Stories from Heaven's Library Vol. 2
DFO
AMARIS
The story so far
In the palace of a small Eastern nation, the fair young Princess Amaris, awakens to a sunny day. While out walking with her father, the rich and powerful King Merchal, he recounts how he bought her from slave traders when she was just five, and raised her as his own daughter. Now, thirteen years later, the king tells her that she is to embark on a mission--a journey of faith.
Leaving the comforts of the palace with her menservants and maidservants, they are forced to take shelter from an oncoming storm in a cave. In the dead of night, and for an unknown reason, Amaris wakes up to discover that all her servants, and the litter on which she was carried, have disappeared.
Only her most trusted manservant, the swarthy Jordan, remains at her side. Together, they must complete this mysterious mission, which is her destiny
--An Eastern Tale, as told by Sheherezade
III - Exchange of Secrets
The remainder of the night passed quickly for the two weary travelers, who, exhausted from the long day before and the events of the night, had dropped into a sound sleep. In the morning, Jordan awoke with the rising sun. He gently shook Amaris.
It took Amaris a few moments to recollect all that had taken place, but when she did, despair settled upon her like a dense, sticky cloud.
"Oh," she moaned. "Why, Jordan, what shall we do? How can we make the remainder of this journey alone?--And on foot!" She looked down at her dainty sandals.
Jordan suppressed a grin, feeling rather ashamed to be seeing the humor in such a difficult situation. "I suppose the journey will be more difficult for you than for me ... the part about being on foot, at least!"
Amaris smiled, realizing that it wouldn't be that different for her partner. Then a thought occurred to her.
"Jordan," she said. "Would you do something for me?"
"Anything, my mistress," the man answered.
"That's precisely what I am talking about. For some reason, it seems that God has seen fit to place us on equal levels during this time, and I want to do nothing to interfere with that. I shall walk alongside you, and I wish for you to feel that you are walking with an equal. Will you be relieved, for this time, of your duties as my servant, and allow me to be relieved of my duties as royalty?"
Jordan was taken aback, but, as was his personality, took it all in stride and with a grain of humor.
"I would be honored to be your equal, my lady," he said, with a smile.
"That 'my lady' will have to go then," the girl replied. "I grant you royal permission to address me as Amaris."
"Just 'Amaris'? That's it?" Jordan tilted his head to either side, as if shaking the idea around would help it to stick better. "Very well, if that is your wish."
"Then," cried Amaris, "we're set! Jordan and Amaris, on the road again!"
"We are off!" he agreed. "And let us pray that our journey leads us towards some food, for I begin to feel the pangs of hunger!"
Amaris reached over to collect the little leather pouch. How thankful she was to have taken it from the runaway litter. Jordan surveyed the bedpile.
"I suppose that the bed should remain here?" he questioned.
"It seems to me it would be a lot of work to lug those pillows around with us," Amaris agreed. "But let us bring the coverlet. We may need it if we have to sleep in the open air tonight."
Having made those decisions, the two stepped out of the rock cave, and made their way down the steep dirt trail they had precariously climbed the evening before, and back onto the road.
* * *
Amaris was the first to break the silence. "I didn't know it was this much fun to walk!" she remarked.
"My lady--I mean, you take it well for a beginner!" Jordan returned.
"Well, I may not do a lot of walking in public, but I have kept in good form."
"I would say that your form leaves nothing to be desired," Jordan said, almost under his breath.
Amaris hid a smile in a mock frown of disapproval.
"Equals, are we not?" Jordan retorted. They both laughed.
A while later, Jordan decided to break the silence. "Would my lady ... that is, Amaris ... I hope I do not seem forward to ask this, but would you tell me about yourself, about your early life?"
"My early life?" Amaris caught her breath. "Whatever do you mean?"
"I have never said anything," the man continued, "but I have always thought to myself that things are not entirely as they seem. The story which has been put forth is that you were a distant royal relative of His Majesty, sent to join him after the tragic death of his own child and his wife. Yet something within me seems to contradict that notion."
He looked sideways, and noticing that Amaris was looking very uncomfortable, he quickly added, "Of course you don't have to tell me. I understand if you would rather keep it hidden."
"Jordan, if I were to tell anyone it would certainly be you, but ... " She rolled her eyes and sighed, "Oh, what do I really have to lose? Can I trust you that this will go no further?" She looked his way for a confirmation, and when he nodded affirmatively, she returned her gaze to the road.
Her eyes took on a faraway look, and, gazing at her sideways, Jordan could almost see the reflection of disturbing images of days gone by roaring through them.
A full five minutes must have lapsed before Amaris began her tale. "I was born Sarah Jane Norman, to British parents. My father was some sort of official for the government, and he was in this country on business.
"For my sixth birthday, we three--for I was an only child--went to visit the beautiful gardens said to resemble the ancient hanging gardens. While there, I playfully hid inside a maze, expecting my parents to follow me, but somehow we lost contact. I came out in a few minutes but they were gone.
"I ran around the garden for hours, but never found them." She sighed. "Do you mind if we stop and rest for a few minutes? I feel rather short of breath."
"On this rock here." Jordan's voice was very low.
Amaris sat down, but her mind was elsewhere. "An old lady befriended me, as by that time I was half out of my wits with worry. She seemed kind and friendly, but she took me straight to the slave traders, who gave her a handsome sum. I was too young to know what was happening. They took me to an old shed, where I remained for a long time. I cried a lot, and ... " A sudden smile came to her face. "How strange! I had forgotten!"
"What is it?" Jordan asked, seeing that she hesitated.
"Well, the guards forbade any of us to talk to each other--there were perhaps eight of us girls in this shed. The doors were locked and we were never allowed outside. The windows were covered with tar paper. It was dark and miserable. My bed was by the door, and one day, when the door opened, a beautiful little blue flower blew in through the door. It fell right under the head of my bed. It was a sign."
"A sign?" Jordan asked.
"Yes," she smiled. "My parents had taught me of God's love and His care. I had seen so much that was bad and wicked in those few weeks or months--how long it was I do not know--that I had begun to wonder. I asked God that if He was real, that He should send me a sign.
"And that same day came His flower, as a boon to me. And with it came hope, and with hope, deliverance. For it was not many days thereafter that I was taken to the market-place, where His Majesty found me--which I have since heard from him was an act of God's design as well.
"Here," she continued, "do you want to see it?" She reached into her leather pouch and fumbled around for a few minutes. "I had completely forgotten about this!" She laughed as she pulled out a simple piece of brown paper, folded in two. She unfolded it, and there, between the pressed leaves was a tiny blue flower.
"This paper was all that I could find. I pressed the flower under a floor stone, and I have kept it ever since. It will always symbolize God's love to me."
"Amaris," Jordan said hesitantly, "if you don't mind me asking, there's something that I don't understand."
"What is that?"
"You speak of knowing about God as a child, and I know that our gracious Majesty expresses a deep love for Him as well. Therefore, how is it that you spoke to me earlier as though you did not share the same belief or love?"
Amaris was silent. "I am not sure, Jordan. I know that it is not for a lack of tutelage*, as you have said. I believed as a child, but as I have grown in years, I have found myself questioning things that I always held as truths.
"Things that seemed simple and clear to me when I was young now seem muddy, as though pollutants were being poured into my stream. It is not that I do not believe, but I struggle.
"These last few years have been difficult. My dear father knows this, and I believe that that is why he has sent me on this journey. Well, it was not his idea, but apparently my life is being controlled by the Great One Whom I have loved so hesitantly in recent years."
"To me that seems very obvious after hearing your tale!" Jordan exclaimed. "I do not think anything is more clear right now than the fact that you have been chosen by Him Who is Most High!"
"Indeed," Amaris agreed, "it is strange, but I feel like I know Him better each day. Being out like this, away from the support and shelter of the palace makes me feel vulnerable*, and in great need of a supernatural Protector." Then she laughed. "Of course, my earthly protector is not bad either!"
"Come, Amaris," Jordan held out his hand to help her up, "we must cover more distance while the light holds."
"How long do you think it will take for us to arrive at the home of Father Michael?" Amaris asked.
"I would say that if we keep up this pace we may be there by tomorrow sundown. What exactly is it that we will do there?"
"My father has said that the Lord told him only that I must make this journey to visit Father Michael, and that the next step would be shown me from there. Perhaps I shall join the order!" Amaris grinned across the road at her companion.
"Now that would be a waste in my opinion," Jordan retorted, then added hastily, with a joking look heavenward. "No offense to my Lord, but a life of celibacy*, it seems, would not be suited to such a lovely one " His voice trailed off in embarrassment.
"Speaking of celibacy, Jordan ..." Amaris was embarrassed too. "Please do not read more into this than I intend, but are you really a eunuch? I have always assumed that you were, but sometimes I wonder."
"Now what could make you wonder, my lady Amaris?" Jordan's eyes sparkled as the sunlight reflected on his dark hair, shiny with sweat from the vigorous walk. Then he twitched his lips, as if in deep pondering. "Well, you have trusted me with your secret, I suppose I should trust you with mine. To everyone I always have and always will be nothing but a eunuch, but in actuality ... I am not."
Amaris raised her eyebrows, but said nothing.
"I have no real explanation for the reason, except that ... perhaps my God was also preparing me for a purpose unknown at the time?" He laughed. "No, seriously, it came about because I had learned a secret about the man who prepares the eunuchs and performs the operation. When we were alone in the room, I ... let us just say that I convinced him that in return for my silence, he could do me this favor, and allow me to remain intact."
"Why did you want to become a eunuch in the first place?"
"Well, I needed to find work, and this was a promising job, with good pay, a respected position, plenty of beautiful sights "
Amaris giggled, as Jordan continued. "The only requirement is to give up your manhood. As you know, there are not often many takers for this otherwise highly coveted position."
"I would say that you have kept up your pretense quite well," Amaris said admiringly.
"I have had to. If anyone had the slightest notion that such a thing were possible, I could have been examined and expelled immediately. And ... once I began working for you, this was the last thing that I would have wanted to happen."
"Why, Jordan!" Amaris stopped in her tracks, and when the man turned to look back at her, she pulled a silken curl from her headdress and twirled it between her fingers. "Do you think I'm pretty?" she teased.
Jordan turned around to face the road again, and walked in silence.
Amaris dropped her curl and ran to catch up. "Wait up, man!" she said breathlessly. "I was just joking! Please do not be offended!"
"You take lightly something that is very serious to me," was all that he would say.
"Forgive me." Amaris slipped her small hand into his. "Let us speak of something else." The conversation had grown too awkward* for both of them.
IV - Father Michael
The afternoon sun languished in the sky, blushing a hot orange as it slowly sank into the horizon. An old, white-haired man sat in a comfortable reclining chair, on the porch outside a small wooden house. He shut his eyes for a moment, and sighed in satisfaction. It had been a good day.
"I don't think I could ask for anything more to end a perfect day," he sighed. When he opened his eyes, however, he focused on two weary-looking figures making their way up the dusty path to his abode. A thin, young girl, and a taller, well-built man, with striking features and jet-black hair. His gaze rested on the girl, questioningly. Then he suddenly lifted himself up from his chair, stepped warily off the porch and walked towards the approaching travelers.
"Could that be little Amaris?" he called out.
"Indeed it is, Father Michael!" Amaris shouted, forgetting her aching feet and tired body, and dashing the rest of the way in a burst of youthful zeal. She flung her arms around the old man's neck. "Why, sir, it's been terribly long since we've seen you!" she said.
"Ah, child, too long it has been! But who is your companion here? And how is it that you come to me on foot?!"
"It is a long story, Father. This is Jordan, my my friend." She smiled quietly as the two men greeted each other warmly. "As for the rest of our party, let's just say that God worked His way in a fashion most unusual, which required their abrupt absence. I am sure we shall discover the reason at some point."
"Please," the old man said quickly, "do call me Michael. And do come in. I have set a place for you both."
"Then you knew we were coming? How could ... ?" Jordan trailed off, as Michael interrupted.
"Ah yes, his majesty and I have a most unique method of communication. It never ceases to amaze my acquaintances. They'll be astonished that he replied so quickly. Mmmm, it must have been hard for him to see you go." The old man shook his head.
"What method of communication is this, Father?" Amaris inquired curiously.
"Ah, we send our requests through the Heavenly airwaves. I was taking time in the quiet not more than five days ago, and I knew that the time had come for you to pay me a visit. So I asked my Heavenly companion to carry a message to my friend and soul-mate, King Merchal, requesting your presence here as soon as he could see fit to arrange for it. I counted a couple days for him to get used to the idea, a day or more for you to make your journey--and then all I had to do was wait."
Amaris and Jordan shook their heads in wonder.
"My admiration for you grows by the moment," Jordan said.
"And mine for you, lad," Michael replied, noting the typical servant's uniform that clad* the young man. "That her little majesty calls you her friend--you must have gotten very friendly indeed while on your journey."
Jordan blushed.
Amaris giggled nervously, and quickly said, "So, Father, how are things with you?"
"Well, well! In all the years I have been here in this blessed country, never has my God felt so close, nor have I seen the fruits of my labors more manifest than in these last months. Truly it is a great time of harvest, and the years that I have toiled in work and weeping are at last beginning to show forth the true and bountiful reward that He promised me long ago. Twenty years old I was, the day I set foot on this land," Michael chuckled, and patted his round belly. "A sight different than what is before you today, you can be sure!"
"You're wonderful just as you are, Father," Amaris said protectively.
"A kind lass you are," the old man smiled. "Yes, and twenty-and-four I was when I came about this property, with my lovely wife Elsie--my dear bride. We shared thirty-eight years together"--he hesitated, and nodded emphatically at Jordan as he reached over to pat a nearby mattress--"on this very bed!"
Jordan grinned.
"Yes, my dear Elsie was God's gift to me from the moment she came into my life, even till now. Don't give me those looks, you two!" he said quickly, seeing their eyebrows go up. "I'm not falling weak in the head. My dove is still with me. She whispers in my ears. She watches over me. She's my messenger, who carries my petitions to those I request. I know," he nodded emphatically. "God has told me so. And I believe that it's she that's helping me reap such a harvest of souls as I now am. She did all that she could down here, and then He took her up to His side, where she could do even more."
"Well," Michael suddenly returned to reality, and rose to his feet. "What am I doing starting on a preachathon when you two darlings are sitting here, tired to the bone--and with visions of a hot stew reflectin' in both of your eyes!"
"We are hungry," Jordan conceded.
"And tired!" Amaris had removed her sandals and was holding her feet.
"Why child, let me look at those. Oh, that doesn't look good at all. Those sandals were definitely not created for traveling."
"No," Amaris said. "I'm afraid I designed them myself, and my cobbler made them. I never did much long-distance walking before. I'll have to make a few revisions on that design."
"Well, why don't you take some time in the water room, there behind that curtain. Wash the dirt from yourselves--one at a time, of course!" he laughed. Michael had a weakness for teasing them on the obvious. "And then come and relax here by the fire while I heat up this turnip stew. It's nothing fancy, but I dare say it'll taste mighty good after the rigors* you've been through."
"Thank you kindly, sir." Amaris smiled gratefully, and made for the water room.
Several hours later, dinner was over and Amaris was feeling great. Her stomach was full, her feet had soaked for over an hour in a special herb bath that Jordan had prepared, and she was filled to the brim with the most utter contentment she had ever known.
"I feel good!" She said aloud, as she lounged on the large pillows by the flickering fire.
"Why child, did I put too much wine in that stew?" Michael laughed at his own joke. Then he said, "I am glad, young lady. I hope you will always be this happy, for you certainly deserve it."
Amaris sat up in sudden remembrance. "Father Michael, why did you want me to come? There must have been some other reason besides just wanting to see me after all these years."
"Why yes! Come to think of it now, there was something I had to tell you. But to be truthful, my dear, I do not care to launch into the tale at this late hour of the night. Would you do me the kindness of waiting until tomorrow morning, when we will be refreshed and in good spirits to tackle whatever may come our way?"
Amaris would have protested, for she was very anxious to know what had brought her this great distance, but she was interrupted by a yawn, and once that was over, she knew that her kindly friend was right. The last days' journey had taken their toll, and she felt her eyes closing despite herself.
"Let us be off to bed, then," she reluctantly scraped herself off the pillows and bestowed a goodnight hug and kiss upon her long-time friend.
She then turned to the young man, and said awkwardly, "Goodnight, Jordan."
Not knowing what else to do, she held out her hand toward him, and he caught it, just as awkwardly. Making the best of an uncomfortable situation, Amaris laughed, and shook his hand. "Now we're real businessmen!" she said. Then she froze and sank to the floor, wrapping her arms around her legs.
"Why, I haven't said that--or thought of that--in years!" she exclaimed. She clutched her legs more tightly, to keep her hands from trembling. "My my father used to say that to me. That is, my first father, you know, my British father. That was a long time ago. I don't know why that came back to me!"
Jordan slipped down on the floor near her, and reached his strong arm around her small shoulders. How he wished that he could protect her from the worries and fears of within as readily as he knew he could fight off the terrors of the real world in her name! "It has been a long and trying journey," he said softly. "I'm sure that with some rest you'll feel better in the morning."
"Indeed you shall, my dear," said Michael emphatically. Then he added, "There's nothing like a good night's sleep to wipe away the problems a mind has had the night before."
"Yes, I'm sure that will do it," Amaris brushed her hand over her eyes. "Thank you both; you have been so kind."
Michael helped Amaris to the large bed, which he had made up especially for her, and, after tucking the covers in carefully, he drew the thick curtain around her bed. By the time he returned, Jordan had prepared two bedding rolls for them on the floor by the fire.
"Thank you, lad," Michael said. His knees cracked loudly as he knelt and then prostrated* himself on the mat.
"Ah, they ain't what they used to be, my old bones!" He laughed aloud. "But I reckon they're still good enough to keep up the good Lord's work! For as He said to me many years ago, 'Not one hair of your head will perish until My time for you has come.' And He's been as true as His Word! I've had aches and pains here and there, but never have I missed so much as a day in His service! Sometimes I didn't feel much like carryin' on, but each time I asked Him about it, He either cleared up the problem or gave me the strength to carry on despite it."
"You mean you've never been sick in all your years here?" Jordan was incredulous*, knowing how sicknesses often spread like wildfire in these mountain villages.
"Ah, lad! I've had my up days and my down days, you know. But the point is, nothing in me has lacked, and I have not suffered any permanent problems that hindered me from doing God's will. Neither have I suffered any temporary problems that were not for the purpose of conveyin' me some message of His, or of being a witness or help to others. He has His ways!"
The old man shook his head, then ran his hands through his hair. "And see this? Not a hair of my head has perished, as He said! Just as thick as the day I set foot here!"
Then Michael grew serious, as he stared into the dying embers in the fireplace. "Has Amaris talked much with you about her early life?"
"She told me how she came to be in the king's palace, if that is what you mean," Jordan responded.
"I thought as much. You two seem to have grown rather close. You're a good man, I can see it in your eyes. I'm glad you love her."
"I - I what?" Jordan was caught off guard. "What do you mean, sir?"
"Ah, isn't that the way it goes?! They get all polite when they're trying to hide something! Needn't be shy about it with me, son! I'm not going to go babbling. No, I believe these things are led by God. I mean, you can't make yourself fall in love with someone, now, can you? So then Who's the One Who does the tweakin'?"
Jordan smiled.
"But--aside from any personal intent that He may have, or some future plan, I'm sure He knows--besides all that, I think that He made you love her so you'd keep a good eye on her. She's a special, chosen girl, she is. And she needs someone to keep a good lookout for her. When you love someone, you want to take care of them and then it's more than just a job; it's a personal commitment, you know?"
"Like with our Lord," Jordan said quietly. "We serve Him because we love Him, and that is much more powerful than serving Him just out of duty. I see what you mean. When I first began working in the king's palace, I was only there because of the good pay. But the more I grew to know Amaris " he looked apologetically at Michael and added, "she asked me to call her that on this trip."
"Of course, please do so! I do all the time.--Shorter, you know?!"
"Yes, well, the more I grew to know her, then it became personal, like you said." He looked embarrassed. "I hope we never have to be apart."
"Well, don't tell that to me, lad! Tell it to your Friend Upstairs. He's tops in those matters, I can have you know. He's got your best interests in mind. If she's the one for you, you can be sure," Michael pulled the covers up to his chin, "you'll get her. Now close your eyes and let an old man get some sleep. Morning comes mighty quick around this place."
"Of course," Jordan murmured softly. Placing his hands behind his head, he stretched himself out on the bedroll, but try as he could, sleep was the furthest thing from his mind.
To be continued
THE KING AND HIS CHILDREN
--As told by Jesus
Once upon a time there was a king who had a vast, vast kingdom. No one had more power or riches or more glorious a kingdom than he. He had a beautiful, magnificent palace set upon a hill, and in that palace he had his many, many children.
He gave his children everything their hearts could desire! They had the best tutors. They had the knowledge of all the ages and the sages, and the wisdom of the whole world at their fingertips. And they had great riches, for to each child was given a huge pot, filled with gold coins.
Each child was cared for diligently, lovingly and prayerfully, and was doted upon by the king as if they were his only child. The king took great pride in each one and watched his or her progress and lessons and health and happiness. The king knew every detail of every child's life, for he was a faithful, loving, caring king, and a father to each one.
But there were those amongst the youths who were not satisfied with all this beauty and riches and glory, and all the tender, loving care that they received from the hand of their father. They got bored with their pot of gold, so that it no longer satisfied them. They looked out of the windows of their beautiful palace and beyond the rolling green hills and lush forests, towards the city that lay on the horizon--the city system of the world.
Curiosity and dissatisfaction welled up within them as they listened to the whispers of the enemy of the kingdom. They were enticed and drawn away because of their pride and desire to taste life in the city, and because they had grown so familiar with their wonderful, beautiful surroundings and the pot of gold that was their inheritance.
So they left the palace of the king and they no longer walked in its beautiful gardens. They no longer listened to the wise teaching of their tutors. They left behind the pot of gold that was given to them by their loving father, and they went out to seek new adventures and new things, and to explore the city system which lay amid the dense clouds of smog* hanging low on the horizon.
Every day and night while they were gone, the loving king looked out the window of his tower and watched for them, waiting with patience and love. He knew that sooner or later each of his wayward youths would come back. They would return like the prodigal son, with greater humility, greater brokenness and greater appreciation for the beauties of the kingdom of their father.
Some would come back sooner and some later, but they would return, because their place was in this kingdom and in this palace, and they were ordained to be his children forever and ever.
Eventually, the wayward youths did return, one by one. But when they came back, they were weakened, and dirty with the filth of the city. They were polluted. But nonetheless, they were still his children, and he still loved them and received them with open arms.
When they came back into the palace of the king, they were amazed to see their brothers and sisters who had remained, for they were strong, radiant, brilliant, wise and beautiful! They had remained in the heavenly kingdom and had partaken of all the riches and the benefits that were given to them by their good father.
They had eaten the good food and partaken of the wise teaching of their tutors, and they had cherished their inheritance, their pot of gold, which was the truth that was given to each one.
These faithful ones who hadn't gone out were strong and tall and wise. They were close to their father and rewarded with great rewards for their faithfulness and diligence. They, too, received their wayward brothers and sisters with love, looking upon them with compassion, feeling sorry for them for all that they had endured and all that they had missed--the pleasures, the riches and the wonderful beauty of the kingdom that they had lost while they were out wandering in the city system.
They helped to clean them and restore them to full health, that they too might once again be able to partake of the teaching of the tutors, and learn to appreciate the pot of gold of their inheritance which was still there waiting for them.
They had not lost their place; when it came time for dinner, they found their empty seats still there waiting for them at the great table. They had only lost their strength and their blessings and part of their rewards.
And yet, with time, they were strengthened, and grew to be strong and beautiful like those ones who had remained at the palace.
* * *
So it is with My children. I have called each one personally, individually, and they are My children. I am their loving Father, and I have placed them in a blessed place of service that they might be well cared for and receive training at the hands of great warriors of the Spirit--My blessed tutors--to teach them in the ways of truth and in the ways of battling in the spirit.
I have given each of My children a pot of gold, which is the Word of God, the truth, as well as the plentiful, abundant truth of the words of David. But some have not appreciated this blessed place, and they have mocked and scorned their inheritance, their pot of gold, their place of service, their training and their tutors. They have gone out from the palace and from the garden and they have sought other riches and other wisdom.
It is not necessary for My young people to leave My Kingdom to go and search for the wisdom of this world. It is not necessary that they go out in order to learn the things that they need to learn. Many of My strong ones, those who stayed faithful, were able to learn their lessons within the beauty, the protection and the love of My palace.
It is not My best and it is not My highest calling that My young people go out from My Kingdom to learn the ways of the world in order to be convinced of the beauty of My Kingdom and the truth of My Word. This is not necessary. It is not the best way. It is not something that they must experience to be able to appreciate the beauties of My Kingdom. For these lessons and this appreciation can be learned within the protection, beauty, pleasure and love of My Kingdom.
But some, because of the hardness of their hearts, and their unyieldedness, and their great pride, have chosen to go out and learn this way, which is the difficult way--the way of the transgressor, which is so hard.
But because I know they need these lessons and they have refused to learn them the easy way--by faith from the hand of their tutors, with receptive and yielded spirits--so I leave the door of My Kingdom open for those who would go out and learn the lessons that they need to learn in the way that they choose to learn them.
However, when they choose this way, it weakens them, it pollutes them, and it handicaps them, until such time as they return and can be strengthened and cleansed with My Word.
Those who remain faithful in My Kingdom, appreciating their inheritance and receiving their lessons from the hands of their tutors with respect and with great thoughtfulness and diligence, these should be given great honor.
These faithful ones should not be envious of those who have gone out and come back in. They should not be envious, looking upon those who have gone out, thinking that those are the strong ones, that those are the ones who "know the truth," that those are the ones who have experienced both good and evil, so they are the strong ones. This is not so.
Those who have remained faithful, who have learned these lessons by faith from their tutors, from the Word, and from the King Himself, shall be honored with great honor, for they have redeemed the time well. They have used every moment to receive from the hand of the King, blessings of love and beauty and purity and strength.
All of My young people, whether they stay or whether they go, are My children and I love them all the same. But I am able to reward the faithful ones more quickly and more abundantly because of their faithfulness.
Yet I also bestow great care upon those who go out and come back in, that I might restore them to full health, that they might once again sit at My table and receive My blessings and honor.
I still love them with great love and I am still aware of every detail of their lives, whether they be in the Kingdom or whether they be in the distant city system. For I am the faithful, loving King, the most powerful, the wisest, the richest King that ever was!
So, My children, treasure your place in this Kingdom, for it is a great honor and privilege that you have a seat at the King's table, and that I reach out to you My hand of blessing and love. Hold on to My hand and stay close, for there close at My side you have the opportunity to learn and to experience all that you will need to make you into the child that I would have you to be.
Hold fast to your place in the Kingdom and the crown which has been given to you, and let no man steal your crown. Cast it not away. Throw it not aside, but cherish it and hold fast to it, and great shall be your reward in this life and in the life to come!
LIVING IN THE TIME OF THE END
Why do I have this strange feeling? All morning Frank had been glancing out of his office window. He had a strange feeling in his stomach, as if something unusual was going to happen. He mused over what it could possibly be. Perhaps he was going to meet someone special that day, or somebody he hadn't seen in a long time.
As he glanced towards the city's skyscrapers, he thought back on some friends he hadn't heard from in a long time. His mind wandered to a particular family whom he had not seen nor heard of in nearly two years, although he often thought of them.
The last he'd heard from them was a brief phone call, in which they explained to him that all that they had been telling him about the Antichrist takeover was now beginning to come to pass. They told him that the Lord had shown them that they needed to go undercover for a little while and explained that they would be leaving the city. While this had saddened him, Frank remembered the great peace he felt when they assured him that the Lord was in control, and that because he and his family were Jesus' children, He would take care of them. But still, Frank wondered where they were and how they were doing.
Frank's company had been feeling the effects of the new One World Government. Although their takeover was in the name of "peace" and "equality," Frank saw many of the signs of the End--that this family had taught him about in their frequent Bible classes together--now coming to pass. His employees now had to be state-approved, and he was certain that some of his new employees were plants from the government, to keep an eye on him and his staff, and to make sure that they were complying with government regulations and not endorsing or promoting anything too "religious."
* * *
"Are you sure you have the phone number?" Tom asked Julie once again, as she finished fixing her hair in front of an old cracked mirror which leaned against one of the walls of the basement where they had been staying for a couple of weeks.
"Yes," Julie replied. "Thanks for double checking though."
"Okay, here's the bus route to take to go into the city, and from there you can take the subway. Lord bless and keep you. It was so neat to hear what the Lord had to say this morning, about you going to meet your old friend--even giving us the phone number in prophecy! This is so exciting! Don't forget to call home. I'll see you soon!"
Tom was 16 years old. He was always faithful to make sure everything was in order concerning any business that had to be done in town.
"Bye!" Julie gave Tom a quick kiss and started up the stairs of the basement. She headed for the nearby bus stop to catch the bus from this small suburban town into the heart of the big city.
Though only 14, Julie was experiencing life as she never had before. In the pre-Tribulation era of the Family, it seemed to Julie that somehow as the young adults grew up, the JETTs and junior teens had less responsibility. Sometimes she felt she was being treated like an OC!
Not any more! she thought with a little smile. She remembered the day when they saw the Antichrist rise to power. She thought of how fast the time had passed, until the long awaited time of Great Tribulation was now descending upon the Earth.
Now everybody was counted on to listen to the Lord daily. With Family communications virtually nil, it was vital that each individual had a direct link with the Lord, in order to find out direct from Headquarters how to operate, where to meet friends and contacts and how to avoid danger.
Once in the city, having arrived at the central bus station, on the busy streets, Julie tried to look as unobtrusive as possible, not looking people directly in the eyes. She prayed silently as she walked on, Lord, please help me as I meet Frank today. Please help him to anticipate my arrival, and help no one to see me that shouldn't.
Frank's office was across town. Julie used to accompany her parents to see him on follow-up visits. He was a real-estate broker* who had become close to the Family, and often came over to visit their Home. He occasionally joined them on Sunday during their fellowship.
He was a widower with three small children, who often visited and joined right in with the Home's activities and played with the other children. Julie would sometimes read them Bible stories and show them flannelgraphs. That was now more than two years ago, and she hadn't seen Frank since then.
I wonder if he'll even recognize me? I was such a skinny little squirt back then. She smiled as she flashed back to herself as a 12-year-old. She had been a late bloomer in some ways, and compared to other girls she had felt quite inferior. But now, as she walked down the street, you could hardly tell that she was only 14. She carried herself like the young woman of God that she was, though to those around her, she simply seemed a confident young lady.
The reason the Lord had sent Julie on this mission today was because the small Family teams scattered throughout this area, including both Julie's parents and Tom's parents, along with their younger brothers and sisters, were getting low on food and other supplies. Since the Antichrist government had begun to enforce strict regulations in this metropolitan* area--and upon the whole world--the Lord had shown them that it would be best to split up into smaller groups. This way they would be able to survive and appear incognito, enabling them to continue witnessing and ministering to their close friends in the city.
Some of Julie and Tom's other friends had already departed deep into the countryside, while the Lord had led others to go elsewhere. It certainly was a new era, and Julie was so thankful that King Peter and Queen Maria had taught each one of their precious children to hear from the Lord fresh every day.
Julie thought amusedly how, in pre-Tribulation days, the junior teens were rarely depended upon to hear from the Lord, because there were always so many older teens and adults around. My experiences during these past two years have certainly grown me up! she thought to herself.
When Julie got to the subway station, she looked around carefully. The government had been requiring everyone to carry a new registration card--a final step before implementing the Mark of the Beast that the Bible had so clearly warned about.
Although it was not yet an enforced regulation that everyone receive a bar code in their hand or forehead, it was becoming increasingly difficult to attend to daily business affairs without this registration card. The card contained all one's personal and legal information: work and home address, number of children, nationality, political and religious affiliations, etc.
In recent weeks, government agents had heightened their campaign to nab people who were not yet carrying a registration card. Plainclothes officers were strategically placed in train stations and key points around the city.
As Julie carefully surveyed the situation, she prayed for the Lord to give her a check if there was anybody near that might approach her. The Lord assured her that the coast was clear, so she went on her way.
Now, to phone Frank and find out where I can meet him! Julie thought to herself. She stepped into a nearby phone booth, and looked down at the little piece of paper on which she and Tom had scribbled the prophecies they'd received that morning.
Her heart started pounding faster as she looked at the phone number the Lord had so miraculously given her and Tom.
Could this really be his number? she wondered.
Although Julie had often visited Frank's office, she had never paid too much attention to how to get there. Her parents used to call Frank often, but she never thought of learning his number or writing it down.
The only thing she remembered was that his office was near a subway station, but after all this time she couldn't remember which one.
Lord, You gave us this number, so please, help me to get through to Frank now.
Slowly she punched in the numbers on the paper: 27-16-9991
Julie held her breath as the phone started ringing. Then she heard a woman's crisp voice, "Deluni Real Estate Agency. May I help you?"
Julie's heart fluttered. Oh, thank You, Jesus! Wow! You did it! What a miracle! Oh, Jesus, please give me the words to say!
Julie tried to sound confident, "Yes. Could I speak to Frank Deluni please?"
"May I ask who's calling?"
"Lucy "--Julie paused while trying to think of a last name, "Lucy Noel."
"May I ask on what business?" asked the secretary.
"Frank is expecting my call," Julie promptly answered.
"If you would hold, please."
As Julie waited on the phone she silently prayed, Jesus, please help Frank to pick up the phone and take the call.
* * *
Frank glanced over at the clock as he walked down the hall. 11:00 am. Well, I'd better get some work done before lunch break. He sat back down at his desk. His sigh was broken by a call from his secretary. "A Lucy Noel on the line for you. She says you're expecting her call."
For a split second, Frank was taken aback. Lucy Noel? he wondered. I don't know any Lucy Noel. But maybe Not knowing exactly why, Frank said "Oh yes! Please, put her through."
"Hello? Lucy! How are you?"
"Hi Frank. It's been a long time."
"Yes, it has " added Frank, a little puzzled, still not sure why he was going along with this mysterious conversation.
"It's been about two years now, I think. My parents called you do you remember?"
Suddenly it dawned on Frank.
Julie?!? he almost said aloud. Quickly regaining his composure, he replied in a casual voice, "Oh yes! So, how are you? You're in town again? How nice! How are your parents?"
"Oh, they're fine!" Julie exclaimed, relieved that he had caught on.
"So! What brings you to town?" Frank said again, very interested in why she was calling him--and after so long.
"Oh, a lot of things, really." Julie responded, trying to sound general, hoping that Frank would catch on that she couldn't say much over the phone.
"I thought I would call you since I was in town, as it has been so long since I've talked with you. I'd love to see you again. Can I meet you out for lunch today?" Julie asked, realizing that showing up at his office could be risky for both of them.
"Of course! There's a little coffee shop down the end of this block called 'Harry's'--a nice little place. Can I meet you there at 12:00?"
"Well, if you can tell me how to get there. I'm at the subway station near the main bus stop now, and I don't think I remember the way there."
Frank proceeded to give Julie directions, and soon she was on her way to meet Frank, still awed by how it was all working out.
* * *
An hour later, sitting in "Harry's" with a coffee in front of him, Frank waited expectantly, watching each person that came through the door of the cafeteria. A pretty young woman walked through the door and looked around.
"She must be meeting someone, too." Frank thought. But when she looked at him and walked directly towards him, he was stunned.
"Julie?! My God! You've grown up so much!" Frank exclaimed.
Julie gave a modest smile. She was dressed older than her years, and with her hair pulled back and the makeup that she had on, she knew that she didn't look 14.
"Oh, please sit down!" Frank said quickly, realizing his guest was still standing.
"Thank you."
After they had ordered a light lunch, Frank said "Now, tell me, how is your family doing?"
"Oh, they're doing well!" Julie said, smiling at him. "They didn't know I was coming to see you today, but I'm sure if they had known they would have sent their love. We really miss you coming over; those were such fun and inspiring times."
"Yes, they were," Frank said wistfully.
"How are your children, Frank?" Julie queried.
"They're doing just fine, thank you. As you know, although this was a fairly Christian country before ," at this point Frank lowered his voice a little--to be found subversive was the worst of crimes these days--" they don't teach anything religious in the schools anymore. So, it's up to me to give my three girls the Christian upbringing that they need. We pray together every night and I try to read them Bible stories."
Frank continued, "Now, tell me why you're here? How did you get my new phone number? I was never able to give it to you because I didn't know where you were."
Julie explained, "Well, remember those little classes we used to have about hearing from God through prophecy? Well, God told me to come and see you today, and He gave me your phone number. See, I have it written down here!" she said, as she pulled out the paper with the scribbled message to show him.
Frank was amazed, but it all began to come back. It had been so long since someone had talked to him about getting messages directly from God. Suddenly, with a rush of nostalgia, he missed those wonderful days of Heaven on Earth when he had visited their Home and enjoyed such wonderful fellowship.
"Yes, I remember," he said softly. "Funny, 'cause I've had this strange feeling all day that someone unexpected was going to drop by--and here you are!"
Julie looked at him. "It's so good to see you, Frank."
"Yes, it's good to see you too. You look great."
After further inquiries from Julie about Frank's and the children's welfare and encouraging him to keep looking to the Lord for his strength, Frank asked, "So, Julie, tell me, what can I do for you?"
"Well," Julie said, "as you know, we went undercover a couple of years ago." Julie's voice livened up with excitement even as it had dropped to a whisper, "It's just so exciting, Frank! God has more than supplied our needs, even though we haven't gone the System way of getting the registration cards that the government is requiring."
"That's incredible, but wonderful!" Frank whispered admiringly.
Julie continued, "But now, we're running low on supplies. We're in need of food and some medical supplies, as well as children's schooling materials."
"Right!" Frank said, "You should have said so at first! I'd be glad to help. I can do something about that right away!"
"Thank you so much, Frank. I knew we could count on you."
"Oh, it's my pleasure!" Frank said, "It's such a nice surprise to see you."
After working out the details of where and when Frank could meet Julie's team to give them the things they needed, Julie said goodbye, and headed for the city park which was a short distance away.
* * *
As Julie walked through the city park, she praised the Lord for making her appointment with Frank so inspiring and fruitful.
She prayed, Thank You so much, Jesus, for loving us and leading us each and every day. Thank You, Jesus, for the good appointment that I had with Frank. Please bless him. Thank You for keeping him and his three daughters these past two years, even though we couldn't be in touch with them. Thank You Jesus, for holding them in the palm of Your hands, for keeping him even within the System. Thank You for protecting me this far. Please help me to continue to heed your checks and to be on guard. Help me not to arouse any suspicions during the rest of my day.
As she continued to walk through the beautiful park in the middle of the city, Julie looked up at the flowering trees and praised the Lord for His beautiful creation--another wonderful proof of His existence.
Lord, keep me now as I go home, Julie silently prayed, as she approached the stairs at the end of the park which led down towards the subway. The central bus station, where she could catch the bus back home, was just a few subway stops away. Just as she was about to go down the stairs, she heard a distinct voice in her mind.
Don't take the subway!
She was a little startled, as she hadn't considered not taking the subway to the central bus station. Yet Julie had learned by this time that it definitely paid to heed the Lord's voice and the checks of the Spirit, as many a time her own life and the lives of her friends had depended upon it.
Okay, Lord. Julie paused and looked at a statue of a small girl near the subway steps, standing still as if she was reading the inscription written on the statue. What do You want me to do? Should I take a taxi home?
Hitch a ride! came the Lord's voice clearly to her mind.
She was a little surprised. Although this country was not considered a particularly dangerous one, hitchhiking wasn't safe for a young girl. As she thought for a moment, the Holy Spirit brought a quote to her remembrance: "Whatever God shows you always works out." That gave her the faith that the Lord would protect her.
Well, I'd better not try to hitchhike within the city limits, she thought to herself. Perhaps I'd better go to the outskirts of the city and catch a ride from there.
No! the Lord clearly but firmly spoke to her heart. There's someone nearby who I want you to hitch a ride with. You won't have to stick out your thumb. Just follow My leading.
Wondering what the Lord had in mind, Julie strolled along the path surrounding the park. She saw a water fountain and stopped to have a little drink, and then sat down on a park bench, silently asking the Lord what He wanted her to do next.
Soon a young man in his early twenties approached and sat down on the bench. He unfolded a newspaper and began reading. Julie didn't pay much attention to him until he put a cigarette between his lips and offered her one.
"No, thank you," she smiled, "I don't smoke."
He nodded to her and lit up his own.
"Nice day, isn't it?" the young man commented.
"It's lovely." Julie replied.
"Ah, yes," he sighed. "I come to this park every day, even though I'm not from the city," he said. He folded his newspaper and looked over at her.
"Is that right?" Julie said politely, still wondering who the Lord wanted her to hitch a ride with. "Where are you from?"
"I grew up in a small outer suburb. I'm not sure you'd know it. It's a little place not far from here called Elthridge."
Julie raised her eyebrows when she heard the name. It was where she and Tom were staying. For a second she wasn't sure what to say. But as Julie paused, her eyes fastened on this young man, she had a definite feeling that this was the Lord's setup to bring her home.
"Elthridge? That's where I live as well."
"Oh really? Actually, it's my mother who lives there. I'm on my way to visit her for the weekend. Would you like a ride?"
"Why thank you!" Julie said gratefully. "I really would like that."
"All right then! My car is just over there. Shall we?"
"Okay!"
"By the way, the name is Paul."
"And I'm Julie," she replied, as they shook hands.
"All right then!" he said again with a smile. "It'll be nice to have someone to talk to during the drive."
As they drove along, Julie's attention turned toward the song that was playing on the radio. It was the old John Lennon song "Imagine." Julie thought to herself how the words of the song were being fulfilled in the way people thought and acted in this new era. "Imagine there's no Heaven imagine there's no hell imagine there's no religion imagine all the people living in peace."
"Yes," Julie told her friend, "it may be peace, but it's a cosmetic peace." She had been talking to her newfound friend about everything under the sun during their drive, although she carefully avoided talking to him about Jesus. These days they had to be very careful, and only after friends were very close did they talk to them about salvation. People were highly encouraged by the government to report those who talked about subjects that were not "in line" with state policy.
Paul seems so sheepy. If it's Your will, Lord, please make a way for us to be able to meet again. Julie silently prayed as they neared their destination.
"So," Paul interrupted her thoughts, "where would you like me to drop you off?"
"Huh oh, let me see. You could drop me at the nearest bus station, and I can get home from there."
Julie and Tom were always careful not to let people know where they lived as much as possible, in order to protect their security.
"No, no, I insist. It's no extra trouble for me to bring you to your door."
"Well, actually, I was going to meet my boyfriend," Julie replied--trying to think of an excuse. She quickly added, "We were going to eat out tonight." In truth, Tom and Julie had no idea where their dinner was going to come from!
"Oh," Paul said, surprised, and a little disappointed that a boyfriend had entered the scene. "Well, why don't you both join me and my mom for dinner?--She's cooking in."
"Ummm" Julie hesitated for a minute. She didn't like to accept invitations like this without counseling with Tom first.
"She makes terrific lasagna," Paul added emphatically.
Julie looked at him sympathetically. He obviously wanted the company.
"Well, I should call Tom first," Julie said.
"Oh, of course. Here, use my mobile phone."
Julie shot up a silent prayer. Mobile phones were definitely not the most secure, but the Lord reassured her heart that it would be okay.
"Hi, Tom! This is Julie. How was your day?"
"Oh fine!" Tom said. He immediately recognized from the tone of her voice that somebody else was with her. "How was yours?"
"Oh, I had a great day! Hey, listen Tom. I met this young man who offered to drive me home today. Actually, I'm with him in his car right now. He just invited both of us to join him and his mother for dinner. I know we were going to eat out, but what do you think?"
"Oh?" said Tom. He had no idea what Julie meant about eating dinner out, but he figured that she had a reason for saying it.
"Great! Sounds fine with me!"
"All right then!"
Paul leaned over and whispered, "Where can we pick him up?"
"Tom, how about if we pick you up on the corner of Parkinsons and 5th?"
"Sounds good," Tom answered. "I'll be there in 15 minutes."
"Right, see you then," said Julie, as she hung up.
"So it's all set?" Paul asked.
"Yes, thank you so much for your invitation. It's very kind of you."
"No problem."
* * *
After a delicious meal prepared by Paul's sweet, though quiet mother, Paul took Tom and Julie to the living room to have a drink and chat some more.
"That was a great dinner. Your mom's a good cook," Tom said. It had been awhile since he had eaten so much.
"Yep," Paul agreed, lighting up a cigarette, "she sure is."
They continued talking awhile about this and that, and then Paul said, "You know, you two are so different. I'm so glad that I met you!"
Julie glanced over at Tom. "Oh, we're really happy we met you too!"
"Yeah! People these days are so so tense and gloomy. But you two, you're so calm and well, friendly!"
"Hey listen," Paul continued. "I'll be having a little party with four or five of my friends next week. Why don't you come over? I'd like you to meet them!"
Tom looked at Julie. It seemed like this type of thing happened all the time. Now that they were just following the Lord day by day, He led them to meet people who were hungry and sheepy, people who they could get close to and eventually win to the Lord.
"Sure. We'd love to come!" they both agreed.
"Great! You know, some people say that " Paul lowered his voice as he glanced toward the kitchen where his mother could be heard doing dishes, "this new regime* has been like a disease to everyone's happiness. I don't know how you have managed to stay happy, but I'd like to get to know you both better. It's hard these days ," he looked down at his glass, " to find friends you can trust."
Tom looked over at Julie. Although they generally didn't join in these types of conversations with people they'd just met, they knew that they couldn't hide Jesus' love from this hungry sheep.
"Well, Paul," Tom said quietly, "we're very happy to have you as our friend."
Paul looked up at them, as if coming back to reality. "Right then! So the party, next week."
* * *
As Tom and Julie went down the stairs to their little basement apartment, which the landlady had rented out to them extra cheap, Julie said, "Thanks Tom, for understanding my call to you, and about going home with Paul for dinner. Sorry I didn't get a chance to counsel with you first about it."
"Oh, that's okay, Julie. These kind of things happen a lot these days. We just have to look to the Lord and be sure to follow His leadings. I'd say that guy is one of the Lord's sheep!" Tom responded.
"Lord, please be with Paul tonight. Continue to work in his life and bless any further contact we have with him. Help him to see You in us, Jesus, as it seems he already has. Help him and even his friends to come to know You. Please continue to protect our security, in case any of his friends are the informer-types. Please have Your perfect will with this party."
Julie and Tom both plopped down on their beds. "Whew! Whatta day!" Julie yawned.
As they lay down for the night and closed their eyes, Tom prayed, "Thank You Jesus, for loving us so much. Thank You for leading and guiding us. Thank You for protecting and keeping our parents and our brothers and sisters. Thank You for Frank, who's so willing to help us with the supplies that we need. Thank You for Paul, who gave Julie a ride home, and thank You for his dear mother also."
They opened their eyes for a second to look at each other, and Julie added with a smile, "And thank You for supplying that delicious and nourishing dinner!"
Tom continued, "Yes, Jesus, we love You so much and we want to thank You for loving us, for caring for us, for making Yourself so manifest in our lives. Thank You, Jesus, for helping us to be tuned in to Your voice and the checks You give us. We pray that You continue to help us to be close to You and close to each other. Thank You for this nice little place You've given us, and for how You supply all our needs, Jesus, one way or another. You're so good to us! You've made Your Word become so alive to us, as we've seen everything that Grandpa, Mama and Peter said about the Endtime now coming to pass. Help us to continue to sharpen our swords and to read Your Word daily, as well as to hear fresh from You--Your fresh Word, Your fresh treasures--every day, Jesus. It's such a wonderful, wonderful treasure You've given us."
"Amen!" Julie softly whispered, as she began to drift off to sleep. Tom lay awake for a little while more in the dark, watching the passing lights of cars on the street shine through the small upper windows of their basement. He wondered how they would survive when the Antichrist really began to crack down and fully enforce the Mark of the Beast.
You've kept us this far, Lord, he thought to himself. I know that when that time comes it will be no more difficult for You to protect us, as long as we stay closely in touch with You.
With those thoughts, he drifted peacefully off to sleep, putting the events of the next day--and all the next days to come--into the Lord's hands.
(More Tom and Julie adventures to come )
ONCE UPON A SEABED
If you come with me, down, down, down, I'll tell you a story. I was an ugly, worthless thing that lived on the seabed, but I was happy and content and I seemed to get along okay.
I had many friends: the sea horses, and fish of many brilliant colors, all shapes and sizes and personalities.
I lived in a beautiful garden with coral surrounding me on every side--beautiful coral of exotic colors, shapes and sizes. There are many things down here. There are sea snakes, eels, sting rays and even an occasional shark or dolphin. All the wonders of God's creation! Everything down here works in perfect order 'cause the Creator planned it all.
So back to my story. My life was pretty ordinary. I'd wake up early every morning and take in the wonders of my garden all day long. My friends would visit me and we'd talk together. I was happy and content and I got all the food I needed every day.--In short, my life was carefree.
Then one day I opened up my mouth, as I did every day, but this time a little piece of sand came in and got stuck in my side. Oh, how it hurt! It bothered me and I tried so hard to get it out, but to no avail.
What can I do? I thought. I tried and tried everything I could, but I couldn't get this little piece of sand out.
You're probably wondering why I made such a big deal about a little piece of sand. Well, if you were me, little things like that would really get to you too.
I tried and tried to get the grain of sand out, but it seemed to be there to stay. I was getting pretty tired and wanted to go to bed. I closed up and tried to go to sleep. But this piece of sand in my side was giving me no end of trouble. I couldn't sleep. I was restless.
While at first it was bothersome, as time went on, I began to feel the little grain of sand less and less. It seemed like it was still there, but soon it didn't bother me much anymore.
So I was happy and content again and went about my little life.
A few years passed by, and I often wondered about that little piece of sand and what had become of it.
Then one day, into my little garden came a giant. He was huge and I was so scared. He came and opened me up and he pulled out that piece of sand. I had to knock my head to make sure that I wasn't dreaming.
I saw what used to be that little piece of sand. It had now been transformed into the most beautiful thing I had ever seen!
I guess by now you know that I'm an oyster and that the precious thing I saw before my eyes was a shiny, white pearl. So the moral of my story is this: When things come into your life that bother you or rub you the wrong way, or are not what you're expecting; if something hurts you or makes you sad, well, maybe one day it'll turn into a pearl.
If you'll let Jesus have His way, some of the most difficult things in your life can make you better and can turn into something more beautiful. Like the verse says, you will come forth as gold--even finer gold (Job 23:10).
So whenever you see a pearl or an oyster like me, remember my little story. Some of the most precious things in life come when the Lord sends you a little grain of sand--to be turned into a pearl.
THE ADVENTURES OF LITTLE WHITE HAWK
I will tell you the story of my life in North America when I was a child. Now I am with Jesus and I am an older man. I was known to my people as Little White Hawk. That was what they called me. I am a Shawnee. My father was Chief White Hawk, a great warrior of my tribe.
My father loved me greatly. Though he was a mighty warrior and leader of our people, he liked very much to play with his children. He had a gentle heart, and I loved him too. He was a very good father and taught me many good things. We lived off the land, and at a young age I learned many things to help my family.
My people would kill buffalo that gave us not only food, but also clothing. I would help my mother after the buffalo had been skinned and the hides had been tanned and she would sew them into clothing for us.
As I grew older, the more I learned, the more responsibility I had. One thing that brought me great joy was the love my father and I had for one another. I know his love for me was great.
As I grew older and was given more responsibilities, this love my father had for me only grew more. My desire was to become like my father--a great warrior and protector of his people, but also kind and gentle and caring, especially toward the young ones.
When I became a teen, my father would take me riding and we would hunt buffalo together. Oh, how I loved it! We would gallop down the range, our horses flying! There would be many of us, and we would hunt buffalo. We never took more than we needed. We were so blessed, for there was an abundance, and we lacked nothing. We gave thanks to the Great Spirit in the Sky that provided for us well.
We had many adventures together, my father and I. Life was so very exciting. So, now I will tell you of the fateful day my father and I met the great brown bear.
The Day of the Bear
We were walking through the forest on our return home from a day of hunting. It was dusk. We heard rustling of leaves, but could see nothing around us. It all happened so suddenly. There before our eyes stood a great brown bear, standing on his hind legs. His front paws were raised, revealing his long sharp claws. He let out a heart-stopping growl.
My father was in front of me. In his hand was part of our catch for the day--two squirrels and a rabbit. He hurled them at the bear's mouth. My father then turned and grabbed me and we ran quickly away from the bear, looking for shelter behind a tree or large rock. We ran swiftly, not looking back.
Then I heard the cry of my father; that blood-curdling scream which I will never forget. As I turned I saw the bear swinging at my father with his paw. My father went flying into the air. I looked into the eyes of the great brown bear, my eyes full of terror, my heart pounding wildly!
I screamed, "Oh Great Spirit in the Sky, save us!!"
I took the rest of our catch that I had from our hunting that day, and I swung it at the bear. I hit him on the nose and knocked him off balance. I went to my father's side, who lay bleeding and hurt.
My father yelled to me, "Son, your bow and arrow! Shoot!" In the midst of all this, I had completely forgotten about them.
I thought, Oh yes! My bow! My arrow! I glanced over my left shoulder where the bear was preoccupied for the moment, eating the rabbit I had caught that day. It would take a miracle to kill so big a bear with an arrow.
"Oh, Great Spirit in the Sky, help me!" I cried aloud as I pulled an arrow from my quiver. I held my bow and knelt steady, pulling the arrow back. I aimed as fixed as I could and then let go.
Pheeew went the arrow! Crash went the bear. I had killed him! I had struck him in the head and down he fell. I turned to my father.
"Little White Hawk. My brave Little White Hawk!" he moaned painfully.
My heart was broken and in panic. What could I do? My father lay before me bleeding and sorely wounded.
"Father, don't leave me!" I yelled. "Don't leave me, Father!"
"Son," he told me, "I am hurt badly. I do not think I can make it back."
"No, Father!" I cried. "No, Father! Please, Father!"
I never felt so hopeless in all my life. I never felt so desperate to be of help and so incapable of helping. Again I cried out to the only One I felt could help--the Great Spirit in the Sky. "Oh Great Spirit in the Sky, help me! Save my father! I don't know what to do! Great Spirit, tell me what to do! Help me!"
Suddenly my thoughts were clear. I knew exactly what I had to do. I told my father, "You are going to be okay. I will be back. Do not move. Be still. I will be back with help."
"Thank you, my son." My father smiled at me, as he clasped my hand.
Then I ran. I ran like I have never run, heading for my village, with a driving passion as I had never run before. My heart was beating wildly. It was as if I was being driven and guided by a supernatural force. I ran and ran and ran, until I came upon my village.
It was dark. The campfires were blazing brightly. I yelled out, "Chief White Hawk is hurt! He has been attacked by a bear! Come quickly!"
Soon the young warriors and men of the tribe came running, mounting their horses. Black Feather, one of the respected warriors of our tribe, motioned to me on his horse. Reaching with his outstretched arm, he grabbed me up on to the back of his horse as we rode off into the forest.
Soon we were by my father's side. He lay unconscious, for he had lost a lot of blood. We returned back to the village with my father, where he was placed in his teepee and Old Noble Man--who white men called Medicine Man--tended to him.
After what seemed like a long time, Old Noble Man came out from the teepee.
"Little White Hawk, the situation is grave. Your father has been fatally wounded. I do not think we can do anything to save him. It is just a matter of time now. He wants you to come see him," he said to me.
The smell of herbs filled the teepee as I entered in. I looked before me at my father who lay still. My mother was kneeling at his side wiping the sweat from his forehead with a cloth, trying to comfort him.
My father drifted in and out of consciousness. As I looked down at my father and mother, my heart was overcome with grief. I drew to my mother's side and knelt down before my father. He motioned to me with his hand to come closer.
I leaned my ear toward his mouth and heard him whisper, "Son, I must leave you now. I go to Great Spirit in the Sky. But I do not want you to fear. As I go to be with Great Spirit, I commission you, my son, to take my place. You are the son of Great White Hawk, leader of his people, and one day you will become leader of your people.
"Do not fear how you will do this, for you will grow and learn ways of a warrior. My son, Great Spirit will speak to you. He will show what you should do. Remember to call on Him.--Do not go into battle, do not make decisions, do not do anything but that you ask the Great Spirit for His blessing and guidance. Now, son, I must sleep."
As I stood up, tears streamed down my cheeks. My mother put her arm around me and drew me close, and that night I said good-bye to my father.
* * *
Children, I tell this story of the day my father and I met the great brown bear, to share with you what I learned that day. When you are in trouble, and you do not know where to turn, and all is chaos and confusion, you have but to call on that Great Spirit in the Sky--Jesus, your King. He will be there to answer you, to lead and guide you, to show what you need to do, and give you power to do it.
Though I did not know it then, the Great Spirit in the Sky was the very same Great One, Jesus, that you worship and adore. And although we did not know His Name then, we later did come to know Him.
You see, my people did not worship this tree, or that animal, or this stone. They worshipped the Great Spirit in the Sky.
I have many other stories to share with you, of the many adventures of my life.--The story of the day when I found out that the Great Spirit in the Sky was Jesus! But I will save that for another time.
Until then, remember: Call upon Him and He will answer you and show you great and mighty things that you know not of!
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(Definitions included at the bottom of specified pages:)
page 3 - *tutelage: instruction or teaching
page 4 - *vulnerable: in a position to be easily hurt or injured
*celibacy: abstaining from sex, remaining unmarried
*awkward: uncomfortable
page 5 - *clad: clothed
page 6 - *rigors: rough and difficult circumstances
page 7 - *prostrate: to lie down
*incredulous: finding something hard to believe
page 9 - *smog: dense air pollution; from "smoke" and "fog"
page 13 - *real-estate broker: one who manages a real-estate agency
*metropolitan: part of or near a large city
page 19 - *regime: a system of government
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Copyright (c) 1998 by Aurora Productions