

Epic

Testament

By: Serenity Cross

Epic Testament

By: Serenity Cross

Smashwords Edition

Cover design by Eric Brown

Copyright © 2013 Tabitha Taylor

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This book is work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events locales, or persons, living or dead is coincidental.

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## EPIC TESTAMENT

This book is dedicated to Ariana and Robert.

Mommy loves you.

## Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER 1—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 2—MISSY

CHAPTER 3—MISSY

CHAPTER 4—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 5—MISSY

CHAPTER 6—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 7—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 8—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 9—MISSY

CHAPTER 10—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 11—MISSY

CHAPTER 12—MISSY

CHAPTER 13—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 14—MISSY

CHAPTER 15—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 16—MISSY

CHAPTER 17—MISSY

CHAPTER 18—MISSY

CHAPTER 19—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 20—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 21—MISSY

CHAPTER 22—PASTOR MIKE

CHAPTER 23—MISSY

##  Introduction

Witches, goblins, vampires...do they exist? I cannot be sure because I haven't encountered them yet. But demons...yes, demons are very real and they do exist. My name is Mike, and I was called to lead God's people; to protect God's people. Prior to my calling, I may have faltered in my belief of an invisible war; an ongoing battle among spirits fighting to overcome and steal souls. But demons...demons are very real. And if demons are real then, perhaps, witches, goblins, vampires and every other type of evil creature also exists. Perhaps, we share this world with both the seen and unseen.

Perhaps?

For all who don't believe "perhaps" gives hope. Hope that this war is not real. Hope that we don't need protection because there is no danger. In truth, the invisible war is real and soon it won't be invisible.

The question is: how long will I be able to fight? I feel the time is near for me to pass the baton. But Missy, my first born predecessor, isn't ready. She doesn't believe. And her unbelief hinders her ability to fight. I need her to believe. The world needs her to believe.

The end is approaching.

Unbelief...blindness...will not make the battle nonexistent. It will only make you more susceptible. The war may be invisible for now, but the demons are getting stronger. Soon all will see what we have been fighting for so long. The question is: will you be ready?

Join me in this epic battle told from viewpoints of Pastor Mike and his daughter, Missy. Enter their minds, feel their insecurities and fears as they find themselves and each other. Experience the unveiling of the invisible war between the Heaven and Hell. And Earth...Earth is the battlefield.

Choose ye this day whom ye will serve...

##  CHAPTER 1—PASTOR MIKE

"No Johnny! Please stop! Put the knife down!" I could hear the mother screaming from the driveway. A few minutes ago, Johnny's mother called my office frantic about her ten year old's odd behavior. She said, although he has always been a handful, his behavior lately was extremely out of control. He refused to go to school claiming to already know all the wonders of the world. He would chew his food, but spit it out violently and refuse to eat. Now, he is chasing her with a knife. At this moment, she is locked in her bedroom where she called me from five minutes ago. She thinks he must be possessed. Most local calls are not possessions, but "out of control" kids. However, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Considering the circumstances, I let myself in. I'd have to test Johnny to see if he is really the victim of a possession. First, I'd have to catch him.

"Johnny, it is Pastor Mike. Where are you?"

"I'm here, I'm there, I'm everywhere." He said, as I saw him run by in my peripheral vision.

"Well aren't you gonna come greet me?"

"No!" I heard his footsteps clacking rapidly.

"Will you speak to me if I catch you?"

"You can't catch me. I'm the gingerbread man."

Today must be a day for riddles. I got really quiet and ducked behind the sofa and waited. Johnny has so much energy that he is bound to come running by any minute. A couple of minutes later he did just that. I grabbed him and pulled the knife from his grip.

"Johnny, is that you Kiddo?"

"No, it's not Johnny. It's Freddie."

I decided to humor him. "Ok Freddie, you must be the demon. Well it's time for you to get out of Johnny."

"No! Never!" He said squirming with all his might.

"Johnny, if you can hear me, I have to get Freddie out or he will hurt you. I brought some old railroad spikes." I showed them to him. "This may hurt a lot but, after the burning is over, the demon will be gone. I just have to use my hammer and nail these through your palms. Hold as still as you can and we'll get that demon." Boy did Johnny sober up.

"No! No! Please don't nail that in my hand! It's me, Pastor Mike! It's Johnny!"

It was so hard not to laugh at the terror on Johnny's face when he thought I'd drive spikes through his hand. I knew there was no demon when I caught him. He wasn't strong enough.

I asked him why he was pretending to be possessed. He responded his friend's little brother was doing it and he didn't have to do anything he didn't want to do.

After I got his mother to come out her bedroom, I sat down and counseled both of them. We closed in prayer and I left.

I can't understand why parents allow these kids to do whatever they want as a child then want to control them as a teenager. Granted Johnny is not a teenager, but, at the rate he is going, he will be an extremely rebellious one.

When he was a younger child, I remember his parents always let him have and do whatever he wanted. They used to say things like "He's just a kid. We don't take it personal because we know he doesn't know any better".

While the couple used to attend the church, they left after a series I did on matters of the home. I talked about marriage, commitment and parenting. Needless to say, the parenting lesson was the straw that broke the camel's back. The husband seemed most bothered by the series.

In the series, I was harping on how we laugh at the smart comments of our four year old yet want to slap the mouth of the fourteen year old. With kids, you have to start how you want to finish. A behavior that may only require a small correction as a child may require a serious, life changing intervention as an adolescent.

I get a lot of criticism for how strict I am on my kids. Perhaps I deserve it; I make no claim to being a perfect parent. My concern is not for my children's lives on Earth, but for their eternity in Heaven. If my kids dislike me or my choices on Earth, I find comfort in the fact that we may be able to discuss it together in Heaven.

The values we instill in our children may seem smothered at times, but they will never leave them. One day, when they are caught in a circumstance, they will remember what we told them. They'll recap that Sunday school lesson taught to them in church. Even if the scripture only sticks through repetition and not meaning, the memory will be there nonetheless. There will come a time when the memory will help them, maybe even save or change their life. It is all about sowing the seed.

As I was walking to my truck, I saw a little boy, maybe five years old, across the street. He had his back to me so I couldn't see what he was doing. He caught my eye because he was standing really still. Perhaps he was holding or looking at something, yet it was still amazing to see someone his age being so motionless. I shook it off and got in my truck.

Before I closed the door, I heard someone say "Goodbye Minister". The voice sounded like that of a taunting old man. There was no one around that could have produced it. It was just me and the boy. Something strange is going on.

I got out of my truck and walked towards the boy. He didn't move a muscle. "Son?" I said. When he didn't respond, I decided to circle around him. I walked slowly, trying not to startle him. The boy remained as a statue. Once I had aligned myself with him only a few feet over, I leaned forward to see the front of him. He was covered in blood and holding what remained of an animal of some sort.

As soon as the image of bloody animal registered to me, he cocked his head to the side in a weird position revealing his red eyes. His black pupils dilated abnormally with excitement as he charged me with the butcher's knife he was holding.

I knew I had to be careful not to hurt the boy, but the demon had to go. When he got close enough to me, I extended my arms and touched his chest.

"Demon, get out of him in the name of Jesus." I said quickly. The boy fell down.

Kids are the easiest to depossess. Their bodies are just too weak and willing to be obedient when required in a stern way. They are also easy to possess because they have a natural rebellion.

My arm hurt. I looked down and noticed I was bleeding. He had stabbed me. Another war wound.

I carried the boy inside. His mother had locked herself in her bathroom with her cordless phone, but the demon had cut the wires so she couldn't call anybody.

The boy's older brother, who was currently at school, had opted not to come home the last couple of nights to avoid his little brother's weird new behavior. He tried to tell people about his brother's possession, but of course no one believed him.

His mother had waited too late to call for help because she thought she could talk the boy down (not knowing he was a demon). Today, it all seemed to explode.

I guess Johnny was telling the truth about his friend. Yet, I wonder if Johnny was just mocking the boy, or if he was being controlled by him prior to my catching him. If the demon was able to control Johnny without inhabiting him, it would mean they are progressing.

As a pastor, days like these are not very unusual. We are in constant warfare. Sometimes it may be in prayer or counseling, other times are more physically involved like casting out demons. It's all in the job description.

People expect Pastors not be afraid of anything but God expects all of his children to be fearless. Someone once told me "Fear is having faith in the enemy". The more I considered the statement, the more truth I was able to see in it. For example, my wife fears snakes. If she were to see one, she would scream and run away (maybe even hyperventilate). Such reactions confirm that she believes, given the opportunity, the snake will bite her, it will hurt, and she may even die. Her belief in this outweighs her belief that, given the opportunity, the snake will not bite, it will not hurt, and she will not die because God is protecting her.

Sometimes we allow the more visible problem to overshadow our faith in God. When we see bad things about to happen, we panic and cry out. Yet when we aren't looking for a savior, but a provider, we increase our faith level. Once we reach the point where we have exhausted all avenues of intervention or control. We hurry to place our faith in the miracle. "Oh I just believe the Lord is going to bless me." We can "trust" or "hope" him to heal a terminal illness, or give us a house but we don't trust him to divert a snake. We also tend to have increased faith after the bad occurs. What if we did not wait to have faith in God? What if we did not have to be forced to trust him through bad circumstances and desperation? What if we had faith in God whether it is for the seen or the unseen?

The enemy needs our faith just like God. The difference is he will try to gain it by any means necessary. He will steal, kill, and destroy everything so that you will fear him. Fear of sending your kids to school because anything could happen. Fear of going to sleep because you may not wake up. Fear of riding a plane because it may go down. Fear of choosing God at a young age because you may lose all your friends. Fear of loving because you may get hurt. Fear. Fear. FEAR. As long as you have fear, you will never be able to reach the levels where God wants to use you.

You cannot have faith in both God and Satan. Fear is one of the devil's most subtle attacks. It is the reason we are cautioned not to speak our fears out loud. Satan will use your fear against you.

Fear is another one of the many things we gained from the curse on Adam and Eve. When God created us, he created us to be in dominion over the Earth. He never intended for us to live in fear. I choose not to live in fear. I place my trust in God so that he may use me in any way he needs me. I realize not everyone is at my level of faith. Therefore, I don't mind allowing God to use me as their visible comfort.

Beep. Beep. Beep. What is that noise? My phone. I forgot I set a reminder about the meeting. Is it really eleven o' clock already? I really must have gotten lost in my devotion and reflection today.

I have been looking forward to this meeting all week. I enjoy getting together with my colleagues and hearing what God is doing in their lives and churches. Sometimes we find God is giving us the same visions and messages to preach. Other times, we receive encouragement and advice as we journey on another's familiar territory.

A couple of them relocated to other states, yet they still fly in for the meeting when possible. I was responsible for securing the location for the meeting this month. I chose to reserve a room at one of our favorite restaurants. I could not pass up the opportunity to get a great meal in the process.

When I arrived, Mongo and Jif were already standing in front of the building. "Mongo, Jif, how's life treating you?" I said as we slapped hands and hugged necks. "The room should be ready. Let's go in. The others should be here soon."

I met Mongo at a Pastor's conference. He was one of the ones that told their testimony. Hearing how God turned his life around was amazing.

Mongo used to be the leader of a small drug group of about ten people in his hometown until he decided to branch out on his own and cut out the middle man to increase profit. He started growing his own stuff and making his own Meth in Mexico. His product was so good dealers from all over Mexico wanted it. Somehow it crossed the border to the U.S. He was making money to burn. He got so big he never had to talk to anyone but his close associates. If you had a problem, you talked to them.

One of the other suppliers got jealous and decided to get rid of the competition. He sent his people to sneak attack Mongo at his home. Mongo and his family were sitting around the dinner table when aimless bullets darted around the room. Mongo jumped over the table landing on top of his kids in an attempt to use his body as a shield for the bullets.

While on top of them his eyes desperately searched the room for his wife whom he hadn't seen since the bullets started flying. He called for her but there was no answer. With all the noise from the guns, he couldn't tell if she was attempting to make communication or unable. He felt a warm sensation on his chest.

"Nicole...Jr... Are you okay?" He asked as he raised his body a little and felt for them with his hands.

His hands were wet.

He retracted and looked at the warm blood as it rolled down his fingertips.

"Jr...Nicole??" He called again his tone almost inaudible like an echo in his head.

No answer.

He put his hands under his body again. This time he could feel the stiffness that had been there all along. Tears ran down his face as he prepared for the sight. He looked down at his two kids whose eyes were focused on him yet they lacked feeling; life.

He was too late. They lacked compassion and held no regard for youth. Those bullets driven by hate and jealousy had a set purpose of death.

He screamed; cried out with a pain that gripped his heart and squeezed the life from his body.

He called for his wife again as the bullets seemed to have stopped. This time he could hear her wet, gargling cough. He got up to find her. As he crossed in front of the window, he looked into the face of a man. He was hanging out the window of a dark colored SUV and pointing his gun at him. Mongo didn't remember what he yelled before the bullets raced out of the chamber of the automatic gun whizzing around him. Then he felt it; one to the arm, then his leg, and finally his chest. He closed his eyes and accepted his fate.

The bullet only missed his heart by a quarter of an inch. Somehow he survived, but the same couldn't be said for his family. He was arrested while in the hospital under suspicion of drug involvement. Bail was set and his associates were ready to post for him, but he didn't want to be free. He felt he had nothing to live for and didn't even fight the case.

One day after a minister did a devotional with the prisoners, he gave his life to the Lord. A couple of years later his appeal was somehow approved on an evidence technicality. God had a plan for his life. He found a church and began helping the youth. Now, he is one of the youth pastors at the church.

His testimony has touched so many people especially troubled teens. His community involvement has saved many lives by shifting the gears to the drug world. He provides them with a realistic window of the future should they choose that path. Because so many have already been overcome by the trap of the drug scene, he also visits the prisons and ministers to them giving them hope, faith, and a love everlasting.

It is amazing how God can turn your life around. The funny thing is, outside of his work for the ministry, he still does not talk much.

Jif's story isn't as interesting. His father was the pastor of a large church in the area. Jif took an interest in ministry at a young age. At first, He wanted to be like his dad, and then later he developed his own passion for ministry. Actually, I knew his father before he passed. He was a good man and a great pastor. He could make you cry laughing. After he passed, I took Jif under my wing and helped him develop his ministry as he took over his dad's church.

"There's Benton and Swangi. Now we are just waiting for Zeal" Jif and Mongo both nodded while looking over the menu.

Swangi and I grew up together. We lived two houses apart from each other. I have known him all my life. He's only a year older than me. We used to get into all kinds of trouble together.

At a young age, we began playing basketball together to pass the summers. Summers turned to daily afternoons to whenever possible. We were both really good. Of course, I was better. We received athletic scholarships to the same university. Not only did we love the game but we loved the attention that came with the success.

Swangi's ego had reached a level where no one could oppose him. Everyone knew he would go to the NBA. There had already been talk of who was interested in drafting him. He was living his dream. You hear things like "pride goes before the fall", but when you work so hard to be successful you don't see it as pride but a well-deserved respect. He deserved to be better than the competition. He deserved to be the best and to be recognized as such. He didn't come from the suburbs with a golden spoon in his mouth. Life was hard. We had the bare necessities. Basketball was our ticket out. It was our savior from the streets. It was our life motivation. We pushed each other and built each other up. We made each other stronger. We worked hard and made it. We reveled in the attention and praise. It felt good to be noticed.

Then life changed in a blink of an eye. There was 10 seconds left in the championship game and we were down by one. Greg threw the ball in to me from the half court line. I got the ball to the three point line and passed to Swangi who was under the goal. He went up for the shot and took a hard foul in the process by the much bigger guy on the other team. It was so quiet you couldn't even hear a breath and everyone's eyes were glued to the ball as it tapped each side of the goal before it went in. The crowd went crazy. We all started jumping and celebrating. Then I looked for Swangi to congratulate him. We all looked for him. He was lying down holding is leg and twisting in pain on the court. The coaches ran to him and assessed the pain level and location. Then they called for the paramedics. He was rushed to the hospital.

Swangi had injured his knee from the forced landing by the other player. Even after treatment, he never could play as well as he once did. When he lost basketball, it was like he lost his life's purpose. He dropped out of school and moved back home.

While working as a mechanic, he met his wife. She was completely sold out and devoted to God. The sincerity of her joy and certainty compelled him to want to know more about the source. He started going to church. As time went on both relationships grew stronger. While standing in front of the congregation one Sunday to give his testimony and publicly announce his salvation, he proposed. Shortly after they married, he accepted his call to ministry. His transformation is what got me saved.

I played ball all throughout my college years. Like Swangi basketball was my life. After Swangi was injured I reconsidered resting everything on basketball. It would only take one bad injury and I'd be left with nothing. I increased my focus on getting my business degree.

After I graduated, I went overseas and played professional ball. I received so much attention, especially from the ladies. My face was everywhere. I started out humbled by the result of all my hard work and efforts. Then, I got comfortable. I matched my success with my talents. Of course, I would be a "brand'. I was a great ball player. No one could touch me. I had become the one to beat.

My mother raised me in the church so I knew about God. In fact, I prayed often throughout my life that he would bless me with success in basketball. As I reveled in my success, I became so busy being the image for the people that I forgot about being the image of God. The expectations of my fans had overshadowed the expectations of God. It's like he was there, but I had buried him under a bunch of stuff that I used more often. I guess because I didn't really need him at the time.

It's almost like when you are a kid and you have that favorite toy. You play with it every day. You can't wait to wake up or get home from school in anticipation of being able to play with it more. Then one day, you get a new better toy and the old one loses its luster. You no longer need the old one to entertain you. It's not that you don't want it; you just don't want to play with it now. So it ends up going deeper and deeper in the toy box before you throw it away.

Our relationship with God can be a lot like that. One day our world revolves around him. We need him. Then we realize our needs are seemingly met another way and we push him down little by little. Until one day, we have kicked him out. Most of the time, self-imposed pleasure doesn't last as long nor is it as fulfilling as God's blessing.

Although I was living a dream, I wasn't satisfied. I was getting older and thinking about kids and a family. With my status, it was easy to find a woman, but not a wife that I could trust to love me for me not my possessions.

I met Melayla while visiting some friends in Florida. I couldn't take my eyes off of her because she was so beautiful. She still is. As soon as I approached her, she let me know she was nothing like any other girl I had crossed. She knew her self-worth. If I even considered having a chance with her, I'd have to respect her. I found her confidence very attractive. She shot me down many times because she didn't want to get involved with a ball player. Eventually, I wore her down and got her to go on a date with me.

I have been more open and honest with her than I have ever been with anybody. It is like her eyes require it of me. Her eyes can look within you and see the truth, yet challenge you not to hurt her. I promised I never would, intentionally. She gave me the honor of becoming her husband and a few years later Missy's father. I decided to stop playing ball so that I could spend more time with them.

We attended Swangi's church almost every Sunday. One Sunday, he delivered a message that fit me so perfectly I couldn't stand to sit in my chair a second longer. That day, almost eighteen years ago, I gave my life to God and later accepted God's call of ministry on my life. I became the lead pastor of Swangi's church when he relocated. Shortly after I accepted my position as pastor, we had our son whom we named Phillip.

Benton got saved in the church where Swangi was relocated. Prior to his salvation, he was an alcoholic with a gambling addiction. He used to drink whether it was to celebrate his winning or to sulk at his loss. He didn't care about anybody or anything. If he wasn't gambling, he was passed out somewhere or in the club.

One night he and one of his friends went to a club to celebrate after winning a stack of money gambling. They were drinking and bragging when one of the men that lost came in the club. He fired three shots before running and jumping into his getaway car. One hit his friend in the neck. One hit Benton in the right side as he attempted to get away. The other hit an innocent bystander in the arm. Some people from the club called 911, but Benton grew impatient and drove his friend to the emergency room. His friend died before they arrived. Benton was treated and released.

The near death experience prompted him to change his lifestyle. He decided to rekindle an old habit instilled by his grandma and went to church. Not long after he got saved, he accepted his call to ministry.

Zeal wasn't propelled to ministry by a near death experience or a girl. While he wasn't addicted to gambling or drugs, he struggled with greed and pride. He was a very successful lawyer. He owned his own practice and represented many wealthy clients; the majority being drug dealers and criminals.

To him if you were not talking money, you might as well not be talking. He was consumed with his image and improving his worth through things. The cars he drove, clothes he wore, and his associates were only the best.

His life changed after he received a divorce and custody case in which he represented the husband. The wife alleged she was the silent victim of abuse and was seeking full custody of their daughter, alimony, and the house. The husband, a very wealthy businessman, was determined she would only get the bare minimum. Despite the pictures and testimony, Zeal was able to convince everyone she wasn't battered. Instead, he depicted her as a "crack head", gold digger. He argued she only wanted to take his client for just about everything he slaved to earn and use their daughter to feed her addiction. He too had pictures and testimony that didn't show the wholesome, battered victim her lawyers described. Instead, his evidence depicted an intoxicated, skimpy dressed woman (half her husband's age) stumbling about at parties.

In the end, the husband received custody of their daughter and the main house. The wife only received two thousand per month, a much smaller house, and a car. To some that may seem like a lot, however she was an unemployed housewife for the duration of their fifteen year marriage. While he did have a business prior to their marriage, she gave him the idea for his business that catapulted his success and wealth. Subsequently, he became a millionaire. She should have been awarded way more in alimony and at least half of what they owned.

Zeal felt great defying the odds. The success boosted his ego to a higher level. He also received a very hefty monetary appreciation from the husband. News of his success spread like wild fire and vastly increased his client list.

One day, he received a call from the wife of the client he represented. She had just found out her daughter was dead. She was crying and screaming as she blamed Zeal for helping her husband murder their daughter. Zeal just held the phone speechless. After she hung up, he just stood there motionless. He doesn't remember all the thoughts than ran through his head. All he can remember is the feeling of guilt that started as a ripple in his head and turned into a crashing wave that swept through his entire body.

The wife and her story flooded the news. Everyone found out about her abusive husband that she had finally developed the courage to leave. They were appalled by the divorce and custody case in which Zeal defended him and aided in his being granted custody of their daughter.

In his wife's absence, the husband had started physically and sexually abusing their ten year old daughter. On the day her daughter tried to fight back, he hit her so hard she was flung backwards and hit her head on the edge of their brick fireplace.

The sight of her lifeless body must have provided a window into the perversion that infested his body. The reality of what his actions had caused him to do to his loved ones must have been a truth he could not live with. There would be no earthly justice for what the husband had done to his daughter or wife because he shot himself in the head after he placed the call to 911.

Zeal received many "hate" calls and his image suffered greatly. He realized, despite how great a lawyer he was, he could not defend himself. He could not justify what happened even to himself. He couldn't remember at what point he changed from being "wide eyed" and wanting to help people to blindly seeking self-promotion at any cost. He closed his firm and moved away.

He had shattered into a million pieces, and couldn't put them back together. He was lost and for the first time he needed help. One Sunday he passed a church on the way back home from the grocery store. The sign in front said "The difference between a Saint and a sinner is a saint may fall seven times, but he will get back up again."

The image jolted a memory of his past that he had long forgotten on his road to success--going to church with his mom. He remembered watching her cry out to the Lord and knell at the altar. As a child, he never understood the reason behind such actions. He only knew she changed and became a better wife and mother. The Sundays after that point, she cried different tears. She cried tears for joy and freedom from bondage. She would sing and clap loudly. Whatever happened to his mother he needed it to happen to him. He needed that kind of change.

He turned around and went to the church. After service was over they gave a call that seemed like it was just for him. They asked if anyone needed a peace that surpassed all understanding, a love that heals all wounds, a father that will never leave or forsake you, a restoration, and a second chance. Zeal needed all of those things and more. He broke away from the heaviness that was pinning him to his chair and all but ran to the altar.

After he got saved, he contacted the wife of the man he represented. He asked for her forgiveness. She forgave him and asked for forgiveness for her actions as well. She admitted at the time she was hurt and needed someone to blame for the death of her daughter. She wanted to punish the one responsible for taking her little girl's life, but her ex-husband had robbed her of the chance. He had robbed her of everything. Shortly after the resolution, he accepted his call to ministry.

"It's about time you made it." Benton told Zeal as he walked through the door. "Now let's eat." Swangi said. We devoured the seafood feast placed before us overflowing with fried shrimp, catfish, hush puppies, seasoned fries, loaded baked potatoes, and salad. I will admit there was a moment of silence while we fulfilled our imminent hunger.

Then, we began our conversation.

"So how is it going in Tennessee?" I asked Swangi.

"It's going real good. You should come visit us when you can. I know you are a busy man, world traveler, but it really is a sight to see. God is really moving over there. The church has already tripled in size. We are at about 500 members now, and we are still growing. In fact, we are looking at plans for an addition. I'm telling you man, God is good. I'm just along for the ride."

When Swangi went to Tennessee, it was hard on him and the church. Despite the success of the church and his devoted group of members, he felt that Tennessee was where God wanted him to be. When he left the church, he left me with big shoes to fill. After considering the expectations, I decided not to even try. I told them it was a new beginning. I asked them not to compare it to the way it was, but to look forward to what it will be, by God's will. Most of the members remain with us.

"So how are things on the mission field?" Swangi asked me.

"Um, it is definitely getting interesting. Not speaking of abroad, but earlier I received a possession call from the Hasseub's. You may remember them from a while back at the church. The husband didn't really like to be there, but the wife showed interest. The husband worked at a plant and she didn't work. They were a younger couple and had a toddler boy when you left. Now, the kid is ten."

Swangi searched his memory bank. "Barely...I think I know who you are talking about, but I'd have to see them."

I continued. "Well they are separated now. The wife called me claiming the boy to be possessed. He was running through the house chasing her with a knife."

Benton interrupted "Man, I sure hope he was really possessed. He was chasing her with a knife?"

Swangi added, "It wouldn't surprise me if he was faking. The kids these days are just bad. No rules. No consequences. It's nothing like back in the day when you'd get popped for a thought. You'd be left wondering if momma really just read your mind because you know it couldn't have slipped out." The guys all laughed.

I continued the story. "I wish I could tell it another way, but the boy was just being bad. I did the railroad spike test and he came clean."

"You are still pulling that trick?" Swangi asked not expecting a response. We all laughed again.

"It works every time."

"For real though, these kids are going crazy these days." Mongo said.

"They have no home training" Jif added. "If I even had the thought to touch a knife for no reason, I'd get hit so hard I'd forget I ever had a thought." He laughed.

"Man, with my grandma, I didn't even know a knife could be used or taken out the kitchen until I was eighteen." Benton chimed in.

"And it's all so funny. I mean everything. "Hee Hee did you hear what he said when I told him to sit down? Girl, he cursing! He's not even two. Hee Hee I recorded it. I'ma put him on the internet. Girl, mine hit me the other day. I was like boy sit down. You should have seen his face. He looked so serious. I just laughed at him. Hee Hee." Swangi added.

"My mom would slap the taste out my mouth...temporary insanity. And her face wouldn't be pleasant at all. It was like an instant morph. "Happy" mom turns to "out for blood" Avenger." I interjected as I imitated the transformation.

"It's different these days. You gotta be all lenient. Let the kids decide how they want to behave. Medicate them and let them sleep it off," Zeal said.

We were all laughing hard now. I decided to get on my soap box. "Really though, we as parents need to raise our kids. Not just give them food, clothes and a roof over their head. We need to get them ready for adulthood. We need to make sure they can survive in society, so that one day they can take care of us. Man with the work ethic these days, I think when we are too old to work everything will just stop," I said.

Zeal seized the next interjection. "They will be like 'Yeah, it's Mardi Gras; shut the town down. It's a holiday. We got to PAAARTY! See you next week.' There would be no hospitals, no stores, no gas, nothing." Zeal said. There was another roll of laughter.

As the laughter started to die down, I took the opportunity to get to the "meat" of the story. "I haven't even told you guys the good part. So as I was walking to my truck, I see this kid across the street standing freakishly still. At first, I dismiss it and get in the truck. But when I go to close the door, I hear a creepy old man voice say, 'Goodbye Minister'. I know it had to come from the boy because no one else was out there. So I circle around him to see, and sure enough this kid has a demonic spirit. Then, this red-eyed possessed kid starts charging me with a knife. So I prayed that the demon leave and got stabbed in the process. The thing is when I asked Johnny, the original demonic suspect, why he was behaving that way, he said he was mocking his friend's little brother. I wondered if that was the kid. I also got to thinking what if the demon in the boy was forcing Johnny to do some of the stuff he had done prior to my arrival?" They all looked to be considering what I had said.

"That would mean the demons are getting stronger. Controlling another person without inhabitation, that's an upgrade." Zeal said.

My thoughts exactly.

"But possessing kids doesn't require much energy, so maybe they aren't that far advanced yet." Jif said.

"But wouldn't you start at level easy first then advance. If that is what happened, it's only the beginning." Mongo said.

We all became silent again.

I decided to change the subject. "So, how are things with the new wife, Benton?" He seemed excited to shift gears to her. You could see it in his eyes how much he loved her.

"Well," He was grinning ear to ear. "We are expecting twins."

Wow. We all let out various shock and excitement expressions, then Jif started clapping so we decided to join in.

"Y'all crazy man. We are due in October."

Benton with twins. This was definitely going to be fun to watch. What a great way to start a family.

"So then she is about five months?" I said.

"Yeah, we didn't want to start talking too soon."

His delay in notification didn't surprise me. Sometimes couples decide to wait before making announcements, especially with the first one in case there are complications.

"So do you know what you are having yet?" Mongo asked.

"Not yet, we have the ultrasound next week. I'm so excited. I'm going to be a dad. I can't believe it. God is so good man. I know I don't deserve it."

I guess it hit him all of a sudden. He looked up and put a fist over his mouth while nodding his head.

"Man, I'm sorry y'all. I don't want to ruin the mood. It's just when I think about how I could be dead, but instead he gave me life and now He is blessing me with two more lives. This isn't supposed to be me." He quickly wiped the corner of his eyes. "So what's new with you, Jif?" He asked as his voice slightly cracked as he attempted to shift the conversation.

"It's okay man, you are not ruining the mood. We all have a past. We know how good it feels to know we didn't have to stay there. God is good. None of us deserve it. Believe me I cry sometimes when I think of what he brought me through. I am not ashamed of the feeling and I'm not ashamed of the past or the deliverance. He brought me through man. He brought all of us through. Like a white rag, no spots, I'm clean man." Mongo said.

This is a prime example of how he doesn't really talk much outside the pulpit, but when he does he usually has something good to say. Wow.

"He's right man. You don't have to apologize. God is good. It's overwhelming to think about just how good he is sometimes," Jif said. We all nodded in agreement. "But to answer your question, I am doing very well. Especially considering God has blessed me with a wife."

Considering Jif was beginning to think it was in God's purpose that he remain single, this was also not anticipated. We all gave out congratulations and clapped again.

"Yeah so, we set the date for about six months from now. Of course that was before I knew about the babies, so we may have to change it. You guys have to be there. I can't do it without you. Y'all are like family, man; my best men." He said as he laughed a little and slapped me on my shoulder.

I'm certainly planning on attending it, if not participating in it.

"Of course we will be there," Swangi said.

"Man, you all have such great things happening with you. I don't have anything to even come close in comparison. I'm thinking I should have gone first." Zeal said. We laughed in agreement. "I'm still on the mission field. We are in Africa now. There is so much to help them with over there. I brought the donations we raised from the community, but they need so much more. Especially healthcare, so I'm trying to put a medical team together."

His mission was geared more toward providing for the needy as opposed to my demon hunting, if you will. Of course, I don't hunt them, but respond to calls. It's kind of like ghost busters. I guess I'm a demon buster. I laughed to myself.

"We will collect donations at my church and I will send it with you." Swangi offered. Consequently, we all agreed to raise more items and money.

"What about you Mongo?" Zeal threw the hot potato, figuratively speaking, of course.

"I guess the most exciting thing right now is my minister training. I have two in training and it is truly a blessing to be able to give back and invest in the ministry. I feel so honored to help these men who are just like I once was." Mongo responded.

Anytime you are able to bring another into the ministry, it is very exciting. You feel like you have really accomplished something being able to give back.

I feel blessed to hear about all the good things God is doing in our lives. It comes in waves, the good and the bad, and we just have to be prepared to ride it out. It helps to find inspiration in others.

##  CHAPTER 2--MISSY

Six o' clock alarm please go away. It's just too early. You'd think, after seventeen years, I'd be used to getting up and going to school. I can assure you I am not. I'm just not a morning person. It makes no sense for everything to have to happen early. We are well beyond the farmer days. Getting up with the sun to get as much done as possible in the daylight is completely unnecessary because now we have electricity. Meaning, we can have light anytime during the day. Ugh, if only the world thought like me. I guess I have to get ready for school. I ironed a polo shirt and a pair of boot cut jeans.

After I ate the breakfast mom prepared, I waited for Phillip in the car to avoid any extra conversations. Some days are better than others, but most days it is just too early to talk. My parents seem to just wake up ready to discuss everything life changing. I guess that's what happens when you get old. Phillip came out shortly after I got in the car and we left for school.

"Everyone put your backpacks and books against the wall. Make sure you have at least two pencils with erasers. Keep your eyes on your own paper, unless you want to fail the test. You have forty minutes to complete forty multiple choice questions and two short answers," Ms. Angelo said as she passed out our history tests.

I am very well prepared for this test. History is definitely one of my strongest subjects. When I got my paper, I immediately started marking the answers. Around question seven, I felt eyes on me. I looked to my right, only to find Kevin staring at me.

Kevin is the star quarterback of the football team. He just signed a full scholarship to play with Alabama. If he was admiring me, I would probably melt in my chair. He is so handsome and very well built. Unfortunately, it wasn't me he was admiring. It was my answers.

I looked back down at my paper. Knowing I shouldn't help him cheat, I moved the test questions sheet over the answer sheet covering the answers I had shaded. I answered a few more questions, but couldn't help feeling his eyes on me. I know all he wants is to use me. He isn't the least bit interested in anything other than the answers. I looked at him again because I was curious of his response.

"Please," he mouthed to me.

It's crazy. I know his true intentions, yet I still get a weird feeling in my stomach from his attention. It's just one test. I uncovered my answers and finished the test. I know it is wrong, but it feels better than right. The bell rang and I headed for the cafeteria.

I sat at a random table and started eating. A group of girls was talking about their clothes and makeup. The usual girl talk I suppose. I don't engage in "girl" talk so I have to base my assumption on what I see in movies. One of the girls started talking about her boyfriend. He had snuck into her room last night. As she was giving her friends all the juicy details, one of them slipped and said a curse word. She looked around to see if any one heard her and saw me.

"Sorry Missy, I didn't know you were there," she said. "Let's go sit over there." She told the other girls and they moved.

Everyone's always sorry to speak around me because they know I'm a preacher's kid. I wish I didn't stand out so much. I'd like to be part of a conversation without someone excusing themselves. I'm about to be an adult. I think I can handle it. I feel like a little kid in an adult conversation all the time. I can't wait to get away from here.

"Hey Missy," Sandy said way too eagerly as she sat down beside me with her tray of food. "God is so good. He helped me remember all the answers on my math test."

She was busily handling her food like she always does. She has to set everything up just right. Then, she stirs each item that can be mixed, like fruit cocktail. Since I am using fruit cocktail as an example, I might as well hit on how she separates and groups the like fruit pieces. One would think this takes a long time, but she moves so quickly it only takes a few seconds. It is definitely a routine. She finishes by bowing her head and joining her hands in prayer.

I pray over my food as well, just not so dramatically. I prefer not to draw attention. A simple eye closure is good enough.

I almost forgot to listen. She had started back talking between bites. Considering, she is one of the only people who will talk to me I have to entertain her for now.

"Tonight I'm going to host a Bible reading at my house. You are welcome to attend. I will be reading from the Book of Acts. My mom is going to buy refreshments. I invited several people from school and the church."

Sandy attends our church. She is always too eager to be involved in everything. And she is always trying to talk to me about Bible or church functions. What she doesn't know is I am not interested in doing anything extra. I do enough already. There is something to do every day it seems.

"I'll have to check with my mom to see if we don't already have plans," I said with more intention than I actually had towards doing it. I would ask my mom about our plans, but I wouldn't volunteer myself for another meeting.

For the remainder of my lunch, I had to listen to everything God has been doing for everybody in her family. I like a good testimony, but must I be surrounded by this ALL the time. I wonder what it would be like to have real friends and talk about something other than God. It seems like everyone is afraid to talk to me because they fear I may judge them or look down on them. I feel so smothered sometimes. I just want be free.

"Hey Missy. Hey Sandy. How are you doing?" Phillip said as he walked over to see how my day was going.

Yes! A well-deserved break. I was considering going to the bathroom, but this is even better. Now, I can save the bathroom trick for later.

"I'm doing very well. Today has been such a blessing. God just has me in His hand." Sandy responded before I could say anything. She was just a grinning.

I wonder if she knows how foolish she looks. Phillip isn't interested in a relationship and everyone who knows him knows it. He smiled back at her.

"That's good. God is good. What about you, Sis?" He geared his attention to me this time. Obviously, he wanted to avoid any misunderstanding and unwanted conversation.

"Today is just a typical school day. I'm pretty sure I aced my History test. It was so easy. Lunch is, well, lunch. And I can't wait until school is over. How's your day going?"

My brother and I have a good relationship. Sometimes I wish he wasn't always so anxious to do extra stuff at the church; resulting in my attendance as well. But overall, I couldn't have a better little brother. We talk to each other a lot because, even though we are different, I know he understands me.

"Today has been great, except for Science. Jasmine stared at me all throughout class. It was kind of weird."

He stressed the word "weird" and looked at Sandy who was still grinning and staring. I tilted my head down to hide my smile and giggle within, but acted like I was looking at something on my plate. He knows I have an inappropriate laughing problem. I don't know why he does this. Sandy looked back at her plate and decided to eat something.

"Other than that, it's all good." He took a quick glance around the cafeteria probably looking for his friends. "I'll see you after school Missy." He must have spotted someone. He gave me a hug.

"Ok. I have to speak with my music teacher for a sec after school; then we can go. I don't want you to be waiting for me by the car."

He nodded. "Ok. Bye." He hesitated. "Bye, Sandy."

She started back grinning. "Bye, Phillip. I'll see you at church."

He had already turned his back.

"Missy, do you think Phillip likes me?" She said leaning in close to me.

These poor girls still just don't get it. This is one of those moments I wish I could click my heels like Dorothy and be gone. I looked back at Sandy. She has the biggest "Kool-Aid" smile plastered on her pitiful face. I can't give the response I want to give because it would unintentionally be more hurtful than helpful.

"I think he loves you like a sister in the body of Christ." I said before laughing on the inside. I hoped my voice didn't sound humorous.

"Seriously Missy, Do you?" She looked at me as if she needed to know so badly.

Why does it matter what I think? Surely, if he likes you he will let you know, right.

"Sandy, Phillip just doesn't want a relationship right now. His priority is his ministry." The words registered with her but went nowhere.

"I know. God's work is so very important. I would never want to distract him." She glanced down, then back up again. "But do you think when he is ready, he would like me?"

Bless her little heart. She is so hopeless right now. Phillip may be forty before he wants a wife. I giggled again on the inside.

"I don't know Sandy. I really don't even know what he likes."

This is a true statement. However, I have reason to believe, if his taste is anything like dad's taste in women, he probably wouldn't. While Sandy isn't bad looking, she is just ordinary. Mom is beyond pretty. She can draw your attention, even if, she is standing in a crowd of a thousand people. I have seen some pretty women, but none of them compare to my mom. Of course, I could be biased.

"One day the man God has for you will find you. You just have to wait and believe in his promises. Have faith and pray daily. Be specific with Him about the characteristics you want. Then, wait and let the man find you as it was intended."

I know the right things to say because I have been drenched in everything holy to the point that it seeps out my mind, yet I don't know if it is in my heart. Also, my mom constantly reminds me about the importance of praying for a mate.

I decided to close on a lighter note. "Besides, high school is so little in the grand scheme of things. There will be ample opportunities to meet a mate. It doesn't have to happen now." I guess it was good enough for her as she didn't continue the conversation.

"Hey Missy."

I looked to see where the voice came from. My eyes met Kevin's. The weird feeling in my stomach returned. He was so close I felt nervous too. I couldn't speak. I don't think I have ever spoken to him.

"Thanks for helping me out earlier." He winked.

Who winks now a day? It's such an old gesture. Yet, I can't believe he winked at me. He even talked to me in a lunchroom full of people.

Despite my heart pounding interest, I was glad he turned and walked away, instead of waiting for my response because I didn't have one to give.

Kevin and Missy. His name fits perfectly with mine. It has a certain ring to it, like destiny. Now would be a good time to pray that God remove any lustful thoughts, cleanse my mind and make it new. Although I wasn't thinking anything inappropriate, I was just thinking of what it would be like to have someone like Kevin take interest in me. Nevertheless, I have been warned that an overly involved interest can quickly be converted to lust when Satan is given the opportunity. I have to guard even the most innocent thoughts of interest. Despite hopeless intention, it is a dream I don't want to lose because I don't know that I will ever have the reality.

"Mrs. Fontarry?" I said while giving a quick knock on the classroom door before entering the class.

"Missy, how are you? Thank you for coming to meet with me." Mrs. Fontarry--my music teacher-- greeted me, while looking genuinely happy to see me.

She is one of the younger teachers at the school. I really like the color of her eyes. They are like a light turquoise blue hazel color. She has a pretty smile too. The guys all think she is pretty and drop hints at it all the time. She ignores the subtle flirting, but in a graceful non-offensive way.

"No problem. I'm good. How are you?"

She had already gotten out of her seat and was now walking towards me.

"I'm good too. I wanted to talk to you about an opportunity that has presented itself. I am hoping you'll be interested. A friend of mine asked me to teach her daughter, who is eight, how to play the piano. I already have so many people that I am instructing and with my school responsibilities I just don't have the time. I told her I may be able to recommend someone. I immediately thought of you.

I know you don't teach, but you play so very well. I know you can. And you can make a little extra money too. She really is a sweet girl and won't give you any trouble.

So, what do you think?"

She looked into my eyes for any sign of what I was thinking.

She is right I do play piano very well, but I have never tried to teach anyone. I'm not sure if I can. Oh well, maybe I can use the challenge.

"Sure. Mrs. Fontarry. I have never tried to teach piano before so I'm sure it will be different, but I'm up for the challenge."

She looked so relieved. A smile came across her face. "Oh thank you so much, Missy. You don't know how much it means to me. I'll call her tonight and let you know the details tomorrow."

I can't believe I just gave myself something else to do. At least it isn't church related though. Maybe it can be in lieu of something I'm already doing; instead of in addition to it. I'd have to talk to my mom about it.

When I made it to the parking lot, I saw Phillip standing by the car. He was looking at his cellphone; probably playing a game or something.

He looked up when I had almost reached the car. "So how'd it go?" He said as I unlocked the doors.

We both got in before I answered him "It was great. Mrs. Fontarry offered me a job teaching piano to one of her friend's eight year old daughter." I looked at him to see his response.

"Oh that's cool. Think you can do it? You never tried teaching before."

I know I have never tried it, but who knows I may be good at it. Besides, if it does not work out, I'd just have to stop and tell Mrs. Fontarry.

"I don't know if I can do it, but I figured I'd try. We will see what happens." I responded.

He looked out the window. "Guess so, at least you get to try something different."

For curiosity's sake, I want to know what he thinks about what happened today with my history test. Even though I know it was wrong, I guess I just want to talk about it and get another perspective.

"So, you know how I had my History test today?" I glanced over at him.

"Yeah, you said you aced it. Good job." He was still looking out the window.

"Yeah I did. But Kevin got some answers off my paper. I saw him looking and I covered my paper, but I felt him still looking at me. I don't know I guess I felt bad and wanted to help him out. Or maybe I just liked the attention. Whatever it was, I moved my cover sheet and let him cheat."

Phillip was looking at me now.

"Missy, why'd you let him cheat off of you?" He put special emphasis on "him".

Everyone knows Kevin; mainly because he is so good at football. Add the fact that he is super cute and you have a very cocky fellow. I knew it was ridiculous to like him, especially at my status.

"He will use anyone he can. You are so much better than that, Missy."

I knew what he meant, but I still didn't like it. "So if it wasn't Kevin, it wouldn't be bad to help him cheat? I don't know why I did it. It's not like I gave him the answers. I'm not dumb enough to get caught talking during a test. I just didn't cover my paper and he happened to be looking. It's almost the same as if he did it while I was unaware..."

He interrupted me. "But you were 'aware' and it's not the same as not knowing. And it doesn't matter who it is, you are better than allowing others to use your hard work to get ahead. He doesn't deserve to make that grade.

You do because you earned it. I don't like how Kevin uses everybody. He thinks he is above everybody and everything. I know you girls like the way he looks, but, Missy, don't get caught up in the hype." He paused slightly.

"You are too good for him. You are really pretty. I don't know why you try to hide it. You look just like mom. You could have any guy you want. You just don't want to be noticed."

Why would I not want to be noticed? Of course, I want people to like me. I just don't think I'm all that pretty. The girl I see when I look in the mirror is just an ordinary girl. I don't think I'm ugly, but I don't think I'm a bombshell either. It feels more comfortable not to draw attention to myself. As far as the test is concerned, justification makes a bad choice feel better. What can I say? I am only human. I had to at least try to relieve my conscience.

"Thanks Phillip. I knew it was wrong. I just wanted to do it. For a moment, I wanted him to like me. I know one day my prince charming will come." I glanced at him and smiled "Speaking of prince charming, what's with you and Sandy?"

He turned back to the window. "You know I'm not interested in a relationship right now. Sandy's cool. It's just... not now. I don't like how she stares at me and smiles all the time though. It's just like Jasmine. Weird."

I couldn't help but laugh. When will these girls learn?

"She just likes you; that's all." I turned into the driveway.

"Yeah I know. I just feel like we have our whole life to do 'adult' things and have 'adult' feelings. I just want to enjoy being a kid-- stress and worry free. My friends are in relationships. It's not worth the hype or the drama. I want what mom and dad have, but I'm not ready for the responsibility; neither are these girls."

I can't argue with that. Yet I decided to humor him. "One day young lad, one will come and render you senseless as she steals your heart away." I laughed.

"Yeah, one day... in the far and distant future."

We went inside.

Mmmmm cookies, I can smell them. I love my mom. She knows how to spoil her family. I love my brother too. I can talk to him about anything.

"How was your day?" Mom said as we walked into the kitchen.

"Good" we both replied.

"I baked you cookies. They are chocolate chip, your favorite."

My mom has to be the most perfect homemaker. She is so natural in the position. Cooking and cleaning like it's the best job ever. I don't share that love with her. I don't like doing either one. I suppose one day I will have to step it up, but that won't be anytime soon. In fact, when I start my job, I should probably start saving for a maid. Just my luck my husband won't think it is necessary and ban my pursuit. Note to self: Question "house maintenance" preferences on the first date. I'll have to add that to my "husband qualities" list as well.

"Thanks mom" I grabbed one of the extra- large homemade cookies and took a bite. Delicious. Homemade cookies are the best. When I have kids, they will probably only know frozen store bought cookies...unless mom makes them. I grabbed a cup of milk to compliment my snack.

"What's for dinner?" I asked not for preference, but anticipation.

"My famous lasagna." She responded with a grin.

She knows that is my absolute favorite. Yes, I can't wait. I grabbed a plate with three more cookies and went to my room.

##  CHAPTER 3--MISSY

"Was blind, but now I see," The choir finished.

I love that song. Although, I can't really relate to it because I don't think I have ever really been blind. I've always been able to "see" exactly what I have been expected to see. That may be a little confusing. I guess what I'm trying to say is being a preacher's kid has definitely kept me out the dark in a lot of ways.

I have to attend Sunday morning service, Sunday evening service, Small group Monday, Mid-week service, Prayer warrior Thursdays, Friday guest speaker service. I think the only day with no service is Tuesday, at least not outside the house. Tuesday is family Bible study night. Not to mention, most of the time, I am surrounded by old people who constantly remind me of my virtue and Satan's deceptions. So to say I have been dipped and dripped in the word since birth is an understatement. And yet, I still don't know all there is to know about the Bible. I know the keynote stories and verses, but I'm not on the level one would think I should be.

Since the life I live isn't the one I chose for myself, it's not my main interest. I spend most of my time outside the church curious about my place in the religion free world, my purpose.

And the time in church, I spend thinking thoughts much like the thought I am thinking right now, "How much longer until church is over?" I know you can't rush the spirit, but my stomach is about to sing its own tune in a minute.

"The doors of the church are open. Don't let another second pass without knowing, beyond a shadow of doubt; if the Lord came back today, you will be going to live for all eternity with the Lord." One of the ministers on staff turned to both sides of the church with his arms outstretched. "God is waiting for YOU." I thought in unison with him as he spoke the words.

It's amazing how you memorize parts of the prayers and speeches the more time you spend in church. Seriously, I can finish the phrases for several pastors not just the ones on staff at my father's church either. That's just how drenched I am in churches.

"Amen. GO SAINTS! And may God be with you as you carry your cross through your journey this week"

I jumped up out of my seat and headed towards the door. Praise God! I don't know how much longer I could last. Church was especially long today due to all the testimony and extra songs. I headed to my parents' car to eat the snack I brought to tide me over until they are ready to leave. After 17 years, I know we won't be leaving any time soon.

Everybody will have to speak to my parents about EVERYTHING in life. And even if they didn't, there's always that faithful crowd that tends to linger after church and we have to lock the building. It used to bother me because I was so hungry and tired. Now, most days, I go to the car, eat my snack, play on my phone, and wait for my parents to leave. However, some days I get stopped by someone when I'm on my way to solitude... and it seems like today is one of those days.

"MISSY!"

Aw man. I know that voice. Ignore it and keep walking faster. Maybe if you look like you are in a hurry, it will go away.

"Missy?" After feeling a light grab at my arm, I knew I was caught. She continued. "I was hoping to catch you today. How are you?"

I forced a smile. "Mrs. Jackson, I'm fine. How are you?" I decided to go with a standard reply not suggestive of any further conversation.

"I'm as good as the Lord's blessings. And how is school? Are you still in the running for valedictorian?" She said while swaying as if the music was still playing.

Here we go again. She must be working herself up for another one of her "conversations".

"Yes ma'am. I still have straight A's." I tried to sound as enthusiastic as I could with an old conversation. She asks me this every week. I mean really?

"Darla, come here!" She turned to yell at her daughter. And here comes part two. "Darla, Missy is still in the running for valedictorian. Perhaps, you should get with her about some of those classes that are causing you such trouble. She is such a good role model. And she is always dressed so cute and modest. Just like a young lady should. Missy is just the kind of friend you should entertain, not those "loosens" you are so fond of"

And that is exactly why I don't have very many friends. Nobody wants a friend that is always at their parents' disposal to use as an example of "perfection". Besides, I stopped wanting to be cute when I was ten. Here I am a year from adulthood and still being called cute.

Of course now, Darla is giving me the "you make me sick goody two shoes" stare. One that is well deserved and received often by just about everyone, except old people. It's all in the day and the life of a PK. But, even though it's a lot of pressure and I don't always enjoy it, I can't bring myself to openly rebel against my father's ministry.

He has worked so hard to be a Christlike example to his congregation. Despite the fact he is the one called to win souls for Christ, people look at his family with a magnifying glass. They think if he can't lead (which to them means control) his family, then he is incapable of leading a church. I never understood that logic.

Every Sunday the pastor asks us to choose Christ. Yet, pastor's kids have no choice. Perfection and salvation is perceived to be a birthright. And should I choose a different life, my father is to blame. If you really think about it, it is beyond reason. This is exactly why, when I leave for college, I plan to get as far away from here as possible. I never had the chance to think about the person I am outside other's perception of the person I should be.

"Missy?" Mrs. Jackson questioned my attention.

"Ma'am?" I didn't realize how far my thoughts had run

from the current conversation.

"Your shoes? Where did you get them? I'd love to buy a pair for Darla."

Seriously? You want to buy Darla a pair of my shoes. My "grandma stomp a cockroach" shoes. The half inch heel is so wide and long the shoe looks like it was meant to be a wedge, but fell short on material.

And the leather wraps around my foot like that bandage looking stuff wraps around a mummy. Surely you can find them in an elderly person's closet or, if you're lucky, at Goodwill.

"I'm not really sure my mom bought these. I'll have to remember to ask her for you. I like Darla's shoes. They are really nice."

She was wearing black heels looking to be the complete opposite of what was covering my feet. It was a strappy sandal with chrome lining the curves of her foot. The soles were a very distinct red. The pencil thin heel looked to be at least four inches.

"Oh." She sounded surprised that I had noticed and looked embarrassed by the shoe choice of her daughter.

"She buys her own shoes now that she has that little job. I'd prefer she'd sway her taste to something a little more classic myself. Well, it was nice talking to you Missy. I so enjoy hearing about your successes. It brings light to my day... hope. You are such a good example; a fine girl." She finished looking at Darla. Then she nodded my way as if to welcome my response.

To fight it would be a lost cause, I chose to just return a smile and hug.

"Thank you Mrs. Jackson. I'll see you tomorrow."

My goodness, that seemed to last forever. Now back to the mission at hand-- food.

"MISSY! Missy, come here Baby. I want to introduce you to our visitors." My mom yelled while reaching her hand towards me and beckoning me to her. "This is my oldest. She is seventeen and is a senior this year. She is currently in the running for valedictorian."

And here we go again. If there was ever a chance I'd make a friend today, it was just shot. I slowly made my way to my mom. "Yes ma'am" I said marking my arrival.

"This is Jackie Colemisser. She and her family decided to visit us today. Isn't that a blessing?"

It wasn't a question, but a suggestion for agreement. Everything is a blessing.

"Yes ma'am. We are so happy you decided to join us today."

My mom nodded to the expected response. "This is her daughter Amber. She is only a few years younger than you. I was thinking you could show her the youth room and tell her about our youth programs."

This "suggestion" from mommy dearest just confirmed my quest for food as a failed mission.

"Sure. Hi, Amber. Let's take a look around." I said as I lead Amber to the youth room.

Most people would consider Amber to be nice looking. She is the classic blond hair, blue eyes, petite. She seemed interested in the church, but not overly excited.

"So Amber, where are you from?"

She responded with anticipation. "My parents and I just moved here from Georgia. My dad had to transfer for work." She paused. "So what is there to do around here?"

This is a question to which I don't know the answer. All I do is church, every day.

"Honestly, I don't know. I don't get out much. I spend most of my time here either in service or practicing for service. There's always something to do."

"Oh yeah, preacher's kid, I forgot." She shrugged. I guess she was expecting a more captivating response. I wish I had one to give. I wish I could speak of bright lights, fast cars, and hot boys. Although I can speak of one hot boy, but he already has enough attention and groupies. Besides, it wouldn't be right to set her up to be burned. She must have noticed my mind drifted because she changed the subject.

"You must be smart...being valedictorian and all."

"Perhaps I am smart, or maybe just determined; More or less a perfectionist. I suppose I am smart enough to know what to study and how to take a test."

I don't believe being smart is the only aspect in passing or acing a test. I think anybody determined enough to do whatever it takes can be successful.

I geared us back to purpose as we walked into the youth room. "We do drama, music, and volunteer work. Oh, and we go to conferences and camps. As I said before, there is always something to do." I hoped that didn't sound as sarcastic as the echo in my mind.

Thirty minutes has passed since service ended and it seems like we were still no closer to leaving than we started.

"Missy! Amber! It's time to go" My mom called, but continued talking to Amber's mom. "Sunday is such a busy day for us. Today my husband has two more services. We need to get home and eat before we get back at it again. It was so very nice to meet you guys. I hope to see you next Sunday."

I figured it a good time to do my farewell with Amber as well.

Finally, we can go home even if only for a couple of hours.

As soon as we made it, I went to my room to change clothes. Before I changed, I decided to take one final look at my esteemed Sunday outfit. A long blue floral dress that was not fitted and certainly not sexy. It was just something to cover my body. And then there were the "grandma" shoes. Cute. I guess that would be the most appropriate word to describe it. Second only to "a hot mess" that is. I traded the modest "mother of the church" outfit for a more comfortable pair of sweats and a too big t-shirt.

Dinner should be done shortly. In the meantime, I'd listen to my music. It's amazing how a song can pick you up out your current situation and make you float on cloud nine. No worries, not a care in the world.

"MISSY!" My dad's voice interrupted one of my most favorite songs.

It's Dinnertime. I went downstairs and sat at the table.

It is Phillip's turn to set the table. Even though he is two years younger than me, he stands taller than me by at least a foot. He is the characteristic tall and thin. But he's not too skinny. Most girls would say his face is definitely easy on the eyes.

"Bless this food and let it be to the nourishment of our bodies" My dad prayed.

"Jesus wept." Phillip said. He always chose that verse because it's the shortest verse in the Bible.

"Love thy neighbor as thyself." I said and then prepared to stuff my mouth with food as soon as my mom rendered her verse.

Not even two bites into the meal my mom asked a question that never ceased in irritation yet it was to be expected every day after service.

"So, tell me about what you learned today?"

I think it is most irritating because in order to answer it you have to stop whatever you were doing. And most of the time, it is when you were starved out and trying to eat.

"Phillip, why don't you go first," Mom suggested.

Of course, Phillip was delighted at the offer. He gave his most detailed account of the message. It was complete with scripture references and the associated gestures. At least it gave me time to finish half my meal and kill the predominant hunger.

"Very good, Phillip. Missy?" My mom suggested again.

The good thing is Phillip's refresher message just jogged my memory for the recap.

"Phillip summed the message up very well. Basically, the message urged us to forgive like God forgives."

Both my parents nodded so I assume my answer was good enough. I only have one more hour of rest and then two more services. Days like this are the summary of my existence. I can't help but think there must be more to life than this.

##  CHAPTER 4—PASTOR MIKE

"Hello, this is Pastor Mike. How may I help you?"

The voice on the other end said. "Yes Pastor, this is Marko from Mexico. Do you still remember me from the last time you were here? We need your help. Pedro has been acting strange. He is calling himself a king and ordering people to worship him. Some of the people are not in control of their body. The things he is making them do it's..." He hesitated. "It's so evil. I cannot even say. I remember you came at Christmas and brought gifts and boxes. You spoke to us about God. We need you to come and bring your God to help us. Please sir, I do not know what else to do or who else to call."

A lot of Christians do not realize how strong they really are. The power that is in the tongue is not confined to ministers, but all who have faith in God. Yet instead, they allow fear to block their memory of the position they hold in Christ. Anyone can have victory through the Lord, as long as, we do not call Him in fear, but in faith.

"Marko, I will fly out in the morning."

Just like that, I am going to Mexico.

"Gracias, Sir, Thank you."

"I should be able to get a flight for eight and make it there at... The phone went dead.

In addition to pastoring a church, I am very involved in missions around the world. Thankfully, I have Associate Pastors who are always ready and willing to step in during my absence. At any moment, I may receive a call, letter, or email and have to leave to help someone outside the country.

Sometimes I wonder if the higher incidence of demonic possession is increased outside the country due to the strict control of religion. If we continue to strip away our religious freedoms, I fear what may begin to happen on our own soil. We continue to hide God, as if, He isn't necessary in our lives. I pray the day doesn't come when we are unable to find Him. Days like this have already existed for some. We can't just call on Him when we need Him. He wants more than that. I would want more than that. Yet, His love is everlasting and He will remain merciful until the end of time.

The phone is ringing again. It must be Marko. It was weird how the phone call terminated so quickly.

"Hello?" I expected to hear Marko on the other end, but instead it was a woman.

"Yes Pastor, this is Gensella." She said as her voice cracked and showed signs of recent emotional outpour.

"How are you doing, Gensella? Is there something I can help you with?" I replied cautiously. I am very concerned by her state. Not to mention, I don't normally get calls from women. Usually, they feel more comfortable speaking with my wife.

"Pastor, I just found out Ben is cheating on me. After twenty-five years, he is cheating on me. How could he do that? We were so young when we fell in love. We got married at eighteen. He was my first boyfriend, my only, my everything. It was foolish. I used to think we were foolishly in love. But now, I just think I was dumb. I gave him everything. Now I can't remember why?" She started sobbing loudly.

This is such a delicate situation. It's hard to counsel while the wound is so fresh. Yet a fresh wound harbors the most pain and emotion making this moment a danger zone for uncontrollable anger.

"I am so sorry to hear this is happening, Gensella. Have you talked to your husband? Would he agree to counseling? My wife and I would be happy to sit down with you guys."

She didn't respond; only continued crying.

"Gensella, where are you? We could come over now and sit with you. You don't need to be alone right now."

Still no response. Then, a few moments later, she started talking again.

"You know how I found out? It was Mrs. Templet. Of course, it was Mrs. Templet. She sees and knows everything. And she couldn't wait to tell me. She saw him one day going into the girl's apartment. What are the odds, the girl lives in the same apartment complex as Mrs. Templet--low income housing. He cheats on me with a girl that can barely take care of herself. Oh, and guess what else?" She asked the last part with a bit of a sarcastic laugh. Answer not intended.

"The girl goes to our church. You know Nikki; the one who wears the skimpy dresses all up in her tail. She's always twisting, bending and throwing her cleavage all around. And those fish net stockings; it is simply appalling and disrespectful. But I used to feel sorry for her. Sorry that her lack of self-esteem and self-worth would cause her to degrade herself for the attention of a man. I never expected that such tactics would bait my husband. That he would be drawn to such obvious desperation. That she'd take my man. I wanted to help her and all the while she was helping herself to my man. I am such a fool.

Is that why he doesn't want to be with me anymore? He wanted me to be desperate? I was under the impression he liked nice things, especially considering he just bought a brand new Porsche. Was I not supposed to get comfortable and secure in our marriage, in our life? Am I not loose enough for him? Not young enough for him? He stole my youth and made me a mom and now it's too much for him. Silly of me to think a mother of two teenagers should be modest. I guess I should have just let it all hang out. Then, maybe he would not have lost interest in me. I should have gotten plastic surgery and turned into a Barbie.

And I bet she sees him as her white horse. She probably thinks she will be living the high life. What attracts her to him is my hard work. He wasn't always so shiny. Alone...alone he will not be so shiny. After he loses the house, the cars and the money, she will drop him like a bad habit. He can't afford that lifestyle without me. All she has done is ruin my marriage for no reason. Her fairy tale will not last, but mine could have. Our fairy tale could have lasted. Our kids are in high school. This will break their hearts. This girl is only three years older than our oldest. How could he do this to us?

And when I asked him about it, do you know what he said? He said that he had outgrown us. He is falling in love with her. He never wanted to hurt me or the kids. What a load of dump! Outgrown, seriously, does he think he is a child? Has he forgotten he is over forty? There simply isn't that much more growing to do. He should be settled by now. I can't believe he would leave me for that. Lord knows I don't want to judge. That's why I called you, Pastor. I know I am angry. I need you to remind me of how good God is and how He will get me through this." She started crying again.

I decided to give her some scripture based encouragement.

"I know right now you are hurting and you don't feel His presence. You feel alone, but God sees your pain. He said He will restore the years spent in tears. He said if you wait on Him you will have a renewed strength, you will mount up with wings like eagles; you will run and not be weary, and walk and not faint. Gensella, you will rise above this situation. He said come to Him all who are weary and He will give you rest. He will give you the strength you need to make it through. You cannot put your trust in man because man will let you down, but God will never leave you or forsake you. Place your trust in Him, and everything will fall in place. Where are you Gensella? We would love to come and minister to you?"

I could barely hear sounds on the other end of the phone.

"Pastor, I can't. The truth is I don't want to feel good in artificial happiness. I am so tired of trying to make it work. He doesn't deserve it. He never deserved it. I bet he's over there smiling with her right now. I am crying my heart out over the loss of our marriage and he is grinning in that tramp's face. I have had enough. He will pay for what he did to me; to us. I hate him for this."

Now she is angry. I know it is just one of the stages to accepting grief, but it can be dangerous to harbor such emotion.

"Gensella, you have to stay calm. You are right he doesn't deserve it. But think about how much God has done for us, even though, we don't deserve it. I know you don't want to hear about forgiveness right now because it's so soon and the wound is still fresh. But don't do anything you will regret one day. If nothing else, remember you have kids that need you... Gensella?"

It sounded like her phone fell.

"Gensella?" There was still no response.

"Goodbye Minister" The voice was not Gensella's.

It's too late. I knew the demons would be drawn to her unstable state. She is possessed. The spirit is probably going to kill her husband, Ben. I have to get to him first. I rushed out my office and went to the church's secretary.

"I need you to tell me Mrs. Templet's address?" She could sense the urgency in my demeanor and tone. It made her nervous.

"Ok Pastor, is something wrong?" She asked while typing on the computer to search the member's database.

"I just need the address. I can't really say right now." I didn't have a moment to waste.

She read the address off to me and I ran out the church. I know exactly where that is and thankfully it's nearby. I rushed to the apartments. When I turned in, I saw Gensella walking on the sidewalk. She had almost made it to the door. I parked my car and ran towards her.

The steel door of Nikki's apartment flung backwards off the hinges when she stepped close enough to walk across the threshold. It was as natural as walking through an automatic door. I looked around to see if anyone was outside observing this supernatural confrontation. There wasn't anyone in sight.

When I looked back at her I noticed she was holding a knife. Most of the time something sharp was the weapon of choice for a demon. I don't know if they just like the old school method or what. Perhaps, it is the slow agonizing pain and dramatics the knife yields. A gun would probably be much faster, but I'd never suggest such.

The husband, in his boxers, walked out the bedroom to see what caused the loud noise.

When he saw her, he said "Gensella, what happened to you? Put the knife down. You don't want to do this." He had his hands up.

I was behind her now. I touched her back and said a prayer for her release.

"Shut up, Minister. This is none of your concern." The spirit said and did a spin kick which knocked me outside the apartment. "And you, you don't care about Gensella. All you care about is your pathetic flesh."

Nikki angrily came out the bedroom to see what was going on in her apartment. She was wearing Ben's dress shirt which she had only partially buttoned. Her hair messily fell over her shoulders.

"Why is she here? Why she all up in my house? And what happened to my door? Did she do that to my door? If you got a problem, we can deal with it? You don't come up in my house disrespecting me and mine." Nikki said pointing her finger and rocking her head about her neck as she attempted to get physical with Gensella.

She is way feistier than the image she portrayed at church. I guess it's the situation. Regardless, her taunting is dangerous considering Gensella is now being controlled by a demon. This is definitely not a fair fight.

Ben lowered one of his arms in a protective, guarding manner. He turned his head slightly to the side, but his eyes never left Gensella. "Go back to the room. She is here for me."

The spirit cocked Gensella's head to get a better look at Nikki. "So this is what the commotion is all about," She laughed. "I've seen better. What a sad creature you are? Oh well, you all burn the same. Time to die."

The depthless black pupils in Gensella's blood shot red eyes dilated. What little life remained in Gensella was absorbed and replaced with a cold, dead blue. Her lips turned black and retracted beyond her cheek space revealing an abnormal, evil joker smile.

She charged for them.

While I was outside, I had already asked for help. My angel was with me. I jumped over Gensella landing in front of her close enough to kick her backwards. Then, I ran to her before she regained her balance and jumped on top of her. My angel reached inside her and removed the demonic spirit. He flew outside the apartment and threw it back to Hell, before disappearing. I realized I was still on top of Gensella and moved to her side.

As I touched her face I asked, "Gensella, Are you okay?" I tapped her a little. "Gensella." She became alert.

"Where am I?"

I didn't want to overwhelm her with what had just happened so I hesitated in my response. Ben had already come to her side. He grabbed her hand, crying.

"Gensella, honey, I am so sorry. I am so sorry. I don't know what I was thinking. I never meant to hurt you. I fell. I messed up. I thought I didn't need you, but I do. I was weak and selfish. I never should have taken a second look. It never should have gotten past Hello. I never should have entertained the thought. I never should have betrayed your love. It was never about her. It was you. After I fell to the temptation, I knew I didn't deserve you because I never should have hurt you. It never should have happened. I thought it would be easier for you if I didn't try. I am so sorry. I'll do whatever it takes for the rest of my life to build your trust back. I know I don't deserve it and even if we can't mend the broken pieces, please forgive me?"

His eyes had overflown with tears. He was either hopelessly seeking forgiveness or relentlessly selling a wave of deception. Considering the recent events, either one would be appropriate.

As Gensella looked at him, tears filled her eyes as well. She loved him. She has always loved him. Even though he messed up and doesn't deserve it, she will always love him. I could appreciate the moment as well because it is with that same love God loves us. Gensella didn't say anything she just held his head that was now buried in his chest. As long as they are both willing and dedicated, their marriage will sustain.

"I know a lot has happened today and there is a lot to be considered. If you decide to continue in your walk together, my wife and I have successfully counseled many couples in the mending of brokenness and restoration of marriage. It is possible to work it out, but there must be a genuine effort because it isn't an easy task to rebuild trust. I can suggest other ministers within and outside the church also. It is not my intentions to sway your decision, but to offer assistance should you need it."

Ben looked at Gensella, before responding, "Thank you for everything Pastor Mike. It means a lot that you came out here and helped us. We have a lot to talk about and hopefully, we can contact you soon to follow up and go on from there."

The answer didn't suggest anything and Gensella seemed okay with it.

"It's not a problem at all. That's what Pastors are for." I said with a laugh, in an attempt to lighten the mood.

They both smiled, but laughing was still too premature in light of the events that had transpired.

Gensella stood up with the help of Ben and looked around. She realized she must have done something bad. Before she was able to ask, the police walked in.

"What happened here?" one of the officers said.

Nikki came running from the backroom. "I called because that crazy psycho came up in my apartment knocking down doors and threating to kill us with a knife. Y'all need to arrest her and get her up out of my apartment." She sounded like she was on some level of intoxication.

The officers looked at Gensella, with her short and tiny build, and looked at the door and decided it best to leave the door part out of the report. They did recover the knife and arrested Gensella for coming with the intent to hurt her husband and his mistress. I talked to Nikki and some other people and got the charges dropped. I told them she had a temporary overload of emotions and no one was hurt. She also has no previous history or arrests and the "victims" didn't want to pursue it any farther.

Once we got everything straightened out, I followed them back to their house. With the arrest and outpouring of details, I want to double check the stability of their relationship.

"Thank you so much, Pastor Mike. I can never repay you for how much you helped us." Gensella said giving me a hug while Ben watched from the arm of the sofa.

"No problem. Gensella I know you have been through a lot today, but before I leave, I want to make sure you are not holding any unforgiveness. As we saw today, all Satan needs is a crack to come inside us and pollute our bodies with everything ungodly. It is very important to resolve and remove anything that Satan may be able to use.

You know how sometimes your sink drain may get clogged. It starts with one thing getting stuck on the side and obstructing the path. Then other things try to go down, but bits and pieces get stuck to the obstructing lump. Eventually, nothing will be able to go down because the small lump has become a big clog that creates a major backflow of everything attempting to go down. That is kind of how we are.

Something may happen and we just can't really let it go. Because that thing is stuck there, even though, we try to accept things, it becomes harder and harder to swallow. More and more little things that irritate you or make you mad will try to go down, but they just get stuck. Before you know it, you have had enough and you don't want anything at all, good or bad. Then you blow up and everything, old and new comes out in one massive confrontation.

We have to be careful not to let anything get stuck inside us. We have to resolve all conflicts and issues so that we can have healthy relationships. Regardless of how you choose to proceed with your relationship, you need to make sure you have forgiven Ben. I would like to pray with you for direction, as well as, the strength to forgive. I want you to ask God to reveal to you any area of weakness that needs to be addressed."

I turned to Ben who was still sitting on the couch. "Ben, would you join us in prayer? I know you have already apologized for your actions, but I want you to ask Gensella for forgiveness. By doing this, you are also telling her you will do whatever is necessary to ensure it doesn't happen again."

After I prayed with the two of them, I spoke with Ben again. "Gensella deserves your renewed commitment. Don't break her heart again. The Bible tells us to flee from temptation for a reason. None of us are strong enough to toy with such a desire. Even Jesus didn't allow Satan to tempt him. Don't think you are strong enough to play with fire. The task has nothing to do with strength, but obedience. It's like a trick question; if you play with fire, you will be burned."

The couple seemed to understand me. I know we are all tired so I will follow up later and check the status of their relationship.

"I hope the two of you will decide to undergo counseling. It can be with me or I can arrange it with another pastor. It would be very wise to assume the underlying issues have not been resolved. Let's work on rebuilding your marriage." I walked to Ben and shook his hand.

"Yes sir, we will discuss what you have suggested and let you know. If we continue in our marriage, we will definitely undergo counseling. Thank you again for helping us today."

I left and headed for my car.

"Pastor" I turned to see Ben had followed me outside. "Gensella was possessed wasn't she? That was all real. You, the angel, the demon, it was all real."

I had wondered if he would let me leave without asking. It was obvious he has had something on his mind since we left Nikki's apartment.

"Yes, Ben it was real. The battle between light and darkness is very real. It is happening every day. The spirit was able to inhabit Gensella because she had gotten so angry and full of hate. That is why it is important we are careful. You and I both know how bad it can get, Gensella doesn't remember. So let's work together to make sure it doesn't happen again."

He looked like he had a revelation. "I'll see you at church Sunday." He said as he turned and walked back to his house.

One day it will be apparent to all, just how real it really is. Now I have to go home and tell my beautiful wife and kids I have to leave in the morning. I decided to buy flowers and candy to ease the news.

"Hi honey. How was your day... and the meeting?" Melayla asked.

Her face was glowing and her smile lit the room. She is so beautiful. Part of her hair was tossed up and the rest flowed down her back in beautiful waves. Twenty-five years later and she still takes my breath away. I'd call it amazing, but anyone that laid eyes on her wouldn't be amazed at all.

"It was great," I replied. I knew the response wouldn't be enough. She would require many more details and an in-depth conversation, but I needed to tell her about tomorrow first. "And I brought you these." I added trying to keep the excitement while revealing the flowers and chocolate behind my back.

"My favorite," She said. Then she tilted her head a bit and looked into my eyes that reeked of, "And".

She decided to say it for me. "And..."

I exhaled. "And I have to leave for Mexico in the morning." Whew, that felt so much better. Yet I know the feeling won't be shared with her.

"In the morning?" she echoed with a ring kind of like when kids say "Aw man". It's like they can't just say those words without a special tone.

"Yes, sweetheart, in the morning. I'm sorry, but they need me."

Her forehead wrinkled slightly. She immediately started thinking of everything that had to be done and how she'd do it without me.

"Phillip has a basketball game tomorrow night. He was looking forward to you being there. Missy has piano after school. I have to go visit Mrs. Celant because she hasn't been feeling well the last couple of days." She was reciting everything like she was speed reading a paper.

Then, she stopped with a quick thought. "But you have to go, I understand. The kids will too. It will be okay."

This is only one of the reasons why I love her so much. She understands me even when she doesn't. Her faith in God is so strong, she trusts me knowing no matter what happens God has her back.

"I love you" I seized the moment to say it out loud. She wrapped her arms around my shoulders and used her hands to pull my head besides hers. I wrapped my arms around her waist to seal the hug as she whispered in my ear

"I love you, too."

As soon as we released, she was at it again. "In the morning...we have to pack. I'll get the suitcases. What time is your flight? I'll have to bring you to the airport before I meet with the ladies at the church in the morning."

She can't help it, always planning. I honestly don't know what I'd do without her, she completes me. I'll tell the kids about the trip when we sit down together for dinner.

##  CHAPTER 5--MISSY

"Hey Missy."

Oh my gosh, it's Kevin. He never talks to me. I couldn't hide the hopeless grin and wave of red that flushed my face.

"Hey Kevin." At least he is grinning at me too. Or is he laughing at how silly I look?

"I am having a party Saturday for us seniors. You know like a farewell. My parents won't be there so it will be fun. I was hoping you could stop by."

Really? Me. He wants me at his party. "Uh... Ok. I'll have to check with my parents." After I said the word "Parents", I knew the answer would be no.

"Cool." He gave me a soft tap on my shoulder then

started to leave, but turned back around to face me again.

There's more? I don't believe this is happening and, of course, it's during the last days of school. We could have had the duration of high school to be together. It's okay though, better late than never. Who needs the high school drama anyway? We will be adults soon. Real love.

"Oh yeah, I almost forgot. I need you to help me with something." He finally gave voice to the confusion in the air.

I can't help, but anticipate his every word. "Will you go out with me?" Yes, Yes I can help you with that. I could feel my cheeks expanding as the biggest grin swept my face. Tone it down Missy you will scare him away.

I tried to be subtle in my retraction. "Uh ok, what is it?"

I can't escape the weird feeling in my body. My heart feels so open and free. Like fairy dust. Or how I'd imagine it would be, if it were real.

"Well, the test in history. It's the final and I have got to pass that class to graduate. I was hoping you could help me out."

I'd love to help. "Sure, I'm available after school. I can tutor you any day you want."

Kevin looked amused by my answer. "No, I don't want you to tutor me. I have a personal trainer working with me in the afternoons to prepare for football next season. I don't have time for tutoring. I was hoping you would not use the cover sheet. I know you did it before and I appreciate that. But this time she is going to really be watching us. And she has another teacher coming to help her. I can't ask you during the test, I'd get caught. So I'm asking you now. One last time, will you help me?"

Instantly, I thought about what Phillip said about him using me. I knew it all along, but I like it. If I am honest with myself, I like the attention he is giving me. Even if it is conditional, he likes me. Still and all, I don't know what to say. A wave of heaviness fell upon me. I can barely stand.

"I have to go." I said quickly. I turned and ran away.

As I was leaving I heard him say "Just think about it ok. One last time..."

My eyes swelled with tears. When I need to get away, I find myself in the bathroom quite often. I locked myself in a bathroom stall. It's like that old song "If loving you is wrong, I don't want to be right." (But for completely different reasons, of course) I am always right. But what if I wasn't? What if I could be wrong, bad? Not all relationships start with equal feelings. He may start liking me because I help him and then it turn into so much more. How will I know, if I don't try? It's not rocket science. Come on Missy.

My stomach twisted and turned. Why do I always have to have a conscience? Can I please just have a week off? I sat on the toilet and lowered my head to my knees. I rubbed my hands through my hair then tightened my fingers slightly pulling hair on the sides of my head. Who am I? Am I not better than this? Am I not good enough for someone to like me for me? All I need is one chance.

I waited for Phillip to make it to the car. "What took you so long?" I questioned him.

Even though it was only seven minutes after the bell, I was ready to leave four hours ago.

"Nothing, I was talking to some of my friends. I didn't know you were in a hurry." He looked at me after he sat in the car. "What happened?"

I want to talk to him, but I can't. I think I have had enough embarrassment for one day. Phillip isn't an "I told you so" type person, but he did tell me so. And he told me something I already knew. So I don't know why when faced with it, it still hurts so badly.

"Nothing," I responded without looking at him.

"Just tell me what happened, Missy. You know you can talk to me." He looked concerned. He must be able to see the remnants of the tears that had freshly fallen.

"I talked to Kevin today. He invited me to a party at his parents' house."

He knew there was more.

"But?" He tried to push for more information.

"But what?" I asked. It is so irritating that there has to be a "but". Why couldn't Kevin just want to hang out with me? Why did there have to be a "but"?

"You haven't been crying tears of joy, Missy. What else happened?"

He was right. It isn't his fault there is a "but" it's mine. I knew what Kevin wanted from the jump.

"But... he wants to cheat off me for the history final." I looked at Phillip. Another tear rolled down my face. "Why couldn't he just want to hang out with me? What is wrong with me?"

Phillip touched my leg. "It's okay Missy. You are not the problem. Kevin is not worth the tears. He is too self-absorbed to care about anybody else. There is nothing wrong with you. You are beautiful, smart, and kind. You are a prize to be won. The only thing holding you back is you. You don't believe in yourself. You are scared to let people see the real you. You hide behind the clothes, your hair, anything you can. You tone yourself down. If you let people see you, you would be amazed by the response. I'm not saying get 'loose'; I'm saying get comfortable in your own skin. You are so much better than Kevin."

Deep down inside, I know he is right. I am scared.

"All I need is one chance. I have done it before. If I do this, it will open the door to so much more."

Phillip looked at me like I had a serious problem. Part of me knew I deserved it, so I didn't confront him.

"Missy, you have nothing to prove to this loser. And what exactly do you think your prize will be? An egotistical ham that cares only about himself. Oh wait, you want to be his test buddy in Alabama too. Good for you, Missy... The man should come to you not with a proposition, but a proposal. It's about what he will do for you, not the other way around. Your heart is the one to be won. Just wait, one day the right one will find you. If you don't know your worth, no one else will. And trust me, if you let some random guy decide it for you, it will be the cheapest rate possible so that you are affordable."

I let out a slight laugh. I had never thought about it like that, merchandise theme. I know he is right. I love how honest he is with me, even if it hurts.

"Thanks Phillip." I flashed him a smile, cranked the car and drove us home.

"Mom," Phillip called for mom as we walked into the kitchen. She had already started supper and was cutting vegetables.

"Mmmm smells good." I said as I grabbed a plum out the fridge.

"How was your day?" Mom asked.

"Great. I got a 'B' on my math test. Should end up with a 'B' overall." Phillip started.

A smile spread over my mom's face. "That's great Phillip."

Phillip isn't a "Straight A" student, but mom always encourages us to do our best regardless of the grade.

"And you, Missy?"

I didn't have any highlights. It was just another day. "It was ok, I guess."

Mom looked a little displeased with my answer.

I know her and dad don't know what to think about me. I have changed and hold a lot in. They don't want to push me, but they are interested in my life. I get it. I just don't want to talk about it...

"Flowers...they are beautiful" I said changing the subject. The white lilies smelled very good.

"Your dad gave them to me earlier." She replied with a blushing grin.

He must be leaving again. Most surprise trips come with flowers. But I'd keep that comment to myself, even though she already knows.

"Dad sure does know how to pick them. Beautiful." I went to my room.

##  CHAPTER 6—PASTOR MIKE

Phillip only seemed slightly bothered by my missing his game, probably because he understands my duties as a pastor. In fact, he plans to follow in my footsteps. He has always enjoyed being involved in everything concerning God's word and the ministry. Unlike Missy, he has an eagerness to go everywhere and take in as much as he can. It is rare for a child to feel this way at such a young age so I help him as much as I can.

Most people say he looks like me. He has an athletic build and stands at six foot three. He is only three inches short of my height. He is very conscious of maintaining a clean cut image. It is obvious most girls find him to be attractive, especially his style of dress. However, he appears not to pay any attention to their responses or attempts. He made a commitment to abstain until he is married and only wishes to entertain the woman God has for him. In light of the examples he has from his friend's relationships, he doesn't think he is mature enough to handle the search right now. I am amazed at his level of self-control and discipline. He is far better than I was at his age. I just pray he doesn't lose his goals along the way.

Missy didn't show any emotion as to whether she cared or not. It doesn't surprise me because lately she doesn't seem to care what I do. It's like she's going through the motions for our benefit. I don't know what she is thinking or feeling. I try to talk to her, but her responses seem more like an attempt at what she thinks I want to hear.

She is in the running to graduate as valedictorian and is considering universities. My guess is she will pick one as far away from here as possible.

As parents, we do what we think is best for our kids. No one knows all the right choices or decisions. Pastor's kids have a lot of extra pressure and responsibility. With having to attend all the services and participate in all the events, I can understand her feeling overwhelmed and wanting a change. I guess as she got older she didn't have to be with us for every event. It just felt better to do it as a family.

I could tell, unlike Phillip, she didn't share the interest. Yet I know, by her being in church, she is bound to absorb the word. One day the repetition will be useful in aiding her.

I am more concerned with my children's eternal life than I am with their existence here on Earth. I realize I may have made mistakes, required too much, was too strict, but I did what I thought was right at the time. If I had to do it all over, there are some things I would change, but I wouldn't change sowing the seed. One day, she will appreciate all we have done for her. Today just isn't that day. One day, when my race is over, she will pick up the baton and it will be her turn to run.

Before Missy left for bed, she gave me a hug. I am certain she doesn't know the depths of her beauty. She tries to hide it by allowing her hair to fall covering her face. Her high cheek bones and big dark brown eyes, unhidden, would be sure to draw your attention. Her lips, a perfectly sculpted mixture of her mother's and mine, display a medium level of fullness. She is just as beautiful as her mother only lacking confidence. I guess, as a father, it should feel great to have a daughter that isn't obsessed with her appearance or boys. While I like the peace of mind, I don't like to see her oblivious to her beauty and lacking confidence.

"I love you, Princess." I told her while pushing her hair behind her ears. "You really are growing into a beautiful young woman."

She gave me a half smile, but never looked me in the eyes. "Yeah Dad, I know. Me too." She said as she headed to her room.

When I arrived in Mexico, Marko was there to greet me.

"I'm so glad you came, sir," He said while putting my bags in the car. "Pedro must have a spirit. There is no way he would be doing this."

I am growing more and more curious as to what he was doing, especially, since he didn't go into detail during the call.

"What is he doing?" I asked.

Marko seemed bothered by whatever thought or image passed through his mind. "Oh sir, I think it best we go now and you see for yourself."

I have been doing this for a while. Possessions rarely surprise me anymore, but I decided not to push the issue.

We arrived at a small village. It consisted of a group of maybe ten huts. I noticed a man standing atop several large stones. It was like he captured my eyes as soon as I turned my head his direction. I figured it was Pedro. By the expression on his face, he seemed to know me as well, not by name, but position.

"Minister, how nice of you to join us. Although, you didn't have to come all this way just to see me." His eyes shot at Marko with a displeased look.

As I said before, there are false calls and there are real demons. This is an example of a real possession. Pedro's body stood like something unfamiliar was holding it up. It was like his skin was merely draped across his body not fitted to his muscles and bones, unnatural. It was evident the spirit had been there for a long time and was molding himself with Pedro's body. Yet, spirits usually just fill the space like air fills the shape of whatever container it enters. This possession was different.

As he spoke to me, he cocked his head as if there was a joint in his neck. I don't need my Bible because I already know the scripture as does he. I will pray and ask God to deliver Pedro from the spirit's captive. If that doesn't work, I'll do plan B.

"Pedro" I said, knowing I wasn't speaking to Pedro.

"No, I am not Pedro though I am glad he allowed me to use his shell." The spirit replied.

"Who are you then?" I asked.

"My name is none of your concern. Why have you come? Did you come for Pedro? He doesn't want you here Minister and neither do I."

Despite his tone, he smiled and turned his head towards a man walking towards him pulling a boy with him. A woman wasn't far behind him screaming and trying desperately to get the boy away from him. Judging from the woman's screams, I gather the boy is their son. I just don't know why she is in such a panicked state. The man turned and forcefully punched her down to the ground. I ran to her. She had fallen on her side and the impact to her head from both the blow and the landing caused her to go unconscious. The man continued to bring his son to Pedro.

"Sacrifice him and you will be spared." Pedro told him. "Give me his heart. All of his limbs must be burned separately."

Before I had time to register what was happening, the man threw his son on top of the altar beside where Pedro stood and severed the boy just as Pedro requested. He didn't look like he moved from his own will, but as a puppet. There is no way a father would choose to do such a horrible act to his son. Now I know why the mother was trying so desperately to regain possession of her son.

"You are a strong spirit; to be able to control others and overpower will." I told the spirit.

"Am I strong or are they weak?" He riddled. "Go back home Minister. You cannot defeat me."

I knelt beside the woman and began to pray. I asked God to deliver Pedro and send this demonic spirit back to Hell. When I finished praying, I stood. I looked up to the spot where Pedro stood, but he was no longer there.

"Minister," the voice came from behind me.

"I warned you" He said as he kicked me and my body flew several feet.

He ran to the spot where I was and jumped on top of me in a straddle position before I could even consider getting up. He was stronger and faster than most other spirits I had encountered and way more comfortable in his host. The way he ran seemed more like leaping. Normally, when they attack it's on all fours in like a crawling motion because it's easier to control the body in an unnatural mechanism during possessions. This type of controlled possession is normally the case in kids because they are generally less resistant to hosting due to their natural rebellion.

"Where is your God now?" The spirit drew my thoughts back to my current situation. He punched me thrusting my head to the right.

"The other cheek... don't mind if I do," He said as he punched the other side of my face.

Although the majority of the impact was on my cheek bone, I spit some blood out my mouth. The spirit belted out the most horrible laugh. It was actually more irritating than frightening. I felt his fingers clinch my hair as he raised my head. I had closed my eyes after he punched me and decided to keep them shut as I prayed. Yet I could feel his eyes staring at me.

"Minister, look at me. I want my face to be the last thing you see in this world. So you will know the face of the one who robbed you of your life. The one who will destroy your precious church, your precious wife..." He leaned in closer to my ear and in a softer voice said "...your precious kids."

I imagine the spirit pulled itself apart from its host in order to reveal itself to me. I could feel the chilling breeze of darkness on my cheek. He expected a response, but I won't entertain his lies. He has no such power to rob me of my life, my eternity lies with God. He can only rob me of this shell. If it be God's will, then so be it. I won't respond and I won't open my mouth, unless it is directed from the Lord. I continued my prayer. Father, you said if I remain in you and your words remain in me, to ask whatever I wish and it will be given to me. I ask that you send this demonic spirit back to Hell.

"If you must, use me. I am your servant." I said this part aloud.

The spirit raised my head and banged it into the ground, knocking me unconscious. Suddenly, I felt a familiar feeling. My heart felt like it was swelling; growing. There was a power arising within me. I could imagine a light expelling through tiny cracks all over my heart. The surge was racing through my veins. Light filled every corner of my body; it consumed me. As my body absorbed the power, I felt every atom charged. God had sent me an angel. I threw Pedro off me. He flew several feet; comparable to the distance he had kicked me.

"I see you got yourself an angel." He said as he charged me. I did a spin kick that landed on the side of his head knocking him to the ground. He jumped up. This time he delivered several hits rapidly like a crazed woman swinging with no direction. I blocked enough of the hits to deliver one of my own. I punched him in the stomach with enough strength to propel his body backwards about ten feet. I raced to the spot where he landed.

"The fun is over, demon. Time to go back to Hell." I said as my angel reached inside Pedro's body and pulled the spirit out. At first it looked to be my hand, but my hand didn't pierce Pedro's skin.

My angel separated from me taking the demonic spirit with him. I watched as it resisted against my angel. It looked like an overly dramatized image of a child pulling away from his mom. Despite its efforts, the spirit was hurled into the ground, straight back to Hell. Only a black puff of smoke remained momentarily at the point of impact.

It's hard to describe the feeling of victory experienced each and every time a demon is overcome. Just knowing that God has my back and the enemy is no match for Him is enough to get excited about. Pedro's body was lifeless as it lay slumped on the ground. The spirit had consumed him for so long it drained him. So much of him was lost in the possession. This was probably due to the merge of his soul with the spirit. This possession seemed deeper than the superficial ones I am accustomed.

Pedro gasped for air. "What happened?" Pedro said. "You're okay now, Pedro" I replied calmly so as not to overwhelm him. Although, Pedro didn't seem to share in my excitement, in fact, he was angry.

"What did you do? My power, my energy...it's gone! YOU! You did something. They will come back for me. They will kill me."

His response definitely caught me off guard. Most possessions are not at the host's will.

"You wanted to be possessed?" I could hardly ask the question. Why would anyone want to be used by Satan?

"I lost my job, my family. I have nothing. I am an empty black hole of nothingness. They offered to give me life again; to allow me to be a part of something great. To be worshipped as a god. And you ruined it."

I can't believe my ears. They talked to him and reasoned with him before the possession. Why would they do that? What is the strategy in that?

"Because of you, innocent boys were slaughtered by their fathers. Families destroyed." How could he think that was great? This is pure evil.

"Did God not require Abraham kill Isaac as a sacrifice to test his commitment?" Pedro responded in effort to justify his actions.

Now, he is comparing himself to God. Pedro knew nothing about God, only what he heard from the demonic spirit. The enemy always uses partial scripture. If you don't know the Word, you will be easily confused.

"But then, once God saw Abraham's commitment, He stopped him and provided a ram in the bush for sacrifice. Abraham didn't kill Isaac."

Pedro started backing away from me. He really thought he was doing and acting similar to God.

"Oh no, what have I done? These people will never forgive me. I have even less now, than when I started."

He took off running towards the altar. Understandably, the guilt must be too much for him to bear. He must need to get away or desire to kneel and beg for forgiveness at the altar.

"I no longer wish to live. I deserve to burn forever." He said as he jumped in the fire.

Even though it was too late, I found a large stick and hopelessly, tried to push his body out the fire while I called for water. It was like his feet were cemented to the ground. Pedro's eyes never left me as he screamed from the pain inflicted as the fire ripped and melted the skin and muscles from his bones. Then he fell to his knees and screamed, "I'm sorry" as the fire rose up like a mouth around him and swallowed him.

Satan had claimed him.

I never expected that he would jump into the fire. My mind went back to what he had said. A demon talked to him before giving him his spirit. Why would they do that? They didn't need his permission to possess him. He was already broken and miserable enough to be a host. They must be trying to improve the control of their hosts.

When the host is unwilling, it is impossible to do all they desire. Their power is limited by the host fighting the possession. Although, the fight isn't strong enough to push the spirit out, it does hinder the level of control. Especially, when faced with an angel inside a willing host. They still were not strong enough. What would they do next? I'd have to wait and see.

I decided to pray with the people and give them a short word of encouragement. I'd also warn them against fear and the power it gives the enemy. I have not even been here a day, but I will return home in the morning. I need to be with my family as much as possible. I know something bigger is coming. Satan is plotting and planning. This was just another trial run. I'm not sure when my race will be over. I need to make sure my kids are ready to fight in my absence.

##  CHAPTER 7—PASTOR MIKE

As I sat in my seat on the plane, I recapped Pedro's possession. It was like the demonic spirit was trying to combine itself with Pedro. Not to mention the level of power it was operating at. It had caused just about all the men in the village to murder their sons. They were offering the kids as a sacrifice to the demon possessing Pedro. Only two boys had escaped the torturous death. They only survived because they ran away and hid very well. Many mothers tried to hide and protect their sons, but were unsuccessful. Unfortunately, many boys were slaughtered by their own fathers. Those poor men were devastated when they heard of what they had done. I tried to reason with them that they were under the control of an evil spirit, yet it still didn't seem like enough. Most of them had not only killed their sons, but also their wives who were trying to protect the boys. I don't know what will happen, but I pray somehow they will be able to survive this tragedy. Marko was very grateful for my assistance. I am certain we will remain in touch.

I pulled out my calendar. I am so grateful to my wife for organizing everything for me. She puts everything from church to the kid's activities on it for me. All I have to do is pull it out. I looked over the upcoming week. In addition to the church services, Peter has a game and Missy has tutoring.

And then on Friday...Oh no! How did I forget our anniversary is Friday? We will make twenty six years, and it's my year to plan the trip as we alternate the years planning. With all the recent time requests, it completely slipped my mind. I really want to do something special because she has been so patient with me and my obligations. I have been doing a lot lately and know it has been difficult. Yet, I didn't expect to go to Mexico. With all my pastoral obligations this month, I can't afford to go away for long. Regardless, I'd have to do something. I think I'll go to the jewelry store first. You know what they say about diamonds. I say they haven't failed me yet.

Melayla was waiting for me at the airport. She looked concerned as she scanned the crowd looking for me. She knew what time we were expected to land and it was already twenty minutes past time. She always has been attentive to details and times. I'm sure she is probably five minutes away from asking someone what is going on. I smiled at the sight of her looking up, then back down at her watch and back up again.

She had on a quarter length sleeve button up shirt stripped with purple, green, and white and jeans. Her hair was pinned up in a ponytail.

Finally her eyes found me. The biggest smile came across her face as she rushed to meet me. I returned the smile. I missed her even though it was just a day. I appreciate what we have, especially after seeing all the broken homes forced by Satan. You can't take peace for granted.

As soon as she was close enough, she fell into my arms. I hugged her as if I'd never let go. It felt like she melted in my arms and had no intention of leaving them any time soon.

"I missed you. I love you." I told her. I could feel her take in each word like a refreshing mist on a hot day.

"I love you too and missed you more." I love the way her accent causes the words to roll off her tongue.

"I had a terrible feeling yesterday evening. I thought you were either terribly hurt or dead. I didn't know what to do. So I prayed. I prayed God would send his angels to protect you. I'm so glad you are okay." She said.

I am so glad she was obedient to the call of prayer. She must have felt I was in danger when the demonic spirit knocked me unconscious. Sometimes God alerts us to pray for others for a reason, even if we can't understand the randomness.

"Thank you. I'm here now and I'm okay. Let's go home." She looked up at my face and raised her hand to my hair line.

"What happened? You've been hurt."

My face still bore a bruise on my cheek as well. I had hoped it would go away before I made it back home. In reality, it takes longer for the body to heal.

"I'm fine. It was just a little fight with an evil spirit; all in a day's work." I tried to laugh it off, but the concern in her eyes let me know she wouldn't shake it that easily.

"Let's get you home and nurse these war wounds."

I grabbed her hand and we walked to the car.

Twenty-five wonderful years... I will admit the early years left much to question, especially prior to Missy's birth, but there isn't anyone I'd rather journey with. Tomorrow I will go to the jewelry store and get our trip planned.

##  CHAPTER 8—PASTOR MIKE

"How can I help you Sir?" The sales attendant tried to gain my attention.

She could tell I was a buying customer by the intensity in which I looked at the jewelry. Any piece would not do, I had to make this special. Besides, after that last trip, I don't know how much longer we have together, on Earth that is, our eternity lies in Heaven.

"I am looking for something special for my wife. We make twenty-six years on Friday."

The sales person smiled a warm smile. She was a brunette with emerald green eyes. She looked to be a sweet young lady in her mid-twenties.

"Congratulations! Marriages like that are rare these days. So you want something special. How about this two carat white gold bracelet? I love how the diamonds rope around the gold. It could signify how tight the bond is between you and your wife. Two paths forged together, now twisted into one. Inseparable."

Wow, I like this kid. What an awesome sales pitch.

"I like that one, but I'm not sure if I want to buy a bracelet." I responded as I turned my attention to the necklaces.

"We have this one. It's real popular. The diamonds, on the key, total one carat. The chain is white gold. It signifies you giving all access to your heart to your wife. You are making yourself an open book. No more secrets...just life and love."

This kid is two for two right now.

"What about the rings? I said "Are they all costume or wedding?" I asked because most of what was in front of me looked bridal.

She scanned some pieces in a different area. "I really like this one." She said as she brought me a white gold ring wrapped in small diamonds. The diamonds wrapped all the way around the ring in three layers.

"It is two carats. It is an eternity band ring. The circle of diamonds represents a continuous flow of love. It sends the message: we will be together for all eternity."

That is precisely the message I want to send. "I'll take it. I will need it in a size 6. How long does it take to size the ring?"

I know it will not be done in time for our anniversary, but I am questioning whether to wait and give it to her sized.

"It will take about seven days." She answered.

I decided to take the ring now and bring it back later. I'd rather give it to her on our trip.

I called one of the local cruise boats and got a reservation. We would enjoy dinner and a two night stay on the boat.

I am beyond ready to enjoy time with my wife. Missy and Phillip are old enough to stay at home alone so childcare doesn't have to be arranged. We will only be gone for two nights because I have to preach at my church and another church Sunday. I know Missy would probably say I should go and let someone else do church. But, I feel like God has a message for his people. I can't delay giving it because I don't know how long we have. We have to take advantage of every moment. I believe the end is closer than I thought it was before.

When I made it back to my office, I phoned Mr. Peter to fill him in on Mexico.

"Hello Pastor Mike, How are you? How was your trip?"

Mr. Peter has been a deacon at the church for longer than I have been Pastor. He has always done everything and anything necessary for the church and me. He is very loyal and respectable.

"I am doing good. I spent most of the day planning our anniversary trip. The Mrs. and I will make twenty six years on Friday. We won't be gone long so we can make it to church that Sunday."

"Now Pastor...you know you can get one of the other pastors to fill in for you, and spend more time with your wife. But Ima leave that alone."

I laughed.

Peter is old school and quick to set you right. He sets the best example for how to cherish your wife. Notice I said cherish not love. Because love alone can only go so far, when you cherish a woman she knows just how much you love her. Treat her like a queen and she will remain loyal, faithful and submissive. I believe you get what you give. People need a reason to trust you.

I know many women get antsy when we talk submission. I believe once a woman is secure in your love, loyalty and faithfulness as well as comfortable in your ability to meet her every need, she will submit. I notice a difference in the love I had for my wife prior to my Christianity compared to what we share now. I didn't know how to love or be a Godly husband.

Worldly love doesn't compare to Godly love on any level. Worldly love is so superficial and conditional. Godly love is a choice. It is a choice to forsake yourself for another. Think of how hard it is to bring bodily harm against yourself. For example, can you stab yourself with a knife? Jesus showed us real love in willingly offering himself for torture and sacrifice. Knowing this kind of love and God's commandment to love this way, changes the game. There is no room for pride or selfish will. Once I decided to love my wife like God loves me, I noticed a change in her. She began to trust me and my decisions because she knows I have a relationship with God. She trusts Him to lead me in my leadership of the family.

Of course, she is my accountability partner. I value and respect her opinions and suggestions.

I learned a lot about how to treat my wife (gentleman style) from Mr. Peter. This man takes care of his wife.

"I know Mr. Peter, but I feel like I have to get these messages out now. Some interesting things happened in Mexico. I had to depossess a man who, unexpectantly, wanted to be possessed. Afterwards, he killed himself. He actually jumped into a fire. The demons are getting stronger. I know we are in the last days."

I can talk to Mr. Peter because he is very aware of the battle we are fighting. In fact prior to his wife turning ill, he would accompany me on some of the missions.

"Wow, he wanted to be possessed. Who in their right mind would want a demonic spirit in their body?" He sounded as shocked as I was when I first considered it.

"That's just it. He wasn't in his right mind. He had a lot of things go wrong in a short period of time. He was overwhelmed and depressed. He needed something to believe in and wanted to feel important. Unfortunately, he didn't have someone to lead him to the Lord. The demons found him and sold him a story of lies. He fell. It's sad."

Mr. Peter got silent. I guess he is thinking about what I said.

"Yeah Pastor, it is sad. I never knew the demons to seek consent either. With him in such a state, they could have just possessed him."

After pondering that for some time now, I am able to give a logical answer to that question. "All I can guess is they are looking for ways to become stronger. The unwilling body is more restricted than the willing one. A spirit was using Pedro to control other people. It had caused several fathers to brutally murder their son by hacking their body into pieces. Then, the fathers would give Pedro the heart before burning the other severed pieces separately in the fire. I saw it happen. It was very disturbing to watch."

Mr. Peter had made several sounds and verbal expressions as I described it to him. It was like he was getting a visual of my words.

"What are we going to do? You know, as well as I do, they will come back and this time they will be even stronger. We have to prepare." He finally responded.

I know Mr. Peter is right. The problem is Phillip is too young to commit to such a battle and Missy is just not interested. I need Missy to accept her calling and I need her to do so now. We will need all the help we can get to fight this. As a pastor, I was chosen to serve and protect God's people. My kids were also chosen to take up the battle in my absence. They have to accept this calling in order to be used by God and to receive their angels.

Just like the demonic spirits are limited by an unwilling host, the angels too cannot inhabit an unwilling person. The difference is the demons don't play by the same rules. They don't care about a person's right to choose. They search for cracks and seep in. God will not use someone that doesn't consent to him.

"I don't know what to do yet, Mr. Peter. I know we need help. I'll call my friends and alert them to the situation. I'll tell them to be on standby should something come up."

I just had lunch with them. It would have been so much better to speak with them about this together as a group. But, I'm sure I can get them on the phone.

"What about Missy, Is she coming around?" Mr. Peter knows of Missy's call and the importance of her submitting to it.

"I am still working on it. She's not ready to know right now. I pray she will be soon because we are running out of time."

I thought about what I had just said. The words hit me like a ton of bricks. I have got to get through to Missy.

"Ok Pastor, I will see you Sunday. Let me know if there's anything I can do to help with the trip."

I hung up the phone and decided to go home.

##  CHAPTER 9--MISSY

The flowers were because Dad is going to Mexico. I knew he had to be going somewhere. He has been going on a lot of calls lately. I wonder what is going on. He doesn't talk very much about his trips. It's like one big secret. Yet, he comes back with bumps and bruises. I'm sure he knows we notice such things. Maybe he is waiting for us to ask. But to ask a question would yield a question, and I am not interested in the conversation. So, I think I will just wait.

Dad and mom have an anniversary coming up soon. They will make twenty-six years. That is such a long time. I honestly don't know how they do it, especially my mom. My dad stays gone so much and without notice most times. He has to be ready to go at the drop of a hat. Yet, mom supports him through it all.

She has his bags packed and ready to go. Clothes ironed and shoes shined. When I tell you she takes care of her man, like really, there is no exaggeration. Then she cooks these gourmet meals and cleans well enough to eat off the floors. It really is amazing.

Considering she is so beautiful, you'd think she'd want to sit up and be pretty all day. Although she doesn't have an outside job, she is the best house mom ever. The freshly baked cookies and milk when we come home from school help with the title as well. I wonder if I will be even half as good when I grow up. I used to let her teach me to cook, but now I try to avoid both her and dad as much as possible. I don't even really know why except I just don't want to be bothered.

"Missy, phone!" Phillip called up to my room.

"Ok I got it!" I called back.

It must be Sandy considering she is the only person who would call to talk to me. Ahhh, the life of having no life.

"Hello?" The voice on the other end didn't sound like Sandy. "Missy?" The voice continued.

If not Sandy...who?

"Yes this is Missy, who is this?"

"It's Megan. Megan Duriff"

How did she get my number? I don't even try to enter their circle.

"Ok...yeah...hi? Can I help you with something?" I'm sure the confusion rang in my tone.

There was no reason whatsoever for her to call me. She must be playing some sort of game or sick trick.

"I know you like my boyfriend. I know he likes to play with you and string you along. But I want to make sure you understand, it's just a game. Honestly, you couldn't have thought he'd really be interested in you, especially with me as an option? You're just not...well...you're not his type. You are a really sweet girl, but he is just using you until he can graduate. Do yourself a favor and help him with the history test. We all know you did it before. Kevin is depending on you not to have a change of heart. The school year is almost finished. Just help him out and enjoy the party. It's so simple. An act for an act."

I truly am surprised she even called. I don't know yet what I will do about the test, but I don't think I will share my answers.

"Megan...why don't you help him with the test?" She gasped at my response, but wouldn't get a chance to answer because I hung up the phone.

How dare she call me with that? I don't mess with anybody and I certainly don't deserve such calls. Granted, she is very pretty. Her sun kissed skin illuminates a golden shimmer naturally. She is my height and is of an athletic build. Her hair is short and always styled to perfection. It kind of reminds me of Halle Berry's cuts. She is, of course, the captain of the cheerleader squad. I just don't understand why she has to be so mean. Her attitude steals so much from her appearance.

Regardless, I have no reason to entertain her. Whatever I decide to do is my business.

I looked in the mirror and pulled my hair back. I smiled at my reflection. I'm kind of pretty too. Then I let my hair fall back down covering the majority of my face. Why can't I be comfortable with myself? There are those who base their existence on what others think about them and then there are those who define themselves.

Why can't I define myself? Is it a gene process? So often hidden beauty goes undiscovered. Why am I waiting to be discovered? Why can't I discover myself? Even though I may not think of myself a model, I will not be bullied into doing anything. Since she thought enough of me to call, I wonder if she considers me a threat.

I laughed and fell back on my bed. I looked up at the ceiling. Megan Duriff would never consider little ol' Missy a threat. I'm not even on her level. Although, she did call me to reiterate the known, perhaps she does. Perhaps she sees something even I don't see. I think in another life Kevin could like me. He has never been mean to me. He always gives me subtle smiles. Yet, he is a star quarterback and I am a nerd. It doesn't exactly fit the mold. What if I weren't so nerdy? What if I wasn't so scared of myself? What if I let people see me; the real me? I wonder if things would be different then. What if I were a threat? What if I am a threat? I rolled over pulling my cover around me. I smiled.

##  CHAPTER 10—PASTOR MIKE

"Happy Anniversary," I told her before she could open her eyes up all the way.

I presented her with breakfast on a tray so she could enjoy it in bed. I woke up early to cook a Belgian waffle, scrambled eggs, and pan-fried ham, her favorite. I even added a bowl of fruit on the side. I arranged it all perfectly on the tray with a single rose.

"Thanks Honey. Happy Anniversary. Oh my, you really went all out." She said as she admired the tray.

I don't normally cook mainly because I don't have the time. I also prefer her cooking to mine because I don't think I am as good a cook.

She sat up and bowed her head in prayer. I said a prayer as well.

"Can I get you anything else?" I asked.

She had just put something in her mouth. She shook her head "no" and covered her mouth with a napkin.

"No Honey. This is great. Thank you."

She doesn't like to speak with food in her mouth. She gets embarrassed and blushes. It's cute. The way beauty clings to her is simply stunning. I had to look at her for a second longer.

"I'll leave you to enjoy, hopefully. I'll be back in a few minutes."

I went downstairs to clean up the mess I had made in the kitchen because we would be leaving shortly.

I turned on some music and sang along. I was so consumed in what I was doing; I didn't even notice my wife was standing at the edge of the kitchen. I don't think she said a word. I stopped singing and turned the music down.

"Yes Honey?"

She lifted her head up very slowly. Her eyes were red and her face was impressed from the underside with a demon's face. The skin on her head was boiling and bubbling like it was going to explode.

"Minister, I coming back and when I do, you will die!"

A demon had possessed my wife, but how?

"Demon, be gone out of her body and out of my house. You are not welcome here."

The spirit started laughing "See you soon, Minister."

My wife and the spirit disappeared.

Melayla.

"Melayla! Melayla! Where are you?" I shouted and ran to our room.

She wasn't in the bed anymore. This is impossible. Where could they have taken her?

"Melayla!"

I heard water coming from the bathroom. I went to the door and cracked it open carefully. I wasn't sure what was on the other side. I looked into the mirror on the wall for the reflection of the room's contents. I saw Melayla. She was singing in the shower. She was okay. She had been okay all along. I was so worried. I went back to the kitchen to finish the dishes.

But if she was never possessed, then what was that earlier? How did the demons use her body without using her body? They must be experimenting again, which is why her skin was boiling and falling off her bones. They are still working on imitating people. Her eyes were bulging like they were fighting to stay in the sockets. If I hadn't seen it with my own two eyes, I never would have been able to picture my wife looking so awful. I sat on the bed. "Father, what is happening?"

"Mike," Melayla called.

I jumped as I was unaware she was standing behind me.

"Yes," I replied as I finished washing the last dish.

"Is everything okay? You are kind of jumpy."

I turned to face her. "Uh, nothing...I just didn't know you were there. Are you ready? Because I am ready. And you look AMAZING!" I said as I pulled her closer to me and kissed her forehead.

"Yes," She replied.

I packed the car and we headed for the ship. It took a little while to make it through the traffic, but it wasn't too much trouble loading the ship. I have had less favorable experiences.

The ship is awesome. There are about one hundred couples on board. As we stood by the rails of the boat, we admired the sight. The sun was almost completely down and the remaining rays on the water were awe worthy. The views are so calming and peaceful. It feels so good to get away for pleasure. It feels even better to be with the love of my life.

Tonight, she is wearing a dress with a shimmer of gold. It wraps around her neck then continues downward in the front to just above her knee. In the back, the fabric falls between her shoulder blades, continues down her back, and extends a little pass the knees. While it is a straight dress and she is a curvy woman, it doesn't hug her too tightly exposing all her curves. It just fits and looks classy. I prefer that look to some of the other looks I come across. She knows what she has and doesn't have to show it all to get attention. When we were dating, it made me curious and kept me interested; now that we are married, it makes me appreciate her even more for keeping secrets for me.

The moon marked its presence by dancing off her face and down her dress. It seemed like every breath I tried to take was more and more shallow. Twenty six years later and she still takes my breath away.

"What are you thinking about?" she turned to me and locked her eyes with mine.

I tried to speak but I couldn't, not yet. I put my hand to the side of her face. Her eyes sparkled at my touch. I leaned in and placed a soft kiss on her forehead. She placed her hand on mine. Her eyes looked eager to read my thoughts.

"I was thinking about how beautiful you are. And how blessed I am to have you as my wife. If God decided not to send another blessing my way, I'd be just fine as long as I can keep you."

She grinned and let out a soft laugh. "That's a good one, Mikey. But I'm sure you can do better. Don't worry, we have more time." She turned and laid her back on my chest as she looked back out to the water.

She never was one for being wooed by lines. Yet, I was as serious as a heart attack. I wrapped my arms around her waist. I opened the jewelry box revealing the diamond eternity band before I leaned in and whispered in her ear.

She looked at it and exclaimed. "O my Mikey! It's beautiful. Thank you!" She tilted her head slightly. "I love you too." She whispered just loud enough for me to hear her.

After dinner was served, we remained on the deck for about an hour more before retiring to our room.

"Melayla," I spoke to her in a soft voice as we lay in bed snuggling. "Is there anything you need me to do or fix when we get back home?"

I knew it was not the type of conversation she expected right now, but I need her to be prepared for was lies ahead.

"What? When we get home? What are you talking about Mikey? What's going on?"

I really don't know how to follow up to the conversation I spontaneously started. I don't want her to worry, but I want her to understand that I am in danger; we all are in danger.

"Nothing. I just want you to make me a list of things that need to be done so I can take care of it."

She turned around to look into my eyes. This is a position I hoped she wouldn't take. This woman can read me like a toddler's book with her eyes.

"What's wrong, Mikey? Just tell me. I can handle it."

She is a very strong woman. I know she can handle anything that comes her way. It's me. I don't know if I can handle the thought of her doing it alone. It's my role to protect her.

"Satan is planning his biggest attack ever. I will have to fight him. In the end, I know God will be victorious. I just don't know if I will survive. I am getting older. I don't know how much more my body can give."

She leaned in closer to me. The look in her eyes brought a tear to mine, which I fought hard to stop in its tracks. I have to remain strong and confident. She will feed off any sign of weakness.

"You don't think you will make it out of this battle alive. You want to finish everything and seal it off like a cancer patient on their dying bed. I won't accept defeat. God has never left us or forsaken us. Yes, you will face the greatest battle yet. But you will fight and by God's hand you will win."

She cupped my face with both her hands. "And you will come back to me. I won't believe any less and neither will you. No matter how much stronger the enemy gets he will never out power our God."

I love this woman. Even Pastors need encouragement from time to time. God hand-picked her to be at my side. I am a man of God, but I am also a husband and a father. For a moment, I let my fear of not being able to fulfill my duties to my family outweigh my faith in God that he will allow me to come back to them. When we choose to fight for the Lord, he doesn't leave us to do so at our own risk.

"God knew I needed you." I told her.

This time she kissed my forehead. She turned back around and I pulled her closer to my heart. I don't know how much longer we have together on Earth, but I have such peace knowing we have an eternity in Heaven.

##  CHAPTER 11--MISSY

Mom and Dad left today on a cruise for their anniversary and left us at home. If we were normal teenagers, we would be hosting a party right now. Instead, Phillip is in his room reading his Bible class material and listening to music. And I am lying on my bed watching the ceiling fan turn.

The blades spin so fast. It's amazing how you can no longer see them separated yet you can feel the output so you know each blade is of importance. It's kind of like teamwork. When each individual is working together in the same direction, you no longer see the people but the improved result. My dad could preach off that.

I closed my eyes. The air blew over my face splitting by my nose and running down the sides of my face until it tickled my ears. It is so refreshing.

Questions... I have so many questions about life and living. God, what is my purpose? What would you have me do? I know I don't understand all there is about you, but I'm lost. I need you to show me the way. What am I doing? Why would you help me? You don't even know me at least not personally. It's kind of like a "plus one". My parents come to you invited and add me like a guest at a party.

In reality, I don't want you to show me the way because I may not want to go there. All my life, I have been shown the way. I want to find my own way. The truth is I watched you control everything. Even on vacations, we could never really enjoy ourselves because we had to be back to serve you. I had to participate in everything whether I wanted to or not to glorify you. You say we have a choice, but I sure don't remember ever having one. Yes, I see your blessings. I know you are here, but sometimes I wish you weren't.

I don't want to be the "holy" outcast at school. I want to be popular and have friends. I want to be pretty and confident. I want guys to notice me as more than just an answer sheet. I want to be a normal kid. I don't want the pressure. I just can't see how it is all so worth it. I'm sorry, but I can't. And I don't want to try.

I have been preparing for a battle and the "last days" my whole life. Tell me where is this battle? How long are the last days exactly? It seems like we have been in "the last days" longer than the first ones. Is it even real? Why did you choose me? You could have had anyone, why me?

Listen to me, I am full of doubt and resentment. I am not worthy of anything. Tears filled my eyes. All the things I have never said and the thoughts I thought I had hid. It's like the bucket busted open. I had to let it go. I am so lost. Forgive me. I closed my eyes and pinched away the remaining tears. I curled up into a ball and clutched my body pillow.

People all around me yelling and screaming, "Yeah! Kill him! Kill him! He's not my King! Kill him!" What is going on? I started pushing through a crowd that seems more and more like an angry mob. Why are they so angry? Who do they want to kill?

I looked down at the long brown dress-like attire I am wearing. I don't have any shoes on my feet. There is no grass only dirt, dusty dirt. My face is covered with a veil. The dress material is so thin I can feel the wind so intensively like it's touching my bare skin tickling it all over.

"What is happening" I asked. Everyone ignored me. No one can hear me. While running to the front of the mob, I asked the people along the way to tell me where I am and what is going on.

I must have gone back in time somehow because the clothes are so prehistoric. Everyone is draped with fabric; there aren't any defined hems. It kind of looks like enlarged pillow cases with holes cut in for the head and arms. Is this a weird biblical costume party? Where am I?

Finally, I made it to the front of the crowd. There is a woman crying on her knees. I cannot see her face because the fabric drapes around her head and just under her eyes. But she has the same eyes my mother had when she got the call that my dad was in the hospital.

He was hurt really badly on a Mission trip with Benton. He almost died from the injuries to his body. He never did tell us the whole story. The doctor said his memory loss may be partially due to the head injury.

My mom had those eyes. Eyes in which you could see the torture of watching the one you love grasping to life with one hand. Eyes that are reaching for them, as you desperately wish you could help them. Yet, these eyes show a glimpse of the reality that you can't.

There is nothing you can do, but watch and wait. Not even knowing what you are waiting for because you don't know God's plan. And you don't want to doubt or undermine his authority. So your heart is at a standstill as it struggles between hope and grief. Faith or trust. Belief or disbelief. You let out a silent cry for the confusion, but the real tears are for the hurt, the desire, the hopeless faith.

I could see it all in her eyes, even with the rest of her face covered. I followed her eyes to see who was causing her such pain. There was a man.

He had a crown of thorns on his head. The blood dripped down his face and into his eyes. He had open wounds upon his back where they had stuck him several times. Jesus! It is Jesus!

They are about to nail him to the cross.

His face doesn't show an ounce of fight. He is accepting his fate. Yet, I can see his pain. It is a pain he shouldn't have to endure. He did nothing wrong.

"NO!" I ran to him.

I cannot watch this happen. He is our Lord and Savior you can't do this to him.

One of the men lost in chanting for his destruction had a knife on his side. I grabbed it and he didn't even notice. I continued towards the men. I know I may not kill one man, but I will die trying. I will not let this happen. The man nailing his hands had his back to me. I stabbed him in the back of his neck. As the blood squirted everywhere, it hit me what I had just done. The other men drew their swords. Some of Jesus's disciples came to my aid. As the men began to fight, I grabbed Jesus and tried to help him get away.

"Jesus. Are you okay?"

His body was too heavy for me to carry. I looked down at his feet. He wasn't even trying to walk. I laid his body down.

"Why won't you try? I'm trying to save you."

His face still looked stung with pain.

He lifted his heavy, tired eyes to mine. "No my child, it is I who came to save you. It is as it has to be. Without my sacrifice..."

What? He stopped talking. His eyes looked up to the sky.

"What? Jesus, without your sacrifice, what?" I asked him desperately.

What have I done? I followed his eyes to the sky. It had turned black. What is happening?

"Jesus, what is happening?" All of a sudden, the Earth shook violently.

"Father, forgive them for they know not what they do?" He continued.

It's too late! It's too late! Big balls of fire began to fall like meteors in a meteor shower; except the meteors were driven with a purpose; to destroy all mankind.

"Jesus, we have to run. Jesus!"

I looked down and his body was gone.

I started running with no direction only to get away. Then, the Earth shook again and a huge crack appeared in front of me. I had to slide to a stop. I looked down at what could have been my fate. The crack went all the way to the core. I could see the orange of the outer core as it slushed back and forth.

I saw something emerging. I couldn't make out what it was. I started to back away. Then I saw the head of a giant snake. I turned to run, but the fire balls were falling in that direction. There was no way around the crack. I was stuck. I looked up at the snake. It flicked its tongue at me. I closed my eyes. The snake swallowed me whole. I started screaming and fighting. I was kicking and hitting.

I opened my eyes. The clock read 3:25am. I sat up in my bed. I looked at my hands. A dream. It was all a dream. I went to the kitchen to get a glass of water. I walked back to my room. What a realistic dream?

I wonder what it means, if anything. I'll have to ask my dad when they come back later today. I grabbed my Bible. I'm sure it won't do anything seeing, as though I can't take it in the dream with me. Yet, I do feel a degree of comfort with it in my arms. I curled up under the covers, said a quick prayer, and went back to sleep.

##  CHAPTER 12--MISSY

Phillip had to go to the church and rehearse for a play so; once again, we were at church. While he hurried to the youth room, I looked around to see who else was waiting at the church.

"Hi Missy."

It was Mrs. Templet. She is such a sweet woman, but her voice is so high pitched and squeaky. It is very hard to focus on what she is saying and not get irritated.

"How are your parents? I heard they are out of town."

I'm not sure what she already knows, but this sounds like an attempt to fish for information. I'm not even going to entertain the curiosity.

"They were good when we spoke last night. My guess is they are on their way home." I watched her to see how she responded to my bland answer and to check my assumption.

"Oh...well, that's good. It must be a long journey for them to have to leave so early in the morning. I will have to pray it be a safe one. Anything can happen on the road these days. Or in a plane, train, or boat too for that matter." She was watching me for a clue to which applied to them.

It is kind of funny how nosey people are about other people's lives. My parents are not here. That should be enough.

"Yeah, you will see them tomorrow at church. I will agree in prayer with you for their safe return. Thank you for your concern Mrs. Templet. If you will excuse me, I have something I must take care of now. Thank you, again."

In truth, I am going nowhere fast, but I need to make a break from this obvious attempt at information. Mrs. Templet is known for prying into everyone's affairs. She likes to know everything. Then, she'll call up other nosey members and they talk about what all they have discovered. I guess they are so old they have nothing else better to do with their time.

Sometimes, I wonder if I will be like that when I get old. I sure hope not. I headed for the bathroom.

Just as I reached the door, I saw Amber.

"Hey!" We both greeted each other. "Are you here for practice?" I asked her.

"Yeah, I decided to try my hand at acting. It gives me something to do." She responded.

She had on a banana yellow fitted t-shirt and rugged boot cut jeans. Her hair was up in a ponytail this time.

"Well, my brother seems to enjoy it." I added.

She smiled at the reference. Oh no, she likes him too. Another poor lost soul hopelessly in "like" with my brother.

"Yeah, he gets all into it. It's cute." She replied blushing.

Whatever...I can see this conversation is over. I don't even want to know or answer any questions about him.

"Well, I'll let you get back. I have to go to the little girl's room." And with that, I left.

After I left out the bathroom, I thought it best to sit in my car until Phillip finished practice. I really don't want to entertain any more conversations. I'll save that for Sunday. There are plenty of other things I can be thinking about; like that weird dream I had last night. I can't wait to talk to dad about that.

##  CHAPTER 13—PASTOR MIKE

The ship made it back to the dock at around three o'clock on Saturday. Even though it wasn't a long trip, it was great being able to spend time with Melayla in such a romantic atmosphere. I planned on us taking a longer trip later in the year. This trip only makes me want to hold to that promise even more. I would love to have more time alone with her.

Phillip should be done with practice by now. I'd expect them to be back at home when we arrive. We are only about twenty minutes away.

"What do you want for dinner tonight?" Melayla asked.

She knows I never have an answer to that question. It really makes me no difference what we eat as long as we eat. She must want to engage in a conversation because surely after all these years, she knows my response. Nevertheless, it is better to just entertain her in the best way possible.

"I don't have any preference, Sweetie. Whatever you cook, is fine with me?" I glanced at her and smiled. She returned the smile.

I looked in to my rearview mirror. Missy? How did she get in the back seat? I can't say for certain because her head is down and it's hard to know from her rearview mirror reflection. Since I am driving, I'll turn my head quickly and glance over my shoulder for a better view. She's gone. I looked back in the mirror...she is back. Now her face is visible. It is Missy.

Her face is bubbling just like in my vision of Melayla in the kitchen a few days ago. Her eyes staring at me as if they are trying to slice me open. As her deep, black pupils dilate, they pull at my soul. I can feel the darkness fall upon me. Her face is stern and angry, but she hasn't said a word. She is sending a message of the purest of evil, as she illuminates the power and depth of darkness. The demons are getting stronger. Soon they will be ready. There is no fear on her face only intimidation and warning.

Even though, they know they will lose, they carry such confidence and boldness. Yet we are given the victory and we cower at the sight or touch of them. I did not cower in my response. I looked deep into her pitiless eyes and sent a message of my own. "You have already been defeated Satan. You cannot have my family. Victory is ours." I told the demon.

Melayla, unaware of the spirit, responded. "What honey?"

, Missy parted her lips to a full smile. There were worms crawling in her mouth. All of a sudden, she opened her mouth and a swarm of flies came out like projectile vomit. I swerved the car and lost control. We crossed the medium and went into the oncoming traffic lanes. The car turned just perfectly in the direction of the oncoming traffic. We got hit head on by an eighteen wheeler. The hits ricocheted back several cars into a massive pile up leaving our car in what I would imagine resembled a crushed coke can, judging from the way the inside is smashed up.

I was pinned between the dashboard and the trunk. I tried to move my legs, but felt nothing. There was so much pain happening at once. I guess it all cancelled out and left me in a numb state. Truthfully, I didn't even feel like I was in my body, but floating above telling myself to move. My arms were smashed inside the metal as well.

I turned my head to look at Melayla. I couldn't hear her. Is she ok? Did she survive? All I can see is her face pinned between the airbag and the trunk. Several pieces of windshield glass were jabbed in her body. She isn't moving. Her eyes are open, but they are not the same questioning eyes that dance into your heart; instead, they are dense, cold, and lifeless.

"Melayla!" I screamed. "Melayla!" Each time I screamed her name, it felt like a knife pierced deeper into my heart.

Tears began to crawl down my face as if they were uncertain as to why they were there so soon. Our life wasn't supposed to end like this. We still have more years to go.

"Melayla!"

This time the pressure crushed into my chest so hard I couldn't breathe. My body pounded in unison with my failing heart. I closed my eyes because I didn't want my last image of my wife to be of such pain and agony.

I want to remember love. I want to remember the day we first met. She pretended not to notice my eyes as they tried to engage hers. I want to remember the day she agreed to be my wife. Her face glowed with several shades of happiness. I want to remember our wedding day. I was so nervous I thought I would pass out. My heart pounded louder than the music. I feared I wouldn't be able to live up to the commitment. With her I felt like a mere human, while she was a supernatural being. The beauty she encompasses can't be natural. She had to be an angel on earth. I was unworthy of such a prize. Yet she smiled at me as her eyes swelled with tears of joy. She reveled in her decision to make me hers' forever. She was proud and honored to bear my name. I want to remember those eyes.

I started gasping for air. Breathe...I can't...Breathe! I told myself again. I closed my eyes.

I opened my eyes while gasping for air. As I looked to my left, Melayla was driving and saying something to me. I felt her hand on my leg.

"Mikey! Are you okay?" She sounded like she had asked the question before.

It was a dream or better yet a nightmare. I haven't had a nightmare since I was a little boy. I grabbed my bottle of water and took a drink.

"I'm okay. It was a nightmare." I said while trying not to look at her because I know how foolish it sounds.

"You had me worried. It happened so fast. Of course, we are in bumper to bumper traffic so I couldn't get to the shoulder. You were sound asleep, and then you couldn't breathe. You started kicking and shaking. I was trying to get through the traffic to stop the car. I was so scared. I didn't know what to do. I prayed...Are you sure you are okay?"

I took a few more slow breaths. What is happening? Why is this happening?

"Yeah I'm sure. I'm okay. Keep going. We don't have to stop. I'm fine. It was just a dream...a weird dream."

She didn't look like she believed me, but I didn't believe me either so it didn't matter. Thankfully, she kept driving. I don't want to dwell on it any longer. It was the worst feeling in my life. Half an hour later, we pulled into the drive way. I am anxious to see how the kids faired, but I am even more anxious to talk to Missy. I can't help but think we are running out of time.

##  CHAPTER 14--MISSY

"Missy, will you come with me to the grocery store. I need to pick up a few things for your mom." My dad normally makes this type of request in an attempt to have father-daughter time.

I suppose since I'm getting older he wants to know what I'm thinking. I don't get to talk to him very often especially as of lately. He has been going on more and more missions trips. Sometimes, I wonder if he will just move abroad. But I know he won't leave my mom here because he loves her way too much to be apart from her that long.

After twenty-six years, they still act like teenagers in love. I pray I'll have a relationship like theirs one day. My mom is such a strong woman. She's got that whole "stand by your man" thing down pat. I know my dad is a good man, but I don't know if I could do all she does for him or us for that matter. She gives so much and doesn't expect anything in return. Don't get me wrong my dad takes care of her. He treats her like a queen. I guess that's why she does all she can for him.

"Sure dad," I almost forgot to respond. "I'll go."

I pulled out a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. There is no need to be fancy. There is never a need to be fancy. I grabbed some tennis shoes and went to the living room.

"Ok. We will see you in a bit." He said, as he gave my mom a kiss on the cheek.

"I love you," My mom responded.

"I love you too."

No matter what, they always say I love you before leaving each other. They don't even leave a conversation on the phone without saying "I love you." My mom does the same thing with us. I guess they don't want a moment to pass where they miss the opportunity to say it. You hear stories all the time of people dying all of a sudden and their loved ones regret not having told them of their love for them. Maybe that's why my parents make a point of doing it so very often.

"So Missy, have you made any decisions about college?" My dad interrupted my thoughts.

"Kind of, sort of, I guess." I heard the question, but my thoughts were too preoccupied to engage.

We had taken his Ford 150 to the store. It is a white double cab that stays clean. It was actually a gift from the church.

The truck he had before had definitely seen better days. It kept breaking down, but he kept pushing it. I was so embarrassed to see him coming because of the awful screech it made when he pressed the brake. More embarrassing was the smoke that circled it like it was setting the mood for a concert, when it was parked. I had to pretend I could breathe as I hurried to get inside. I didn't want to draw attention by coughing or panting. Most of the time, I would just hold my breath. Then, when I did finally get in the car, praying all my friends and peers forget they ever saw it, he'd roll the window down and carry on conversations with the teachers. These same teachers are members of the church whom he could ask these questions to on Sunday. I am so glad I grew up past that stage. I'm embarrassed just reliving the horror in memory.

Thankfully, the church wanted him to have a more reliable means of transportation since he spends so much time visiting members. They surprised him with it a few months ago. I still can't believe he wanted to keep the old one after he got the new one. The only reason he didn't keep it is a man desperately needed a vehicle so he donated it to him. The man said he could patch up some of the issues and make it work.

We have some very wealthy people in our congregation. I have only discovered a few in conversations. The ones with real money don't make it known. They blend in like camouflage. They don't come in fancy clothes and cars or flash big spending. I just know from talking to the kids. They may make mention of going to one of their vacation homes or donating expensive items to charity. You know they aren't of average breed. Regardless of what, some of them pulled together and got him a brand new Ford 150 off the lot! I believe it's some sort of limited edition. I'm not that into vehicles, so I don't really know.

"Missy, seriously, I know you understand the importance of the decision. We just want to help or maybe just be in the loop. The choice is yours to make, but can we at least share the moment?"

Now, he had my attention. I didn't know they were so affected by my lack of conversation about schools. I just don't want them to try and take over and tell me what Jesus would do. I want this to be about me. It's for and by me. I earned it. I don't want them to sway my decision, but I don't want to hurt them either. I love them.

"Sorry Dad, I know you don't mean any harm and neither do I. I just want to make this decision by myself, but I will keep you informed. I do want you to share it with me. As of right now, I'm still researching. I have a couple of schools that are high on my list, but I haven't decided." I waited for the follow up question.

"Which ones are at the top of your list?"

Just the question I was expecting. I suppose I could have said the ones I'm looking at in the beginning. I just don't know if I want them to know. They may start trying to talk me out of my choice.

I don't want to stay here. I need to get away and I want to go as far away as possible. I need to find out who I am without a million eyes staring at trying to capture my failures. I want to make mistakes. I want to learn from my own mistakes not just hear about everyone else's. I know it sounds weird. I'm just tired of the stress associated with trying to be a people pleaser; to be perfect.

"I'm considering Atlanta." I looked at him to see his responses beyond his words.

Even though I said I would try and keep them involved, I want to test just how much of this moment they want to share.

"Atlanta. That's 10 hours from here. Do you really have to go that far away from home? I guess we could fly and visit you. It may only be a one hour or so flight." My dad interjected as soon as the word left my lips.

I hadn't considered them flying to check up on me. In that case, I could go to the edges of the states and they would still visit frequently. I should have known. If he can spend every other week flying to a foreign country, then he could surely fly to visit me every other weekend...or maybe even more!

"Does the school have a good pharmacy program?"

Originally, I said I would major in pharmacy. I don't know if I still want to do that or not. The more I think about it, the more I realize I have no idea what I want to do.

"I don't know Dad. I don't even know if I still want to do pharmacy."

I didn't want to lie because I never even looked at the programs at the school. I was just testing him to see his response to my leaving the state. We pulled up to the store. My dad checked his pockets for the list mom gave him.

"If you are not sure about pharmacy, what else are you considering?"

I expected this question too, but I still don't have an answer.

"I don't know. I'm praying and seeking God's direction." That should definitely work. Any response including God is usually a good response.

"I'll agree in prayer with you. When we get home, we will all pray together about it. God knows how he wants to use you."

Maybe they really would trust my decision and not push me. We got the items mom wanted and headed to the car. As soon as we crossed the threshold of the store, a man approached my father.

"Pastor, I tried to come to church Sunday, but I couldn't find a way. I really could use a little change to buy something to eat. I'm looking for a job, but no one wants to hire me."

It never fails. Every time we go somewhere there has got to be at least one person begging. If the person genuinely needed help, it would be a different story. But these people don't need help. They just want to drop a guilt trip to take your money and buy drugs or alcohol.

"Sure. Here you go. Remember Jesus loves you. Maybe I'll see you next Sunday. God can change your situation if you let him."

And every time, my dad gives it to them. It seems more like enabling the habit than helping them. I don't understand why he doesn't just keep walking. We need our money. His income is the only income for the family. Even though he gets paid very well by the church, he also travels outside the country on mission trips a lot and that expense is paid by him personally. Not to mention, all the activities we are in and the bills. I may not know our financial situation, but I know money doesn't grow on trees.

If he wants to give money to someone, he can give it to me and I'll put it towards my college spending. Yet if I ever said that out loud, I would get so many disapproving looks. How dare I ever think such thoughts about helping the needy? How unchristlike of me to want to save money as opposed to flushing it through an addict's veins. My face must have echoed my thoughts.

"What's wrong Missy?" My dad asked me.

"Nothing" I replied probably too quickly. I don't even want to have this conversation. I may get condemned to Hell.

"Missy, you can talk to me. You can ask me anything you want. I won't judge you. I know it's hard having a pastor for a dad, but remember I spent the majority of my younger days as an unsaved person. I know you will have struggles. We all have struggles. I just want to help you as best I can."

I know my dad's testimony, but it's still hard to talk to him about "ungodly" thoughts or opinions. Although I can appreciate his laid back nature, I also have to consider his ordained path and sermons. At least, he doesn't talk down to us. He also doesn't quote the Bible to chastise every little thing we do wrong. I know I can talk to him. I just don't want him to be disappointed in me.

"Missy?" My dad noticed I had drifted in my thoughts again.

"I don't understand why you always give those addicts money. It's like you are feeding their habits. I know the Bible says to help your neighbor. I know it could be an angel or Jesus testing us to see if we would help the less fortunate. But those people are less fortunate because they choose to be. I don't think Jesus would come to us as a "crack head" to test our generosity. Why should we help them to burn in Hell by feeding the addiction?" I finally said it.

This is something I have been holding for years. I must admit it feels good to get it out. It feels so ludicrous to continually feed this mentality. In my most humble opinion, there's no way to justify it. Yet, I am curious to know his answer.

"I have to do what God requires of me. I am to love my neighbor. Sometimes, we get so caught up in our opinion of what others are doing that we lose sight of what we should be doing. And the fact that our opinion is insignificant when compared to God's commandments. God's word is not conditional on the actions of others, but an independent model. We are to do as he commands, regardless of how it is received or returned.

God shows no prejudice. Even the murderer, who hung beside Jesus, was saved in his final hour. Who are we to decide their judgment or even their need? We are but a vessel of God's love.

Perhaps the money I gave him will be used for his addiction, but how will the seed I planted be used? Maybe one day he may want more in life or maybe he will need help; a safe house. He will remember how willing I was to help him. He will think about what I said about Jesus and come to church. It may even be a different church I don't know.

But what if enough of us stopped judging and started showing God's unconditional love. The world says seeing is believing. They can't see God. They can only see you and me. We are their window to Christ, the Savior. All can come and be saved. If our noses are lifted up, then how can we pick their heads up? What image would you show them of God's love?

Besides, God will provide for me. Obedience is better than sacrifice. I don't want to lose a dollar trying to hold on to a dime. I do as God tells me to do. Once it's done, it's up to them to choose their own way. Don't allow other's actions to hinder your growth."

I must admit this is an unexpected answer. "I guess I never thought about it that way before," was all I could say.

I have been so consumed with what the person was doing that I forgot about what I should be doing. More importantly, I forgot about what God was doing.

"Dad," I almost forgot I need to ask him about the dream I had while they were on their anniversary trip. "While you and mom were gone, I had a very weird dream. Can you tell me what it means, if anything?"

My dad seemed more interested in my dream than I expected. "Yeah, sure, tell me about it."

I told him about how I stopped Jesus from being hung on the cross. I told him how everything was destroyed by fire and I was eaten by a snake. For a moment, he was quiet.

"Missy, there are some very strange things happening. It's important for you to understand we are fighting forces of evil. We are in the last days, Missy. I know you have been hearing that ever since before you were old enough to understand. But, I believe the time is coming very soon."

He looked at me as if trying to gauge whether or not he should continue.

"Missy, I have been fighting demonic spirits for the entirety of my years as a pastor. I'm talking about real demonic possessions. God is using me and his angels use my body when necessary to send the spirits back to Hell. That is why I am called on so many mission trips. The demons are getting stronger and the spirits more difficult to remove. I too have been seeing images and having nightmares. Something big is about to happen." He paused and glanced at me perhaps trying to gauge my acceptance or to allow me to insert any questions. But I was still trying to understand what he was saying.

Has Dad finally cracked up on all this religion? The things he is saying make absolutely no sense. This isn't a horror movie, it's real life. This is a tricky situation; sadly, I don't know how to question him without making him sound like a nut. I definitely don't want to be disrespectful to him or God. So, I think it best I not say anything at all.

"Missy, I know it sounds crazy, but it's true I wouldn't lie to you honey. I have wanted to tell you for a long time because..." he stopped talking and switched the subject.

He must have figured it out that he lost me a long time ago, back with the demonic spirits and angels using human bodies.

"I think your dream is another hint of what is to happen in the last days. I don't know the meaning, but I will pray and ask God to reveal it to me."

I tried to think of something to say, but couldn't pull anything. "Ok Dad," I know I shouldn't say more, but I am worried about him. I know it is rough being a pastor and holding the weight of everyone's problems. It's not unusual to be overcome with the stress of limitless commitments and requests. Maybe it's all finally catching up with him. "Dad, you have been running a lot lately. Maybe you should take a break, a real break. You are not as young as you used to be." I forced a smile to lighten the mood.

"Yeah I know... time waits for no man."

I couldn't tell if this was a serious statement or an attempt at humor. Judging from his facial expression, it wasn't the latter. It is an expression I don't understand, perhaps concern. But for what?

We pulled into the driveway. Dad parked the car and looked at me as if he was about to say something. I quickly unbuckled my seatbelt and got out. He came out shortly after. He was probably second guessing the way the conversation turned, but I feel there is nothing to be said right now. I went to the already popped trunk and started unloading.

Phillip must have been eyeing our return because he came out and grabbed some bags too. He's always so anxious to do extra stuff. I wonder why Dad didn't have that conversation with him. I'm sure he would have eaten that up. He'd love to be an angel warrior. I guess he chose me because I'm the oldest.

"Hey Dad, the game is about to come on. You ready to get beat like scrambled eggs." Phillip said redirecting Dad's attention. Dad just laughed.

"Yeah right! Your team doesn't stand a chance. Besides I think tonight the eggs will be sunny side up."

As they laughed, we all went inside to get ready for dinner and the game.

##  CHAPTER 15—PASTOR MIKE

As soon as we made it home from our trip, I went to the grocery store with Missy. I really needed to talk to her about the battle taking place. I will need her to be ready to fight should something happen to me.

Right off, we got sidetracked by a conversation about my giving money to the homeless. She hates when I do that. Yet, I have to do what I feel is right. I told her I am not responsible for anyone's actions but my own. While I don't think she likes the idea, I think she understands it now.

Then, she told me about a dream she had. She said she wanted to know what it meant, but she isn't ready to know the meaning. I think it related to an attack of the devil some kind of way. I told her I'd pray about it, and I will. I tried to tell her about the demonic spirits, but she just isn't ready. Now she's worried because she thinks I'm going crazy.

I may have to show her. She should be graduating soon. The next mission call I get, hopefully before she leaves for college, I will try and talk her into attending.

For now, I will seek God in prayer and seek clarity to these nightmares. I prayed to him for clarity and revelation and he gave it to me. It is everything I suspected and expected and more. Satan is going to attack us soon. One of his demons is going to come and try to change people's belief of the prophecy. He will attack and discredit the Bible. All who choose to serve him will be destroyed by God. This will be the biggest battle yet.

##  CHAPTER 16--MISSY

Six o'clock alarm. This morning I feel different. I feel ready. I feel ready to be different. It's the last day of school. I have been waiting for this day. Finally, the end of high school, and the beginning of adulthood. Today, I want to be different.

I looked at my reflection in the mirror. I have been hiding for long enough. I pushed my hair behind my ears, revealing my high cheek bones. I touched the sides of my face, rubbing down gently. Maybe, I am pretty. I wonder what people would say if they really saw me.

I went to my closet and pulled out a never before worn skirt my aunt bought me. She is much younger than my mom and tends to buy "younger", more fashionable clothes. Why did I never wear this, it's cute? I put it on. I remember now. The skirt stopped just above my knees. I don't like to show my legs. I looked at my legs. Why don't I show my legs? Actually, I have nice legs. I exercise a lot to preoccupy my mind causing my legs to be very tone. They almost sparkle with a golden shimmer. And their tone is so flawless... probably because they have never been exposed to injury. Oh well, today I'm wearing this skirt.

I went back to the closet to find a top. I pulled out a matching baby tee. It was a tad bit tighter than I usually wear my shirts, yet it looked good with the skirt. I grabbed a pair of wedges my aunt bought me. I looked in the mirror. I turned to the side. Then, I slid the wedges off...too much! I grabbed a pair of slip-ons. They look fine and are comfortable. I don't want to look like I'm trying too hard.

Now for the hair, I went to the bathroom. I put some products on my hair to enhance my curls. Then, I pulled back the top and pinned it so it could fall messily over the rest.

Now you can see my face. My eyes are so defined, even without liner. I never even noticed the cat-like shape of them. I decided to put a little lip gloss on. The gloss added a little shimmer to my amber rose colored lips. My lips are not huge, but they are full. I stared at myself. Wow!

Just the little bit I did revealed so much of me. I got embarrassed by the sight. I have never shown myself like this. Maybe I should just take this all off and stop it. I can't do this! What if they don't like it? I will be the laughing stock of the year. At least the way I was, no one noticed me at all so I didn't get talked about. No, I'm not changing. I have to know. Am I pretty? Will they "see" me? Can I fit in? Before I leave high school as a textbook, only used as a reference, I have to know.

I walked into the kitchen.

"Good morning Missy." My mom said as she turned towards me. "Wow, Missy you look so beautiful!" She was grinning from ear to ear.

It has been a while since I made her smile like that. I bent my head down. I expected a response, but it was still uncomfortable to have the extra attention.

"And your hair...it is so cute!" She said, as she touched one of my bouncing curls. "Is something special happening today? I know it's your last day, but I don't remember any events?"

I could tell she was being genuine and not making fun of my change.

"No Mom, I just wanted to do something different, with it being the last day and all."

She looked relieved. I suppose she thought she forgot something. That would be catastrophic. Even as busy as she is, she doesn't give way to forgetfulness.

"Okay, have a seat and I'll bring your breakfast."

I sat down and looked back at her scurrying around the kitchen. She was still smiling.

My dad walked in. "Good morning. How is everybody?" He was looking at a paper.

Mom handed him a cup of coffee and responded. "Good"

They exchanged a quick kiss. "And how are you Missy?" He always pushes for a response from me.

He glanced at me briefly, but before doing a double take. I smiled at his response. "Missy, you look beautiful. Having your hair pulled back really shows that cute little face." He said and laughed a little.

"Tell her to stand up" my mom suggested.

"Why? What is she wearing?" He asked her a little concerned.

I found his response quite humorous and smirked at his expression. If I was a skimpy dresser, I don't think he could take it.

Then he turned back to me and began moving in my direction. "Missy, stand up and show me what you're wearing."

I knew he was only concerned because Mom has never suggested it before. So I just did it without question. I took a princess bow to lighten the mood.

"Well aren't you just a sight to see." My dad said "You're not trying to get a boy are you?"

I laughed.

"No Dad, I just wanted to try something different for the last day."

He released the arch in his eyebrow. "Well, you look nice, Honey. Have a good last day. And I will see you all later on today."

He spoke to Phillip on his way out.

Phillip walked in the kitchen. Of course, he is always last. He likes to sleep as long as possible. As soon as he got in the kitchen good, his eyes zoomed in on me. A huge grin spread across his face.

"That's what I'm talking about Sis, you look hot!" He laughed. He walked over and stood behind my chair and put his hands on my shoulders. "So why'd you decide to get loose?" He asked wearing a "Kool-Aid" smile.

I slapped his side and looked down to hide the red I felt entering my cheeks. "You are too silly for words. I'm not getting loose. I just wanted to try something different for the last day that's all."

He bent down and whispered in my ear. "You're going to make Kevin reconsider his entire life. You will make him look like the beast." I smiled.

Phillip always has tried to build my confidence. I love him for that. "Thanks Phillip." I put my hand on his hand. He leaned over me and gave me a kiss on my temple.

Next, he went to mom who was now sitting at the table. "Wow Mom, when are you going to start getting older?" He gave her a hug from behind and kissed her temple as well.

"Boy, you are just full of flattery today, aren't you? What do you want?"

Phillip laughed. "Nothing Mom, it's not every day you get to wake up and be surrounded by such beauty. I feel blessed...truly blessed." He gave a sly smile.

"Are you ready, blessed Phillip?" I asked. It was already time to go.

"I was born ready" he replied as he grabbed some of Mom's food to go.

"See you later" Mom bid us farewell.

When I walked on campus, it was like every eye was on me, including teachers'. I'm sure it is probably just me imagining things, but it feels so real.

As I got closer to the crowd, my peers welcomed me. "Hey Missy, I like your outfit." "Nice skirt, Missy" "Love the hair, Missy" The compliments just kept coming. I don't even know who said what. I just know I kept saying "Thank you".

I was so overwhelmed by the attention, I had to get away. I hurried to the girl's bathroom. I looked in the mirror. What are you doing Missy? It's okay. I looked up at my reflection through the drops of water I had just splashed on my face. It's okay. You look beautiful. I reapplied my lip gloss. With a final pinch of my eyes shut, I left the bathroom.

I made it to History class right with the bell. I sat in my chair. Kevin's eyes immediately found me. I was scared to see his expression, yet I was curious as well. I took my test and passed the rest back. I seized the opportunity to look at him. He smiled at me. I could tell he liked my new appearance. Suddenly, I felt good. Real good.

I took my cover sheet from under my test and placed it over my answers. I looked over at him.

He gave another "please" look. This time I returned a look back.

"Sorry" I mouthed. I turned back around.

My whole body felt so good. It was like I was tingling all over with happiness. It is the feeling you get when you do the right thing, and you don't care who dislikes you for it. It is the feeling of confidence. It is the feeling of the new me. And I like it. I smiled and closed my eyes to enjoy the moment. Now it's back to business. I opened my eyes and aced the test. I walked out the class on cloud nine.

Then, I heard someone call my name. I turned to see Megan.

"Missy...I hope you didn't think you were the only option." Megan taunted.

The comment didn't even begin to ring a bell. "What are you talking about, Megan?"

She squinted her eyes and crossed her arms, as if, she was irritated by my response. "The test...I hope you don't think you stopped something. Don't flatter yourself. We always have a Plan B. I just thought you should know."

I grinned. "I'm flattered to know I was Plan A. That's quite the compliment."

I turned to leave, then stopped and returned my gaze upon her face which rendered a priceless amusement. "Oh and Megan, if I never see you again, it would be too soon." I closed it with a cordial smile before walking away from the nonsense.

How pathetic could you really be? To think, I used to be that hopeless for Kevin. It is amazing how much better it shows up on someone else. The positive thing is: it's over. It's all over.

When we made it home, I checked the mail. I am still waiting for acceptance and scholarship letters from a few of my choice universities. As I shuffled through the mail, I noticed a letter addressed to my dad. Obviously, my dad receives mail all the time. Yet, this letter was different. The return address was from Dubai. I hurried inside to give the letter to him. My dad took it into his office I'm guessing to read it in confidence. He didn't come back out until it was time for dinner.

After we did the usual dinner ritual, my dad opened the conversation.

"I received a letter today from Victor. He has requested my assistance in Dubai. The earliest I can get away is May 26th."

I interrupted. "That's the day after my graduation."

He nodded. "I know. I didn't want to miss it."

I turned and looked back to my plate waiting for more information.

"Missy, I realize it's the day after your graduation, but I was hoping you would consider coming with me."

This suggestion caught me off guard. When my father first started doing missions, we would go with him. The past few years his mission trips have been too dangerous for us to attend. Judging from his mannerisms, this trip doesn't come off as the standard "entertain the kids at an orphanage". Why would he want me to go with him? Surely he sensed my thirst for the freedom following my graduation. Perhaps that was the reasoning behind his request, one final opportunity to spend time with me before I left on my quest to find myself. Whatever the reason, I know him well enough to know, if he didn't need my presence, he wouldn't have asked. Besides, it will be good to get away and spend some time with him before I leave for college.

I agreed.

##  CHAPTER 17--MISSY

We left home around five o' clock this morning. The plan was to drive two hours to the airport and then fly to Dubai. We made it to the airport just in time to catch our flight. This is my first plane ride. We have always driven for our family vacations, probably because of how expensive it is to fly.

I have been told the "take off" is the worst part, unless you have a height complex. I like riding roller coasters; the taller the better. So I don't think I will have a height issue. Oh my gosh, it's time for "take off". Okay, okay, what's with all the shaking? Just relax take a deep breath close your eyes and it will all be over soon. When I opened my eyes, we were above the clouds. It's so serene up here.

I looked around to see how the other passengers were doing. Some of them had headphones on jamming. Others were reading. I don't see how they can read and ride. I can't even read while riding in a car without getting nauseous. Uh oh, that guy really doesn't look very well. His face is turning green and his skin looks clammy. I don't think he's going to make it. There he goes, headed straight for the bathroom. Bless his little heart.

I looked at my dad. He had his eyes closed and his head tilted slightly upward and pressed back against the seat. He didn't look like he was sleeping, though.

"Dad?" I nudged him a little.

"Yes, Sweetheart." He jerked and opened his eyes to see if something was wrong.

"Are you okay?"

He is kinda jumpy for a seasoned plane rider, so I wonder what's got him on edge.

"Yes, I'm fine. Just praying and resting."

He is always running so it's not surprising he is tired.

"Have you given anymore thought to a university?"

I guess I have his attention now. I received my last few acceptance letters yesterday. Now, the choice is mine.

"I'm still thinking about it. At first, I was going to leave the state. Now, I'm thinking I may stay."

I'm sure Phillip will stay and go to school around home so I'm considering not going so far away.

"That would be nice. Then we wouldn't have to travel so far to visit you." He looked at me, and then toned back his excitement. "But, of course, the choice is yours. We want you to attend the school that will make you most satisfied and comfortable. After all, you were the Valedictorian. I trust, if you could remain focused in high school, you will have no trouble in college."

He must know I don't want to stay here and be "perfect". If he didn't, he had to of seen it on my face when he started with that "visiting" talk. I want them to visit me, but I don't want to be too accessible. If I am, there may be pop ups. I don't want to be hanging with my friends and, all of a sudden, here he comes running in with a Bible trying to have Bible study. I honestly could see him doing that. I don't want anyone to know who I am. I just want to blend in and be normal.

"You don't have to worry about me, Dad."

He smiled and returned to his "Prayer/rest" mode.

"Dad, what's been going on lately? You seem different. I know you told me about the "last days" and demonic possessions when I asked about my dream and it all sounds-for lack of a better word-unbelievable..." I paused slightly at my word choice. "Yet, I can tell something is bothering you so some part of it must be real. So I'll try to understand."

I have noticed his looks of concern, especially about me for a while now. And lately, he has been getting way more mission calls. He has even been making more house calls in the area. Certainly, he knows I noticed the change. Yet, he looks surprised and relieved that I am more open to the previously failed conversation.

"A lot of things have been happening lately. As you know, I am getting a lot more calls requesting my assistance. I know you don't know a lot about what I do. Your mother and I decided we would tell you guys when you were old enough to understand. You know I add to just about every message I preach the importance of knowing we are battling against Satan daily for souls. That battle is more real than you know." He paused, I am guessing to organize his words considering our last conversation was basically a disaster.

It seems like this will be more of an answer than I was expecting. "When I get called, be it to go to Mexico or just up the street, it is usually regarding a possession; a demonic possession."

I interrupted. "Like...'The Exorcist' possession?"

"Yes and no...that is a more dramatized depiction of how the possession usually is. Most possessions are not that obvious in physical appearance until the possessed is confronted by a minister. Then the evil spirit becomes more visible. Usually, the spirit will just inhabit the person and cause them to do terrible things. Lately, the things being done are extremely disturbing and violent. I believe Satan is devising a plan of a great attack. The evil spirits are getting stronger and seem to be experimenting and evolving."

Well, he was correct in saying it was best to wait until we were older to have this conversation. All I can say is, I am still not old enough. This sounds so crazy! If he wasn't a pastor and my father, I'd want to have him evaluated. I know he wouldn't lie to me, especially about something "God based". Yet, I can't imagine real life "Exorcist type" stuff happening every day.

"So, people are getting possessed by demons and doing weird things. Why don't we hear about any of this stuff, like on the news or something?"

"What would such publicity accomplish? It would cause you to have fear, if you believed it. Or, it would cause you to have a greater disbelief because you would think the person was faking and associate it with the whole church? The possessed person may even be deemed crazy and end up in a strait jacket at the psych ward. But would it make you want to serve and follow Christ more earnestly? Perhaps some would, but the majority would try to explain it away. Someone may even come up with a scientific hypothesis. It is better to cover it up for now, than to try and explain it to a world where so many question God. God has ordained ministers to fight against the evil spirits. I am one of the chosen ones."

This is too much like a crazy, horror movie. So now, I guess one of those demon things is going to attack us. I started laughing more so at my thoughts than the conversation. My dad didn't share my comic relief.

"I'm sorry. It's just a lot to comprehend...You're like an angel warrior." I laughed again. "Sorry, I know you are serious, but it's a little hard for me to believe. I've never seen anything like that before."

His expression wasn't angry, but thoughtful. "You haven't seen the air, but you breathe it every day. You haven't seen God, but you believe in Him. I knew it would be hard to believe, that's why I wanted you to come with me on this trip."

Ok, so I'm going to see a possession. That is scary, but interesting at the same time. At least, I'm going with an angel warrior. I giggled to myself. But what if... it really is real?

My dad resumed his previous position. I decided to take a nap.

A few long hours later, we arrived. We were greeted by a man named Busho. Except he pronounced the "u" like "oo," instead of the bush-o pronunciation I would have given. He seemed very nice, but a bit jittery. Perhaps, he was anxious. You'd think he was the rabbit on "Alice in Wonderland." "I'm late. I'm late for a very important date." It's a good thing I can entertain myself because so far nothing about this trip seems fun or exciting.

We got into Busho's car and he chauffeured us to the house where I assume we'll be staying. Victor came out to welcome us in. I'm pretty sure I've seen him before when I was younger. He is shorter than my dad with a darker complexion and bald head. I'd classify him as average looking. He, too, seemed bothered by something.

"Thank you so much for coming...And you brought your daughter." It almost sounded like a question.

"Yes, she just graduated and I felt it time she see what the battlefield is like."

Victor looked like he received the words differently than my father presented them. "Well, I can certainly see characteristics of your wife in her. She is a lovely girl."

You can't possibly see any characteristic of my mother in me. My mother is beautiful. Her long wavy hair flows past her shoulders to just below her shoulder blades. Her big deep brown eyes look at you with so much certainty it is hard to hold a stare with her. It's like she is looking deep within you and stealing peaks at your soul. Yet, once you are engaged with her you can't break away. My eyes cower when approached by another. Her inner qualities of humbleness and kindness are the only reason she would be deemed approachable. She could easily be the stuck up model type you could only look at from afar. To say that you see anything from such a woman in me is ludicrous. He must be referring to our height comparison because I am nowhere near a sight to be reckoned with when placed beside her.

My hair is long, but more curly than wavy. Unlike my mother's dark brown ripples that flow down her back like a peaceful stream. I just started wearing mine pushed back behind my ears and shoulders thereby allowing my facial features to be emphasized. Basically, to compare me to someone as stunningly beautiful as my mother is an injustice to her. Yet, I had for a moment experienced a glimpse of such adoration on the last day of school. Everybody kept complimenting me on my outfit and my hair. Maybe I am pretty, but I am still no comparison to my mom, no one is.

"Can I speak with you privately? There is so much for me to tell you."

I'll take that as my cue to leave and will do so happily. As I reached for my bag, my father stopped me.

"I understand your hesitation, but please speak freely in front of Missy. It is important for her to know every aspect of the mission firsthand."

Victor accepted my father's response. I suppose he had no other choice. "I understand. Recently, a man arrived to our village professing he is the "Son of the Father". He claims he was sent here to give humanity another chance...to fix the prophecy. He has been performing miracles and speaking from scripture. Although he is unclear as to whom his father is and his interpretation of the scripture is of misguided context. He acts as though he believes himself immortal."

"The prophecy?" I said. Realizing afterwards that I probably shouldn't be interjecting, but listening like a fly on the wall.

"The prophecy of Jesus Christ: He was sent here by the Father to be the ultimate sacrifice for mankind. In order to fulfill the prophecy, He had to be killed so that He would rise again and..."

I am very familiar with that prophecy. In fact, I had just had a dream about it. I, too, tried to save Jesus, yet it wasn't my intention to fix the prophecy only to end his suffering. I guess you can't have one without the other. I realize now Jesus' sacrifice isn't to be fixed. If Jesus had never died for our sins, how then would they be washed away; forgiven?

"What is this man trying to do?" Another question probably best kept to me.

Victor didn't even hesitate at his answer. "Right now, he is trying to gain peoples hope...or faith, if you will. I believe that if he can make people believe his story, he will destroy everything: the Bible, the faith, the belief. I believe Satan sent him to pull off his ultimate deception."

There was a silence. I felt very uneasy. It was like something dropped into the pit of my stomach. The look of concern on my father's and Victor's face told me they probably were experiencing a similar feeling.

"How can we stop him?" My father asked, although, it sounded more like a thought than an attempt for information. It was a simple question, yet the answer was far more complex. If we were honest, we'd have to say we didn't know.

"I will go to him and expose him. I will show that he isn't the Son of God. Then, the people will see his deception." Father continued, attempting to answer his own question. "If we could catch him in a lie, his demonic motives would be revealed to the people. Surely, they would choose not to follow him then."

Victor agreed, but cautiously added "We'd have to be careful. This man has been preaching great sermons and performing miracles. The task of swaying him in the eyes of his followers will not be easy. News of his power is spreading like wild fire from the tongues of the natives."

I know the Bible speaks of false prophets, but I never thought it would be like this. The idea that someone would really be so bold as to defy God in such a mocking manner is frightening. Especially with him being so well versed in the scripture, he must know the consequence of his actions.

"Where is he? We must go now!" The urgency from my father poured upon us. We left at once.

I can tell by the way he moves, he is anxiously ready to confront this false prophet. Surprisingly, he doesn't act as though this is a new scenario for him. He acts like he is used to exposing demons and this is just another mission. There is no fear, unlike that which I am harboring on the inside. Maybe the missions and duties he described before held some truth.

We arrived at what looked to be remnants of a temple. It is no longer enclosed leaving the people to stand on the dirt. The prophet stood on what rock remained of the temple which served as a stage. The wind was blowing the dust up into our faces. Yet it didn't seem to faze the crowd.

"I close today asking you to remember the miracles you witnessed today, as well as, my power. Choose ye this day whom ye will serve?"

The prophet is a very handsome man. I expected to see a gremlin but he is very attractive, to say the least. This makes it harder to dislike him. He is probably the same height as my father with a muscular build. His facial features are very captivating. He could easily be a model. Don't forget he's a demon, Missy. I know. I know. I just wish he looked like a demon...Focus Missy.

My father seized the opportunity to gain his attention. "Rabbi," He yelled. "You say you were sent by the Father, but why would he have sent you when the prophecy has already been fulfilled?"

The prophet ran his eyes over the crowd searching for the voice of question. "Reveal yourself," He commanded. "You must be new to us because I have already explained who I am and why I have come."

My father stepped forward. "It was I. I have traveled far to see with my own eyes the man people call the 'Son of the Father'. Yet the Son of God has completed the prophecy, he came to earth and lived a perfect life according to God's will. He then sacrificed himself in crucifixion in order for our sins to be washed away. He was raised from the dead and lives in Heaven with our Father. Why would it be necessary for him to send another? What more is there to do?"

The prophet looked amused by the question. It was almost as if he expected it. He gestured to my dad to come to him. "Come Friend. I assume you are a Minister for the Lord. Of course, you would be skeptical of my existence, my purpose. In fact, I'd expect you to be protective of the Bible's teaching and your god."

As my father started to walk towards him, I lightly grabbed his arm. "He may kill you," I whispered.

"God hasn't given us a spirit of fear," He responded as he released my grip.

"I was sent to test God's people. Yes, it was prophesied that Jesus would come and He would die. But, do we not all begin our cycle to death the moment we are born. No man will live forever. Jesus did not have to die by such anger and hatred. He could have died a more honorable death for someone of his importance. Yet, he was tortured and died a brutal, premature death at the hand of a selfish, evil people. By people who were angry and threatened by his claim to his Father. Had they not have been so eager to protect their pharaohs or other idols; they could have appreciated Jesus' purpose. What kind of a people are you? My father sent me to teach you, heal you, and be your savior on Earth. How will you receive me? Will you always allow hatred to rule in your heart? Will you kill me too?"

The people hung on his every word. They absorbed him like he was their life source. The deception was so thick it almost felt true. If I hadn't spent every waking moment living and breathing God's word I might have believed him. Yet despite how similar his story was to the truth, it was twisted. The people who killed Jesus were evil, which is why they needed a savior.

"God sent his Son that we would not perish, but have everlasting life. You refer to yourself as the 'Son of the Father', but who do you call father?" My father must have decided to cut the small talk and get to the meat of it.

He wouldn't make a false claim to God directly because that would shift the glory back to God. He was trying to distract the people from God to him.

"If I wasn't who I say I am, then how could I do this?" With a violent shake of his arm toward the corner of his stage, a fire blazed.

It was not an ordinary fire with varying degrees of heat from the outside to the center. Instead, it looked as though the whole fire blazed with heat of the center portion of a regular fire; the hottest portion. Everybody gasped. Some people even screamed. The crowd began to back away from the flame. It was so hot you could feel the heat from more than twenty feet away.

"The Bible speaks of three men who were thrown into a fire such as this. They weren't burned. Their God protected them." He paused and turned his gaze from my father to the crowd. Most of them were holding their loved ones and gasping with fear. He commanded his guards with both words and gesture "Go and bring me those three!" He pointed to a group of teens. They were definitely younger than me, maybe fifteen.

We all watched as his guards grabbed them and brought them to the prophet who had once again met eyes with my father.

"You seem to have great concern as to who my father is? However, I have proven my power. I am not of this world. These people have witnessed my miracles. But you, who are you? Who is your Father? Tell your Father to save them that they not burn in this fire."

The crowd shrieked in horror. Loud cries belted throughout. One of the mothers cried out in desperation for her son to be returned to her.

My father's eyes searched the crowd for an instant as if he longed to provide comfort to her. "We are not to tempt our God. Even when Satan came requesting Jesus prove who he was, he did not do so. When Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego went into the fire it wasn't to test God's great power, but to show how God honored their obedience and faithfulness even in the midst of such consequence. It isn't God's will to go tick for tack with you in a conquest of power." My Dad reasoned.

"And yet, if the one you serve is so great and powerful, surely he wouldn't allow such innocent boys to die such a death...Throw them into the fire." The prophet contended.

His guards pulled the boys who were now struggling with all their might. The look of fear on their faces sent a visible chill down my father's spine and left me with a gut-wrenching pain. "We believe in you! Prophet, we believe in you! Please don't kill us!" They reached for the prophet and secured earnest eye contact. For a flash second, I saw something in the boy's faces...their eyes. It was like they were more afraid of what they saw in the prophet's eyes than the fire. Their screams of terror were quickly smothered by cries of pain before being consumed by the fire.

I don't know that I will ever forget those screams.

"Choose ye this day whom ye will serve!" The prophet yelled to the crowd. "See what happens when you disbelieve. I am who I say I am. Who do you believe?" He looked back to my father. "My father would protect his son." He said before walking into the fire. The fire wrapped all around his body, yet he didn't appear affected by it in the least way. He let out a loud cracking laugh as he scanned the faces of the people who looked shocked and amazed by the sight. "Who is your father?" He exclaimed before turning circles in the fire.

A voice sounding to belong to an elderly man arouse in the crowd. "I may not know everything there is to know about the Bible, but I believe that minister. God is not to be tempted. He will protect His kids. But you have to have faith and believe in Him." He said as he made his way to the fire. "All my adult life, I served the Lord and he has not forsaken me yet. He will protect me from this fire."

And with that he walked into the fire.

"My God. My God!" He screamed and started to dance. "It doesn't burn. I knew it. I can't feel it at all. Praise God forever more."

The prophet looked at the old man. The flames obscured my vision of his facial expression. "Brother," he said. "We must serve the same father. Thank you for joining me." The prophet then attempted to wrap his arms around the man in a hug gesture.

"No!" The old man screamed. "You are not my brother and we do not serve the same God. I serve the God of Abraham, Moses, and Isaac. The Father of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ..."

His sentence was cut off as he slumped over in the fire.

"What happened?" Several people yelled out what we were all thinking. Whispers of confusion started. Everyone was afraid to speak loud enough for the prophet to hear.

"He spoke in a tongue he knew nothing about. Did Peter not start to sink when he took his eyes off Jesus?" The prophet answered while exiting the fire.

The flames stopped.

It was a question that made no sense with the current situation. Peter's slight distraction didn't result in his death. Besides, the old man was praising God up until the moment he died. He never showed doubt or disbelief. Yet, it was enough to stir the crowd in his favor. Everyone crowded around him calling him Master.

My father went to the spot where the fire once was. I ran to him.

"Dad, are you okay?" I grabbed him and hugged him. "How can this be? The Bible speaks of false prophets, but this seems beyond that. Is he the Antichrist?" I asked him as he looked at the remains in silence.

I looked at the old man slumped over in the burn spot. While nothing but charred remains of bones remained from the three boys, the old man's body remained unburned.

I continued "He didn't take his eyes off the Lord. The prophet killed him."

It was merely confirmation of what I already knew. I'm almost certain had the boys kept claim to God they too would not have burned. Finally my dad spoke.

"This is bigger than anything we have ever had to come against. Let's go. We have to regroup."

##  CHAPTER 18--MISSY

No one talked about what happened. It was, as if, we were all trying to reason the events that had just taken place.

Finally, I formed a question. "Why don't we just kill him? Why doesn't God kill him? He is killing innocent people in God's name. How could He allow that?"

It had to be said. It was eating away at my belief system and pushing me to question all I've ever known about God. It didn't seem fair. If He is so powerful and mighty, then why wouldn't He stop this? Show Himself? I just can't help but wonder why.

"Because if we kill him, if God sends his angels to kill him, what then would that accomplish? The people are under a wave of deception. They believe him to be the second messiah. They will protect him with their lives. Unless we reveal the demon that he really is, they will forever worship him.

Besides you can't kill demons, they are already dead. All we could do is kill the host. The demon would just come back in another host and pick up where it left off. We have to kill the lie. If we don't kill the lie, we will be perceived as the enemy. The power of the scripture would be lost. He has twisted God's word into the perfect knot. What we have to do is untie it. We have to renew their faith in God, the Father. Then, God can destroy him."

I understand because it reasons well in my heart, but my mind does not agree. "There must be some way to stop him" I thought out loud.

"There is. First, I will call some of my colleagues and persuade them to join us. We could use some help," Dad said, before he left the room and started making phone calls.

"Victor," I said as my voice fell on deaf ears. "Victor?"

He blinked back to attention. "Yes, Missy. I apologize. I was deep in thought."

Couldn't fault him for that, there is a lot to draw thought to. "What do you think the prophet is trying to do?"

He exhaled, as though, he had been holding his breath all day. "I believe..." He raised his hands and ran them down the contour of his face. "I believe he has come to discredit the Bible and cause the demise of Christianity. Then, he will take the lost souls back with him to Hell to join him in the final battle. I believe what we have been preparing for...the last days, is now upon us."

I had a similar thought, but it still seems so unreal. "But the Bible says, he is going to lose that fight." I tried to reassure him and myself.

His head turned in my direction, but his eyes never met mine. "I guess he will die trying, figuratively speaking of course." He turned and walked out the room. "Good night, Missy."

I lowered my head in thought of what he had just said. "Good night, Victor."

It only took two days for the other pastors to arrive. Now there are seven of us. Not quite an army, but seven is usually a lucky number.

"Thanks for coming guys," my father said as he hugged their necks. "This is more than I envisioned when I responded to Victor's request," he added as he met their questioning gazes.

"From what you have told me so far, I can understand that." Benton said. He looked to be around forty. He was a medium build. Some might say stocky. He didn't look like he'd run from very many fights in his years; pre-pastor, of course.

"So what's the plan, Mike?" Swangi asked my father as he made his way closer to the group.

"Always pulling up the rear aye Swangi." Dad laughed before slapping hands with him and pulling him in for a hug. He looked to be the closest in age to my father.

"I was hoping you could help me with that," Dad finished.

Jif turned his attention to me as I watched them interact. "Is this your daughter?" The others then turned to notice me as well.

"Yes, this is my oldest," Dad replied with pride.

"Do you think it is a good idea having her here, in the middle of all this?" Swangi asked with concern while giving me a "no offense" expression.

None taken. I have asked myself the same question maybe a thousand times. I am nowhere near as strong a believer as my father. In fact, I have been counting down my days to freedom for the past year.

I remember some of their faces, but I can understand them not remembering me. I'm sure I have changed a lot over eighteen years. Most of their visits are short and with Dad only.

"We are to train up our kids in the way they should go, right? She is here to see the battle we fight with her own eyes. Who knows, maybe one day she will be more willing to fight with me."

Well, that was an answer delivered, as though, I wasn't standing right here. Yet, it was true. I am not willing to fight in any battles, mainly because I didn't know this kind of battle was taking place. I knew the devil was vying for souls, but not at this level of deception.

"We have to confront him again." Zeal interrupted and shifted the conversation.

I was glad to have the attention off of me.

"Perhaps, he will see our numbers have increased and back down. If all of us are working together, we will have a better chance to expose his lies." Zeal finished.

My father nodded. "I guess that's a good starting place. Tomorrow, we will confront him again."

I looked at Mongo who nodded in agreement, but never said a word.

I decided to find a place to rest as tomorrow already sounds like a busy day. That night, I thought about all that had happened since we got there: The boys that were killed in the fire, the old man that had been so brave, yet he too had been killed all at the hand of the false prophet. The last couple of days before the others came had been crazy as well.

The Prophet had continued teaching, as though, nothing had happened. His message overflowed with deception. He spoke of Genesis and the creation. By twisting God's words of the human creation being good, he encouraged males and females to return to the way God originally designed them to roam the land, in nakedness. The biggest change was to the women, who he encouraged to embrace their distinct beauty.

These women, who wore an abaya, have remained completely covered their entire life only allowing their eyes to show. Now, they are bearing it all. He then told them, it was expected they be fruitful and multiply. The prophet had them convinced the sight was a tribute to the father. They became so engulfed in fornication and perversion that we had to blackout our windows to the view. It reminded me of how I would envision Sodom and Gomorrah. It seemed like the people were in a trance, or operating under a spell. He controlled them.

The way he is twisting the Bible is sickening. And I know if it has this effect on me, God has to be even more so displeased and angered by the sight. He so vividly denounced fornication and perversions in the Bible.

The prophet said, "Since it took God six days to finish the creation, it will take me six days for the corrections. And on the seventh day just as God rested, I too will rest and have a massive celebration for the new beginning."

He also told them, "This time we will not make the same mistakes. We will start by protecting his son, praising and worshipping him, devoting our lives to his work. The time has come for redemption."

I know I am not the holiest Bible warrior, but one thing I remember from all those Bible classes is the importance of not having any idols before God. I realize most of the people only started following him out of the fear of what would happen should they choose to rebel. But fear cannot be the only motivational force when you pledge your life to something. It must be faith.

I only wish I had been more receptive to God's teachings sooner. While some of it stuck through repetition, I hadn't connected with it. Now, I wish my knowledge base was stronger. I wish I knew his promises. I wish I knew what scripture to recite in combat. There really is a battle taking place. I wish I was prepared.

I was so preoccupied with my approaching freedom that I never even noticed. I did not see the signs of the battles my father had been fighting. I assumed his many missions trips were consumed with preaching and playing with unfortunate kids while handing out whatever the church raised to send with him. I did not know he was being used to battle and send demonic spirits back to Hell.

This demonic spirit seemed different to my father, stronger. I wonder if it isn't just a spirit we are dealing with, but a demon that has merged himself with a human making them one flesh. Or, what if it isn't human at all? Not only does that sound crazy, but impossible. Or is it?

Finally, the time came for our second confrontation with Hesna (This is what the prophet now calls himself). The seven of us went to his meeting place. It's my understanding the people wanted to build him a holy temple. He objected stating he liked to be outdoors amongst all things created. I believe while demons can enter the church, it is far too distracting and uncomfortable for them; too many "God" elements.

We preferred to come to his service at the end so as not to subject ourselves to such foolery.

"And we know that the father has given us a sound mind and understanding. Use it to understand your purpose which is to serve me, the father's son."

The crowd went crazy, clapping and screaming. You would think they were at the Super Bowl and their favorite player had just scored a touchdown.

"You did not mention the first half of the scripture; God hasn't given us a spirit of fear." Swangi yelled.

Hesna gave a familiar look as his eyes searched the crowd for the voice spoken. "Hide not amongst the crowd, but reveal yourself," he slurred.

He is really starting to get the lingo down pack, although his tone seemed more evil than the previous challenge. He must be growing stronger.

"It was him!" The people around Swangi yelled while jumping and pointing. "He said it!" They continued to say it almost in a chant.

"Yes. It was ME. I do not fear or run from my words." Swangi said with utter confidence as the crowd silenced around him. Their faces now held concern for the new person's lack of reverence for the prophet he opposed.

"Come friend."

Swangi walked towards Hesna without looking back. The other ministers followed.

"I see you brought your brothers with you. I am not looking for a fight." He said raising his hands as if to simulate surrender, yet his guards drew nearer. There is a significant number more this time.

"Neither are we," Swangi replied. "We would just like to better understand your purpose, your father." He made a clear distinction of Hesna's father.

"I welcome any discussion you should wish me to entertain." Hesna's eyes gave a glimpse of the demon inside him as he looked at Swangi.

"God has not given us a spirit of fear and He is not the author of confusion. But you reign on the fear of these people. They serve you because they fear you."

Hesna seemed all too delighted with the confrontation "Yet Proverbs 28:28 says 'To fear the Lord is wisdom.'" Hesna challenged all too calmly.

Swangi finished it "And to shun evil is understanding. The context of fear in that scripture and throughout the Bible is to respect and reverence God. God wants us to reign in Heaven with Him. He doesn't want to force us to choose Him so He can revel as we cower before Him. He wants us to choose to worship Him because we love Him. It is not His desire for us to be mere puppets or He would have made us as puppets. You have taken away the right for these people to choose who they will serve. You have replaced it with the fear of the consequences."

Hesna, who had been sitting up until this point, stood. Swangi must have hit a nerve. "I am not forcing these people to follow me. They have seen the great works and believe I am the son of my father."

Swangi started to speak, but my Dad beat him. "Yet, the last time we spoke you had your men throw three innocent boys into the fire and turned their torture into an example of how powerful you are. That wasn't their choice, but your spectacle. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego went willingly into the fire without resistance. It was a fate they accepted due to their choice to worship God. Any random person thrown into the fire that lacked faith in God would surely have burned to death."

Hesna took a step closer to my Dad and bent his head to the side as he glared into his eyes. "So you think it was an unfair example," He paused slightly not looking for a response. "Perhaps you would prefer this one? We all know the story of Daniel in the lion's den. His God protected him from the lions"

He used both of his hands this time and formed them in some sort of a ball formation. Then he threw a ball of power into an empty space to the right of him.

Three lions appeared. These lions were massive. On all fours, they would have to look down to meet the eyes of a seven foot tall man. They certainly were not like any lion I ever saw at the zoo. Their coats are really dark brown...almost black. The hair around their face is jagged. Their eyes are an emerald green; a pretty color yet at the same time frightening in depth. The closest lion I've ever seen that resembled them would be Scar on "The Lion King", except this was no Disney movie.

They were circling the spot Hesna created.

"Which of you will go into the lion's den? A volunteer?" Hesna looked into the audience.

"I'll go" Jif said.

Hesna looked at him. "Then go my friend."

Jif walked to the lions. His back was to me, so I couldn't see what he was doing. I'm sure he was praying.

Before he entered the circle, he said "The God I serve, The Great I Am, The God of Abraham, Moses and Isaac, my Heavenly Father will protect me." He entered the lions circle.

The lions sized him and tried to attack him, but couldn't touch him.

"Well, well. That's all fine; interesting to say the least. Yet the Bible speaks of all sorts of magic. How do we know you don't practice some sort of witchery. Tell your God to protect one of our own, a volunteer from the audience."Hesna taunted.

"As I told you before, we are not to tempt God. He doesn't use his power to compete in a show," My father interjected.

"How then did Moses do all that he did to Pharaoh: turned water to blood, his staff to a snake? I'm sure you are aware of the story. He did these miraculous acts all to prove his God was real." Hesna countered.

"Moses was not acting for his own selfish gain but at the request of his Father," Benton answered.

"As I am," Hesna said. "A volunteer?" This time his tone sounded more like a command than a question.

"I will go." A child that looked to be no more than ten stepped forward.

His mother's screams quickly followed. "No, Jacob. No. Please don't go," She hopelessly begged.

It was too late. Jacob was already heading towards Hesna.

Even in light of the gloom circulating in the air, I can't help but wonder why she had her son out here to begin with. This man kills kids! She saw the three boys get burned to death. I just don't think I'd be out here like it's a concert with my kid. I know I shouldn't have such thoughts, but come on...really? Still and all, I hope the kid doesn't get hurt.

"Come child." Hesna extended his arm to the child. "Tell me who do you serve?" He asked as if he already knew the boy's response.

"I serve the God these men speak of; The God that can act on faith the size of a mustard seed, the one who sent his only Son so that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish, but have everlasting life. The God my mom raised me to serve." The boy looked out into the crowd for his mother. "Now she seems confused about who God really is and I understand that. A lot of bad things have happened." The boy turned back to Hesna and finished. "I know he will protect me. Remember, God has not given us a spirit of fear." The boy looked towards the crowd again, for his mother I assume.

The boy's answer upset Hesna, but he only showed it in a flash.

"Then go to the lions, and may you not perish... if it be your god's will." Hesna looked deep into the boy's eyes. It was almost as if he was looking into his soul for something. The boy cornered away from his gaze and went to the lions.

He entered the circle with Jif untouched. It was as if he were surrounded by mere kittens. The crowd screamed and cheered. His mother gasped and sent up a praise prayer. Her faith had been redeemed.

Hesna grew very angry. He turned away from the crowd. With his back to us, he must have been doing something to the lions. They grew more and more fierce and viscous. They were also getting bigger and bigger. Jif grabbed Jacob. Holding him close, he whispered something into his ear. The lions clawed at them ferociously. Jacob let out a cry. His arm was bleeding.

"Oh no!" Someone shouted from the crowd. "He's hurt!" The screams and cries exploded as we watched the lions about to kill them.

"Nevertheless, not my will, but thy will be done." Jif said.

With that an angel entered the ring, he then transformed into a much bigger lion. His presence made the other lions cower at the sight of him. It was as if they recognized his authority. His eyes were the purest ocean blue. He was simply beautiful. His white coat shimmered like it was sprinkled with diamonds. The unity of the hairs looked like silk as they fell over his body. It was apparent to all that this lion was sent by God. The angelic lion tore the other lions to shreds. It clawed and ripped them without even exerting much effort. Then, the angel ascended back to Heaven.

"Praise God forever more. Thank you Jesus." The crowd exclaimed.

Finally God had given them a sign. Perhaps all along He had been waiting for the people to remember Him and take a step out on faith. I cannot say I know the reason, but I do know that now the people had a renewed faith in God. That alone was a reason for excitement.

"Tell me, Hesna," My father attempted to gain his attention. "You have seen the works of our Father, yet you still have not laid claim to who your father is?"

Hesna once again ignored the question. Instead, he turned to the crowd that was cheering and praising God. "How dare you betray your master with a flip of a coin? Just as the Israelites had to pay for building and praising a golden calf, you too will pay for embracing such acts in rebuke of your master."

He threw his scepter down on the ground. The scepter grew in length then width. It wiggled and then curled up into a ball. Everyone stared at the ball trying to apprehend what was going to happen. Suddenly, what looked to be a hundred foot snake rose up out the ball. I know I tend to exaggerate when it comes to estimating critter sizes. But with this snake, which looked a lot like a king cobra, I don't think I am exaggerating. While he was in his defencing position, his head topped around fifty feet.

"Every unbeliever will be bit by this snake and come daybreak you will surely die."

The crowd broke. Everyone started running, screaming, pushing, and trampling over those who didn't move quickly enough.

"Choose ye this day whom ye will serve," Hesna finished.

"Dad!" I yelled while running towards my father. Hesna looked at me then matched my dad's mannerisms to my movement.

"So you brought your daughter, I'm not sure that was a very wise choice." Hesna laughed before sending his snake to get me.

"Missy!" my Dad yelled running towards me.

The snake was faster...much faster. I stopped running and stood looking in my father's eyes while I awaited my fate. Judging from the snakes speed to capture ratio compared to my flight speed, it seemed pointless to run away. Yet, I didn't want to run towards the snake while trying to get to my father either. So I just stood there and waited. Perhaps this is the way my life ends. If it is, it won't be said I died in fear. And if there was anything I learned the past few days, it was to trust God.

The snake stopped momentarily and looked into my eyes. He extended his hood and opened his mouth revealing his two fangs dripping with venom. His tongue flicked as he let out a growling hiss.

Just as he was about to strike me, Hesna stopped him. "I want her alive."

The snake settled for swallowing me whole instead.

Although I can't say that was a more favorable outcome, at least I was alive; I suppose. It was so tight inside of him. I could barely breathe. The only way I could have survived is by the snake being Hesna's creation. Even under the circumstances, all I could think about was how close we were to defeating Hesna. We couldn't stop now.

##  CHAPTER 19—PASTOR MIKE

He took my baby girl. I know he won't kill her because it would bring him so much more pleasure to watch me suffer. Still and all, I couldn't protect her. I can't protect her.

At least a hundred people were bitten by the snake, there has to be something we can do.

The only positive thing in all of this is Hesna's becoming unraveled. His anger is starting to get the best of him. Soon he will slip up and this game will be over. I use the word "game" very loosely because the events that have transpired are nothing like a game. All of this has been very real.

In the midst of the chaos, I took a moment to pray. I need a solution, a miracle. God reminded me of how he sent venomous snakes to bite the Israelites when they spoke against him. Moses prayed for the people and God told him to make a bronze snake and have the people look upon it. All who were obedient and looked upon the snake lived. I shared my vision with the other pastors.

"How will we build a bronze snake?" Mongo asked.

"We will need the people to help us." Zeal said.

"But they probably blame us for everything that has happened. They will not help us." We all quietly considered Mongo's thoughts.

We hesitated because we knew it was more than likely true. Ever since we started trying to help these people, it seemed like things got worse for them. Yet our mission is only partly centered on saving their earthly lifestyle. Our main task is to ensure that their eternity is spent in Heaven. We cannot lose sight of the battle at hand. We certainly cannot lose faith now. If the people would not help us, then I will build the snake myself. I will save as many people as I can.

"What then, do we not even try? Do we allow Satan to win? There is a good chance the people will not want to help. But if they questioned Hesna's rule, then what now do they have to lose? If they weren't bitten, there is a good chance one of their loved ones were. We have to save them." It was all I could say.

"He's right." Swangi agreed.

Sometimes even pastors need encouragement. Once again, we were all on one accord.

"I will go and convince as many people as I can," Mongo offered.

"We can split up and gather as many as we can to meet at the well." Benton said.

We all knocked on doors. Some people were very willing to help us. Others required a little more convincing. I assume some of them feel like they have no other choice and nothing to lose. It is unfortunate that sometimes we have to reach such a state of desperation before we choose to put our trust in God. We made the snake and everyone that was bitten looked upon it. Just as with the Israelites, the people were healed.

##  CHAPTER 20—PASTOR MIKE

That night around midnight there was a sound that closely resembled a plane landing. Flashes of white light surrounded the house. Then, there was a knock at the door. Victor opened it, but was frozen in awe of the sight. God had sent his angels to us.

To think this was only a glimpse of what Heaven would be like. Their presence was beyond anything I had ever seen before; beyond belief. I have felt the power of their presence inside me before. I have even seen them ascend back to Heaven. But never have I stood face to face with them.

Even though it seemed like they dimmed themselves for our encounter, it was still hard to look upon them. They towered above us like giants, but decreased their size to enter the house. Their white muscular bodies closely resemble the white color of a glow stick. Their eyes, a color of blue I have never seen before, closely resemble an ice blue. There was no hair on their heads or their bodies. The bone structure in their faces was stern, resembling a military stance. Yet, I did not fear their presence. If anything, I was drawn to it, like I am drawn to God.

We all waited anxiously to hear God's message for us. The angels started to speak, but were interrupted. It seemed we were not the only ones aware of the angel's presence.

The house was surrounded by men pounding on the walls, doors and windows. They were demanding we send the angels out.

"Hesna requests the presence of the men who have come for your visit." One of the men yelled through the door.

Victor, who had now shaken his awe, went outdoors to reason with the men. When he opened the door, some of the men caught a glimpse of the angels. They must not have seen them very clearly before because now the plight was forged with different motives.

"Please return home to your wives or take a prostitute if you so desire, but leave these men of God alone. Do not commit such a grave sin against the Lord." We could hear Victor as he tried so very hard to sway the men.

Instead, they grew more and more violent. "You don't know us. Now that your foreign brothers are here you think you are better than us. You have no right to judge us! Just give us the men and we will leave you. We have orders to bring them to Hesna."

It was apparent to all of us that if given the opportunity, the men would bring the angel's to Hesna. However, they would probably indulge themselves first.

The thought sent me into a heavy prayer asking God to spare them and forgive their actions. Suddenly, I felt sorry for the men. I could see that they had allowed themselves to be under the complete control of Satan. It happens so unexpectantly. All he needs is a crack, one area where you are shaky and he can move in. Before you know it, you are making excuses. Then, you don't feel the need to excuse yourself, because you no longer know the difference between right and wrong.

This must be how Jesus felt when he watched those men full of such hate and destruction torture and crucify him. This must be why He asked God to forgive them for they knew not what they did. It is true, once you allow Satan to take over, you can't comprehend the extent of your actions. You become so absorbed with self and selfish motives. You are but a puppet. The sad thing is you don't even know that you have fallen, so you can't get up. God's pleasure comes from our loving and helping others. The devil's pleasure comes from you helping and loving yourself. He thrives on being just the opposite of God in every way. When God says help, the devil says hurt. Love turns to hate. Cherish turns to defile. Natural turns to perversion. I can see it so clearly now. He wasn't asking so much for forgiveness for their actions, but pleading that God would consider whose control they operated under.

"We will not leave until we get what we came for," the men chanted.

"Remember what happened to the men of Sodom," Victor pleaded.

A lamp flew through the window. Fire caught and attempted to spread. The angels had seen and heard enough. They put the fire out with a simple blow. Then the banging stopped. The men were all stumbling about from the blindness cast upon them from the angels. Just like in the Bible with the men of Sodom.

"Please forgive them for they know not what they do," I asked of them.

"It is not with them our concern lays. God has noticed all that has taken place and He is not pleased. He will destroy this land. He sent us to help you rescue your daughter, as well as, to aid in Hesna's defeat. We think it best, considering all the confusion, not to fight Hesna in our native form. Therefore, we will use your bodies. Our presence will give you strength beyond measure, speed and power. You should have everything you need to defeat Hesna. We can only inhabit you if your body is pure in thought and intention. Also, God will provide an escape for you and the people who chose to serve him. You do not have much time to get your daughter and leave before the destruction begins. You must not tarry. Once God begins to destroy the village, you must leave. There is no way to anticipate what Hesna's move will be. Obedience is better than sacrifice. Go to Hesna's house at daybreak. We will meet you there and get your daughter back. Once your daughter is safe, she too will have an angel. Her angel will not be as strong as yours because her faith level isn't as strong as yours. We cannot take you to a skill level beyond where your faith lies. You must explain to her what I have just told you."

##  CHAPTER 21--MISSY

The muscles in the snake's body began to contract pushing me out of its belly. I pinched my eyes and mouth shut tighter as the fluids squished across my face. The pressure was causing my head to be pushed backward on my neck. It was painful. I struggled to bend my head forward against my chest. As the muscles along the side of the snake pushed my body out, it felt like a million finger tips wrapped around my body. Each of them worked together gently moving my body forward like an assembly line's conveyor belt. The snake finally regurgitated my body onto a cold floor.

At first I was scared to open my eyes, but I had to know where I was. The floor was solid, but gritty like sandpaper. It was like a golden bronze color of which I had never seen before. The walls looked to be the same. I must be in something Hesna created, some kind of fortress. I don't see Hesna. Maybe I can get away.

I built up the little strength I had left and tried to stand up. My legs, I can't feel my legs. I tried to raise my arms to look at my hands. Nothing...I can't move. I am paralyzed.

"Help. Somebody help me! I can't move! Help!" I screamed knowing no one would hear me.

Hesna would never put me somewhere near rescue. He knew my father would come for me.

I can't feel any part of my body except my eye lids. The muscles around my eyes started twitching rapidly, as if, to signal the rest of my body to wake up. Although it is quite annoying, I appreciate the movement as it is a sign that I am not a complete vegetable.

"So...Missy, I do believe that is your name, correct?" Hesna entered the room where I was held captive. He reached his hand towards the snake. The snake shrunk in size before turning back into Hesna's scepter.

His strong muscular build towered over my defenseless body as it lay slumped on the floor. I chose not to respond to his question. He already knows who I am; there is no sense in playing games.

"I can't imagine why your father would have brought you on such a risky trip. Clearly you don't contribute much to the cause. Why would he have thought you helpful? I can look inside you. I can read you like a book, Missy. You don't have to tell me for me to know. I know your type. You are very smart, aren't you? But you can't hide behind your books, your superficial knowledge. In the end, there is only one "knowledge" that matters. Don't you get it?" He looked at me, as if, he were awaiting a response.

Nothing...I said and did nothing.

Then, he smiled at my resistance and continued. "How do you make a person forget all they have? Show them something they don't have of course. You will never be satisfied with the obtainable. In the beginning, Eve knew all she needed to know. But she had to know more. She had to be wrapped in reasoning, explanations, theories, statistics, and opinions. The truth was not enough. It is never enough. You don't just want to know the truth; you have to understand every facet.

Something so simple can be turned into something so complex by adding one word: "Why?" Why can't you eat that fruit? Why can't you share in God's knowledge? Why? No one has ever liked the answer "because I told you so". So I will give you explanations. I will have you so absorbed in finding out more and more about the mysteries of the Earth that you will forget about the promises of Heaven.

You see, when you are exhausted after a long day of work, you are less likely to pray, open your Bible, sing out praises. Instead you will sleep, and then you will wake up and do it all over again; a pointless cycle. Everything you work so hard to gain on this dying sphere will be lost. The one thing that will last forever will never be found. Why? You may ask. Because you are so consumed with every other book. Because your nature will choose to ignore the truth you have been given in a quest for more. Because enough is never enough...

And you, Missy are just another poor soul. You are aimlessly searching for what is right in front of your face. You can't discover your purpose for trying to invent your own. All the while, he's telling you the answers to all your precious questions. The problem is you can't listen for trying to keep all the voices in your head in tune, in perfect harmony. Good and bad were never designed to coexist in harmony. What you seek you will never find. It's deception at its finest.

In the beginning, Eve had paradise, but lost it to curiosity and the desire for more. Eve is no different than you or any other human on this Earth. She is no different than me. We all want the same thing. We want what we cannot have. We all want more. You can't win. Even if you escape and somehow kill me, the seed has been planted too deep. The human nature is flawed. It's pathetic. Over and over, he tries to salvage it, but it's unsalvageable. The heart wants what the heart wants." He laughed that horrid laugh from before.

Despite the repetition, it isn't any less irritating. Why is he telling me all of this? Does he just need to gloat? I don't believe we are unsalvageable. Although many of us have fallen and sin abounds, Jesus came to set us free. We just have to choose Him. Many of us are too absorbed with self-promotion and success to commit ourselves to God. I will admit I have been running from the idea myself. But thankfully, God is a God of a second chance. "Father, forgive me for my past preoccupations and my half-hearted attempt at unveiling my purpose."

Hesna interrupted as if he knew I was praying "Birds of a feather flock together. We belong together...all of us. We will stand and fight together. We should stand for our rights, equality. I came to build an army. Many believe we cannot win because that book says so. It's not true. More and more people are joining me. These days, people are too busy and preoccupied with life on Earth to even consider their eternity. Back then our numbers were low. Today is a different time, a new era of multiplicity. We have a very good chance now. While his team is sitting and waiting for the people to volunteer, I am actively recruiting. The ball has been dropped and the wave of deception is very wide spread.

You are on the winning team, Missy. And I am so happy to have you. I am a lot like you. I too don't like rules and expectations; the watchful eye of criticism. It's my life and I'll live it as I please. See I get it. No more chains, Missy. We have freedom to do whatever we desire without consequence. I'm so happy I found you."

Why would he think I am on his side? I am not a Satanist. I believe in God. I am a Christian by birth...or at least I thought I was. But I can't ride into Heaven on my parents' coattails. One day I will be alone...like today. Yes, I question the religion. When you do something so often, it becomes a cycle. You just start going through the motions. I never turned my back on God. I just wanted some time for me. I was going to come back later when I was older and more established. The Christian world is more suited for adults. We kids just want to have fun. But how much longer do we really have? I never thought about that. I always expected tomorrow. But what if today is my last day?

"Father, I come to you a sinner. I ask you to forgive me for my worldly, selfish desires. I thank you for the protection you placed over my life. I choose to serve you. Old things are washed away; behold all things have become new." I prayed like I have never prayed before. This prayer was different. This prayer is real. Now I realize how lost I have been. How real this battle really is. My Dad isn't crazy. Demons and angels on earth...it's all real. I prayed desperately, for another chance; redemption

"Hesna, we are not the same. You are going to lose. You see you weren't built to win. So you will take your deceptions and desires right back to Hell with you in a hand basket. Enjoy what little freedom you have left. I am on God's side."

Hesna looked deep into my pain stricken eyes. I fought to keep them strong and defined despite their heaviness. I wanted him to know I meant every word.

"I see. The lies sound better when you tell them to yourself. If you say so, the choice is yours to make." As he turned to walk out the room, I closed my eyes.

My body trembled from the wave of darkness that fell on me. It bore down on my body like a million weights.

"Oh and Missy, I know you don't care to hear what I have to say, but know this: I will kill your father. Unfortunately, he is just too much of a nuisance. It's okay you have plenty of time to pray for comfort."

I could tell he was smiling as he walked out my area.

"You will try". I said under my breath.

God allowed Job to be tested, but He still protected Job. I know He will protect my father as well.

##  CHAPTER 22—PASTOR MIKE

I pray that comfort, peace and safety will surround Missy as she is held captive. I pray that if anything is hurt, it will be healed. May a hedge of protection surround her and us. It was so important to me to have Missy here so that she could see the battle and understand the level of severity. Now, I question whether that was a good decision to make.

Hesna has her captive. He could do anything to her. If she were at home, she would be safe...but for how long? How long before Hesna would bring his battle to American soil? He would reap the biggest harvest there so I imagine he will save it for last. As the others began to awaken, I closed my Bible. I had gotten up early to devote some time to the Lord and rejuvenate myself with scripture.

I pulled out another Bible. This one is only a mock. I unsnapped the leather cover which revealed a single compartment. I have a few thousand dollars left. It should be plenty for the reminder of the trip. I grabbed Missy's bag. I will get you back. I will. I unzipped her bag and put the mock Bible inside. If this is my last race, she will need this. I wrote her a letter and added it to the cash inside the mock Bible.

It wasn't hard to find Hesna because this huge pyramid just appeared out of nowhere. It looked to be something he created out of the desert's sand. Yet, the color was more golden than white. It shimmered as the sun began to rise. I must admit it was a smart move. I'm sure he is at the top and we will have to fight our way up there. As we stood outside the pyramid, I looked up. Hesna peered down at us holding a scepter. He was wearing what looked to be a robe resembling what a pharaoh would wear.

"Come." He said before he turned and reentered the pyramid.

"Father, we are ready." I said.

Suddenly, I felt the charge within. The light consumed my body. I looked at the others. They too were stretching as the light illuminated them. Because I am usually the vessel, I have never seen what the inhabitation looks like. Each of them were enhanced, especially Jif who isn't as athletic in stature as the rest of us. It was almost like how the little boy turned into Captain America. All of us gained about a foot in height. I felt the power surge like metal coating my bones.

"Go" the voice within me said. "We don't have much time."

We entered the pyramid. Of course, it was easy and there were no obstacles. Hesna wanted us inside.

"What's that sound?" Jif asked.

The pyramid was covered with gold statues and coins. The walls shimmered of solidified sand.

"Round one" Benton answered as these huge wolves entered the room.

They were snarling and growling at us. They had to be about six feet tall on all fours. Their jagged coat was the pitch black color of a moonless night. Their blood shot red eyes told stories of death; torturous, merciless death. The dark, depthless pupils dilated.

Game time. They attacked.

The biggest one came for me. I turned and ran for the wall behind me. My increased speed propelled me like a cannon ball. I ran up the wall, then flipped off of it and landed on top of the wolf that had jumped into the air charging me. I grabbed him in a choke hold and spun him in the air before slamming him on the hard sand floor. I could tell I had injured him, but not bad enough. He stood and charged me again. This time I did a spin kick to his head. He felt the impact, but reciprocated a hit that sent me flying several feet back. I stood and looked around the room. There was a statue beside me. I waited for him to get almost close enough to rip my life from me, before I jumped up and pulled the statue on top of him. The statue had to weigh tons. It crushed him. It was also holding up part of the pyramid. So it began to collapse.

"We have to go." I yelled to the others as I ran for what looked to be a staircase.

I can't leave without Missy.

The others followed me. As pieces of the pyramid fell barely missing us, we increased our enhanced speed dodging the falling debris. A couple of the remaining wolves tried to follow as well, but were killed by the brush. We ran up until we reached the top. When I looked behind me, I saw half the pyramid was gone. And the way back down was also gone. There was no turning back now.

"Hesna!" I called as I looked around the area. He had to be here.

"Dad!" A voice called out.

Missy? She's alive.

"Missy, I'm here. Where are you?" I ran towards the voice.

Instead, I encountered Hesna.

"Dad, so nice of you to join us," Hesna mocked.

Missy was lying on the floor behind Hesna.

"I must say I had planned on many more interesting attacks before you made it here, but you had to go and destroy my pyramid didn't you? No worries. I'm sure I will enjoy this as well." He threw his scepter on the ground.

It rattled and grew, twisting and slithering. The snake. I could hear Missy take a breath.

"One bite and you will die. I must admit you have been quite the adversary, but all good things must come to an end."

Before he signaled his snake, his attention was captivated.

We watched as a glowing white ball descended from the sky. It landed in between us and Hesna. We turned from the sight of it as it glowed with the purest white light. The ball circled and divided itself growing bigger and bigger. Then a head appeared. It lifted itself from what closely resembled a gigantic ball of yarn. The pattern of gold spots on its white skin resembled that of a king snake.

The King's snake.

It unraveled itself and sized up the competition.

"I always wanted to know who would win the king cobra or the king snake. Let us see." He ordered his snake to attack.

The cobra watched the King's snake like it was anticipating its movements. It bobbed its head and did a few mock strikes. Yet the King's snake seemed unbothered by its menacing efforts. He simply watched and waited for the attack. The cobra opened its hood and let out a growling hiss.

The King's snake returned nothing.

Its skin shimmered with the light of the world. I have never liked snakes, but this one was so graceful. You could see its divine authority. Its features didn't look evil, but protective.

Finally, the cobra struck. The King's snake dodged the strike and wrapped around the cobra. Its body coiled around the cobra quickly like when you press a button to retract a cord. The cobra struck again this time delivering its venom into the King's snake's side. It desperately struck several more times as its body succumbed to the pressure crushing it. The King's snake lost its grip a little as the poison travelled through its body. The king cobra seized the opportunity to get away. Then the King's snake contracted harder with the lower half of its body. It pushed upward as if it were pushing toothpaste out a tube. The cobra felt the constriction and began franticly trying to get loose.

Hesna looked outside at the sound of a loud boom. We all turned to look as well. People were screaming and running. Big balls of fire were falling from the sky.

"It's beginning!" Mongo said.

"We have to hurry!" Swangi said.

Hesna hurried away. Jif ran to Missy. I followed. I looked back to the snakes. The cobra's eyes were starting to bulge out its head. The King's snake was positioning himself to eat the Cobra.

"Missy? Missy? Can you hear me?" Jif said. "Can you walk?" He picked her up and was holding her when I made it to them.

"What's wrong with her?" I asked him.

"I think she is paralyzed." His words stabbed me in my heart.

"Missy, Can you hear me?" I asked.

She opened her eyes. "Dad." I felt such relief in hearing her say my name.

"We don't have very much more time. You have to ask God to send you an angel. Your body must be of pure intention and you must choose to serve God. The angel cannot inhabit you if you are unwilling."

"I am willing. I'm sorry Dad. I'm sorry it took so long."

I grabbed her hand and pressed it to my face. I felt the water roll to one side of my eye to form a tear.

"It's okay, Missy. You have to ask God to send you an angel, Sweetheart. We don't have any more time."

She closed her eyes tightly. "Father God, please send me an angel. I need you. I need you now."

Her body was filled with the white light. She stretched and pulled as it healed her and strengthened her. The transformation was so powerful that Jif had to put her down. We watched as life returned to her dead limbs. Her face, once dry and pale sunken with death, was now full, vibrant, and glowing. Her hair shinned as golden streaks interweaved among her dark locks. She opened her eyes and the image took my breath away.

She is an angel.

Beautiful.

"Dad?" I pulled my thoughts back to reality. "We have to go." She said as she started running away from the falling sides of the pyramid.

The balls of fire had reached us. They crashed into the pyramid destroying what remained. We ran to where the stairs once were. I had already forgotten...there is no way down.

"We have to jump!" Zeal said. We went to the balcony where Hesna once stood and jumped as the pyramid collapsed.

"It's not over yet." Zeal said as the balls of fire fell all around us.

"We have to make it to The Persian Gulf." I told them.

We used our enhanced speed to dodge the balls of fire. We weaved through them, anticipating each landing. I noticed one about to land right in front of Missy.

"Missy, jump!" I yelled as I leaped for her.

She looked back at me, but I had grabbed her before she could respond. We spun out of the path of the fire ball and landed on the ground a few feet over.

"Are you okay?" I asked her.

"Yes. Let's go." She panted.

We got up and started back running for the Gulf. So many people had already died from the attack. We were jumping bodies like hurdles at a track meet. I could see the people waiting for us along the shore. We are almost there.

"We're going to make it!" I encouraged them.

I looked back to see if everyone was still with me. Benton?

"Where is Benton?" I asked.

"He was just here a second ago." Swangi replied.

"Jif, Zeal, make sure Missy gets to The Gulf. We are going back for Benton." I told them

He can't be far.

"Help!" I heard Benton cry out.

We followed his cry. Benton. He was bending down by a woman injured in the fire storm.

"Benton, what's wrong?" I asked him.

"I was running and she grabbed my foot as I was jumping over her. She's still alive."

The woman still had her hands wrapped around his foot.

"Help me, please help me. I don't want to die. Please!" The woman cried out.

A fire ball had landed on one of her legs. She couldn't walk. I am surprised she was able to grab Benton's foot with his enhanced speed. Something about this doesn't seem right.

"Benton, we can't save her we don't have time. We have to go, now." I cautioned him.

"Her grip is too strong. I can't get loose." He responded. "It burns! It burns!"

We looked at his leg. The woman's hand was now bright red like at the eye of a stove. I looked at her face. It was boiling. Her eyes had turned blood shot red. Her black pupils dilated. Her lips curved into an evil, crooked smile.

Before I realized it, Swangi kicked her in the face. She flew back several feet and released her grip on Benton.

"Y'all waste too much time thinking." Swangi said. "Let's go!"

We turned to run again. But the retreat was short lived.

"AHHHH! Hee Hee Hee! Minister, I'm back!" The demon charged us with its one leg and two hands working furiously on the ground.

"I got this!" Swangi said, as he turned back for her.

She jumped for Swangi. Swangi jumped too. He then turned his body and used his foot to deliver another blow to her face. She fell to the ground. He landed on top of her. She was on her back kicking her legs like a cockroach in the same position.

"Go back to Hell!" He told her before his angel stripped the demon from its host. After throwing the demon back to Hell, his angel returned to him and we got back on course for the Persian Gulf.

We heard more screams and cracking laughs behind us. I turned to see what was happening. I could see the possessions taking place. Their eyes turned red and their backs cracked as they bent over backwards on all fours to chase us.

"He is sending more demons to stop us. We have to hurry." I told them.

We had told the ones of them who were healed from the snake bite to stay on the outskirts of the city and wait for us. They had obeyed. We went to them and told them to follow us to The Gulf. When we made it there, they looked around and noticed there was no escape.

"What now?" Some of them asked. "What do we do now?" They turned to see the destruction behind them and then looked back at the water. "We have nowhere to go!" They panicked.

I looked up to Heaven. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding."

I opened my arms and the waters parted. Just like the Red Sea, God provided a way. The walls of water stood hundreds of feet tall.

"Hurry, no one else must survive. Only the ones who chose God can cross. The demons are coming. The walls will not stand for long!" I warned.

The people ran through. Benton and Jif lead the pack. Zeal and Mongo were in the middle. Swangi and I were at the end. When I was about three quarters of the way across I heard something.

Missy.

I turned around and ran back towards the city.

"What's wrong?" Swangi yelled.

"It's Missy."

I thought she was with us.

"What do you want me to do?" He asked. "Just make sure the others get across."

I have to save her.

"Missy!" I called when I was close enough to see her.

She was running back towards the city.

"Dad, it's Hesna. We have to kill him. We can't let him get away."

Hesna was standing at the mouth of the tunnel by the city.

"No, Missy we have to go. There isn't enough time. The waters will crush us." She stopped.

I could hear Hesna laughing.

She turned and ran towards me. I hoped we had more time. We made the half way mark and the waters began to fall. The pounds of water crashing sounded like thunder. I grabbed her hand.

"Dad, we aren't going to make it."

Even with the enhanced speed, The Gulf was far too big to cross.

"We have to try." I told her.

We had to try. The waters were catching us rapidly. I knew we wouldn't make it, but Missy would. I grabbed her by her arms and spun around before hurling her into the air. As I released her, her hand reached for mine as mine reached for hers. I am not sure if it is humanly possible to throw someone, yet reach for them at the same time. But as much as I knew I had to let her go, I wanted to be there with her. I wanted to protect her and love her. I didn't want her heart to mourn for me. It was like everything slowed down. The last seconds felt like minutes. When you cherish your time, it tends to pass more slowly.

As soon as the fingertip of her middle finger cleared mine, I looked into her eyes. Eyes so much like her mother's they brought her to me. Melayla descended from her and put her hands on my face pulling her body in for one last hug. She kissed me. This time I couldn't close my eyes. I didn't want to miss my looking at my daughter one last time. Seeing the beautiful woman she had become.

"I love you" I told her.

She pulled for me, but the strength in which I threw her could not be overcome.

"No! Dad! No!" She yelled as the waters crashed into my body.

"I love you too."

The weight pounded the air out of my body. I forced myself to focus and listen for the thump.

I heard it.

She made it.

##  CHAPTER 23--MISSY

We ran dodging the big meteors of fire as they crash landed all around us taking many of the town people's lives in their destruction. My father and his colleagues led us to The Persian Gulf.

"How will we cross we don't have any boats?" My question was drowned in the chaos and loud pounding noises.

I followed them because if there was anything I learned so far it was to trust my dad and God. When my dad made it to the mouth of the Sea, he raised his arms and the waters parted. Just like the Red Sea in the Bible. It was such an amazing sight. The water stood like walls hundreds of feet tall towering over us like we were mere ants in a field.

We ran across because we didn't have much time as the destruction neared. While I was running, I heard someone call my name. The voice faintly travelled across the sound waves. I turned to see the source.

It was Hesna.

He stood at the mouth of The Gulf. I remembered what he said about his plans to destroy everything. I had to stop him. I knew with my angel's help it would be possible. I turned and ran for him. I was more determined to end this than I have been to do anything in my entire life. Then, I heard another voice yelling from behind me.

It was my Dad.

"Dad! It's Hesna! We have to kill him! We can't let him get away!"

If we don't, he will kill you. He will kill us all.

"No, Missy! We have to go! There isn't enough time! The waters will crush us!"

Despite my desire to end this, I knew I had to turn around. I ran toward my father. When I reached him, I could hear loud pounds of water crashing down with a force so strong it shook the ground. I turned around the walls were falling. I heard the sound getting closer and closer. Even with the enhanced speed, we would not make it.

"Dad, we are not going to make it." As he held my hand, I turned to look at him.

"We have to try."

I had to trust him. It was just me and him. At least, we would be together. Then, my Dad grabbed me and spun me around in the air before releasing me like an athlete releases a discus. He didn't even give me time to refuse. I'm not sure if I was released facing him or if I turned by body in attempt to grab him and stay. I reached with my right hand desperately trying to grab his hand. All that remained was his fingertips. I pulled for him. Maybe if I pulled hard enough, willed hard enough I could defy the forces propelling me in the opposite direction. I couldn't leave him. I had to try for Phillip, for myself, for my mom.

It was almost as if her hand extended from mine; like she left me to comfort him. I looked into his eyes and the reflection I saw wasn't of me, but my mother. He was thinking of her. The seconds stretched and time stood still. God had given us a moment to love.

"I love you" he told me.

This couldn't be the end. There was too much more to do. We have to get Hesna together.

"No! Dad! No!" The walls crashed down on his defenseless body.

"I love you, too." I yelled hoping my voice would cut through the crashing waves and land inside his heart.

I landed on the ground and looked back at the water as it violently shook back to position. My dad had given his life for me.

He saved me.

I buried my head in my hands as I cried for him. I cried because it was my fault. If I hadn't turned back, he would still be alive.

Then, I saw something in the sky. It was coming towards me. It looked like a big bird. As the image drew nearer, I knew exactly who it was.

Hesna!

He had big black wings and flew over the water. He flew above me and looked down at me with the same stupid grin.

"Why so sad?" he mocked me. "Greater love has no man than this; that a man lay down his life for his friend. You should be beaming from the love that was just displayed. So much love in one area, I just don't know if I can stand it." He belted out a horrible laugh.

He lowered himself to the ground. "You can only blame yourself. It's entirely your fault, Missy. It was your selfishness. I told you. We are a lot alike. Enough is never enough."

I was furious. The anger consumed every inch of my body and boiled within me. "I will kill you."

But when I got up to fight him, my angel wasn't with me. The anger must have pushed her out. He laughed at my hopeless effort before he flew away.

I watched as he got away.

"Vengeance is mine says the Lord." A voice echoed within me.

I sat back down and cried.

But will you at least use me. I know right now I am angry. My dad is gone and I want him back. I know vengeance is yours, but I have to pick up where he left off. I have to serve you. People need me.

Jif came to my side. "I'm so sorry Missy. He fought well. You know he's in a better place."

I looked back at the solemn expressions on everyone's face.

"We must go on." I stood to address the crowd. "That all of this not be in vain. You see what will happen if you turn from God's teaching. We must spread the word of Hesna's deception. We must reach as many people as we can. We must be careful not to allow the enemy to seep within us. We must follow God and seek him with all our heart. He has shown us what he can and will do. We must now show Him what we can do. We must show Him how we will serve Him, praise Him, and love Him unconditionally. We will not cower, but run to all unknowing. Hesna is still here. The fight is not over. Even after Hesna is gone, there will always be one. Who will stand and fight for the Lord? The one who spared your life? We have witnessed His marvelous works and know that He is real. We must ensure the world knows this as well."

Swangi came to me and pulled a little Bible out of his pocket. "I saw your Dad put this in your bag. I took it out because I figured it was important and with all the chaos you may not get the bag." He handed me the Bible.

I opened it up and there was a letter and a fold of thousands of dollars. I read the letter and knew what I had to do. I hugged them and told them goodbye.

"Where will you go?" Mongo asked.

"I have to find Hesna. I have to stop him." I answered him.

"Then I will come too." He told me.

The others quickly agreed as well.

Swangi said he would lead the people to a new land and return to tell my mother of the news. I told him to tell her, as soon as I can, I will write to her and Phillip. He said, he would join us later.

"With a little faith, Peter was able to walk on water. Today, we will run." I said as I sprinted out on the open ocean in the direction Hesna flew away.

The others joined me. We praised and thanked God for the ability as we ran across the waves. It felt amazing to be used by God and to defy reason. Then, we felt our angels as we were propelled into the horizon. I took a special moment to hear my father's voice through the letter.

"Missy, I know you are not a Bible scholar. I know you want to find yourself and get as far away from us as possible to do so. I know you want to be free. But the freedom you seek is temporary and will lead to an eternity of bondage. The battle between Heaven and Hell is real. Satan and his demons are real. After what you have seen so far, I'm sure you believe me now. I don't know how much longer I will be with you. I feel my time is coming to an end. I need you to accept your mission, your purpose. God didn't just call me, he called you and Phillip, too. You are my predecessors. This is your purpose- to fight for God's people. If you are reading this, it is because it has already started. Know that I will forever be with you. You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. One day, we will fight together again. I love you"

I closed my eyes and remembered our last touch. He had told me he loved me. Before the waves consumed him, I had told him too.

Even though I don't know all there is to know about the Bible, he had to know I would learn. Even though I have never had the desire before, he had to know I would fight. One day, we will meet again. Until that day, I choose to carry the cross. I choose to serve the Lord God Almighty, the God of Abraham, Moses and Isaac.

Choose ye this day whom ye will serve...
Epic Testament

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