[M] Gabe, I am quite refreshed. May we now go on with our talk?
There was a marvelous festive wedding we attended in the village of Kafr Kanna in spring of 778. I was so grateful that the cousin of dear Yosef, Ahwid, by name, invited me. His son Benjamin was wed to a lovely girl.
It was an easy trip, just a half of a day walk from home. Three sons and, of course, Anne and Lydda accompanied me. Dear Yeshua joined with us as we were near to the village.
He was in company with Levi whom, for reason unknown to me, they may also have called Matthew, and the son of Alphaeus named James. Also present were two brothers, Andrew bar Jonah and Simon bar Jonah. These were all his new friends from Kefar Nahum. There were two young women. One was sister to Andrew and Simon. She was a delightful person whom I do not recall as again seeing. But as the years passed my Lydda would speak of her in such glowing terms, so committed to the teachings of Yeshua was she. Her companion was called Miryam of Magdala. I shall not forget her name, that one being so easy for me to remember.
This particular reference of name, Miryam of Magdala, was curious. Personally, I was most pleased that she was so introduced to me. Such a refreshing way is certainly a long overdue circumstance.
Women in our tradition are rarely even mentioned as daughter of the named father and only then when there might be a need to avoid confusion. As an example, so many times we hear that a particular father might have two or three sons. Each is always identified by his name. Yet the daughters are only numbered. And if ever a married women is discussed, it is often said that “she is the wife of …”
The use of residence, Magdala, in her name is one of respect recognizing her station and her success as an independent woman who is established well in enterprise or by other abilities. I shall speak in more detail later of this marvelous woman, a most treasured friend of our family.
It is unfortunate, but girls and women are not yet given their due recognition. By design of the Most Holy One, the true value of women must finally be taken up by his people. I wonder too, if the Goiim will also be of such mind. I know that unjust attitude will change when people listen to my dear Yeshua. In his sight, women always measured equal to men. He gave to them the respect and consideration established in our teachings, which were most certainly deserved. If followers truly believe in my son, they will naturally consider all persons equal in law, faith and opportunity to serve.
Gabe, once again, I leap from one story to another.
It seems that my whole life has been dedicated to the experiences of my loved ones. And what a pleasure it has been, such an honor to be able to feel affection for, as well as from, them. Thanks to the most gracious Adonai.
Where was I? Oh yes, back to Benjamin and his bride.
The rabbi was inspiring, such fine words for the young people. I thought that Yosef too would have so much enjoyed it. I missed him so, as this was my first encounter with kin since his death two years before.
Gabe, there was such fun after the wedding. I had not often seen such a grand display of foods. There were olives and grapes and cheeses and fish. I think that they must have slain ten goats and five sheep. How proud was Ahwid.
[G] Miryam, you seem to be hesitant and preoccupied.
[M] I am so sorry. This discussion reminded me of my own situation so many years ago.
On my return from the home of Elizabeth and Zechariah and my discussion with Yosef, we chose not to engage in a festival like unto this one. Instead, with the rabbi and our parents and Rivka, Yosef and I were wed in a quiet ceremony at synagogue. Gabe, hold this to be true, that reflection on that day always fills me with great joy. How very fortunate am I to have been chosen by, and in turn, to choose that marvelous Yosef.
Now back to Benjamin’s wedding story.
Some things, difficult for me to understand, happened often through the works of Yeshua. In this case, the remaining jugs were of inferior wine, an embarrassment to cousin Ahwid.
Why I do not to this very day know, but I asked Yeshua if he would help. Perhaps I have been busy of body, sometimes speaking out, promptly at times, though unsolicited. In truth, I most probably would have asked the same of dear Yosef, had he been present.
Quietly, Yeshua gave directions to some servants, spoke praises to the Most High, and at once, all the vessels yielded the finest drink ever. Ahwid wanted to shout with joy, but humble Yeshua would have nothing of that.
And there was still another surprise. Anne finally did meet a young man of interest. He is called Amos. She was some 17 years of age, and you know, many of her friends were already wed; a few, to be sure, through a motherly use of a matchmaker. But Anne had always been so particular. Well, Josus spoke with the family of Amos and shortly after they were betrothed, wed in less than a year, and away they went.
I have to say that the groom, Benjamin, his charming new wife and all of the guests enjoyed a special festival. Certainly Anne, too, had much more than an ordinary day.
Gabe, all this talk about food. Let us rest now, enjoy some Honey Cakes, and then to Anne.