LE-2 Lenten Encounters Brief Monologs For Worship By Lynelle Mason CO en rs nte n
LE-2
LentenEncounters
Brief Monologs For Worship
By Lynelle Mason
CREATIVE
COMMUNICATIONS
COMMUNICATIONS
COMMUNICATIONS Lenten
COMMUNICATIONS LentenLenten
COMMUNICATIONS Lenten
Encounters
COMMUNICATIONS Encounters
SAMPLES
SAMPLESLenten
SAMPLESLentenLenten
SAMPLESLentenEncounters
SAMPLESEncounters
2 Lenten Encounters
LE-2
CREATIVE
COMMUNICATIONS
SAMPLES
Brief Monologs For Worship 3
LE-2
IndexAboutLentenEncounters.....................................................................................4-5
PowerBrokersAnnas.................................................................................................................6-9Caiaphas.......................................................................................................... 10-12Pilate................................................................................................................13-15HerodAntipas.................................................................................................. 16-19
ClassByThemselvesJudas.............................................................................................................. 20-23Barabbas......................................................................................................... 24-25
TheSpiceBearersMaryofBethany............................................................................................... 26-29MaryMagdalene.............................................................................................. 30-34Mary,theMotherofJesus..................................................................................35-37
DisciplesJohn................................................................................................................ 38-43SimonPeter....................................................................................................44-47JohnMark.......................................................................................................48-50Thomas............................................................................................................ 51-53Cleopas.......................................................................................................... 54-57Lazarus............................................................................................................58-61ThiefontheCross...........................................................................................62-64
BystandersWifeofPilate.................................................................................................. 65-67SimonofCyrene..............................................................................................68-70
RomanReactionsCenturion.........................................................................................................71-73TombGuard....................................................................................................74-76TheFlogger.....................................................................................................77-79TheGambler.................................................................................................. 80-82
SanhedrinSympathizersJosephofArimathea.........................................................................................83-86Nicodemus......................................................................................................87-90
ByLynelleMason.ArtbySallyBeck.©2010byCreativeCommunicationsfortheParish,1564FencorpDr.,Fenton,MO63026.1-800-325-9414.creativecommunications.com.Allrightsreserved.PrintedintheUSA.
LentenEncounters
CREATIVE
.................................................................................................. 16-19CREATIVE
.................................................................................................. 16-19
ClassCREATIVE
Class ByCREATIVE
By.............................................................................................................. 20-23
CREATIVE
.............................................................................................................. 20-23......................................................................................................... 24-25
CREATIVE
......................................................................................................... 24-25
The
CREATIVE
The Spice
CREATIVE
Spice Bearers
CREATIVE
BearersBethany............................................................................................... 26-29
CREATIVE
Bethany............................................................................................... 26-29.............................................................................................. 30-34
CREATIVE
.............................................................................................. 30-34..................................................................................35-37
CREATIVE
..................................................................................35-37
John................................................................................................................ 38-43
CREATIVE John................................................................................................................ 38-43
....................................................................................................44-47
CREATIVE ....................................................................................................44-47
.......................................................................................................48-50
CREATIVE .......................................................................................................48-50
............................................................................................................ 51-53
CREATIVE ............................................................................................................ 51-53
CREATIVE .......................................................................................................... 54-57
CREATIVE .......................................................................................................... 54-57............................................................................................................58-61
CREATIVE ............................................................................................................58-61...........................................................................................62-64
CREATIVE ...........................................................................................62-64
COMMUNICATIONS
AnnasCOMMUNICATIONS
AnnasCaiaphas
COMMUNICATIONS
CaiaphasPilate
COMMUNICATIONS
Pilate................................................................................................................13-15
COMMUNICATIONS
................................................................................................................13-15Her
COMMUNICATIONS
Herod
COMMUNICATIONS
od Antipas
COMMUNICATIONS
Antipas
.............................................................................................................. 20-23
COMMUNICATIONS
.............................................................................................................. 20-23Barabbas
COMMUNICATIONS
Barabbas......................................................................................................... 24-25
COMMUNICATIONS
......................................................................................................... 24-25
Bethany............................................................................................... 26-29
COMMUNICATIONS
Bethany............................................................................................... 26-29.............................................................................................. 30-34
COMMUNICATIONS
.............................................................................................. 30-34Jesus
COMMUNICATIONS
Jesus..................................................................................35-37
COMMUNICATIONS
..................................................................................35-37
Disciples
COMMUNICATIONS
DisciplesJohn................................................................................................................ 38-43
COMMUNICATIONS
John................................................................................................................ 38-43....................................................................................................44-47
COMMUNICATIONS
....................................................................................................44-47.......................................................................................................48-50
COMMUNICATIONS
.......................................................................................................48-50............................................................................................................ 51-53
COMMUNICATIONS
............................................................................................................ 51-53
COMMUNICATIONS
.......................................................................................................... 54-57
COMMUNICATIONS
.......................................................................................................... 54-57............................................................................................................58-61
COMMUNICATIONS
............................................................................................................58-61...........................................................................................62-64
COMMUNICATIONS
...........................................................................................62-64
.................................................................................................. 65-67
COMMUNICATIONS
.................................................................................................. 65-67..............................................................................................68-70
COMMUNICATIONS ..............................................................................................68-70
.........................................................................................................71-73
COMMUNICATIONS .........................................................................................................71-73
....................................................................................................74-76
COMMUNICATIONS ....................................................................................................74-76
.....................................................................................................77-79
COMMUNICATIONS .....................................................................................................77-79.................................................................................................. 80-82
COMMUNICATIONS .................................................................................................. 80-82
SAMPLES
Bethany............................................................................................... 26-29SAMPLES
Bethany............................................................................................... 26-29MagdaleneSAMPLES
MagdaleneMarySAMPLES
Mary,SAMPLES
, theSAMPLES
the MotherSAMPLES
Mother
John................................................................................................................ 38-43
SAMPLES
John................................................................................................................ 38-43....................................................................................................44-47
SAMPLES
....................................................................................................44-47.......................................................................................................48-50
SAMPLES
.......................................................................................................48-50............................................................................................................ 51-53
SAMPLES
............................................................................................................ 51-53
SAMPLES.......................................................................................................... 54-57
SAMPLES.......................................................................................................... 54-57
............................................................................................................58-61
SAMPLES............................................................................................................58-61
...........................................................................................62-64
SAMPLES...........................................................................................62-64
Bystanders
SAMPLESBystanders.................................................................................................. 65-67
SAMPLES.................................................................................................. 65-67..............................................................................................68-70
SAMPLES..............................................................................................68-70
Reactions
SAMPLESReactions
.........................................................................................................71-73
SAMPLES.........................................................................................................71-73
4 Lenten Encounters
LE-2
About Lenten EncountersCenturies-old biblical characters, in these twenty-four monologs, spring to life to enhance our Lenten journey. They fall within the following groups: Power Brokers, Class By Themselves, The Spice Bearers, Disciples, Bystanders, Roman Reactions, and Sanhedrin Sympathizers. Each monolog comes with a Scripture reference, prayer thought, and song suggestions.
The monologs are simple yet profound and adaptable for presentation before Sunday school classes, youth groups, and church worship services in a variety of settings. Perfect for use in worship throughout the season … or even in Bible Stud-ies, Youth Groups, or for Children’s Church … these brief monologs bring Biblical characters to life.
CostumingKeep it simple: basic tunics and shoulder wrap-arounds for most speakers, a crown for Herod, a laurel wreath for Pilate.
StagingTo the side of the presentation area, have a cross, spotlighted. Speaking characters share their monolog from a lectern. It is not necessary for the monolog to be memo-rized.
LentenEncountersCREATIVE
About CREATIVE
About Lenten EncountersCREATIVE
Lenten EncountersCenturies-old biblical characters, in these twenty-four monologs, spring to life to
CREATIVE
Centuries-old biblical characters, in these twenty-four monologs, spring to life to enhance our Lenten journey. They fall within the following groups: Power Brokers,
CREATIVE
enhance our Lenten journey. They fall within the following groups: Power Brokers, Class By Themselves, The Spice Bearers, Disciples, Bystanders, Roman Reactions,
CREATIVE
Class By Themselves, The Spice Bearers, Disciples, Bystanders, Roman Reactions, and Sanhedrin Sympathizers. Each monolog comes with a Scripture reference,
CREATIVE
and Sanhedrin Sympathizers. Each monolog comes with a Scripture reference,
The monologs are simple yet profound and adaptable for presentation before
CREATIVE The monologs are simple yet profound and adaptable for presentation before Sunday school classes, youth groups, and church worship services in a variety of
CREATIVE Sunday school classes, youth groups, and church worship services in a variety of settings. Perfect for use in worship throughout the season … or even in Bible Stud-
CREATIVE settings. Perfect for use in worship throughout the season … or even in Bible Stud-ies, Youth Groups, or for Children’s Church … these brief monologs bring Biblical
CREATIVE ies, Youth Groups, or for Children’s Church … these brief monologs bring Biblical
CREATIVE
COMMUNICATIONS
About
COMMUNICATIONS
About Centuries-old biblical characters, in these twenty-four monologs, spring to life to
COMMUNICATIONS
Centuries-old biblical characters, in these twenty-four monologs, spring to life to enhance our Lenten journey. They fall within the following groups: Power Brokers,
COMMUNICATIONS
enhance our Lenten journey. They fall within the following groups: Power Brokers, Class By Themselves, The Spice Bearers, Disciples, Bystanders, Roman Reactions,
COMMUNICATIONS
Class By Themselves, The Spice Bearers, Disciples, Bystanders, Roman Reactions, and Sanhedrin Sympathizers. Each monolog comes with a Scripture reference,
COMMUNICATIONS
and Sanhedrin Sympathizers. Each monolog comes with a Scripture reference, prayer thought, and song suggestions.
COMMUNICATIONS
prayer thought, and song suggestions.
The monologs are simple yet profound and adaptable for presentation before
COMMUNICATIONS
The monologs are simple yet profound and adaptable for presentation before Sunday school classes, youth groups, and church worship services in a variety of
COMMUNICATIONS
Sunday school classes, youth groups, and church worship services in a variety of settings. Perfect for use in worship throughout the season … or even in Bible Stud-
COMMUNICATIONS
settings. Perfect for use in worship throughout the season … or even in Bible Stud-ies, Youth Groups, or for Children’s Church … these brief monologs bring Biblical
COMMUNICATIONS
ies, Youth Groups, or for Children’s Church … these brief monologs bring Biblical
Costuming
COMMUNICATIONS
CostumingKeep it simple: basic tunics and shoulder wrap-arounds for most speakers, a crown
COMMUNICATIONS
Keep it simple: basic tunics and shoulder wrap-arounds for most speakers, a crown
To the side of the presentation area, have a cross, spotlighted. Speaking characters
COMMUNICATIONS To the side of the presentation area, have a cross, spotlighted. Speaking characters
COMMUNICATIONS share their monolog from a lectern. It is not necessary for the monolog to be memo-
COMMUNICATIONS share their monolog from a lectern. It is not necessary for the monolog to be memo-
COMMUNICATIONS
EncountersCOMMUNICATIONS
Encounters
SAMPLES
Class By Themselves, The Spice Bearers, Disciples, Bystanders, Roman Reactions, SAMPLES
Class By Themselves, The Spice Bearers, Disciples, Bystanders, Roman Reactions, and Sanhedrin Sympathizers. Each monolog comes with a Scripture reference, SAMPLES
and Sanhedrin Sympathizers. Each monolog comes with a Scripture reference, prayer thought, and song suggestions. SAMPLES
prayer thought, and song suggestions.
The monologs are simple yet profound and adaptable for presentation before
SAMPLES
The monologs are simple yet profound and adaptable for presentation before Sunday school classes, youth groups, and church worship services in a variety of
SAMPLES
Sunday school classes, youth groups, and church worship services in a variety of settings. Perfect for use in worship throughout the season … or even in Bible Stud-
SAMPLES
settings. Perfect for use in worship throughout the season … or even in Bible Stud-ies, Youth Groups, or for Children’s Church … these brief monologs bring Biblical
SAMPLES
ies, Youth Groups, or for Children’s Church … these brief monologs bring Biblical
Costuming
SAMPLESCostuming
Keep it simple: basic tunics and shoulder wrap-arounds for most speakers, a crown
SAMPLESKeep it simple: basic tunics and shoulder wrap-arounds for most speakers, a crown
Staging
SAMPLESStaging
Brief Monologs For Worship 5
LE-2
Speaker NotesDepict age by body movements: especially Annas or other who might be interpreted as being elderly. Be familiar enough with your monolog that you become that person in speech and mannerisms.
About Lynelle MasonLynelle Mason is a retired elementary teacher who has published twenty-two articles and received eleven awards. A life member of the Southeastern Writers’ Association and holding membership in the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and the Midsouth Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, she has also completed two courses from the Institute of Children’s Literature.
Her pastor husband (now deceased) and she have served in churches large and small over many decades. Lynelle is currently a Stephen Minister, a shepherd for K-1st graders in church school, and is on the Staff Care Committee. Along with her therapy dog, Ms. Cleo, she makes weekly visits to a nursing facility. She enjoys reading, international traveling, photography, water aerobics, and Scrabble.
CD-RomA CD-Rom is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF form (for reprinting) and text files for the monologs (for revising, if you wish). Pur-chase of this book grants copyright for your worshiping community.
CREATIVE
Lynelle Mason is a retired elementary teacher who has published twenty-two articles CREATIVE
Lynelle Mason is a retired elementary teacher who has published twenty-two articles and received eleven awards. A life member of the Southeastern Writers’ Association CREATIVE
and received eleven awards. A life member of the Southeastern Writers’ Association and holding membership in the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators
CREATIVE
and holding membership in the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and the Midsouth Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, she has also completed
CREATIVE
and the Midsouth Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, she has also completed two courses from the Institute of Children’s Literature.
CREATIVE
two courses from the Institute of Children’s Literature.
Her pastor husband (now deceased) and she have served in churches large and
CREATIVE
Her pastor husband (now deceased) and she have served in churches large and small over many decades. Lynelle is currently a Stephen Minister, a shepherd for
CREATIVE
small over many decades. Lynelle is currently a Stephen Minister, a shepherd for graders in church school, and is on the Staff Care Committee. Along with her
CREATIVE
graders in church school, and is on the Staff Care Committee. Along with her
CREATIVE
therapy dog, Ms. Cleo, she makes weekly visits to a nursing facility. She enjoys
CREATIVE
therapy dog, Ms. Cleo, she makes weekly visits to a nursing facility. She enjoys reading, international traveling, photography, water aerobics, and Scrabble.
CREATIVE reading, international traveling, photography, water aerobics, and Scrabble.
A CD-Rom is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF
CREATIVE A CD-Rom is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF
CREATIVE form (for reprinting) and text files for the monologs (for revising, if you wish). Pur-
CREATIVE form (for reprinting) and text files for the monologs (for revising, if you wish). Pur-chase of this book grants copyright for your worshiping community
CREATIVE chase of this book grants copyright for your worshiping community
COMMUNICATIONS
Lynelle Mason is a retired elementary teacher who has published twenty-two articles
COMMUNICATIONS
Lynelle Mason is a retired elementary teacher who has published twenty-two articles and received eleven awards. A life member of the Southeastern Writers’ Association
COMMUNICATIONS
and received eleven awards. A life member of the Southeastern Writers’ Association and holding membership in the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators
COMMUNICATIONS
and holding membership in the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and the Midsouth Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, she has also completed
COMMUNICATIONS
and the Midsouth Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, she has also completed two courses from the Institute of Children’s Literature.
COMMUNICATIONS
two courses from the Institute of Children’s Literature.
Her pastor husband (now deceased) and she have served in churches large and
COMMUNICATIONS
Her pastor husband (now deceased) and she have served in churches large and small over many decades. Lynelle is currently a Stephen Minister, a shepherd for
COMMUNICATIONS
small over many decades. Lynelle is currently a Stephen Minister, a shepherd for graders in church school, and is on the Staff Care Committee. Along with her
COMMUNICATIONS
graders in church school, and is on the Staff Care Committee. Along with her
COMMUNICATIONS
therapy dog, Ms. Cleo, she makes weekly visits to a nursing facility. She enjoys
COMMUNICATIONS
therapy dog, Ms. Cleo, she makes weekly visits to a nursing facility. She enjoys reading, international traveling, photography, water aerobics, and Scrabble.
COMMUNICATIONS
reading, international traveling, photography, water aerobics, and Scrabble.
CD-Rom
COMMUNICATIONS
CD-RomA CD-Rom is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF
COMMUNICATIONS
A CD-Rom is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF
COMMUNICATIONS
form (for reprinting) and text files for the monologs (for revising, if you wish). Pur-
COMMUNICATIONS
form (for reprinting) and text files for the monologs (for revising, if you wish). Pur-chase of this book grants copyright for your worshiping community
COMMUNICATIONS
chase of this book grants copyright for your worshiping community
SAMPLES
Her pastor husband (now deceased) and she have served in churches large and SAMPLES
Her pastor husband (now deceased) and she have served in churches large and small over many decades. Lynelle is currently a Stephen Minister, a shepherd for SAMPLES
small over many decades. Lynelle is currently a Stephen Minister, a shepherd for graders in church school, and is on the Staff Care Committee. Along with her SAMPLES
graders in church school, and is on the Staff Care Committee. Along with her SAMPLES
therapy dog, Ms. Cleo, she makes weekly visits to a nursing facility. She enjoys SAMPLES
therapy dog, Ms. Cleo, she makes weekly visits to a nursing facility. She enjoys reading, international traveling, photography, water aerobics, and Scrabble.
SAMPLES
reading, international traveling, photography, water aerobics, and Scrabble.
A CD-Rom is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF
SAMPLESA CD-Rom is included with this book. It contains the contents of the book in PDF
SAMPLESform (for reprinting) and text files for the monologs (for revising, if you wish). Pur-
SAMPLESform (for reprinting) and text files for the monologs (for revising, if you wish). Pur-chase of this book grants copyright for your worshiping community
SAMPLESchase of this book grants copyright for your worshiping community
6 Lenten Encounters
LE-2
Power Brokers—Annas—
John 18:13-14, 19-23First they took him to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it was better to have one person die for the people.
Then the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his teaching. Jesus answered, “I have spoken openly to the world; I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all the Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. Why do you ask me? Ask those who heard what I said to them; they know what I said.” When he had said this, one of the police standing nearby struck Jesus on the face, saying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” Jesus answered, “If I have spoken wrongly, testify to the wrong. But if I have spoken rightly, why do you strike me?”
LentenEncountersCREATIVE
Power BrokersCREATIVE
Power Brokers—Annas—
CREATIVE
—Annas—
John 18:13-14, 19-23
CREATIVE
John 18:13-14, 19-23First they took him to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest
CREATIVE
First they took him to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it was better to have
CREATIVE that year. Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it was better to have
Then the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his teaching. Jesus
CREATIVE Then the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his teaching. Jesus answered, “I have spoken openly to the world; I have always taught in synagogues
CREATIVE answered, “I have spoken openly to the world; I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all the Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. Why
CREATIVE and in the temple, where all the Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. Why
CREATIVE
COMMUNICATIONS
John 18:13-14, 19-23
COMMUNICATIONS
John 18:13-14, 19-23First they took him to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest
COMMUNICATIONS
First they took him to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it was better to have
COMMUNICATIONS
that year. Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it was better to have
Then the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his teaching. Jesus
COMMUNICATIONS
Then the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his teaching. Jesus answered, “I have spoken openly to the world; I have always taught in synagogues
COMMUNICATIONS
answered, “I have spoken openly to the world; I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all the Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. Why
COMMUNICATIONS
and in the temple, where all the Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. Why do you ask me? Ask those who heard what I said to them; they know what I said.”
COMMUNICATIONS
do you ask me? Ask those who heard what I said to them; they know what I said.” When he had said this, one of the police standing nearby struck Jesus on the face,
COMMUNICATIONS
When he had said this, one of the police standing nearby struck Jesus on the face, saying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” Jesus answered, “If I have spoken
COMMUNICATIONS saying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” Jesus answered, “If I have spoken wrongly, testify to the wrong. But if I have spoken rightly, why do you strike me?”
COMMUNICATIONS wrongly, testify to the wrong. But if I have spoken rightly, why do you strike me?”
COMMUNICATIONS
EncountersCOMMUNICATIONS
Encounters
SAMPLES
First they took him to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest SAMPLES
First they took him to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it was better to have
SAMPLES
that year. Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it was better to have one person die for the people.
SAMPLES
one person die for the people.
Then the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his teaching. Jesus
SAMPLESThen the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and about his teaching. Jesus answered, “I have spoken openly to the world; I have always taught in synagogues
SAMPLESanswered, “I have spoken openly to the world; I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all the Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. Why
SAMPLESand in the temple, where all the Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. Why do you ask me? Ask those who heard what I said to them; they know what I said.”
SAMPLESdo you ask me? Ask those who heard what I said to them; they know what I said.” When he had said this, one of the police standing nearby struck Jesus on the face,
SAMPLESWhen he had said this, one of the police standing nearby struck Jesus on the face, saying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” Jesus answered, “If I have spoken
SAMPLESsaying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” Jesus answered, “If I have spoken wrongly, testify to the wrong. But if I have spoken rightly, why do you strike me?”
SAMPLESwrongly, testify to the wrong. But if I have spoken rightly, why do you strike me?”
Brief Monologs For Worship 7
LE-2
AnnasMy name is Annas and all the religious, economic, and political clout of Israel rests
with my family. Although I’m the ex-high priest I’m probably more powerful than my son-in-law Caiaphas, the current High Priest. I was appointed by the Romans and, likewise, was my son. What does this mean? It tells you we got where we are by toeing the line with the Romans. It also lets you know that when a person angers the high priest he’d better watch out. Our ability to do a person in is powerful!
For three years we’ve had a watchful eye on a young upstart from Galilee named Jesus. I’d spent months getting all my booths lined up for the celebration of Pass-over. I had a booth where people could buy their animal sacrifices. This included lambs, pigeons, and doves. Another booth was set up to exchange foreign coins into Jewish coins. With well over 200 million people visiting the Temple that trans-lated into selling around 250,000 lambs. The men who manned my booths weren’t businessmen but expert extortionists. The Bazaars of Annas is our biggest money making effort of the year.
It may strike you as odd these booths were operating in one of the courts of the Temple. They were located in the Court of the Gentiles, a place considered unclean by most Jews. I’m told it was a place where, long before my time, people from all nations could come, feel welcomed, and pray. Most people, except Jesus, had for-gotten about that bit of information.
During Passover people traveling long distances and from other countries came in droves. We enabled them to obtain their animals for temple rituals and to exchange their foreign coins for a Jewish half shekel, the tax required in temple worship. I call it a convenience measure.
CREATIVE
the high priest he’d better watch out. Our ability to do a person in is powerful!CREATIVE
the high priest he’d better watch out. Our ability to do a person in is powerful!
For three years we’ve had a watchful eye on a young upstart from Galilee named CREATIVE
For three years we’ve had a watchful eye on a young upstart from Galilee named Jesus. I’d spent months getting all my booths lined up for the celebration of Pass-
CREATIVE
Jesus. I’d spent months getting all my booths lined up for the celebration of Pass-over. I had a booth where people could buy their animal sacrifices. This included
CREATIVE
over. I had a booth where people could buy their animal sacrifices. This included lambs, pigeons, and doves. Another booth was set up to exchange foreign coins
CREATIVE
lambs, pigeons, and doves. Another booth was set up to exchange foreign coins into Jewish coins. With well over 200 million people visiting the Temple that trans-
CREATIVE
into Jewish coins. With well over 200 million people visiting the Temple that trans-lated into selling around 250,000 lambs. The men who manned my booths weren’t
CREATIVE
lated into selling around 250,000 lambs. The men who manned my booths weren’t businessmen but expert extortionists. The Bazaars of Annas is our biggest money
CREATIVE businessmen but expert extortionists. The Bazaars of Annas is our biggest money
It may strike you as odd these booths were operating in one of the courts of the
CREATIVE It may strike you as odd these booths were operating in one of the courts of the Temple. They were located in the Court of the Gentiles, a place considered unclean
CREATIVE Temple. They were located in the Court of the Gentiles, a place considered unclean by most Jews. I’m told it was a place where, long before my time, people from all
CREATIVE by most Jews. I’m told it was a place where, long before my time, people from all
COMMUNICATIONS
and, likewise, was my son. What does this mean? It tells you we got where we are COMMUNICATIONS
and, likewise, was my son. What does this mean? It tells you we got where we are by toeing the line with the Romans. It also lets you know that when a person angers COMMUNICATIONS
by toeing the line with the Romans. It also lets you know that when a person angers the high priest he’d better watch out. Our ability to do a person in is powerful!
COMMUNICATIONS
the high priest he’d better watch out. Our ability to do a person in is powerful!
For three years we’ve had a watchful eye on a young upstart from Galilee named
COMMUNICATIONS
For three years we’ve had a watchful eye on a young upstart from Galilee named Jesus. I’d spent months getting all my booths lined up for the celebration of Pass-
COMMUNICATIONS
Jesus. I’d spent months getting all my booths lined up for the celebration of Pass-over. I had a booth where people could buy their animal sacrifices. This included
COMMUNICATIONS
over. I had a booth where people could buy their animal sacrifices. This included lambs, pigeons, and doves. Another booth was set up to exchange foreign coins
COMMUNICATIONS
lambs, pigeons, and doves. Another booth was set up to exchange foreign coins into Jewish coins. With well over 200 million people visiting the Temple that trans-
COMMUNICATIONS
into Jewish coins. With well over 200 million people visiting the Temple that trans-lated into selling around 250,000 lambs. The men who manned my booths weren’t
COMMUNICATIONS
lated into selling around 250,000 lambs. The men who manned my booths weren’t businessmen but expert extortionists. The Bazaars of Annas is our biggest money
COMMUNICATIONS
businessmen but expert extortionists. The Bazaars of Annas is our biggest money
It may strike you as odd these booths were operating in one of the courts of the
COMMUNICATIONS
It may strike you as odd these booths were operating in one of the courts of the Temple. They were located in the Court of the Gentiles, a place considered unclean
COMMUNICATIONS
Temple. They were located in the Court of the Gentiles, a place considered unclean by most Jews. I’m told it was a place where, long before my time, people from all
COMMUNICATIONS
by most Jews. I’m told it was a place where, long before my time, people from all nations could come, feel welcomed, and pray. Most people, except Jesus, had for-
COMMUNICATIONS
nations could come, feel welcomed, and pray. Most people, except Jesus, had for-
During Passover people traveling long distances and from other countries came in
COMMUNICATIONS During Passover people traveling long distances and from other countries came in
COMMUNICATIONS droves. We enabled them to obtain their animals for temple rituals and to exchange
COMMUNICATIONS droves. We enabled them to obtain their animals for temple rituals and to exchange their foreign coins for a Jewish half shekel, the tax required in temple worship. I
COMMUNICATIONS their foreign coins for a Jewish half shekel, the tax required in temple worship. I
SAMPLES
lambs, pigeons, and doves. Another booth was set up to exchange foreign coins SAMPLES
lambs, pigeons, and doves. Another booth was set up to exchange foreign coins into Jewish coins. With well over 200 million people visiting the Temple that trans-SAMPLES
into Jewish coins. With well over 200 million people visiting the Temple that trans-lated into selling around 250,000 lambs. The men who manned my booths weren’t
SAMPLES
lated into selling around 250,000 lambs. The men who manned my booths weren’t businessmen but expert extortionists. The Bazaars of Annas is our biggest money
SAMPLES
businessmen but expert extortionists. The Bazaars of Annas is our biggest money making effort of the year.
SAMPLES
making effort of the year.
It may strike you as odd these booths were operating in one of the courts of the
SAMPLESIt may strike you as odd these booths were operating in one of the courts of the
Temple. They were located in the Court of the Gentiles, a place considered unclean
SAMPLESTemple. They were located in the Court of the Gentiles, a place considered unclean by most Jews. I’m told it was a place where, long before my time, people from all
SAMPLESby most Jews. I’m told it was a place where, long before my time, people from all nations could come, feel welcomed, and pray. Most people, except Jesus, had for-
SAMPLESnations could come, feel welcomed, and pray. Most people, except Jesus, had for-
During Passover people traveling long distances and from other countries came in
SAMPLESDuring Passover people traveling long distances and from other countries came in
8 Lenten Encounters
LE-2
Did we make money from these booths? Of course we did. We had control of the market. You had to have the right coin and your sacrifice had to be perfect. Suppose you tried to enter with your own doves. Outside the Temple you could buy a set of doves for 4 pence. In the Bazaars of Annas you’d pay 75 pence. My inspectors could always find something unacceptable about your offering. You’d wind up buying one of our lambs at twice the price of the regular market. The same was true of our money-exchange booths.
We were hoping Jesus wouldn’t show this year. He did! Everywhere Jesus went he was followed by a mass of people. Furthermore he took more than a verbal at-tack on my bazaars!
One day he pushed and shoved his way until he was smack dab in the middle of the booth that sold animals. He brandished a whip and shouted to the booth owners, “Get out of here, you money-making scoundrels! This court is a house of prayer for all people and you’ve made it a den of thieves!”
Doves and pigeons took to the air, baaing sheep raced to escape, and the booth hucksters ducked to avoid the cracking whip. Jesus wasn’t through. He moved in on the money changers tossing their tables upside down. Clanging coins spilled and rolled hither and yon. Patrons were grabbing to retrieve them.
When the report reached me I became so angry I was on the verge of a stroke.
“How dare he attack my bazaars! We’re in control here, not him.”
“Take it easy,” said Caiaphas. “We’re collaborating with one of his disciples and should have him in custody soon.”
CREATIVE
We were hoping Jesus wouldn’t show this year. He did! Everywhere Jesus went CREATIVE
We were hoping Jesus wouldn’t show this year. He did! Everywhere Jesus went he was followed by a mass of people. Furthermore he took more than a verbal at-
CREATIVE
he was followed by a mass of people. Furthermore he took more than a verbal at-
One day he pushed and shoved his way until he was smack dab in the middle
CREATIVE
One day he pushed and shoved his way until he was smack dab in the middle of the booth that sold animals. He brandished a whip and shouted to the booth
CREATIVE
of the booth that sold animals. He brandished a whip and shouted to the booth owners, “Get out of here, you money-making scoundrels! This court is a house of
CREATIVE
owners, “Get out of here, you money-making scoundrels! This court is a house of prayer for all people and you’ve made it a den of thieves!”
CREATIVE prayer for all people and you’ve made it a den of thieves!”
Doves and pigeons took to the air, baaing sheep raced to escape, and the booth
CREATIVE Doves and pigeons took to the air, baaing sheep raced to escape, and the booth
hucksters ducked to avoid the cracking whip. Jesus wasn’t through. He moved in
CREATIVE hucksters ducked to avoid the cracking whip. Jesus wasn’t through. He moved in on the money changers tossing their tables upside down. Clanging coins spilled
CREATIVE on the money changers tossing their tables upside down. Clanging coins spilled
COMMUNICATIONS
always find something unacceptable about your offering. You’d wind up buying COMMUNICATIONS
always find something unacceptable about your offering. You’d wind up buying one of our lambs at twice the price of the regular market. The same was true of our COMMUNICATIONS
one of our lambs at twice the price of the regular market. The same was true of our money-exchange booths.
COMMUNICATIONS
money-exchange booths.
We were hoping Jesus wouldn’t show this year. He did! Everywhere Jesus went
COMMUNICATIONS
We were hoping Jesus wouldn’t show this year. He did! Everywhere Jesus went he was followed by a mass of people. Furthermore he took more than a verbal at-
COMMUNICATIONS
he was followed by a mass of people. Furthermore he took more than a verbal at-tack on my bazaars!
COMMUNICATIONS
tack on my bazaars!
One day he pushed and shoved his way until he was smack dab in the middle
COMMUNICATIONS
One day he pushed and shoved his way until he was smack dab in the middle of the booth that sold animals. He brandished a whip and shouted to the booth
COMMUNICATIONS
of the booth that sold animals. He brandished a whip and shouted to the booth owners, “Get out of here, you money-making scoundrels! This court is a house of
COMMUNICATIONS
owners, “Get out of here, you money-making scoundrels! This court is a house of prayer for all people and you’ve made it a den of thieves!”
COMMUNICATIONS
prayer for all people and you’ve made it a den of thieves!”
Doves and pigeons took to the air, baaing sheep raced to escape, and the booth
COMMUNICATIONS
Doves and pigeons took to the air, baaing sheep raced to escape, and the booth hucksters ducked to avoid the cracking whip. Jesus wasn’t through. He moved in
COMMUNICATIONS
hucksters ducked to avoid the cracking whip. Jesus wasn’t through. He moved in on the money changers tossing their tables upside down. Clanging coins spilled
COMMUNICATIONS
on the money changers tossing their tables upside down. Clanging coins spilled and rolled hither and yon. Patrons were grabbing to retrieve them.
COMMUNICATIONS
and rolled hither and yon. Patrons were grabbing to retrieve them.
When the report reached me I became so angry I was on the verge of a stroke.
COMMUNICATIONS
When the report reached me I became so angry I was on the verge of a stroke.
“How dare he attack my bazaars! We’re in control here, not him.”
COMMUNICATIONS “How dare he attack my bazaars! We’re in control here, not him.”
COMMUNICATIONS “Take it easy,” said Caiaphas. “We’re collaborating with one of his disciples and
COMMUNICATIONS “Take it easy,” said Caiaphas. “We’re collaborating with one of his disciples and
SAMPLES
One day he pushed and shoved his way until he was smack dab in the middle SAMPLES
One day he pushed and shoved his way until he was smack dab in the middle of the booth that sold animals. He brandished a whip and shouted to the booth SAMPLES
of the booth that sold animals. He brandished a whip and shouted to the booth owners, “Get out of here, you money-making scoundrels! This court is a house of
SAMPLES
owners, “Get out of here, you money-making scoundrels! This court is a house of prayer for all people and you’ve made it a den of thieves!”
SAMPLES
prayer for all people and you’ve made it a den of thieves!”
Doves and pigeons took to the air, baaing sheep raced to escape, and the booth
SAMPLES
Doves and pigeons took to the air, baaing sheep raced to escape, and the booth hucksters ducked to avoid the cracking whip. Jesus wasn’t through. He moved in
SAMPLEShucksters ducked to avoid the cracking whip. Jesus wasn’t through. He moved in on the money changers tossing their tables upside down. Clanging coins spilled
SAMPLESon the money changers tossing their tables upside down. Clanging coins spilled and rolled hither and yon. Patrons were grabbing to retrieve them.
SAMPLESand rolled hither and yon. Patrons were grabbing to retrieve them.
When the report reached me I became so angry I was on the verge of a stroke.
SAMPLESWhen the report reached me I became so angry I was on the verge of a stroke.
“How dare he attack my bazaars! We’re in control here, not him.”
SAMPLES“How dare he attack my bazaars! We’re in control here, not him.”
Brief Monologs For Worship 9
LE-2
It was a little past midnight on Thursday when there was a knock on my door. Standing before me was a burly Temple guard and a prisoner with his arms bound and tied. “Sir,” said the soldier, “this is Jesus, and we wanted you to be the first to know he’s our prisoner.”
“Tell me, Jesus, about your disciples and your teachings.”
“You shouldn’t be asking me questions. Ask those who have heard me.”
The guard slapped Jesus across the face and warned, “Are you trying to teach the high priest how to conduct a trial?”
Jesus said, “If I’ve said anything illegal, witnesses should be called. I’ve only stated the law. Why hit me for that?”
Laws? Rules? Who cares? The only thing that’s going to satisfy me is to have Jesus killed and the sooner, the better.
Prayer ThoughtAre you, like Jesus, passionate about God and yearn to be in his presence? What corners of compromise need to be cleaned out in your life? What tables of temptation need to be overturned?
Suggested MusicSearch Me, O God
CREATIVE
“You shouldn’t be asking me questions. Ask those who have heard me.”CREATIVE
“You shouldn’t be asking me questions. Ask those who have heard me.”
The guard slapped Jesus across the face and warned, “Are you trying to teach CREATIVE
The guard slapped Jesus across the face and warned, “Are you trying to teach the high priest how to conduct a trial?”
CREATIVE
the high priest how to conduct a trial?”
Jesus said, “If I’ve said anything illegal, witnesses should be called. I’ve only
CREATIVE
Jesus said, “If I’ve said anything illegal, witnesses should be called. I’ve only
Laws? Rules? Who cares? The only thing that’s going to satisfy me is to have
CREATIVE
Laws? Rules? Who cares? The only thing that’s going to satisfy me is to have
CREATIVE Are you, like Jesus, passionate about God and yearn to be in his presence? What
CREATIVE Are you, like Jesus, passionate about God and yearn to be in his presence? What
COMMUNICATIONS
“Tell me, Jesus, about your disciples and your teachings.”COMMUNICATIONS
“Tell me, Jesus, about your disciples and your teachings.”
“You shouldn’t be asking me questions. Ask those who have heard me.”
COMMUNICATIONS
“You shouldn’t be asking me questions. Ask those who have heard me.”
The guard slapped Jesus across the face and warned, “Are you trying to teach
COMMUNICATIONS
The guard slapped Jesus across the face and warned, “Are you trying to teach the high priest how to conduct a trial?”
COMMUNICATIONS
the high priest how to conduct a trial?”
Jesus said, “If I’ve said anything illegal, witnesses should be called. I’ve only
COMMUNICATIONS
Jesus said, “If I’ve said anything illegal, witnesses should be called. I’ve only stated the law. Why hit me for that?”
COMMUNICATIONS
stated the law. Why hit me for that?”
Laws? Rules? Who cares? The only thing that’s going to satisfy me is to have
COMMUNICATIONS
Laws? Rules? Who cares? The only thing that’s going to satisfy me is to have Jesus killed and the sooner, the better.
COMMUNICATIONS
Jesus killed and the sooner, the better.
COMMUNICATIONS
Prayer Thought
COMMUNICATIONS
Prayer ThoughtAre you, like Jesus, passionate about God and yearn to be in his presence? What
COMMUNICATIONS
Are you, like Jesus, passionate about God and yearn to be in his presence? What corners of compromise need to be cleaned out in your life? What tables of temptation
COMMUNICATIONS
corners of compromise need to be cleaned out in your life? What tables of temptation
SAMPLES
stated the law. Why hit me for that?”SAMPLES
stated the law. Why hit me for that?”
Laws? Rules? Who cares? The only thing that’s going to satisfy me is to have SAMPLES
Laws? Rules? Who cares? The only thing that’s going to satisfy me is to have Jesus killed and the sooner, the better.
SAMPLES
Jesus killed and the sooner, the better.
SAMPLESPrayer Thought
SAMPLESPrayer Thought
Are you, like Jesus, passionate about God and yearn to be in his presence? What
SAMPLESAre you, like Jesus, passionate about God and yearn to be in his presence? What corners of compromise need to be cleaned out in your life? What tables of temptation
SAMPLEScorners of compromise need to be cleaned out in your life? What tables of temptation
Suggested Music
SAMPLESSuggested Music
10 Lenten Encounters
LE-2
Power Brokers—Caiaphas—
Mark 14:53, 55-65They took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes were assembled. Now the chief priests and the whole council were looking for testi-mony against Jesus to put him to death; but they found none. For many gave false testimony against him, and their testimony did not agree. Some stood up and gave false testimony against him, saying, “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.’” But even on this point their testimony did not agree. Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer? What is it that they testify against you?” But he was silent and did not answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I am; and ‘you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power,’ and ‘coming with the clouds of heaven.’ ” Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “Why do we still need witnesses? You have heard his blasphemy! What is your decision?” All of them condemned him as deserving death. Some began to spit on him, to blindfold him, and to strike him, saying to him, “Prophesy!” The guards also took him over and beat him.
LentenEncountersCREATIVE
Power BrokersCREATIVE
Power Brokers—Caiaphas—
CREATIVE
—Caiaphas—
Mark 14:53, 55-65
CREATIVE
Mark 14:53, 55-65They took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes
CREATIVE
They took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes were assembled. Now the chief priests and the whole council were looking for testi-
CREATIVE were assembled. Now the chief priests and the whole council were looking for testi-mony against Jesus to put him to death; but they found none. For many gave false
CREATIVE mony against Jesus to put him to death; but they found none. For many gave false testimony against him, and their testimony did not agree. Some stood up and gave
CREATIVE testimony against him, and their testimony did not agree. Some stood up and gave false testimony against him, saying, “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple
CREATIVE false testimony against him, saying, “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with
CREATIVE that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with
CREATIVE
COMMUNICATIONS
—Caiaphas—
COMMUNICATIONS
—Caiaphas—
Mark 14:53, 55-65
COMMUNICATIONS
Mark 14:53, 55-65They took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes
COMMUNICATIONS
They took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes were assembled. Now the chief priests and the whole council were looking for testi-
COMMUNICATIONS
were assembled. Now the chief priests and the whole council were looking for testi-mony against Jesus to put him to death; but they found none. For many gave false
COMMUNICATIONS
mony against Jesus to put him to death; but they found none. For many gave false testimony against him, and their testimony did not agree. Some stood up and gave
COMMUNICATIONS
testimony against him, and their testimony did not agree. Some stood up and gave false testimony against him, saying, “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple
COMMUNICATIONS
false testimony against him, saying, “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with
COMMUNICATIONS
that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.’” But even on this point their testimony did not agree. Then the high priest
COMMUNICATIONS
hands.’” But even on this point their testimony did not agree. Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer? What is it that they
COMMUNICATIONS
stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer? What is it that they testify against you?” But he was silent and did not answer. Again the high priest
COMMUNICATIONS testify against you?” But he was silent and did not answer. Again the high priest
the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I am;
COMMUNICATIONS the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I am;
and ‘you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power,’ and ‘coming
COMMUNICATIONS and ‘you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power,’ and ‘coming with the clouds of heaven.’ ” Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “Why do
COMMUNICATIONS with the clouds of heaven.’ ” Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “Why do
COMMUNICATIONS we still need witnesses? You have heard his blasphemy! What is your decision?” All
COMMUNICATIONS we still need witnesses? You have heard his blasphemy! What is your decision?” All
COMMUNICATIONS
EncountersCOMMUNICATIONS
Encounters
SAMPLES
They took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes SAMPLES
They took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes were assembled. Now the chief priests and the whole council were looking for testi-
SAMPLES
were assembled. Now the chief priests and the whole council were looking for testi-mony against Jesus to put him to death; but they found none. For many gave false
SAMPLES
mony against Jesus to put him to death; but they found none. For many gave false testimony against him, and their testimony did not agree. Some stood up and gave
SAMPLES
testimony against him, and their testimony did not agree. Some stood up and gave false testimony against him, saying, “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple
SAMPLESfalse testimony against him, saying, “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with
SAMPLESthat is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.’” But even on this point their testimony did not agree. Then the high priest
SAMPLEShands.’” But even on this point their testimony did not agree. Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer? What is it that they
SAMPLESstood up before them and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer? What is it that they testify against you?” But he was silent and did not answer. Again the high priest
SAMPLEStestify against you?” But he was silent and did not answer. Again the high priest the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I am;
SAMPLESthe Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I am;
and ‘you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power,’ and ‘coming
SAMPLESand ‘you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power,’ and ‘coming
Brief Monologs For Worship 11
LE-2
CaiaphasI am Caiaphas. I was the high priest of Israel during the time Jesus lived and had
the honor of presiding over the meeting that condemned him to death.
You’d be interested in knowing I was handpicked by Rome for my job and nor-mally worked very closely with Pontius Pilate. Actually I was part of a family dy-nasty. My father-in-law Annas, had been the high priest before I took over. I presided over a group known as the Sanhedrin. We were the sacred keepers of Jewish law and laid down its rules and regulations. Above all else we were to keep our people in line and make sure no insurrection against Rome ever happened. That’s precisely why I had my scouts constantly dogging the steps of Jesus and his followers.
One time I sent an elite group of guards to spy on Jesus, expecting them to bring me back a prisoner. Instead they came back lamenting, “Never did any man speak like this man!”
When Jesus supposedly brought Lazarus back to life, I was alarmed. It was re-ported that important citizens were aligning themselves with him.
I told one of my priests, “We’ve got to put an end to Jesus and Lazarus! I smell an insurrection of mammoth proportions.”
“Do you want us to seize him while he’s teaching?” the priests asked.
“No, that would make him seem like a martyr. We had best wait until Passover is over.”
“Sir,” said the priest. I hear Judas, one of his 12 disciples, isn’t as happy as he once was.”
I jumped up from my throne seat. “That’s it! Go to work on Judas! Pay him whatever you must.”
CREATIVE
nasty. My father-in-law Annas, had been the high priest before I took over. I presided CREATIVE
nasty. My father-in-law Annas, had been the high priest before I took over. I presided over a group known as the Sanhedrin. We were the sacred keepers of Jewish law CREATIVE
over a group known as the Sanhedrin. We were the sacred keepers of Jewish law and laid down its rules and regulations. Above all else we were to keep our people
CREATIVE
and laid down its rules and regulations. Above all else we were to keep our people in line and make sure no insurrection against Rome ever happened. That’s precisely
CREATIVE
in line and make sure no insurrection against Rome ever happened. That’s precisely why I had my scouts constantly dogging the steps of Jesus and his followers.
CREATIVE
why I had my scouts constantly dogging the steps of Jesus and his followers.
One time I sent an elite group of guards to spy on Jesus, expecting them to bring
CREATIVE
One time I sent an elite group of guards to spy on Jesus, expecting them to bring me back a prisoner. Instead they came back lamenting, “Never did any man speak
CREATIVE
me back a prisoner. Instead they came back lamenting, “Never did any man speak
When Jesus supposedly brought Lazarus back to life, I was alarmed. It was re-
CREATIVE When Jesus supposedly brought Lazarus back to life, I was alarmed. It was re-
ported that important citizens were aligning themselves with him.
CREATIVE ported that important citizens were aligning themselves with him.
I told one of my priests, “We’ve got to put an end to Jesus and Lazarus! I smell
CREATIVE I told one of my priests, “We’ve got to put an end to Jesus and Lazarus! I smell
COMMUNICATIONS
You’d be interested in knowing I was handpicked by Rome for my job and nor-COMMUNICATIONS
You’d be interested in knowing I was handpicked by Rome for my job and nor-mally worked very closely with Pontius Pilate. Actually I was part of a family dy-COMMUNICATIONS
mally worked very closely with Pontius Pilate. Actually I was part of a family dy-nasty. My father-in-law Annas, had been the high priest before I took over. I presided
COMMUNICATIONS
nasty. My father-in-law Annas, had been the high priest before I took over. I presided over a group known as the Sanhedrin. We were the sacred keepers of Jewish law
COMMUNICATIONS
over a group known as the Sanhedrin. We were the sacred keepers of Jewish law and laid down its rules and regulations. Above all else we were to keep our people
COMMUNICATIONS
and laid down its rules and regulations. Above all else we were to keep our people in line and make sure no insurrection against Rome ever happened. That’s precisely
COMMUNICATIONS
in line and make sure no insurrection against Rome ever happened. That’s precisely why I had my scouts constantly dogging the steps of Jesus and his followers.
COMMUNICATIONS
why I had my scouts constantly dogging the steps of Jesus and his followers.
One time I sent an elite group of guards to spy on Jesus, expecting them to bring
COMMUNICATIONS
One time I sent an elite group of guards to spy on Jesus, expecting them to bring me back a prisoner. Instead they came back lamenting, “Never did any man speak
COMMUNICATIONS
me back a prisoner. Instead they came back lamenting, “Never did any man speak
When Jesus supposedly brought Lazarus back to life, I was alarmed. It was re-
COMMUNICATIONS
When Jesus supposedly brought Lazarus back to life, I was alarmed. It was re-ported that important citizens were aligning themselves with him.
COMMUNICATIONS
ported that important citizens were aligning themselves with him.
I told one of my priests, “We’ve got to put an end to Jesus and Lazarus! I smell
COMMUNICATIONS
I told one of my priests, “We’ve got to put an end to Jesus and Lazarus! I smell
“Do you want us to seize him while he’s teaching?” the priests asked.
COMMUNICATIONS
“Do you want us to seize him while he’s teaching?” the priests asked.
“No, that would make him seem like a martyr. We had best wait until Passover
COMMUNICATIONS “No, that would make him seem like a martyr. We had best wait until Passover
COMMUNICATIONS “Sir,” said the priest. I hear Judas, one of his 12 disciples, isn’t as happy as he
COMMUNICATIONS “Sir,” said the priest. I hear Judas, one of his 12 disciples, isn’t as happy as he
SAMPLES
One time I sent an elite group of guards to spy on Jesus, expecting them to bring SAMPLES
One time I sent an elite group of guards to spy on Jesus, expecting them to bring me back a prisoner. Instead they came back lamenting, “Never did any man speak SAMPLES
me back a prisoner. Instead they came back lamenting, “Never did any man speak like this man!”
SAMPLES
like this man!”
When Jesus supposedly brought Lazarus back to life, I was alarmed. It was re-
SAMPLES
When Jesus supposedly brought Lazarus back to life, I was alarmed. It was re-ported that important citizens were aligning themselves with him.
SAMPLES
ported that important citizens were aligning themselves with him.
I told one of my priests, “We’ve got to put an end to Jesus and Lazarus! I smell
SAMPLESI told one of my priests, “We’ve got to put an end to Jesus and Lazarus! I smell
an insurrection of mammoth proportions.”
SAMPLESan insurrection of mammoth proportions.”
“Do you want us to seize him while he’s teaching?” the priests asked.
SAMPLES“Do you want us to seize him while he’s teaching?” the priests asked.
“No, that would make him seem like a martyr. We had best wait until Passover
SAMPLES“No, that would make him seem like a martyr. We had best wait until Passover
12 Lenten Encounters
LE-2
You know by now Judas became Jesus’ Achilles heel.
After midnight Thursday but way before daylight, there was a knock on my door.
I opened the door and in walked a group of roughshod soldiers and Jesus. I went through the pretense of making it look legal. We called for witnesses and to be quite frank they made fools of themselves. None of them could agree.
I took matters in my own hands. I know that legally I’m not allowed to put a person who is on trial in a defensive position. Nevertheless, I wanted Jesus on a cross and the quicker the better. I looked Jesus square in the eyes and said, “Are you the son of God, yes or no?”
“I am,” he said.
“Trial’s over!” I shouted as I tore my outer tunic into shreds. “He calls himself the Son of God! That’s blasphemy pure and simple. Case dismissed. Let’s move on to Pilate’s court.
Prayer ThoughtTruth-telling is the road that enables one to live with his or her head held high. Some-times life doesn’t offer us a lot of choices. When our faith requires a yes or no reply, may we, like Jesus, tell the truth even if the results may harm us.
Suggested MusicJesus Walked This Lonesome Valley
CREATIVE
I took matters in my own hands. I know that legally I’m not allowed to put a CREATIVE
I took matters in my own hands. I know that legally I’m not allowed to put a person who is on trial in a defensive position. Nevertheless, I wanted Jesus on a
CREATIVE
person who is on trial in a defensive position. Nevertheless, I wanted Jesus on a cross and the quicker the better. I looked Jesus square in the eyes and said, “Are
CREATIVE
cross and the quicker the better. I looked Jesus square in the eyes and said, “Are
“Trial’s over!” I shouted as I tore my outer tunic into shreds. “He calls himself
CREATIVE
“Trial’s over!” I shouted as I tore my outer tunic into shreds. “He calls himself
CREATIVE the Son of God! That’s blasphemy pure and simple. Case dismissed. Let’s move on
CREATIVE the Son of God! That’s blasphemy pure and simple. Case dismissed. Let’s move on
COMMUNICATIONS
went through the pretense of making it look legal. We called for witnesses and to COMMUNICATIONS
went through the pretense of making it look legal. We called for witnesses and to be quite frank they made fools of themselves. None of them could agrCOMMUNICATIONS
be quite frank they made fools of themselves. None of them could agr
I took matters in my own hands. I know that legally I’m not allowed to put a
COMMUNICATIONS
I took matters in my own hands. I know that legally I’m not allowed to put a person who is on trial in a defensive position. Nevertheless, I wanted Jesus on a
COMMUNICATIONS
person who is on trial in a defensive position. Nevertheless, I wanted Jesus on a cross and the quicker the better. I looked Jesus square in the eyes and said, “Are
COMMUNICATIONS
cross and the quicker the better. I looked Jesus square in the eyes and said, “Are you the son of God, yes or no?”
COMMUNICATIONS
you the son of God, yes or no?”
“Trial’s over!” I shouted as I tore my outer tunic into shreds. “He calls himself
COMMUNICATIONS
“Trial’s over!” I shouted as I tore my outer tunic into shreds. “He calls himself
COMMUNICATIONS
the Son of God! That’s blasphemy pure and simple. Case dismissed. Let’s move on
COMMUNICATIONS
the Son of God! That’s blasphemy pure and simple. Case dismissed. Let’s move on
Prayer Thought
COMMUNICATIONS
Prayer ThoughtTruth-telling is the road that enables one to live with his or her head held high. Some-
COMMUNICATIONS
Truth-telling is the road that enables one to live with his or her head held high. Some-times life doesn’t offer us a lot of choices. When our faith requires a yes or no reply,
COMMUNICATIONS
times life doesn’t offer us a lot of choices. When our faith requires a yes or no reply, may we, like Jesus, tell the truth even if the results may harm us.
COMMUNICATIONS may we, like Jesus, tell the truth even if the results may harm us.
SAMPLES
“I am,” he said.SAMPLES
“I am,” he said.
“Trial’s over!” I shouted as I tore my outer tunic into shreds. “He calls himself SAMPLES
“Trial’s over!” I shouted as I tore my outer tunic into shreds. “He calls himself SAMPLES
the Son of God! That’s blasphemy pure and simple. Case dismissed. Let’s move on
SAMPLES
the Son of God! That’s blasphemy pure and simple. Case dismissed. Let’s move on
Prayer Thought
SAMPLESPrayer Thought
Truth-telling is the road that enables one to live with his or her head held high. Some-
SAMPLESTruth-telling is the road that enables one to live with his or her head held high. Some-times life doesn’t offer us a lot of choices. When our faith requires a yes or no reply,
SAMPLEStimes life doesn’t offer us a lot of choices. When our faith requires a yes or no reply,
SAMPLESmay we, like Jesus, tell the truth even if the results may harm us.
SAMPLESmay we, like Jesus, tell the truth even if the results may harm us.