Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Appointment (02/09/12)
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TITLE: Nearsighted | Previous Challenge Entry
By Dimple Suit
02/15/12 -
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I stand at an intersection, a cross roads of sorts, only it is to the left or right I may choose to walk. Barriers prevent forward movement. Gazing one way, I see smooth paths, soft spring grass to the side of sandy walks. My destination shimmers in the distance, a mirage of success by accepted standards. Status and financial security rule in the world of man and I am a willing subject to the realm of what I see and understand. Taking this groomed path will bring me recognition for accomplishing missions designed to better the coffers of my constituents.
To the other side lies a serpentine road strewn with rocks. Leading to a summit I cannot comprehend, I doubt the quiet request to follow. Fearful of falling over the sharp edge to a churning darkness below, I hesitate to take it. Unable to see around the curve ahead, I question the pull to explore it. Shrouded in mystery without a map, I turn away from the unknown to settle comfortably into the sureness of what I see.
I purposefully strike out in a prideful strut knowing the goal and success measures. My backpack gains weight with each step and the air is heavy with humidity. I soon tire. Stepping from the well-traveled walkway, I grab refreshment. The first bite gags me; my bread molded. A gulp of water to cleanse my mouth chokes me with its bitterness. I look ahead to the beckoning illusion and push myself to move on. I reach for my walking stick to find a snake slithering in the grass. Gasping in fright, I recoil. The putrid stench of death assails me and I jump back to the path, landing a pool of quicksand. I struggle to pull out of it only to sink deeper. Acid spews from the edges, burning me as I reach for safety. Petrified, I give up fighting to find myself once again on solid ground.
Shaken, I take a moment to reconsider how to get where I am going. I sense pursuit. I turn to find no one behind me. Puzzlement settles as I realize only a short span of road separates me from the intersection I pondered hours, miles, before. Wanting to close the distance, I take a tentative step. A hissing wail demands my attention. The delightful vision morphs into a frightening apparition with blazing eyes and fangs. Fearing its intent, I flee toward the intersection feeling claws rip into my flesh. The deception completely revealed, I cry out as the piercing alarm penetrates my soul.
Jolting upright, covered with fear infused sweat, I slide out of bed to my knees. Passages flood my heart as I ask the Lord’s forgiveness for my lack of faith. I seek His guidance for the decision before me. I ask for His wisdom to walk in His light and mercy. I pray for an infusion of His love and counsel for the choices ahead. ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.’ I hear clarity in His response, ‘faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see…‘what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.’
Renewed with purpose and direction, I sing praise songs driving to work. I am joyous though I know budget cuts require staff reductions and redeployments. I realize the impact on my position. I eagerly anticipate new opportunity. Armed with His peace and focused on His glory, I step into the personnel office ready to face an ordained destiny.
Psalm 143:8 “Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.”
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