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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: DISTANCE (10/08/20)
Candid, and speaking with less than desirable vocabulary words to describe his harrowing escape from the fire, James Caldwell stood before the camera crew ready to announce his decision to run for office as City Councilman for the 19th District.

The community of hardworking farmers stood breathless waiting to hear his calculated strategy from which he would implement higher penalties and fines for anyone setting fire to the corn fields in Morrow County. These young kids now-a-days have no respect for others, they chided amongst themselves, and seem to think they can get away with damaging property without as much as a slap on the wrist.

James knew better than to disclose his agenda for holding the offenders accountable, a town meeting was not the time or place to reveal what stirred his heart more than the loss of corn. My own son…, he fought back the memories.

Without additional words to calm the boisterous crowd, James existed the stage and drove home, where a flood of anguish overtook him at the mental picture of his son’s bravery the night of the fire. What would have happened if…

The next morning’s headlines shocked the entire city upon reading of Mr. Caldwell’s decision to drop charges against the boys, and in exchange, extend grace on the grounds they would agree to spend time receiving council and instruction for a better way to live. With the boys behind bars, there would be too great a distance between them and little time to cultivate a personal relationship built on trust, but creating a loving environment in his home would close that distance and promise a new hope for the community.

James fell on his knees in remembrance for the times God removed the distance between them through forgiveness, and for the comfort he now experienced knowing there was no distance between his son and God’s Son in heaven. He could think of no greater gift than to bestow the same grace upon these lost souls in desperate need to experience the nearness of God.

James stood up, determined to watch how God brings beauty from ashes, all because He chose to close the distance between Himself and mankind.
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Terry R A Eissfeldt 
10/15/20
The bones for an exceptional story are here. What's needed is more color and texture - the five senses represented. Dialogue between characters.

This is a story worth telling - thanks for sharing

Blessings and Gratitude
Barbara Culler 
10/16/20
Yes, I want to hear more!
Stephen Kimball
10/16/20
Agreed. Good plot, good job. Could be a compelling short story with a little more effort. Thanks for the reminder that God is all about second chances (and we should be too).