NOTE: Starting today and for the two weeks that follow, i will be posting a total of three short stories surrounding the ministry, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. These stories are fictional first-person accounts of three different men who encountered and responded to Jesus in very different ways. My prayer is that, through the stories, you will see Jesus and be reminded of the Good News of Easter.
The Rich Young Ruler (Reuben’s Story) – This week – March 17
The Servant (Malchus’s Story) – March 24
The Brother (Jude’s Story) – March 31
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I am Reuben, the oldest of my father’s six sons, and I grew up in Jerusalem. My father is a member of the Great Sanhedrin – a position he has held since I was a mere boy. He serves that grand body as its treasurer, overseeing the finances of the temple. His position has not only provided him with great influence among our people, it has also brought him great wealth.
He is a contemporary and confidant of our former high priest, Annas, and together they crafted many ways to increase the temple treasury – which also brought them personal gain. Their relationship dates back to their early years in rabbinical school and blossomed into a strong, lifelong alliance….