I Appeal To Caesar!

Peter asks for a show of hands by those who have been baptized by John the Baptist or Jesus’ followers in the Jordan River. The response surprises the two Pharisees: hundreds, in fact it seems the whole audience, are raising their hands! Smiling broadly, Peter comments, “Your sincere repentance and baptisms in water have prepared you to receive and participate in the Kingdom of God.

“Jesus is now going to teach and demonstrate the

Kingdom of Heaven.”

Nicodemus and Saul look at each other, wonderment and doubt written on their faces. They both repeat the strange concept: “ Demonstrate the Kingdom?” Standing to speak, Jesus climbs higher on a large rock to give better visibility and increase sound projection. He asks for all to join their hearts in prayer and thanksgiving to God. His voice is strong and well-modulated, His manner humble, friendly and magnetic. The two Pharisees are impressed by Jesus’ humility and sincerity. Raising his hands and looking up, Jesus prays a simple, profound prayer to “Our Father in heaven,” resonating a spiritual reality that can be felt!

Silence falls upon the mesmerized crowd!

Surprising everyone, Jesus begins to sing Psalm 121, the second of the fifteen Ascension Songs, a hymn well known by every Jew in the land, but usually sung by pilgrims going up to the Great Feast in Jerusalem: “God’s unceasing, loving protection of His children” is the inspiring theme. An