Saturday, March 29
Nicodemus
Marketplace in Jerusalem. The week before the Passover festival.
After many days in his study surrounded by his books, pausing in his thoughtful work to hear reports from friends and fellow Sanhedrin members, the venerable doctor of laws Nicodemus has come out for a restful walk in the marketplace. He is accompanied by his bodyguard Samson, a mighty warrior noted for his aversion to conversation.
Nicodemus speaks: “Look at all these people, Samson. They are busy. They are happy. They are looking forward to our great national festival. And they have no idea that there is danger all about them. All this could be destroyed in a day. The Roman army is poised to crush any hint of rebellion. The Sanhedrin is locked in a position of self-preservation. Our zealot terrorists are lurking in every shadow. Good and noble leaders are threatened with disaster.
Some months ago, my friend Joseph of Arimathea told me Jesus would be here for Passover once again. My informants have told me he is here and his actions have redoubled my fears for him. He entered the city on a mule like the kings of old, hailed as king by a crowd of followers. Fortunately, the Romans don’t understand the symbolism of this or they would have imprisoned him immediately. Then he attacked the commercialism of the Temple crowd. They are seeking ways to destroy him. He preaches every day in the Temple with his crowd of followers about him to protect him. They haven’t been able to discover where he spends the night. His disciples are very loyal. But I am afraid for him, Samson. He has so many enemies and they are so strong. I’ve known him for several years, Samson, and I’ve learned a great deal from him. I have come to believe he is our promised Messiah, but I am afraid for him!”
“But look at that young man at the vegetable stall haggling with the vendor. That’s one of Jesus’ disciples, Judas Iscariot. Let’s talk to him.”
When Nicodemus and Samson arrived at the stall, Judas had disappeared. The seller explained that he had not had enough coin to buy the herbs he wanted.
“Today I have some especially fine herbs. Many folks want bitter herbs on their Passover plates and Judas wanted these. He’ll be back soon to buy them.”
“Well,” said Nicodemus, “let me save him the trouble. I’ll buy them. We could even deliver them.”
“No one delivers. Judas insists that he carry everything. But he would be very happy with the gift.”
“Very well. That’s the way it will be. Samson, give the man his money. I will hope to see Jesus another time.”
Guy Johnson