The_Soulsurfer

A Story

Jesus slumped against a tree and tried to get his back comfortable as he stole a few moments of much needed rest. He twisted his neck until it cracked, and rubbed his weary eyes. As he reopened them, in his returning focus he saw two disciples standing over him, backlit in the afternoon sun.

“Jesus, can we talk to you?” asked one disciple.
“We don’t want to bother you, but this is pretty important, we thought you should know.” Added the other.
“We saw something that needs to be dealt with right away.”

Jesus sighed; he had an uncomfortable feeling about where this was going.

“There is a guy out there,” one disciple said, waving with his hand towards a nearby village, “who is casting out demons in YOUR name!”
“And it may not just be one guy! It may be a whole movement or something!” interjected the other disciple
“And Jesus, he’s not one of US!” said the other.
“Not even related to one of us!”

The disciples were red-faced and panting as they waited for Jesus’ response.
“And?” He asked.
“AND? Jesus, this guy may not even hold to the traditional views of hell! Where’s he gonna send demons when he casts them out?”
“Not to mention the fact that when I asked him about truth, he got all dodgy on me saying faith was more important to him than truth. Anyone who won’t answer questions about truth is obviously hiding something!” said the other disciple, narrowing his eyes and looking side to side to imitate how sneaky these types can be.
“This guy is dangerous Jesus, he has to be dealt with.”
“We have to warn the other disciples, then the village…”
“And then we need to deal with this threat directly. He’s got to be stopped!” interrupted the other disciple.

Jesus groaned.

“Let me get this straight…this guy is casting out demons, right?” asked Jesus.
“Right!” said the disciples in unison.
“And the demons are leaving, right?” he asked.
“Right!”
“And he’s giving ME credit for this release from bondage, correct?” Jesus prodded.
“That’s it in a nutshell!” shouted one disciple excitedly. “So what do we do?”
“Should we get the other disciples and go get him? Should we gather stones?”
“Or do you wanna just fry him with lightning where he stands? That would work! The nerve of this guy, going off without foundational values, without an authorized view!”

Jesus saw him. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw that Deviant Imp dancing, clapping his hands and chanting a chant, “Fight amongst yourselves! Fight amongst yourselves! Fight, fight, fight and you’ll NEVER cast me out!”

Jesus slowly rose and stood on his weary feet. He placed a hand on each disciple’s shoulder and looked from face to face.
“Here’s what I want you to do. Listen carefully… are you listening?” He quizzed.
“Yes Master.” They replied.
“I want you to leave him alone. Don’t bother him at all.”
“But JESUS! This guy’s…” Jesus shot a look at both disciples that made them think better of arguing.
“Hear this and hear it well: Whoever is not against us is on our side! Leave him alone, don’t you dare interfere with him.” Jesus looked each of them in the eye.
“Hear me?” he nudged.
“Yes sir.” They said together, looking at their feet.

Jesus walked away, across the road to another tree. He sat down and slept.

selah

Dedicated to friends and loved ones who have been "him".

Thanks Rob for your stories and sharing your talent