I Appeal To Caesar!

are in fact wearing the garments of the High Priest, and each bears justifiably the title of that auspicious position in Israel’s economy. At this moment, for this private reconnaissance, their religious attire is camouflaged beneath the robes of common men; an observer watching their strange maneuvers could comment that these adult men are playing some form of “hide-and-seek.” The older man, Annas by name, had been the High Priest, but the Romans, recognizing his rapacious tendencies, had replaced him several times; now, however, they have installed Caiaphas as the official High Priest. The leading Jewish elders, the Sanhedrin, still honor Annas and often seek his counsel and blessing, much to the chagrin and anger of Caiaphas. It is like having two High Priests! Now, however, they both realize they face a common problem, a major problem that threatens their livelihood and position. “How could you let this happen?” Annas snorts, open hands extending in frustration, fingers twitching. His words impact Caiaphas like flaming arrows!

• “It was such a simple thing you had to do!” • “Bury a body and guard the tomb for three days!” • “How could they snatch the body?” • “Now this impossible lie fills Jerusalem!”

Caiaphas winces . . . turning sullen and silent.