A fast-moving adventure set in a dark and violent world, Mark's is the gospel of impetuous action. It is the story as told by -- and designed for -- active people who take on committments with passion, and who know to their cost how much courage its consequence can demand.

In stark contrast to the imperial court of Nero stands the small Christian community on the fringes of the vast capital, Rome itself: present and former slaves, artisans and clerks, many of them recent immigrants. Chief among its missionaries is Peter, friend and first follower of Jesus. He is growing old; it is time to relay his recollections to young Mark.

Mark's Jesus is an elusive figure: He bursts dynamically onto the scene, sweeps all before him, gathers followers to his side -- and then appears to disappoint every hope he has raised, dying in despair: My God, my God, why have you deserted me?