I Appeal To Caesar!

Saul takes a downward path that makes a sharp turn around a cave-house. Taking the turn, however, his foot slips on the gravel causing him to stumble and fall flat on his face! How humiliating! He is not hurt, but his pride is shaken. “Oh, I hope no one is watching,” he thinks, not looking around. Slowly he pushes himself into a squatting position on hands and knees, preparing to stand up. Reaching for his bag, he suddenly gasps and stops breathing. What is this?

He stares at the sandaled feet of a woman standing

immediately before him!

Saul straightens his position to that of a person kneeling! Still looking up, he squints because of the bright sun; embarrassed and still a bit dazed from his fall, he is speechless.

“ Shalom, Rabbi Saul! I am Esther,” the pleasant voice

says. “May I help you up?”

“You . . . you are Esther, the relative of Samuel?”

Awkwardly, Saul gets to his feet unaided, but embarrassed. “Samuel told me you were coming. Have you been to his home yet?” He then adds, “I could escort you there!” ( “Why did I say that?” ) “Oh,” she replies, “I know where his house is, I have been here for several days already, but unable to spend any time with Samuel. He said you would be there.”