 |
|
|
Darren trotted up the darkening sidewalk, hands jammed into his coat pockets. The youth group bus had broken down and the rental hadn’t had enough room for him.
Several kids had volunteered to stay behind, but he’d assured them there was no need, he’d catch the late bus at the next stop.
A twenty-five year old visiting missionary, Darren had felt guided to accompany them to a rundown area of town to hand out tracts.
Strange clinking noises drifted through the air and he perked up, childhood rumors of rampant gangs replaying in his mind.
A quick glance behind him showed an empty street. He forced a laugh. The clinking sound started again, louder with clanking.
Father, this is a creepy side of town you’ve sent me to. I-I’m scared. I don’t know why…but I still trust you. Surround me with your peace and understanding.
Praying made him feel a little better, but it didn’t stop the clinking and clanking. Unable to help himself, Darren turned fully to get a good look behind him.
And wished he hadn’t. Shadowy figures emerged from the darkness. Chains, various pieces of junk and sports equipment plainly visible in their hands.
He turned to quicken the pace and froze. The street in front was rapidly filling with more dark outlines.
Run!
Darren didn’t need additional prompting. Bolting down a side alley, he ran as fast as he dared in the unfamiliar surroundings. Praying as he stumbled through the darkness.
Father? I could use an explanation and an escape route as soon as possible!
The sound of running feet rushed to his ears. He ran until he reached a dead end, frantically searching for another way out, when he heard a laugh.
“Running from Lekker and the Nighthawks?” The amused voice came from the black cove near the trash cans.
Trust me.
The command made him squirm inwardly, but he obeyed, taking a step forwards. “Hello. I’m Darren. Who are you?”
The speaker moved forward in the darkened light. “Kira.” She looked at him curiously. “You’re that preacher fellow trying to save this end of town, right?” Thin, womanly, clad in black leather, her dark eyes flashed dangerously.
Darren nodded slowly. “Missionary…actually.”
Kira frowned. “You’d better pray for your life.”
“I already did.”
She snorted. “Get behind me, stay down and keep quiet if ya wanna live.”
Darren didn’t stop to argue, he crouched down as Kira stood in front, leaning back until her shoulders rested against the building, effectively shielding him from sight.
Running feet and angry voices came to an abrupt halt, weak flashlight beams, zigzagged centimeters away from his hiding place.
Father?
I am your protection always.
Thank you, Father!
Talk to her.
Talk? What do I say?
Show her the way.
T-the way? I-I can’t!
Why not?
Darren barely heard the gangs move away as Kira straightened. He stared at her in a new light, blushing in the dark as his stomach growled.
Her head jerked around to look at him, the moonlight slanting across a rather pretty face, her lips quirked into a smile. “Looks that God of yours looks out for ya. Never see them leave so fast.”
Darren smiled weakly. “I prayed. And he sent me here.”
And?
Kira stifled a laugh. “Right. Like you actually talk to him or it…”
Darren...Trust me...
“He sent me t-to tell you something.”
The laughter died in her throat and suddenly she was inches away from his face. “To tell me what?”
Darren continued bravely. “That He loves you, and-”
“Loves me?” Kira repeated incredulously. But the skeptical edge had disappeared from her voice. It sounded sad and childlike.
Darren’s stomach growled again and Kira coughed lightly. “Why don’t we go over to Maggie’s Diner. I buy you dinner-and you tell me more about this….God stuff?”
*****
Darren lead Kira to Christ the following night. He later learned of the voices, dreams and instances that had left her searching for truth.
They eventually married, pursuing God’s call to spread the word to the world. Traveling wherever He sends them. They have quite a story to tell-but a single message to all.
“God loves you!”
The opinions expressed by authors may not necessarily reflect the opinion of FaithWriters.com.
If you died today, are you absolutely certain that you would go to heaven? You can be right now. CLICK HERE
JOIN US at FaithWriters for Free. Grow as a Writer and Spread the Gospel.
|
|
|
