Adventure The Long Walk E-Book

Joseph N. Padilla

• Herausgeber: Proisle Publishing Services
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 378

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2022

Beschreibung

Have you found Christ yet? After you read my novel you will see how many things one young man went through with so many tribulations unknown to him; but those years of agonizing have passed; and now it is up to you to follow the path after Christ. Your path has been open without limits; this story shows you the way. Your path is no farther than the New Testament of the bible; for Jesus has cleared the way for you. This venture will take you there and as you read the word; know this; you also have gone, "AFTERCHRIST." Joseph N. Padilla was born in the small coal-mining town of Madrid, New Mexico where he lived till the age of 10. In 1941 he and his family relocated to Richmond, California. After graduating high school he fell in love with and married his late wife Alta of 52 years. After serving in the army overseas during the Korean War, he returned to his wife to start a family with three wonderful children. Joseph had many jobs till working and retiring as a mechanic of 25 years for the bay area rapid transit system. Joseph enjoys many artistic hobbies including oil painting, playing steel guitar and storytelling. With all his blessings and inspiration from the Lord, Joseph hopes you enjoy "Afterchrist."

Leseprobe

ADVENTURE THE

LONG WALK

AFTER CHRIST

Joseph N. Padilla

Copyright © 2022 by Joseph N. Padilla

ISBN: 978-1-959449-09-6

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including

photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval

system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher disclaims any responsibility for them.

Unless otherwise indicated, Bible quotations are taken from the King James Version.

To order additional copies of this book, contact: Proisle Publishing Services LLC

1177 6th Ave 5th Floor

New York, NY 10036, USA

Phone: [phone]) [email protected]

TABLE OF CONTENTS

DEDICATION

SUMMARY

CHARACTERS

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 15

CHAPTER 16

CHAPTER 17

CHAPTER 18

CHAPTER 19

CHAPTER 20

CHAPTER 21

CHAPTER 22

CHAPTER 23

CHAPTER 24

CHAPTER 25

CHAPTER 26

CHAPTER 27

CHAPTER 28

CHAPTER 29

CHAPTER 30

CHAPTER 31

CHAPTER 32

CHAPTER 33

CHAPTER 34

CHAPTER 36

CHAPTER 38

CHAPTER 39

CHAPTER 40

CHAPTER 41

CHAPTER 42

CHAPTER 43

CHAPTER 44

CHAPTER 45

CHAPTER 46

CHAPTER 47

CHAPTER 48

CHAPTER 49

CHAPTER 50

CHAPTER 51

DEDICATION

These thoughts are dedicated to my family and those who find comfort in the many stories that have been told about Christ during His ministry here on earth. My writings are not biblical per-say, but I do convey my thoughts on what might have occurred to a young man as he sought after the one who would fulfill his hope; The one called Jesus.

SUMMARY

This adventure novel is set in the time of the Roman conquest during the ministry of Jesus. It is based on biblical and fictional characters. All ideas and material used in this manuscript are of my own imagination by the spirit that led me.

The story is about a young man named Timothy, and his walk of mercy to help his young brother who has been badly injured partly because of Timothy. His guilt and the inspiration of a stranger he met near his home who was called the Baptizer led Timothy in search of the one called Jesus.

Timothy was convinced that the trip would not take much more than a month at the most; but as it was, his dream became a tribulation. After more three years of agony, despair, imprisonment, and anxiety, he made it home, only to find his loved ones were all missing. Gone was his wife whom he married while on his journey. Also gone were his father, mother, and his little brother; all lost because his determination to search for the one called Jesus, whom Timothy believed would heal his young brother Jobe. All Timothy’s hope ended at this place he called home. Or had they.

CHARACTERS

Timothy

Jobe

Mark

Marth

John – the Baptizer

Jaz-mer – the mysterious stranger (Saul’s brother-in law)

A-lia - (ah-lee- a) the lady at the well

Kaz - (Kas-ZZ) the mute

A-mon - (A-mon) - Chief-rabbi priest

Rebecca - Timothy’s wife

Sarah - Rebecca’s sister

A-zor – Rebecca’s father

Marra - Rebecca’s mother

To-Bo (Toe- Bo) – Rebecca’s little dog

Joram - an old acquaintance of A-zor

Benjamin - the beggar

Mary and - Joseph - guardians of Jesus

Philip - one of the twelve apostles

Joran - (Jo) and A-sa (ace saw) -fighting friends of Timothy

Detro trail guide, a disciple of Jesus

Mamma - Mary – Philip’s aunt

Esiepo (e-see-pi-o)

Azariah _ (rich monarch)

Aron - Azariah’s bodyguard

Rachel – servant girl to Azariah

ADVENTURE THE

LONG WALK

AFTER CHRIST

CHAPTER 1

At Home

It was a beautiful day in the small village in Aurore in lower Judea. The midday sun was hot, and not much shade to speak of. In the shade of an old cedar three sat a young man named Timothy who had just returned from tending the family’s sheep and was resting peaceful with no specific thought in mind. His family had lived in the same spot for four generations. The only ones left were his father Mark, his mother Martha, and his little brother. Mark was a farmer who cultivated a small piece of land handed down to him by his father. He grew all his crops annually. Mark was well though by those who knew him. Martha was a very pleasant person. Timothy’s younger brother, who name was Jobe, was eleven years of age was always full of joy and mischief. He pestered his brother Timothy on every subject he could think of. Timothy enjoyed having Jobe around, but he did not want Jobe to know it because then his little brother would pester him so that he would not have time to lay around and daydream. He was seventeen and almost a fully-grown-up person, and being a simple shepherd was nothing but timeconsuming and challenging work. He would dream of being nothing less than a ruler with his own kingdom. Timothy did so love hid his job of taking care of the sheep, mostly because this kept him out in the open air where the horizon meets the blue of the sky. As Timothy lay there halve-asleep under shade the old cedar tree, holding a lamb to his boson, when suddenly his dreams were, interrupted by the voice of his mother as she neared him and said, “Timothy! Son, awaken thy self, it is time for you to take your father his lunch, you know how hard he has been working those days; he must finish baling the wheat before the winter winds show up. Timothy! Are you listening to me?” Timothy answered, “Yes mother; isn’t he a pretty lamb? Just look at his eyes, look how black they are.” “Timothy!” she said again. “I know Mama, I know, I am ready.” Meanwhile Jobe was taking in all that was being said, and he interrupted, saying. “May I go? Please, Mama, please -- Timothy, please let me go with you. “I don’t know.” Answered Timothy, Papa may not approve of you going.” Jobe was really excited wanting to go and said,. “I will be really good, I promise --- if you let me go with you.” Martha looked over at Timothy and winked her eye at him and said, “Do you can see it in your heart to take your little brother with you?” Timothy looked over at Jobe and said, “Well, alright, but you my little brother, you better be at your best, and I mean really good, and you will carry the water bag; and remember I walk very fast.” Jobe looked at Timothy with sad eyes. “Oh well,” replied Timothy. “I guess I can slow down just for you little brother.” Jobe very existed said, “Oh boy Mama, I get to go with Timothy.” Jobe took off to fetich his sandals, yelling, “I get to go with Timothy, I get to go with Timothy.” Timothy and Jobe started walking on the trail that led to where their father was working. It was one of the most beautiful days anyone could ever dream of. As the boys were on their way, Jobe was full of questions. Questions about this and about that, things those young boys normally ask their older brothers, such as, “Why do goats look different from sheep?” This are things that big brothers were supposed to know. Timothy was very patient with Jobe and tried to answer everything his little brother would ask. The boys had been on the trail for some time. They approached two trails at the end of the road where the trails led to the valley below where their father was working. Jobe noticed that one of the trails was used more than the other and wanted to know why? So, he asked his big brother Timothy, “Why is one trail used more than the other?” Timothy tried to explain to Jobe why sometimes it is not so easy to explain things. The truth was Timothy was afraid to let Jobe know about the mysteries of the old trail; but the answer he gave only left Jobe wondering what Timothy meant, and Jobe was a little puzzled. Jobe had never been in these parts of the valley, though he knew from hearing the family talking to which direction his father would be working. Jobe than asked Timothy, “Timothy why don’t we go this way, it seems to be closer to where father is working?” “NO! exclaimed Timothy; we better not.” “Well why not?” asked Jobe. Timothy could not make his mind whether to let Jobe know about the old trail. Timothy was very good about making decisions, but this one was very difficult. He stopped to think and thought that Jobe was old enough to know about the old trail. Knowing that Jobe would one day come to see for himself, which would be dangerous. Decision made; Timothy then replied. “Well, Jobe, when I was a little boy, I remember some bubbling things that would bubble out of the ground, over there where those rocks are, they were all over and some heavy yellow mud. Let me tell you what an unpleasant smell came about, P-U! the smell got so bad that no one could pass through there anymore. I also remember hearing of a men who became lost there and was never found.” Jobe then asked Timothy, as he pointed at the rock formation. “Timothy have you ever gone through here before?” Timothy paused for a moment before he answered. Saying. “Yes I have Jobe, but the last time I went through,

Papa really jumped all over me.” “Did he spank you?” asked Jobe? “No, but you know that look on father’s face. I will never do that again.” Jobe’s imagination was really working, wondering what it would be like in this mystic world Timothy knew all about. Jobe’s imagination flared up. He knew he could manage the task. He has so much confidence in himself he thought he could walk on fire and brimstone with his eyes closed. Jobe had a gleam in his eyes. He spoke with a deep voice to a whisper. “Timothy, do you think you could take me through that way?” “Not on your life Jobe.” Replied Timothy, “Not -- on – your—life.” “Well! why not? I won’t tell anyone, I promise; come on Timothy – please.” Now Jobe, you know I can’t do that.” Please Timothy, please? Oh, come on, I know you are a very and conscientious person; please.” Timothy smiled as he questioned his better judgment. “Hmm!” he said, “Conscientious you say! Hmm! That is quiet a word Jobe; well, we have lost time talking about this, -- I do not know Jobe, -- what if -- well, what if we get hurt?” “I know we won Timothy; I just know we won’t.” “Well, if you promise not to ever tell anyone about this, said Timothy. “I won’t’ I promise cross my heart.” Exclaimed Jobe. The two started walking into the path that led to the cave and the smell that Timothy had talked about was present and was getting stronger. It was the odor of sulfur. As they walked on the trail, the path was getting very narrow, and the ledges were very slippery. Further in the shallow cave the sky was getting darker, and the smell was more intense. Timothy and Jobe began coughing and their eyes streaming with tears. Jobe began crying. he was crying very loudly, but the noise of the violent gurgling and the hissing of the bubbles that were bursting all around them made it impossible for Timothy to hear Jobe‘s cry. Timothy stopped to look back to see how far Jobe was from him, for he knew that every time he took a step, the rocks on the trail rolled into the bubbling pools of lava and disintegrated into dust forms and the spewing popping cracking and exploding sounds that spewed dust and debris all around them. Timothy could not see Jobe. He got very concerned about his little brother. Timothy’s eyes were bothering him very badly. He called for Jobe, but he could not see or hear his little brother, for there was no answer from him. When he did not get an answer, he turned around back up the path wondering how far back Jobe could be. Timothy’s vision was so impaired that he could not see very far. He heard a faint cry; suddenly the hill side gave way, and Timothy slid but managed to hang on with a large root of some sort. He glanced down the slope and saw something moving; it was Jobe down at the bottom of the gorge where Jobe had fallen. Timothy was holding on the best way he could trying desperately to get down to where his little brother lay. Timothy yelled down to Jobe, “Are you alright Jobe, can you hear me?” But there was no answer Timothy managed to reach his little brother “JOBE, - JOBE,” cried Timothy as loudly as his voce could carry. “Are you all right, can you hear me? “Timothy’s hopes went up when he heard Jobe moaning and crying. Once again, he said, “Are you all right?” Poor Jobe, all he could do was moan and cry. “Oh Lord, what have I done? What am I to do?” Timothy asked himself. All timothy could think of was to go tell his father. He tried to help his brother, but Jobe’s right leg was severely broken. Timothy leaned over to take a better look at Jobe’s leg. “Oh my God what have I done? God if you can get us from this inferno I will make it up to you, I promise. Please help me to help my little brother out of here.” Once again, Timothy bent to see how Jobe was doing. This time looking through the dim lite he noticed Jobe’s face was burned very badly, and it was impossible for Jobe to see. Timothy cried out again; “My Lore, what have I done? Help me Lord. It is my brother I am worried about; would you please help him? Lord I beg you with my life.” Timothe picked himself up quickly as fast as he could stumbling through that land of boiling hell to seek help from his father. He ran with a heavy sweat and tears running down his face making his way to where his father was working, the only thing left were God and his father to help. The brightness of the day became clear as he ran out of the gorge into the flat land. brightness of the day became clearer as he ran out of the gorge He could see the area where his father was working. Timothy started yelling, Father, Father, please forgive me, oh Father! Timothy was so disoriented. Mark stopped his horse, then dropped the plow as he looked up and saw Timothy running toward him. He wondered if something was wrong for he could hear Timothy yelling something to him. Mark started running toward him. Timothy was out of control: he was not making any sense. When Mark reached Timothy he grabbed him by the arms. He had to shake Timothy very hard to get him to make any sense. “What’s wrong?” asked Mark. “Please tell me, talk to me son, please.” Mark realized that he was he was shaking Timothy very hard trying to get him to say something that would make sense. Timothy was trembling very badly with so much fear and afraid to tell his father what had just happened. Timothy took a deep breath and was stressed then said. “Father it’s Jobe.” Mark just stood there motionless looking at Timothy. He could tell by the mess his son was in and where his son had been. For only the pit had yellow mud. Mark asked, “What about Jobe, come on son what about Jobe?” Mark was a very calm person, but his nerves were about to give way. With a very wavery voice said Timothy, “Father, I didn’t mean to take him through there Papa; I’m sorry.” “Slow down son, slow down, said Mark: tell me where Jobe is right now?” Timothy was so afraid that he was stuttering his words and making no sense. He then said, “He – he’s –he is up on the old mud trail, please help him Papa.” Mark’s heart must have stopped a beat or two as he grabbed Timothy by the arm and spoke. Come on son, show me where he is.” But before leaving, Mark released the horse in case he was not able to come back. This wasn’t the first time Mark had been in the predicament of having to help someone out of this hellhole. But this time, it was his own son with a challenge between life and death. Mark and his son reached the trail leading into the gorge. They quickly entered the path in the direction where Jobe laying. Mark and Timothy were slipping and sliding, losing footing on the slippery rocks. Lower and lower they went; the rocks fell into the molten pods, where they would explode and disintegrated in the burning lava, timothy was getting his second wind knowing that his brother had to be nearby. He had also lost his fear just knowing that his father was with him. He was still incredibly worried about his brother Jobe. Down on the ledge where Jobe was laying in the yellow mud was unable to contact anyone. He was wondering if Timothy had fallen somewhere and was unable to get help. He wished he could do something, but he was laying in such pain, and every time he tried to move, the ground gave way. Not able to see, he just lay very still in hopes that his brother would soon return. Jobe started to think about his family, and what his father and his mother would do at such a time as this. Jobe, for such a little person was very brave;. He lay trying to keep his mind off worrying about the surroundings he found himself in. He thought about what his father had taught him all his life. His father would say, “Son, when you are lost or in trouble don’t ever forget our Father who is in heaven. He will help you and give you strength. With this in mine, Jobe felt somewhat confident. Jobe lay there very still. He thought of the day his father had scolded him for pulling the feathers from a little duckling; one could hear the little duck squealing a long way.’ and when he had tried to break an old pair of wooden sandals his father had made for him; for he wanted to make a toy boat out of them to float in the pond out back. Suddenly Jobe realized the severity of what had happened to him. He was scared and wondering if Timothy was coming back to help him; the odor was much more intense, and there was extreme pressure in the air. Just how can could a grown person take, much less a young boy like Jobe. He wanted to cry out, but his exhausted voice could no longer be expressed. Jobe realized that his hearing had become very keen, and open to every sound in this midst of all that surrounded him. He was listening very hard when his heart started to beat very fast, he thought he heard voices coming from above from where he lay. This was a crucial moment for him as he cried out. “Is someone out there? Please answer me – Timothy is that you? – is that you Timothy?” Jobe was struggling with his voice, for he was weak from all the crying and was wondering if anyone could hear him. When he heard a voice, “Over here father.” said Timothy. I think it’s coming from over here—Jobe! Jobe! Where are you? Can you hear me?” Jobe screamed out, I’m over here Timothy, I’m over here! Please help me, -- I can’t see.” Cried Jobe. “Is someone with you? “as he repeated again. “is someone with you, please answer me.” Jobe was still struggling with his voice. Timothy looking down the gorge saw Jobe, and said, Here he is father; yes I have father with me. - he’s over here Papa, come quickly.” Mark and Timothy drew near to where Jobe was laying. As the mist flared a light that lit the surrounding walls. They could see Jobe covered with yellow mud, and what an entanglement he was in. nearing closer they could see his broken leg bone exposed through his clothing. The blood had turned deep brown that was mixed with the yellow mud that covered the aera where Jobe lay. Timothy bent down to take a closer look at Jobe’s leg. But doing so made him sick to his stomach as he gagged his guts out. Mark reached Jobe and tried to keep Jobe as comfortable as he could in the predicament they were in. As for timothy, he could not believe that he had gone against his father’s will. “Oh my god, what have I done?” he said, “Lord I can’t bear to see what I have done, forgive me Lord.” Mark was now worried about Timothy because he could see that his son was In panic. Mark told Timothy to move over. Timothy just stood there looking at Jobe. Mark replied again, “Move over son so I can help your brother.” Mark sat next to Jobe and asked him, “Can you see son, can you see Jobe?” Jobe grabbed ahold of Mark and replied, “No father I can’t see at all, please help me.” Timothy! said Mark, “Pick Jobe’s head up.” Timothy very slowly to react. “Timothy!” said Mark one more time. You must listen to me, we have to help Jobe, now lift his head up.” “Father Jobe can’t see anymore; cried Timothy; he can’t see Papa; oh Lord take my eyes, not Jobe’s, --please, Lord.” Mark looked over at Timothy and said.” Timothy don’t do this – I need you now, Jobe need’s you this very moment.” Timothy took a deep breath and said to himself,” I need to keep my strength for what I have done cannot be undone; I have to live with it for the rest of my life,; be merciful with me God,” It was going to be very difficult getting out. As they started on their way-out Mark carried Jobe very carefully. Afraid of stumbling on the slippery trail. After the long struggle Mark and Timothy could see the daylight up ahead. The difficulty of getting out ended. Timothy stopped to look back. He stood hypnotized by the thought of all that had happened in such a short time. The guilt that Timothy felt increased when he thought of coming eye to eye with his mother: What would she do or say? Would she hate him forever? This concerned him very much. As they neared the homestead, the outline of the farmhouse and the old cedar tree came into sight. One could see the heat rising from the ground in the horizon for it was a very warm day. taking a closer look, they could see the rock fence covered with clean clothes drying in the sun. The sheep were restless, for they would always come to meet Timothy anytime he neared the yard. This time was a little different. The sheep were very sensitive they sense something was wrong; it was the small of blood and the sulfur from Jobe’s leg. Martha was outside washing clothes. They could hear her singing. A very kind and gentle person, she always had a smile for everyone. The love she had for her family could not be traded for silver nor gold. Martha looked up and saw them coming; she could not see them very well for the sheep obstructed her view. She could not see that Mark was holding something in his arms, but what she did noticed is that the sheep’s behavior was strange. Martha looked up again to see what the commotion was all about with sheep. She noticed that Timothy was well ahead of Mark and Jobe. She also realized that they were a little late, but she knew Timothy had been showing Jobe a new world he had never seen before. Martha began to worry why Timothy was so far ahead of then and running. She looked up again, and this time she saw Mark holding Jobe in his arms. At that moment, her eyes filled with tears she knew something had gone wrong. Timothy held back his tears till the moment he reached his mother. He could not hold them any longer at the thought of his mother never forgiving him for the tragedy he had caused. Martha approached Timothy and said,” What is it son, what has happened to Jobe?” She looked up and saw Mark holding Jobe in his arms. “Ooh my Lord,” she cried out With a very loud and dreadful cry.” my little boy is dead, - my little boy is dead?” She was full of hysteria as Mark was trying to let her that Jobe was not dead; it was hard to get her to understand for she was in such panic. Once again Mark told her that Jobe was not dead, but that he had a been badly injured. This time she realized what Mark was telling her. She calmed down as Mark laid Jobe on a homemade bench that the family used as a daybed under one of the shade trees, where it was cooler. “Martha, please dear, he’s not dead,” exclaimed Mark.” He is hurt pretty bad and needs attention.” “Oh Mark! Thank you Lord.” She spoke saying,” How is he, and what happened to my little boy?” Mark having a tough time himself trying to let her know how he felt inside. He explained that Jobe’s face was burned, and that his leg was broken very badly and would have to be set. Martha still wondering how it all happened. She started to cry again. Timothy could not bear to see the agony his mother was in. He stood there in fear motionless, wondering how to let his mother know what he had done by taking Jobe through the hell-gate, as it was called. There was no way to ask for forgiveness when he had gone against his parents’ rules, and other different thoughts that were going around and around his mind. But Timothy realized that he would have to come face to face with his mother. Mark commenced to set Jobe’s leg. He took a small stick and placed it in Jobe’s mouth so that he would not bite his tongue. Mark asked timothy to help to hold Jobe down. Timothy responded slowly. Jobe squealed but took it very well. Timothy on the other hand became sick to his stomach and he could not hold it. He excused himself and walked out a way to release himself. Mark told Martha what had happened to the boys. She did not say anything; she knew the boys were at an age when curiosity was inevitable. On his return Timothy walked over to where his mother was standing, and touched her on her shoulder and said, “I know I did wrong, please don’t be angry with me.” Martha calmly touched his face and said, “My son I don’t know what happened out there, but I know that you could not or would never do anything to purposely hurt anyone, especially your little brother.” After a while everyone calmed down to the point where they could talk about what had happened. Timothy was so rattled that he could not make any sense when he tried to explain. Finally, Mark told Timothy to let him explain to his mother what had happened. Timothy stepped outside and walked over to the old cedar tree where he sat down. He was praying felling very lonely like never before. Mark once again explained to Martha step by step about the tragedy of this unforgettable day. this left Timothy in a state of loneliness for many days.

CHAPTER 2

Shadow of A Man

Several days had passed, and time had stood still for Timothy. All this time Timothy had been neglecting his chores; he was in no way taking care of the sheep or milking the cows, - not to mention the chickens. The chores overtaken over by his mother. Martha did not complain, for she knew Timothy was feeling very depressed. Her hopes were that son would snap out of his deep depression; as for the sheep, a near friend would send his son over to help Mark, when Mark was unable to tend to them. All Timothy had been doing was praying and waiting for an answer. Jobe on the other end, who had been left blind for the rest of his life, he was always in good spirits. He had forgiven Timothy repeatedly, but Timothy would not accept his forgiveness. He just knew that God must have forgotten him because of what he had done to Jobe. But still, he would not give up his faith in him. Timothy spent most of his time alone in prayer. “Oh God,” he said why don’t you take my sigh, and give my little brother Jobe back his sight. He repeated this over and over, again, and again. A few months had passed. One beautiful day, Timothy took a walk over the long rock fence that kept the blowing sand away from the living area. He sat down against the rock fence thinking of all that had happened, still praying in hopes that Jobe would be able to see once again. Timothy sat there looking down at the ground drawing lines in the dirt, When he saw the shadow of a man just in front of him. “Hello young fellow” Said the man, with such a big voice Timothy looked up at the man with amazement; the men stood in front of him and said, “I didn’t mean to frighten your young man; my is John what might yours be.” “Oh!” replied Timothy, I’m sorry I was daydreaming; I am Timothy, Timothy of Mark, would you care for a drink of water Sir, Timothy always carried a camel skin water bag with him, a customary practice with most shepherds. “Think you young man, I would like some very much.” While John was taking a drink, Timothy looked the man over from top to bottom. He was dressed quite differently from everyone around this part of the country. The man had on animal skin clothing, which was quite unusual. His clothing was heavy for the weather in these parts, although it didn’t seem to bother the tall man at all. He was a darkskin man battered from the sun, but with such a warm smile on his face. His countenance showed no signs of violence, malice. Or offensiveness. How can anyone look so tranquil and peaceful, thought Timothy. He just kept looking at the stranger with such amazement. This moment did him good, for it was the first time Timothy had a smiled in days. Timothy looked up and asked the stranger, saying, “Pardon me for asking Sir, but where do you come from , we don’t see many strangers around these parts The stranger replied, “Well son I have not stayed in one place long enough to claim any part of the land as home; I have traveled from Galilee to Jordan, Capernaum, to the coast of Zebulun, Joppa, Damascus, and Philippi, to name just a few; and now I am on my way back to Jerusalem; in my travels, I bring good news my son.” Although Timothy was depressed over Jobe’s mishap, his senses were keen. He thought to ask John about something he had heard his father talk about. “Pardon my asking Sir, but I have heard folks talking about some kind of trouble in upper Judea that many of the people are being divided by the rulers of King Herod’s empire over some political argument as to who are the followers of the King? I have also heard about a new King from somewhere afar; do you know of this Sir. “Ha! three is a new king, my son, the one who has given me a new life, for I baptize with water unto repentance, but He that comes after me is mightier than I will ever be. He can make your sadness become an enlightenment of gladness; you can be born again into a life that no one can take away from you. For He, has been sent by the Father Almighty. His name is Jesus; for Jehovah has send his only begotten son to bless us all and bring us all to salvation. All you must do is open your heart and He will fill your soul with love. The greatest gift given to all of us is free will, to do right or wrong is left up you; you will have to choose which king you will serve. I have been traveling to many places spreading the gospel of Jesus the Christ, for He himself was sent to give us eternal life to all who believe in Him.” Timothy stood staring at the sky; a teat rolled down his cheek and John took note that Timothy had trouble within. “What is troubling you son?” ask John, if you want to talk about what is bothering you, I will be more than happy to listen.” Timothy looked over at John; then with guilt and shame Timothy started telling John what happened to his little brother. After two hours or so, Timothy’s heart was enlightened as John told him about the Lord Jesus Christ. Timothy now had something to look forward to. He was full of questions, but John the baptizer had answers to all of Timothy’s questions. Timothy and John talked for quite a while. It was well past the noon hour when Timothy looked up the road. He saw three men coming toward them. As they arrived, the three men greeted Timothy and John. They walked over to John and embraced him with such admiration. John turned to Timothy and ask if it would be all right to offer his comrade shave a drink of water. Timothy answered, “Of course, you more than welcome.” As they surrounded the water well, and John introduced his friends. “Permit me to introduce my brothers and friends; to your right is my is my brother Mark, and to his right is Matthew, the other one, the Galilean, is Peter; and if you look up the road a way you will see his little brother Andrew, who is not much on land as you can see, but at sea he can out- fish all the fishermen around. Now he is fishing men for Jesus. You see we are all apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They sat to rest for a while. John looked up at Timothy and thanked him for the water and his hospitality and said, “Son it’s time for us to leave; we are on our way to meet with Jesus; he will be waiting for us near Jerusalem. May the Lord Jehovah be with you always, and Jesus be your way. Remember what I have told you. Good-by my friend, tell we meet again, With God’ blessings. Timothy waved as the strangers walked away. He felt empty and alone, still with a deep and ugly feeling over his brother Jobe, although his heart did feel lighter after meeting John. Timothy stood thinking about what John told him about the one called Jesus. “This Lord Jesus Christ,” he said a loud. It was something new to him. Timothy took everything that had been told to him by John. “A MAN CALLED JESUS!” He shouted aloud. That’s the one, the one called Jesus. I must fine this holy man. I’m sure John is right; just look at him and his friends who are filled with something new and different and beautiful: yes that is it. he exclaimed. As he neared the house, his mother saw him approaching the back yard. To her surprise, he had a look she had not seen in quiet sometime.. He had a smile on his face. She walked over to him and said, “Is something wrong son, What is it?” He replied, “Mother where is father?” Martha looked at him and said, “Your father? Something is wrong, what is it?” Timothy looked over at her and said, “Yes mother something did happened, but I must tell you father,

and Jobe.”

CHAPTER 3

Dreams of Hope

Mark was laying down in an open room attached to the back of the house where it was cool under the shade of the trees that hung over the opening. He heard some commotion about, but he was so exhausted he didn’t pay much attention to what was going on; he was just too tired and halve-asleep. Martha walked over to where Mark lay. She turned back to look at Timothy once again; he had a look of a child with a new toy; she was so happy to see him smile. “Mark! Mark, awaken thy self,” “Mark, are you awake! as she whispered with a soft voice. Mark startles sat up on his daybed looked up at Martha and said, “Yes Martha ‘m awake, I thought I heard someone out there; is something wrong?” She replied, “It’s Timothy Mark, he looks so happy and wants to talk to you.” “He does - Do you know what’s going on?” asked Mark. “No, she answered, but he is smiling, and that is good news.”

“Yes indeed, that it is,” replied Mark, He hasn’t been happy In almost, --- well many, many weeks.” Jobe was in his room and heard the excitement; even though he was blind, he could move around very well without any assistance from anyone; and he made sure everyone knew for this was his fight, and he was determined to win this battle. This was one of the reason Timothy felt so guilty; and there was no way he could help Jobe. Timothy thought he had to be Jobe’s eyes, arms, and legs, but Jobe wouldn’t allow that. Jobe walked in on them, and spoke up, “Mama is something wrong? I thought I heard voices out here?” Martha replied, “No my son, nothing is wrong, it’s just Papa and your brother; you know I haven’t seen your brother so happy since your mishap.” Jobe could feel that his mother didn’t like to talk about his accident; but he had to say something. Mother, I don’t mind hearing about my accident, it does not bother me at all, and I’m glad to hear that Timothy is beginning to feel himself again. “Sheee! here he comes.” “Well,” said Timothy, “I don’t what to keep you all waiting for the good news: - Papa, Mama, Jobe, I have found the answer,” He paused momentarily with a smile on his face. “The answer to what son?” asked Mark. Martha was holding Jobe’s hand; Jobe smiled as he felt his mother grip his hand. They were waiting for Timothy to say what he had in mind; they were eager to hear the good news. Well, he said, “I am going on a trip!” Mark looked over at Martha; no one spoke a word. Martha put her arms around Jobe. No one said a word.

Jobe broke the salience by saying. “Good for you Timothy.” Mark interrupted abruptly. “Wait a minute, wait a minute, son, are you sure you want to go on a trip! A trip to where?” “Just a moment Papa.” Replied Timothy. “Maybe I better explain to you what I am trying to say here. You know that I haven’t been felling too good lately, but this morning while I was down by the rock wall, a man was walking by and he stopped and talked with me for a while, somehow, he knew that I was felling down and out, and as we talked, he told me about a holy man called Jesus who has come from the Father Jehovah to help and heal those who follow, Him; Oh isn’t that wonderful Papa?” Mark then replied, still somewhat puzzled. “I have heard of someone like that down at the marketplace where I saw three or four men who were talking to many who would listen about a holy man. At that moment

Timothy interrupted, saying, “Were they dressed differently from anyone around here?” “Yes.” said mark. “They seem to be from up north, some whares beyond Jerusalem.” “That’s them, Papa, those are men I am talking about; they came to lower Judea to do something called baptism over at the river, the people wanted to meet John, for John told them that the baptism was done in the name of the one called Jesus, the Son of God.; one was named John and the others were, Peter, and his brother, Andrew, and the other one a Galilean named Matthew, I think they were fisher-men or something like that; they were very nice folks, and I believed them; and I know they wouldn’t deceive anyone.” “I don’t know son, I have heard of the one called Jesus, and the miracles He has performed, all done in the name of our Lord God Jehovah; but!” “I know father, that’s why I want to go looking for Him, then you Jobe you will be able to --- well you know, --- what you were before I --.” Timothy couldn’t say any more to his little brother. He looked up at his father and said, I’m going Papa; I’m going to look for the man called Jesus.”

CHAPTER 4

The Will to Go

A day had passed on, and Timothy was preparing for his long voyage to Jerusalem in search of the one called Jesus. Timothy knew that he would be gone for some time. He sat back thinking about his homeland where he was born. A place known to most since ancient times as the valley of sand, where the shifting sands, sand dunes, and limestone covered the surface foy miles around, and depends on a brief rain for the crops; However, the rains were uncenter, and sometimes the grain was parched before ripening to maturity. As for the summer, the weather was extremely hot and unpleasant. But this was Timothy’s home, and Timothy did not know just what kind of territory he would be walking into; all he knew is that he would be going north to unknown parts beyond Judea. “What do I need?” He thought to himself. “I will take my water-skin, a blanket, dried goat cheese, and dry meat. Well anyway, I know I’ll get by. Martha and Mark were in the kitchen. Martha, of course was crying and Mark was trying to keep her calm. To her Timothy was still her baby no matter what. That evening, she made a turban head dress that would cover his head and neck from the burning sun. His father made him a coat out of animal hide. This was not just any coat; this coat would keep you cool in the heat of the day and worm in the cool of the night. The coat was lightweight and long,