the_trial_and_the_cross The Words of Jesus of Nazareth You have no power at all against me, unless it is given to you from above. Why do you try me by asking these questions? You should be interrogating those who listened to me. They know very well the things I have said. I didn't spread my message in secret, but spoke openly for the world to hear. I taught publicly in the places of worship and the courtyards of the temple, where my followers gathered. If what I have said somehow violates your laws, then give evidence of this. But if I have spoken the truth, then why do you strike me? My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my followers would have taken up arms to defend it, that I should not be delivered into your hands. But mine is not an earthly kingdom. Yet you were right when you accused me of being a king. To this end was I born, and for this purpose I came into the world: that I should be a witness to the truth. All who love the truth recognize my message. Now will the prince of this world be overthrown; and if I be lifted up from the earth, I will draw all people to me. This above all is why my Father loves me; for I lay down my life that I might take it up again. No man takes it from me; but I lay it down of my own free will. I have the power to lay it down; and I have the power to take it up again. The Father has given me this power and right. Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani* *My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- These are the very words of Jesus of Nazereth. Taken originally from the Bible , and arranged here by subject as they appear in Lee Cantelon's book "The Words" (c) 1997. [www.thewords.com] The_Words --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 010826 ... Mister Double This story could be entitled, "My Mentor" Epilogue. While writing about Paul and his sister, Lindy, and his girlfriends, Teri and Doris, I projected the story into the future. I don't know if "Confessions" will be the ultimate ending, but it’s certainly one possible ending. Enjoy. 010827 what's it to you? who go blather from