I Appeal To Caesar!

Jesus spoke with kindness and firmness to Saul, using only direct, honest reproof. His last words were a simple instruction: “Get up and enter the city, and it will be told you what you must do.” * * * * * Saul’s confused companions surround their belated leader; frightened and confused they wonder, “What do we do now?” Shifting himself to get up, Saul motions for Artemus, his chief assistant, a devoted man of mixed descent (mother a Jew and father an Arab).

“Yes, Rabbi, I am here. Are you all right?”

“ I cannot see! I am blind!” Saul whispers.

“Help me get up!”

Saul adds, “Artemus, come beside and guide me. Take me immediately to the small hostelry of Judas near the end of Straight Street!” The confused men gather the animals and material and begin the final trek of their journey. Soon they join the main road leading to the impressive Great Gate of Damascus. People and caravan activity increase dramatically as travelers from different routes converge on the Main Gate of this ancient hub city. Their caravan draws special interest from certain travelers, mainly because the leader is a Rabbi. But, why is he being led by the hand of a soldier?