ile those ideas in my mind."

Jesus said, "That which is now dark to you as the night will be as
clear as the day. I have told you before that you may not lose courage
whatever may happen. Believe and hope. When the tribulation is
passed, then you will see and understand."

Thomas answered and said unto him, "What I cannot understand is that
thou shouldst speak of suffering and of death. Have we not heard from
the prophets that the Messiah shall live forever? What can thine
enemies do unto thee? One single word from thee would annihilate them
all."

Jesus said unto him, "Thomas, reverence the secret counsels of God
which thou canst not fathom."

Then, turning to the others, he said, "Yet a little while is the light
with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you."

By this time they had approached near the village of Bethany, and there
met them one Simon, after whom there came Lazarus, who was raised from
the dead, with Martha, his sister, and Mary Magdalene, the latter tall,
dark, with long black hair, in dark blue dress with a yellow mantle.

Simon pressed forward; he was an old man and he hastened to meet Jesus.
"Welcome, best of teachers, O what joy that thou shouldst honor my
house with thy entrance. Dear friends, be also welcome," he exclaimed;
but he was startled to hear the reply, "Simon, for the last time I,
with my disciples, lay claim to thy hospitality."

Simon replied in grief, "Say not so, Lord. Often still shall Bethany
afford thee brief repose."

By this time Lazarus drew near; he was of less than middle stature and
silent, as if his sojourn in the other world left him little to speak
of in this. "See," said Jesus, "there is our friend Lazarus."

"My Lord," cried Lazarus, embracing him, "the vanquisher of death,
lifegiver and Lord, I see thee once again and hear the voice that
called me from the grave."

Then hastened the Magdalene to his side, and kneeling down, "Rabbi,"
she exclaimed; Martha also said, "Welcome, Rabbi."

Then Jesus blessed them, saying, "God's blessing be upon you!"

Then Martha asked, "Wilt thou Lord, grant me the happiness of serving
thee?" while the Magdalene timidly inquired, "Wilt thou despise a token
of love and gratitude from me?"

And Jesus replied with tenderness, "Do, good souls, that which you
purpose to do."

Then said Simon, "Best of masters, come under my roof and refresh
thyself and thy disciples."

So Jesus entered into S