Hot wind slices the afternoon into jagged shards of heat and sand, ripping unprotected flesh. Jesus stands unnoticed and silent, observing and wondering what has happened to his dream.
Soldiers walk in pairs, guarding the grounds he once graced, armed with machine guns instead of swords and spears. Vendors argue with customers, bartering over produce and souvenirs. A young couple strolls hand in hand, her head leaning into his shoulder.
They pause. Embrace. Lips touch.
Jesus closes his eyes and remembers similar moments he enjoyed with his Apostle Mary. He turns away and begins the walk back from whence he came.
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