I hoped the Jews would cause me no problems during their week of celebration. Perhaps this spring would be different from the others. That's what I hoped. I journeyed to Jerusalem so I would be at hand in case of trouble. You see, their feast commemorates some deliverance in their ancient history, and their nation still hatches the occasional desert deliverer who would overcome the empire of Rome.
Prudence requires a watchful eye at seasons when national spirit runs high.
I was awakened early in the morning, just after sunrise, by the noise of their council, the Sanhedrin, the chief priests and elders, and an angry crowd at my gate. I recognized the mob spirit, dangerous and difficult to turn aside. They would be trying to lynch someone. I would have to play for time and let their passion cool before we could settle the business. The gate was opened and they burst into my courtyard.