od, where all are blessed in trustful,
joyful love. Come to Me, all ye who have erred and gone astray. I
have joy and eternal life for you."

The disciples looked at each other in astonishment: He had never before
spoken with such divine gentleness. The people, sobbing, crowded round
Him; His words were as balm to their wounds. They wondered how it was
possible for a man to speak so proudly, lovingly and divinely. They
gave themselves up to Him, filled with trust and enthusiasm; in His
presence the hungry were fed, the blind made to see, the lame walked,
doubters believed, the weak became strong, and dead souls lived.

Simon always rejoiced greatly whenever new wanderers came by and,
withdrawing from their companions, took a vow to follow the Master's
teaching. He was exceedingly angry when they refused, alleging that it
was not possible to accomplish what He demanded of them. Jesus related
a story in connection with Simon's emotions. "A man had two sons, and
told each of them to go and work in his field. One said, 'Yes, father,
I will go at once.' But afterwards he reflected that the work was
hard, and he did not go. The other son told his father to his face
that he would not go into the field; it was too much labour. When he
was alone he thought, 'I will do my father's will,' and he went into
the field and worked. Which of the two, in your opinion, did right?"

A man learned in the Law replied: "He who promised to go. For it
stands written; 'He who declares himself ready to obey the Law.'"

But Jesus was vexed at that reply, and said in sorrow: "It is
extraordinary how falsely you interpret the Law. Sinners who sincerely
repent will find their way to the Kingdom of Heaven before such
expounders of the Law."

From that time forward Simon rejoiced no more over empty promises, nor
did he vex himself over the refusals of those who would perhaps come
later to take up the heavy work. Patiently as once he had waited at
the lake for the fish to come to his nets, he now waited until they
came. And he understood a mystic saying of his Master: "All are
called; many come, few remain."

CHAPTER XXI

At that time there lived in Jerusalem, the royal city, a man who was
perfectly happy. He had everything that makes life pleasant: great
wealth, powerful friends, and beautiful women who daily crowned his
head with wreaths of roses. He was still young, every one of his
wishes was fulfilled, and it seeme