I Appeal To Caesar!

Chapter 9 The Mountain The Course Is Set

he time arrives at last, and deep within, Saul knows he must go! No details, only that he must journey to Sinai, the Mountain of God, then return to Damascus. His stay in Petra has been an idyllic island of delight in a world of confusion, but all of that now changes. He can hardly say goodbye to Samuel and Hannah, dear people who cared for him like parents during this period of approximately three years. Leaving the small Jewish congregation tears his heart wide open, and there is much weeping and hugging in his farewell to his new extended family. Saul closes shop, selling and giving away his inventory and accumulations, reducing himself to only what he can carry, which includes, of course, his beloved scroll of Isaiah. The small congregation rallies to help, receiving a sacrificial monetary offering to bless and sustain him, an act of love that overwhelms Saul. Having helped and healed him, these dear friends now pray for him and send him on his way. * * * * * Saul leaves the comforts and securities he has come to enjoy. He must go, he knows this, which means facing the unknown wilderness and finally ascending the Mountain where God revealed Himself to Moses, yes, the mountain of the Torah. At this point, Saul’s hunger for truth and the unfolding of his mission take precedence over all comforts and considerations. He will go into sacred solitude, living for