7. MISSIONARIES OF THE KINGDOM
It took less than a week for the report that Jesus had defied the Pharisees to spread throughout all Galilee. Those who most welcomed the news were the Zealots. For a long time, they had been plotting to rebel against the Romans, but so far had found no plan that promised to be successful. They believed that Jesus was the leader for whom they had been waiting so long. He was brave. He stood up to the officials. He was popular with the common people. One of their leaders decided to find out what Jesus intended to do. His name was Simon. Well known in Galilee for his courage, everyone called him "the Zealot." He made a special trip to Capernaum that same week and came to Simon's home. Before the week was past he became a follower of Jesus. But there were many things he found it hard to understand.
"Tell me," he asked Simon and James privately, "does the Rabbi intend to set up the new kingdom now?"
Simon was cautious. "The Master has said nothing about that."
The Zealot glanced about to make sure that the door and shutters were tightly closed. "Do you not know that he could easily persuade the people to revolt against Herod?"
James was alarmed. "But we're not ready for that yet."
Simon gave him a warning glance. He still mistrusted this man. "We plan to tell everyone in this country our message," he said guardedly.
"If you are going to establish a free Jewish nation, you must do more than talk," declared the Zealot. "You should organize!"
The fishermen looked at each other, doubting how much they should say. Finally James said vaguely, "We think it won't be much longer."
"Why can't we do something definite about it?" said the Zealot.