Of Such Is the Kingdom Parts I and II—Christ and the Roman Empire

“Indeed! I wasn’t aware of all this. But anyway, like you said th’ last time you were here, something oughta be done.”

Now it was Manaheem’s face that lit up. “So, you’ve been thinking about what we talked about last time?”

“I have indeed. And th’ more I think about it, th’ more disturbed I get, and th’ more I realize something must be done!”

“You’re absolutely right, my friend. Something must be done! And you’re just the man to do it.”

The smith drew back in amazement. “Me?”

“Yes, you!”

“But I’m just an ignorant blacksmith!”

“You are the one– perhaps the only one in this city at this moment who has caught the vision so strongly and sees so clearly the desperate need for action.”

“But, you said there are probably many more here who feel this way.”

“True,” agreed Manaheem, picking up the water jar again. “But they do not, as yet, feel strongly enough to act.”

“B-but, what can I do?”

“Talk to people– your friends– your trusted friends only. Find out their true feelings, and try to enlist them in the cause.”

“The cause?”

“The cause of revolution, or insurrection, against the ever expanding menace of Pilate’s tyranny. When you have gained a sufficient group, you must train them and prepare them for an attack on Pilate’s Jerusalem praetorium when he comes here for his usual visit during Passover season. I’ll give you whatever advice and help I can.”

“You mean--?” His words were slow and halting. “You really mean you want me to form and train a group of insurrectionists?”

“Exactly!”

“But, why wouldn’t you be the one to do it?”

“I’m from out of town. I traveled a great distance to come here. You live closer to the situation. And besides, you probably know more people than I do.”