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.”
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 seemed
as if things would always be the same. And yet,
sometimes, amid all the joy and gladness there would
be a quiet hour in which he thought over and measured
his good fortune, and then he felt afraid. Yes,
he was greatly troubled, for every day he saw, on
all hands, how property vanished, and how the coffins
of those who the day before had been enjoying life
were carried to the grave.
Then this man, who, although he was happy, was yet
beset with fears, heard that there was a prophet out
in the wilderness who had eternal life. He knew
of everlasting wealth and happiness, and half the world
were flocking to him in order to share in it.
So Simeon—that was his name—determined
to seek out this man. He locked up his precious
stones in iron chests, delivered his palaces, vineyards,
ships and servants into the keeping of his steward,
gave his women to the protection of the gods, and
gathered his slaves round him. He rode out of
the town on a thoroughbred steed, he wore soft, bright-coloured
garments adorned with gold and jewels, his scimitar
