"Yes, unless King Herod has improved lately." Zebedee smiled sourly. "I think that foreigner actually enjoys killing. How he loves our money! If riots come, we are sure to be taxed even more." He took two of the fish off the coals and laid them on a smooth rock. When they were cool enough, he picked them up. "Breakfast is ready," he said. The men rose and bowed their heads, while the older man prayed.
"Praise ye the Lord.
I will give thanks unto the Lord with my whole heart,
In the council of the upright, and in the congregation.
He hath given food unto them that fear him:
He will ever be mindful of his promise.
Holy and reverend is his name. Amen."
While they ate, James asked, "Father, who is in the other boat this morning?" Zebedee hired men to work for him.
"Old Gideon the farmer, with our new man, a gentile from Sidon."
"Why in the world did you hire a gentile, father?" asked John sharply.
"Well, son, he is young and strong. He is willing to work for us." He paused. "But I couldn't help wondering where he came from."
"Did you ask him?"
"No. He wouldn't answer questions about himself. But he knew fishing." John shook his head.
"I don't like it, father. Jews have no business working with gentiles. And besides, if he is a runaway slave, we might get into trouble."
"Now look, son. Half the people in Galilee are gentiles. Every day we see them. What harm is there in working with them?"