O
n returning to Galilee, Peter, John, Matthias and I came first to Nazareth, where Jesus spent his childhood and adolescent years; where he had labored as a young man in his father’s wood working business. As we approached the family home, we were met with sounds of hammering and sawing. Joseph and the boys were still at it. The smile of familiarity broke on Jesus face in anticipation of the reunion. Rhoda was the first to notice our arrival. She came running and threw her arms about Jesus in welcome. In a moment, the carpenter sounds stopped and the whole family came upon us. There were tears and laughter, rejoicing and the voices of welcome. Jesus had come home.
That night around the dinner table a lavish meal was prepared and set by Mary and her daughters. Joseph at the head of the table, Jesus at his right and the rest of us scattered around the table, which incidentally, was large enough to accommodate every one of us. Joseph had done well in Nazareth. His business had thrived. He was not wealthy, but he did operate a successful and profitable business. He did not look well, however and Jesus commented about it. “You are pale, my father. Are you well?”
“As well as can be expected for a man my age. I will be fifty next month. Perhaps my years and all this work is taking a toll. But I’m alright, son. Don’t fret about me. I’ll be fine.”
The crease of concern on Jesus’ brow did not go away. He said nothing however, and took another bite of the warm bread prepared by his mother.
“Oh Jesus,” said Rhoda brightly, “Did you know that Abiram ben Zecharias is to be married tomorrow? Our family has received an invitation. I do hope you can go with us.”
“Abiram? Married?” replied Jesus in mirth. “Yes! I would love to go. That will be amazing.” He shook his head laughing softly to himself.
“What is so amusing,” spoke Mary, smiling.
“Abiram once swore to me that marriage was not for him. ‘Never!’ he said to me. ‘Never will you see me tied down to one woman.’ I guess ‘never’ has come to an end. Who is the fortunate bride?”
“A young woman from Cana,” from Joseph. “A delightful girl from a good family. Her name is Rebekah. She is the daughter of that . . “ Joseph struggled with his memory, “. . . that silk merchant, I think. What is his name, dear?” looking at his wife. Mary swallowed, taking a sip of wine.
“I don’t know him, but his wife is nice. I see her sometimes at market. Her husband is a fine man of great substance. I’m afraid I don’t even know his name, ‘El-Korah’ or something like that. I have been asked to help with the wedding. Not quite sure what I’ll be doing but I will find out when we arrive. They will be happy to see you, Jesus.”
