The Childhood and Youth of Jesus · Part 1 · Chapter 61

Maronius Pilla's shock and Joseph's question. Maronius' pagan confession. Joseph's simple explanation. Cyrenius' warning to be careful. 6 November 1843

01] Maronius Pilla was so shocked at this marvellous phenomenon, that he trembled all over his body like the leaves of an aspen tree in a big storm.

02] But Joseph saw Maronius' great distress, stepped to his side and said:

03] "Maronius Pilla! Why are you trembling so much? Has anyone hurt you?"

04] And Maronius replied to Joseph: "O man, for you who are unequalled in this world it is easy, for you are a God whom all the elements must obey!

05] But I am only a weak mortal human, whose life is in your hands, just like that pillar!

06] You can destroy me and the whole world instantaneously with your thoughts!

07] How could I not tremble in front of you, since you are surely the mighty ancient father of all our gods, if they really exist somewhere?

08] That pillar was already dedicated to Jupiter Stator since time immemorial; all storms and strikes of lightning withdraw from it in great awe!

09] And now even your underage Child has destroyed it! – But if your Child is capable of this, what powers must exist in you?

10] Let yourself be worshiped by me, a most unworthy earthworm!"

11] But Joseph spoke: Listen friend and brother Maronius, you are highly mistaken here!

12] I am no more than you, and just a mortal being myself! – If you can be silent on your life in front of the world, I would like to tell you something!

13] But if you cannot be silent, you will endure the same as that pillar!

14] And so, if you want and if you dare to, listen to me now!"

15] But Maronius pleaded to Joseph on his knees not to tell him anything, for he could let a word slip accidentally and would then be lost.

16] But Joseph spoke: "Do not worry, the Lord of heaven and earth never punishes anybody through a mischance!

17] Therefore you may listen to me without fear; what I will say to you will not harm you but save you eternally!"

18] And Cyrenius, who worshiped the Child and still caressed it in his hands, turned to Joseph and said:

19] "My best and dearest friend! Let Maronius be as he is now; I will prepare him myself today and tomorrow you can give him the higher initiation!"

20] To this Joseph agreed and he returned to the house along with the others.