Of Such Is The Kingdom Part I—Discontent and Insurrection

The stranger smiled benignly.  “Relax, my friend, relax. I’m Roman in citizenship only – by no means in sympathy.  Despite my divergent appearance, do you not see the Jew in me?  I was born a Jew, just like you.  But, I was raised in a somewhat different environment.  Having the chance, I determined to be my own man, to dress, talk, act and think as much as possible on my own, without any outside influence.”

“Then, you are not a true Jew.”  Barabbas was still on the defensive.  “A Jew follows the precepts of the fathers: the law, the prophets and the Talmud.”

“I believe in the basic spiritual truth behind these teachings.  But, every man must be free to find the meaning of this truth for himself, and to apply it to his own life as he sees fit.  It is the spirit of these things that is important, not the letter.  Look at you!  Where has following the letter gotten you?”

Barabbas’ mind was racing and he started to speak.  “Uh—-”

But the stranger raised a finger, smiled and continued:  “Ah, but it did my heart good to hear you speak those treacherous words a moment ago.  For, I, myself, feel the same way.  Those Romans are truly tyrants and must be stopped!”

“Ah-ha!” The smith’s face brightened.  “So! You’re not one of them!  Ah!  I’m safe!  And I have someone with which to share my rebellious attitudes!”

“Indeed you do!” Exclaimed the stranger, who had been glancing toward the doorway every now and then to make sure no one entered.

He now leaned over the counter and spoke more softly and yet more emphatically, so as to ensure his listener’s full attention.  “And I’m certain there must be more who feel the same way about things as we do!”

Most likely. If only they would speak out!”

“And why do you think they do not?”

The smith’s brow wrinkled.  “I never thought much about that, but the only reason I can think of is fear. We’re all afraid to say anything.”

“Exactly!  If only we could all find each other, as you and I have, and all band together——”  The stranger’s voice trailed off as he turned and glanced at the sundial outside the window.  “I must be leaving now,” he added, starting toward the door, “but, we shall meet again, my friend.”