Marcus: The Centurion's Journey to Faith - Episode #6

Journal Entry-Monday, September 7, 26 A.D.

Journal Entry - Marcus the Centurion
Date: Monday, September 7, 26 A.D. (Year of the Consulship of Lentulus and Agrippa, 778 Ab urbe condita)

It’s done.

The public punishment was carried out today, just as ordered. Four thieves and one murderer, paraded before the people as a reminder of Rome’s power. A spectacle meant to instill fear, to show the locals that their crimes against the Empire would not go unpunished. And I—well, I played my part, as I always do. But as I sit here now, back in my quarters, staring at my hands that once held the whip, I wonder if I’ve done more than just carry out the law. I wonder if something in me changed today.

The thieves were dealt with first. Petty criminals, nothing more. Desperate men who’d thought they could outwit Rome and make a life for themselves with stolen goods. Fools. They didn’t stand a chance. When their lashes came, the crowd watched in silence, save for a few who turned their heads or muttered under their breath. I couldn’t blame them. Watching a man’s back split open under the whip is a hard thing, even for those of us used to such sights.