Christmas with St Matthew 2

3.
A child of Abraham? I had betrayed my own to aid our conquerors and fill my pockets. But here came one who could humiliate the proud and righteous, the sons who never set a foot wrong and stuck their feet out for no-one. Here came one who could turn rocks into his children. Could I too become a child again? Could even I be a beloved son with whom He was well pleased?

4.
None of us had passed through the wilderness with dignity in tact. None of us had truly learnt to live by every word that proceeded from God’s mouth. Yet when he emerged from the wilderness he was ready, and was calling his new Israel. Who were these fishermen he had begun with? The elites rolled their eyes to see the rustics chosen first. I turned to look, then lowered my gaze. I had learnt to expect nothing but the quick, sneaky profit. My heart pounded that day to another, softer tune.