow them to execute anyone.

      Shaul, I am a member of the Sanhedrin. Marrying the high priest’s daughter was a boon for me. Not that I don’t love her; I do. But it had other benefits too. I am the youngest member they have admitted in decades.

      So, what do you want me to do?

      Find Stephen. Get together some witnesses saying he broke the Law of Moses and anything else you can think of, and bring him before us.

      Eligius slaps his

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