THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE
Chapter Sixty-Three

They came unto The Mount Of Olives in the place that was called The Garden Of Gethsemane. Here Jesus tarried as He often did. Telling the women to wait a way off, He went up with the apostles then said to them, "Stay you here a while and be vigilant. Pray for me and avoid temptation."
2 He withdrew from them about a stone's throw, kneeling down to pray, saying, "Father, if you be willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will be done, but Yours."
3 There appeared with Him an angel from Heaven that strengthened Him. He prayed more earnestly.
4 He sweat like it was a great rain, the drops that fell on the ground looked like unto blood.
5 When He rose from His prayer and came to His apostles He found them sleeping. He rebuked them angrily. "Why have you betrayed me already and gone to sleep? Raise you up and pray, before you are led into temptation."
6 While He spoke a great multitude approached of priests, Pharisees, Lawyers, and temple guards who were armed with swords and three-pronged lances.
7 As they drew near Jesus cried out, "Who do you seek?" But He knew very well who they had come for.
8 Judas The Tailor, who was with them, came to Jesus, and kissed Him on the cheek. Jesus wept, saying, "Judas, why have you betrayed The Son Of Man with a kiss?"
9 He turned to the crowd, continuing, "Why have you come for me like thieves in the night when I spoke every day in the temple? If you had just reason you should have taken me there."
10 But they laid hands on Him, and went to take Him away when the apostles awoke. The two that had swords drew them and rushed forward. Peter struck at the servant of the High Priest, cutting off his right ear. Those from the temple, fearing their wrath, backed off.
11 "Peter! Philip!" Jesus cried out, "Desist! Put away your swords!" He knelt down, picked up the severed ear, an before them all restored it as new.
12 Then, turning to His apostles Jesus told them, "Depart to the women. You have done all that you can do."
13 They took Him to the house of The High Priest. Peter followed after, afar off.
14 While all this was happening, Demetrius entered into the residence of the governor of Judaea, and was brought before him. For the governor's chief aide was one of the brotherhood, and had been awaiting him.
15 The governor greeted him warmly, and asked what business he had. "In a short while," Demetrius answered, "a Jew will be brought to you for judgment, one Jesus, Of Nazareth. It is important for the safety of The Empire that no harm comes to this man.
16 The best action that you could take is to make him High Priest Of The Jews. If you find that impossible, turn Him over to me, and order Him and His followers exiled. I will take them to a place where they will live out their days in peace and be little trouble to anyone."
17 The governor looked startled. "This is not the reason I thought you had come!" he muttered. "I thought you had received word we were looking for you.
18 This Galileaen has troubled me, both my wife and I have had strange dreams concerning Him. My agents among The Jews tell me He is a rabble rouser who will make great trouble, even have Himself crowned King!"
19 "That is not His desire," Demetrius assured, "Those charges are untrue. He wishes only to be a religious leader but in time it might benefit The Emperor to make Him King over these people.
20 I will assure you when The Emperor gets a full report he will praise your actions if you follow my directions."
21 "Yes, I 'm sure," the governor snapped. "He would follow the advice of a member of the brotherhood. I have long aspired to be a member of that body, but those in it have rejected me."
22 "It is not wise," Demetrius warned, "to suggest that someone is a member of the brotherhood. But if it is really your desire to be one with them, perhaps it could be arranged if you are cooperative in this matter."
23 The governor made a great snorting sound. "In this matter," he snapped, "I will follow my own judgment. Howver if you are concerned with this Jesus Of Nazareth I will put you in charge of the matter.
24 I have called up the citizenry. I fear there may be riots. I have ordered the women and children to strongpoints. I am short of officers. As you are an accomplished warrior of great renown I order you to duty and give you a squad.
25 You may follow after this Jesus, this Christ, and see that all is done with Him that is necessary."
26 The governor went to a cubbyhole, from a space withdrew a letter, and tossed it to Demetrius. "After the situation is under control," he continued, "you are recalled to Rome. It is my sad duty to inform you of your father's death. Your uncle does not wish his seat on the Imperial Senate and it therefore falls to you. My congratulations, Senator Demetrius!
27 Now, our interview is through! GO and be uniformed.. Take your squad and take charge of this Jesus, this Christ!"
28 Demetrius was very angry, but he said nothing. He quickly departed to follow the governor's instructions.
29 As he left the governor's wife emerged from behind a curtain and approached him. "My husband," she pleaded, "obey this man's wishes. Do not offend a member of the brotherhood, a senator of Rome.
30 As I have told you, this Jesus is a good man. Treat Him well. Remember our dreams!"

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