Volume 2

212 Life of Jesus Christ
dens. The magnificently fruitful region of Genesareth
began here, and in many places there were watchtowers.
When Jesus approached the environs of Capharnaum,
several possessed began to rage outside the gate and to
call into the city: "The Prophet is coming! What does He
want here? What business has He with us?" But when He
reached the city, they ran away. A tent had been erected
outside. The Centurion and the father of the boy came
out to meet Jesus, the child walking between them. They
were followed by the entire family, all the relatives, servants,
and slaves. These last were pagans who had been
sent to Zorobabel by Herod. It was a real procession,
and all cast themselves down before Jesus giving thanks.
They washed His feet and offered Him a little luncheon,
a mouthful to eat and a glass of wine. Jesus spoke some
words of admonition to the boy, laying His hand on his
head as he knelt before Him. He now received the name
of Jesse, whereas he had before been called Joel. The
Centurion's name was Zorobabel. He earnestly besought
Jesus to stay with him while at Capharnaum and to accept
a feast in His honor. But Jesus refused, still
reproaching him with his desire to see a miracle in order
to vex others. He said: "I should not have cured the boy,
had not the faith of the messenger been so strong and
urgent." And thereupon Jesus went on His way.
But Zorobabel had a great banquet prepared to which
all the servants and laborers of his numerous gardens
around the city were called. The miracle had been related
to them, and all deeply moved believed in Jesus.
During the entertainment the domestics and many of the
poor, to whom presents had been made, entoned a song
of praise and thanksgiving in the entrance porch.
The news of the miracle soon spread throughout
Capharnaum. Zorobabel sent an account of it to the
Mother of Jesus and the Apostles. I saw the latter again
busy at their fisheries. I saw the news taken also to