...And Family Drama Just Won't Stop II

...And Family Drama Just Won’t Stop II

...And Family Drama Just Won’t Stop II

A FAMILY DRAMA Novel

DANIEL WHYTE III Essence National Bestselling Author

with MERIQUA WHYTE

...And Family Drama Just Won’t Stop II

by Daniel Whyte III with Meriqua Whyte Cover Design by Atinad Designs. Š Copyright 2017 TORCH LEGACY PUBLICATIONS: ATLANTA, GEORGIA; DALLAS, TEXAS; BROOKLYN, NEW YORK All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright owner, except for brief quotations included in a review of the book.

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

DEDICATION This book is dedicated to Christian families who need to be reminded that confession and forgiveness are the keys to maintaining great relationships.

Every family has its issues. It is how we go about handling these issues, and who we invite in the midst of our battles, that makes the difference.

God created everyone for a purpose and the experiences we go through in life help to point us in that direction. He wants us to begin to fulfill that purpose by trusting His Son, Jesus Christ, for salvation.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS First, I thank God for putting it in my heart to do this novel series that is based upon biblical principles. I also thank my wife, Meriqua, for assisting me in writing this novel series.

I also thank the readers of my previously published nonfiction books for the kind words that they have sent down through the years. May God use this book to bring conviction, healing, peace, and hope to a whole new audience of readers.

Last, I would like to thank my children: Danni, Daniel IV, Danita, Danae`, Daniqua, Danyel Ezekiel, and Danyelle Elizabeth for assisting us in publishing this book.

We would also like to acknowledge Dr. Frederick Haynes III. One Sunday, my family and I were late for services at his church, and even though we did not hear the beginning of his message, one of the

refrains throughout his sermon was "...and family drama just won't stop." That phrase is the inspiration for the title of this book.

--Daniel Whyte III

Episode 1

13

Chapter 1 “Hear my prayer, O LORD, and let my cry come unto thee.”

(Psalm 102:1) Two days ago, the Herrons were visiting with the Montagues. Two days ago, Charles Herron trusted Jesus Christ as his Saviour. Two days ago, Bro. Montague advised him to do the right thing. Two days ago, he spoke with his girlfriend, Yvette.

“Hello, Yvette. This is Charles. What’s up?”

“What’s up? I’ve been waiting all evening, so you tell me what’s up.”

“Sorry I didn’t call earlier, but I decided to spend the whole day with my daughter. Remember I told you that,” Charles said. He really did not want to go into any detail—not right now anyway.

“You told me you were going to church with her— that she kept begging you to come with her. It’s been 15

some hours now, so I ask you again: you tell me what’s up?”

Charles and Yvette had been seeing each other since shortly after Charles and his wife separated. In fact, he had moved in with her. She was under the impression that he was a single father.

“Something came up. I’ll tell you about it later, but I won’t be seeing you tonight. I’ll be over here with my daughter…”

“And with your daughter’s mother, I assume.”

“Well, yes…” Charles answered slowly.

“Don’t tell me you’ve gone back to seeing your baby’s mother without letting me know something.” Charles started to reply, but could not get a word in. “No, don’t answer right now. We’ll talk tomorrow. I will see you tomorrow, right?”

“That’s it. I might not see you tomorrow either,” he answered.

“What!”

“I’ll give you a call. I can’t talk right now. Got to go.”

Charles hung up the phone. “She’s mad, brother. Just pray for me,” he said to Bro. Montague as he returned to the Montague’s living room.

“I sure will. God will work it all out. You just stay true to Him.” Anticipating Yvette calling him throughout the night, Charles turned off his cell phone. He was so excited about his new-found faith, he and his wife were up into the wee hours of the morning reading the Bible, having 16

a good time in the Lord, and enjoying each other’s company. He would tell his wife about Yvette as soon as he got things squared away with her.

He avoided Yvette on Monday by refusing to answer her calls. Immediately after work on Tuesday, he stopped by the apartment he used to share with her to retrieve his things. He had received his wife’s message about the accident and was planning on joining her and Tiffany at the hospital. He hurried because he wanted to avoid any confrontation with Yvette. On his way out, as he was locking the door to the apartment, an unexpected voice caught him off guard.

“So this is the way we do it—undercover?”

“Hey, Yvette. It’s not what you think,” Charles said.

“Well, it looks like what I think, and it looks like we’ll be seeing each other after all. It’s still early,” she said glancing at her watch. “You got off early. Care to talk?”

Charles sighed as he unlocked the door. “Look, Yvette, I could not talk with you on Sunday; I was calling from a friend’s house. A Brother and Sister Montague invited me and my wife over for dinner after church…”

“Wife? Did you just say wife?”

“Yes. I just said wife.”

“Keep talking because there is a lot I apparently do not know. Since you’re not in such a hurry anymore, you can sit and clear things up. Or, are you still in a hurry?”

Yvette sat down, but Charles kept standing.

“Yes, I did say wife. We were separated for about a 17

year. The truth is neither of us signed off on the divorce papers.”

“What!”

“Let me finish,” Charles said holding up his hands.

“I have kept in touch with her because of our daughter, but I have not had any sexual relations with her over this past year. Giving it to you straight—I got saved, Yvette. I asked Jesus into my heart on Sunday evening at the Montague’s house, and I can’t see you anymore. And I am getting back with my wife and daughter. They both got saved a few months back. And, I am in a hurry. My wife informed me that the Montague’s daughter was in a serious car accident and is in the hospital. I am supposed to meet them there.”

“A likely story,” Yvette said with a laugh. She took two deep breaths and spoke deliberately not looking at him. “So I have been sleeping with a married man for…let me see…about seven months now…You’re a scoundrel, you know that? You’re worse than the worst. No. Do not say a word,” she said standing up. “I guess I never meant anything to you. Isn’t that right?”

“Yvette, I had no idea all this would happen. I…” “Stop while you still have breath in your lungs.”

Yvette was trying hard to remain calm. “Get out of here before I put a hurting on you. I’m glad you got Jesus in you because after I am finished with you you’re gonna need Him, or should I say, meet Him. Oh, you’re going to be truly sorry for using me like this. You’re going to wish you had never met me, Mr. Charles Herron. Now, get out!”

18

Chapter 2 “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Proverbs 3:5-6 Dr. Harley called the Montagues into Monica’s room.

She was still unconscious. A thin layer of bandage was loosely wrapped around her forehead, and cheeks. Sis. Montague, moving closer to her daughter, took both her hands. “Monica, this is Mom and Dad.” No response.

“Don’t worry,” Dr. Harley said. “She’ll be out of it for about the next forty-eight hours. It’s a temporary loss of consciousness due to the shock from the accident. We see this all the time.”

“How badly is her face cut up? Will she have any permanent scars?” Sis. Montague asked.

19

“No. We took out the few pieces of glass that had lodged under her skin. The bandage is just for protection from infection. It looks worse than it really is. The nurse will be taking it off within twenty-four hours.”

“What about her leg?” Bro. Montague asked. “The EMT told us the car door collapsed on her leg and left a huge gash.”

“Yes, let me show you. She lost a lot of blood. It might leave a little scar, but over time with some aloe vera and natural cocoa butter, most, if not all the scar should disappear.”

Sis. Montague squeezed her daughter’s hand a little tighter trying hard to hold back the tears that were on the verge of falling.

“The EMT,” Dr. Harley continued, “is his name Anthony?”

Bro. and Sis. Montague nodded.

“He’s been such a blessing to us. He does a great job at comforting the families before I see them. That has been a great help.”

“Yes, he answered much of our questions,” Bro. Montague said. “And what really blessed our hearts was he took the time to pray with us.” The Montagues and Dr. Harley talked a while longer before he took leave.

“I encourage you to get your rest. She is going to need you both in top shape when she recovers. Well, if you have no other questions, it’s been a pleasure meeting you. Check with Nurse Judy if you need anything.”

As Dr. Harley was exiting the room, Leah was 20

entering. Her parents gave her an update on Monica’s condition. “Dr. Harley’s the best. She’s in a temporary coma. She’ll come out of it soon.”

Leaving the two to sit with Monica, Bro. Montague left with Bro. Reynolds to check in on Pastor Richardson and Sis. Richardson. Bro. Reynolds and his family as well as a few of the church members had stopped by to visit with Monica and with Sis. Richardson.

21

Episode 2

23

Chapter 3 “I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.” (Psalm 101:2) Bro. and Sis. Herron and Tiffany headed home after spending an hour at the hospital. Bro. Herron was caught up in his own thoughts. Things, in his opinion, went much smoother with Yvette than he had expected. He could not help but wonder what she meant by her last words: I’m glad you got Jesus in you because after I am done with you, you’re gonna need Him, or should I say, meet Him. He did not know her to be a vindictive person, and had only seen and heard her engage in one argument with another woman. To put it mildly, Yvette had chewed her up and spit her out. Bro. Herron himself had never had any run-ins with her, but knew she could be

25

stubborn at times.

The ride home was quiet. After Tiffany was tucked away in bed, the Herrons went to their bedroom. After laying in bed for awhile, Sis. Herron asked her husband, “Is everything all right? You seem lost in your thoughts.”

“Everything’s all right. I just had to take care of something today.” Rolling over on his side to look directly into her eyes he continued, “Gloria, while we were separated, I met this woman named Yvette. To make a long story short, I moved in with her. After I got saved on Sunday, I told Yvette that I could not see her any more.

I did this while you were waiting for me at the Montagues.” Gloria listened patiently not knowing what to expect. “Today, before I met you all at the hospital, I went to her apartment to pick up my things. She turned up before I could get out of there, and she was not too happy about my leaving.” Taking a deep breath he went on. “See, I did not tell her that I was still married so that kind of shocked her when I revealed that to her. She became angry when I told her I was getting back with you. She mentioned something about when she’s done with me I’m going to wish I never met her.”

“She’s probably bluffing,” Sis. Herron said. “You don’t think she means anything by it, do you?”

“I really do not know. But I do know some women can be vindictive. I just hope she was bluffing,” Bro. Herron said.

“Yeah, she probably said it out of anger,” Sis. Herron said. “You know, I thought of all the ways I would have 26

loved to pay you back when you walked out, but I did not have the heart to act on my thoughts.”

“You’re not upset are you?” Bro. Herron asked.

“No, because I helped to push you out. I only hope she’s clean—you know, does not have AIDS or anything like that,” Sis. Herron said.

“I wouldn’t worry about that. I asked her a lot of questions. I believe she’s clean. Well, let’s just pray about that matter and go on and serve God. Good night, baby.

We’re going to make it.”

27

Chapter 4 “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (I Thessalonians 5:16-18) Pastor Richardson was in the midst of prayer when Brother Montague and Brother Reynolds walked into Sis. Richardson’s hospital room.

“Hey, Brother Montague and Brother Reynolds.

Brother Montague, how’s your daughter doing?”

Bro. Montague gave him a quick update. He said, “The doctor told us that she is still unconscious, but they expect her to come out of it soon.” Bro. Montague was startled at the tubes and machines hooked up to Sis. Richardson. Things seemed more serious than Pastor Richardson had led them to believe. But then he had a knack for causing situations to seem less intimidating

29

than what they really were.

“Praise the Lord for the good news regarding Monica,” Pastor Richardson said. “Sis. Richardson is not doing well at all. The doctor is talking about a C-Section quite soon. She has a little under four weeks to go. Her blood pressure keeps fluctuating. This is affecting the baby.” The brothers could tell he was trying hard to hold himself together. “She wants so badly to carry the baby to full-term and to give birth naturally. Brothers, I’m just praying for God’s will. I don’t think He brought us this far to leave us.”

The nurse came in to check the monitors. She replaced the IV, checked the heart monitor and Sis. Richardson’s blood pressure. She also checked the sonogram and other machines hooked up to monitor the baby’s movements and position in the womb. All were within acceptable range, however on the lower end.

The men discussed church business, and after prayer, Bro. Reynolds left to take his family home. Jonathan had not made it to the hospital yet, but was on his way. Bro. Montague left to pick something up for his family to eat.

Pastor declined the offer for a meal. “You know I’ve been meaning to go on a personal fast. I think now is the time to begin. I just covet your prayers.”

After everyone left, Pastor Richardson took his wife’s hands in his. He remembered when they first met. She was the student assistant to the Dean of Students at the seminary which they both attended. He had stopped by the office to discuss some financial issues he was having 30

that could possibly hinder him from graduating with his Doctorate in Theology. Each student, no matter his major, was required in his last year to take a two-weeklong evangelistic trip overseas to do mission work. Sis. Richardson, or Wanda, was to take that trip for extra credit towards her Masters degree in Early Childhood Education. Seeing he did not have a scheduled appointment with the Dean, he had to wait for him to get off the phone. While waiting, he got to talking with Wanda. They got to know each other better while on the trip, and their relationship continued after they returned. She even helped him with his dissertation paper.

With God’s blessings and the blessings of both their parents and friends, they were married a few months after graduation. He started a church while she worked as a school teacher for a few years before joining him full-time in the ministry. They experienced life’s ups and downs, but God blessed them to have a thriving church with people who loved them. After twenty years, God was fulfilling the last desire of their hearts—to have a child.

Pastor Richardson wondered what God was up to as he prayed: “Dear Father, I really do not think you brought us this far to leave us; frankly, I do not know what You are up to. Strengthen the church family. Oh, God, please bring my wife and child out of this safely. You know how long we have faithfully prayed for a child of our own.

Make me strong throughout this time so I can be a pillar for the church family. Lord, You say for us to cast all our 31

cares upon You because You care for us. I cast all my cares upon You even now because I know You care for me. In Jesus Christ’s name, I pray. Amen.”

32

Chapter 5 “There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”

(Proverbs 18:24) Jonathan told his Dad not to wait on him as he would be running late. It was around one o’clock that afternoon when his father had given him news of the accident. His co-worker, Clarence, noticed him looking at his watch repeatedly. “You can’t seem to keep your eyes away from your watch. Got an appointment?” he asked.

“Well, yes and no,” Jonathan answered. Both he and Clarence, along with another co-worker were working closely on a project for another business firm. “A newcomer with lots of potential,” the boss had said speaking of Jonathan, and so he gave him this opportunity to work with two of the company’s veteran employees: Clarence, an older man, and Sherrice, an

33

attractive young woman, who was three years older than he. Neither of them were church going folks, but they had a high respect for Jonathan and the way he carried himself.

Clarence invited him out for a drink a few times, but Jonathan respectfully declined stating he was a Christian and did not drink. Sherrice was extremely nice to him, even wanting to exchange phone numbers, “in case you have any questions regarding company policy or anything else,” she said to him. That offer he respectfully declined as well.

“For you to be looking at your watch so often, you must have an appointment with a female,” Clarence said with a twinkle in his eyes while trying to hold a straight face.

“Well, yes and no,” Jonathan answered again with a grin.

“Yes and no?” Clarence replied. “What kind of answer is that? You must be having woman problems.”

“Well, my Dad called to tell me that a friend was in a serious car accident and was in the hospital. And if you are going to ask is it a female friend, the answer is, yes.

And if you are going to ask is she a special friend, the answer is, yes.” Jonathan could not help but smile.

Clarence was an alright fellow.

“I knew it. Only a special female can keep a young man looking at his watch every five minutes. A handsome fellow like you must have a string of girls running behind you,” Clarence said with thumbs up.

34

Sherrice, who was on the computer, cleared her throat. She was very interested in the conversation, but tried not to show it. She wanted to find out more about Jonathan.

“Well, let’s work a couple more hours then you can take off to see your sweetheart. Sherrice and I will lock up.”

“Thanks, Mr. Clarence,” Jonathan said.

“No ‘Mister.’ Just plain ol’ Clarence,” Clarence said with a wave of his hand.

The evening seemed to drag on, but as soon as 4:30 came, Jonathan took off. He was surprised that there was not a florist in the immediate area for a town this size.

As he drove around in search of a florist, he thought about Monica and the good times they had spent together. Oh, God, I hope all is well with her.

35

Episode 3

37

Chapter 6 “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” (James 1:5) The closest florist was in the next town about twenty minutes out of his way. He made it in the nick of time. He remembered the red carnation had looked great on her on Valentine’s Day. This time, however, he decided to get her a bouquet of roses and purchased a white vase to place them in. His next stop was at Walmart where he purchased a medium sized teddy bear with a red heart that read “LOVE, HUGS & KISSES.” The bear said “I love you” when its tummy was squeezed. By 6:20 he was on his way to the hospital. It would take him another forty minutes to get there.

Once at the hospital, he quickly made his way to the

39

second floor. Sis. Montague and Leah greeted him.

“That was thoughtful of you,” Sis. Montague said as she took the flowers and placed them on the bedside table. She placed the bear next to Monica.

Jonathan breathed a sigh of relief to know everything would turn out well after they gave him an update on her condition. “If you ladies want to stretch your legs for a few minutes, I’ll be more than happy to sit with her.”

“Thank you, Jonathan. I believe we’ll take you up on your offer,” Sis. Montague said. “Come on, Leah.”

Once out of the room, Leah blurted out, “Mom, what’s up? That’s not like you to do that. Am I overlooking something here?”

“You sure are. Open your eyes, girl. Didn’t you see those roses? Expensive. Anyway, he and Monica have a relationship that’s blossoming. You didn’t read the writing on the bear—‘LOVE, HUGS & KISSES’.”

Leah grinned.

“Let’s go up to see Sis. Richardson and give those two some time alone. Your Dad’s taking longer to get back,” Sis. Montague said. ............

Back in Monica’s room, Jonathan stood next to the bed. He placed the bear next to Monica’s heart and squeezed its tummy. The “I Love You” expressed what he felt in his heart for her. He had been feeling this for a while, but did not want to move too fast.

40

“Monica, this is Jonathan. I don’t know if you can hear me or not, but I just wanted to let you know all is going to be well.” He felt funny carrying on a one-sided conversation. “You know, I really appreciate the times we’ve spent together…”

He soon became quiet. Walking over to the window, he looked out into the night sky. Lord, please make her well. I can envision us having a future together. ............

Sis. Montague and Leah met Bro. Montague exiting the elevator as they were about to enter it. He told them to forgo visiting Sis. Richardson until the next day.

“Besides,” Bro. Montague said to them, “Pastor needs some extra time with her. How’s Monica?”

“Jonathan’s with her. He offered to sit with her so we could stretch our legs.”

Bro. Montague grinned. “Let’s eat right here in the waiting room. I’ll give him some time…then I’m going to move in on him. In the meantime, Leah, tell me about you and Xavier.” _________________

Jonathan was back at the hospital the next evening with another set of flowers. He and the Montagues met with Pastor Richardson in Sis. Richardson’s room where they had a very powerful prayer meeting seeing it was

41

Wednesday night. Bro. Reynolds held down the fort at the church. Sis. Gene Willis relieved Pastor Richardson after services so he could get some needed rest. Sis. Richardson’s condition had stabilized, but she was still being closely monitored.

After the prayer meeting, Jonathan excused himself.

He wanted to stop by and visit with Monica before heading home. Good news greeted him as he entered the door. Monica was showing signs of consciousness. She squeezed the nurse’s hand on and off throughout the evening. The bandage had been removed from her face.

Little cuts that seemed more like scratches were noticeable, but were nothing to be alarmed about.

Jonathan felt a yearning in his heart for Monica. He reached over the bed rails and held her hand. She squeezed his fingers a few times in response to his voice.

He kept calling her name softly, squeezing her hand when she did respond. This night he did not hold back as he did the previous night; he bent over and kissed her on the lips. He pulled back rather quickly at her response.

“Mom,” she said as her eyes fluttered open.

“It’s me, Jonathan.”

“Dad?” Monica was still somewhat disoriented.

“No, it’s me, Jonathan.”

Monica managed a half smile.

“How are you feeling?” he asked as he pressed the buzzer for the nurse. Jonathan called the Montagues on Bro. Montague’s cellphone. They wasted no time in 42

coming down from Sis. Richardson’s room. They were all smiles upon entering the room.

“That’s one more victory for us,” Bro. Montague said giving Jonathan a slap on the back as they left for home.

Thank You, God, Jonathan prayed as he drove home.

Thank You for answering all our prayers. Tonight, I am one happy man.

43

Chapter 7 “I will say of the Lord, he is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.” (Psalm 91:2) Dr. Harley released Monica from the hospital on Friday. While waiting for the elevator, a voice caused them to turn around. It was Anthony the EMT. He rejoiced with them at Monica’s quick recovery. “I can scratch you off my prayer list,” he said to Monica. He reached out to shake Leah’s hand after Bro. Montague introduced them.

Turning his attention back to Bro. Montague, he said, “I am so glad I caught you. I seemed to have misplaced the tract you gave me with your church address. I would like to visit, not this Sunday, but the following Sunday.” Bro. Montague reached into his inner jacket pocket and pulled out three Gospel tracts, handing

45

them to Anthony. “You can pass out the other two,” he said.

They chatted for a while before going their separate ways.

“Now that’s a nice young man,” Leah said.

“You got that right. That’s the kind of man I wish for you—a man of prayer,” her Dad said in a matter of fact way. ________________ Leah decided to spend the entire weekend with her family. It warmed her spirit to be with her family for a few days. Bunking on the pull-out bed in Monica’s room, they talked and giggled like two school girls far into the night. Leah convinced her to apply for a job at the pediatrics clinic at The Professionals Medical Center which housed a number of doctors’ offices.

Leah called Xavier the next morning to let him know where she would be. The disturbed look on her face after she hung up the phone caused her father to ask, “What’s the problem?”

“Oh, nothing much. Xavier does not care much for my staying the weekend. He said he wanted to see me and did not appreciate my not letting him know earlier.”

“Oh,” was all Bro. Montague said.

After he left for the church, Sis. Montague decided to get to the bottom of things because, frankly, her and her husband did not know that much about Xavier even

46

though he and Leah had been seeing each other for about a year. “Leah, what’s going on between you and Xavier?

Don’t pretty it up. Tell me everything.”

After some hesitation, Leah spoke. “Mom, lately he’s been so controlling. I can’t do anything without him knowing. I can’t go anywhere without his permission.

He was upset when I decided to spend the two nights at the hospital with Monica. Now, he’s threatening not to talk with me if I spend the whole weekend here saying it’s not fair to him because he had plans for us. He never used to be like this.”

“Oh, yes, he has always been like that. It is just now showing up,” her mother said. “You were so much in love with him you easily overlooked that part of him or he hid that part of himself from you in the early days of your relationship. But this all sounds a bit too controlling to me. I hope you know you don’t have to subject yourself to any man you are not married to. You are not under any obligation to do anything Xavier says. Has he ever tried to get intimate with you?”

“He’s been trying lately, but he knows I am firmly against it. The pressure is getting to be too much, though.” Leah added, sighing.

“That’s part of the problem,” her mother said. “He’s pressuring you into doing something you do not want to do. That’s not showing respect for you as a person.

You are a good-hearted person, and he knows that, so he’s trying to hold on to you. All I can tell you is to drop him before you end up doing something you will regret.

47

Is he a Christian, Leah?”

“He says he is.”

“I guess you’re going to say he goes to church, right?” Sis. Montague asked. Leah nodded.

“You know you got a lot of devils sitting in the church pews.” Leah nodded again. “Whatever you decide to do, do not give in, and my advice to you is if things do not change soon, let him go. There are still some good men out there. You saw that in Anthony, the EMT, and he is for real. Like your father and I have always told you and Monica: the power is in your hands.” ............

Leah cut her family visit short and returned to her place late Sunday evening. She was not prepared for what she saw. Xavier, who was not expecting her until Monday evening, but who had a key to her apartment, was there when she pulled into her parking space. His car was parked out front. Leah quietly entered the apartment intending to surprise him. The surprise was on her.

Upon entering the apartment, she thought she heard sounds coming from her bedroom. She could not quite make out what the sounds were. Listening outside the door, she heard giggling. Pushing the door slightly open and peeking in, she saw Xavier and another woman in her bed. She was shocked, but quickly pulling herself together and pushing the door open, she said sarcastically, “I hate to disturb the good time you are

48

having, but you’re in my apartment, and in my bed, and I want both of your asses out now.”

The strange woman pulled the sheet up to her neck.

Xavier closed his eyes.

“I’m giving you thirty seconds to get out before I call the police,” Leah ordered them. Retreating to the living room, she started flipping the television channels in rapid succession. The woman was out in the allotted time. Xavier tried to explain.

“No explanation needed. Just go!” She understood now what her father meant by: the power is in your hands.

As usual, Xavier insisted on having the last word.

“Well, you refused to give me what I wanted, girl,” he said before storming out the door.

Leah locked the door and burst into tears. It took her about two hours to pull herself together again. I kept myself pure for marriage. I tried to live right. This is what I get.

Life certainly is not fair. Swallowing her pride, she called her parents. “Mom, you were right. He’s no good. He was just trying to use me.”

“I told you I did not trust him,” her father said. “You pack all your things and come on back here in case he turns up later and tries to pick up where he left off and he will turn up later and try to pick up where he left off.

I’m glad you called us. Plan on staying here for a while— a long while.”

49

Chapter 8 “When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, thy face, Lord, will I seek.� (Psalm 27:8) As his wife was in the hospital, Pastor Richardson chose this time to go through a personal time of spiritual cleansing and renewal. The long awaited fast which the Lord had been leading him to take had finally started.

The devil and the demons that were fighting against him and the church had finally left at least for a season, and just as Jesus experienced in the wilderness, he felt the angels of Heaven ministering to him. He now had complete assurance that a breakthrough was in play for Sis. Richardson—how soon, he was not sure. His faith had been tested and by the grace of God, he had come out shining.

On Monday, after praying over his wife who kept

51

slipping in and out of consciousness, he felt at peace leaving her to go home for some much needed rest. About two hours after he left for home, the red light to Sis. Richardson’s room began blinking rapidly—either the baby or Sis. Richardson was in distress. Nurse Mika hurried to her room where, upon looking at the sonogram, noticed the umbilical cord had slipped around the baby’s neck, cutting off its breathing. “Code Red! Code Red!” she shouted into the speaker leading to the nurses’ station. Dr. Mulligan was immediately summoned.

“Set her up for emergency C-section. No time to wheel her into the delivery room.”

Two other nurses joined them in the room with sterilized gowns, gloves, and surgical equipment. As the doctor donned his gown and gloves with the help of an aide, the nurses prepped Sis. Richardson. The oxygen supply was turned up. Another IV was inserted to stabilize the mother’s blood pressure. The baby’s heart rate had slowed down almost to a stop. Two nurses from the pediatrics ward anxiously waited with a portable crib and other equipment. Although it was a critical time, it was also a joyous time—another soul was being born into the world. Prayers were going up from all those who were present in the room. Within minutes, a healthy baby boy was born despite the circumstances. A tiny mask was placed over his face as he was wheeled off to the pediatrics ward. Miraculously, Sis. Richardson’s blood pressure fell within normal range. She slowly regained consciousness. She was in pain, but thank God, all was 52

well. The enemy was once again defeated. Pastor Richardson was elated at the news and made his way back to the hospital.

The following week everything was back to normal: Sis. Richardson was home adjusting to her new role as a mother; Pastor Richardson was back in position as leader of the vibrant, growing New Mt. Zion Missionary Evangelical Church; Monica was steadily healing; Jonathan was excited about her recovery; other families were enjoying a time of spiritual rest. But as Pastor Richardson warned them his first Sunday back: “Don’t let this peace fool you; the devil is planning something.

Remember, he only left Jesus for a season.”

53

Episode 4

55

Chapter 9 “Rejoice evermore.” (I Thessalonians 5:16) At her father’s advice, Leah turned in the key to her apartment.

“Now, Leah, you’re probably hurt over what Xavier did to you, but you can’t let that keep you from living your life. I don’t want to see you moping around the house. Pray and ask God to give you wisdom,” Bro. Montague said as he drove his daughter to her apartment to retrieve her belongings.

“He’s gonna be calling you, texting you, apologizing and telling you how sorry he is and how it will never happen again. He’ll even send you flowers and other gifts.

Those are just things to get you to come back to him,” he continued as they pulled into the parking lot.

A note fell out of the apartment door as Leah pushed

57

it open. It read: Leah, I am sorry for what I did to you on Sunday evening and for using your apartment to do it. You’re the one for me and always will be. Please give me a call. I love you.

Xavier Looking over Leah’s shoulder, her father said, “I told you. I know what this joker’s going to try to pull.”

Leah sighed and nodded as she pushed the door open all the way. She switched the light on, and as the living room flooded with light, she saw a large bouquet of roses and a huge container of chocolates on the living room table. Another note read: “I am truly sorry. I love you.

Give me a call.”

Now it was Bro. Montague’s turn to sigh as he watched Leah read the note. “Leah, you don’t need to call him again,” he said. “In fact, you need to change your number. You can keep those roses if you want and enjoy the chocolate, but ignore the notes.”

Leah thought about the note as she rapidly gathered her things. It seems sincere enough. How can he not be sorry?

Why spend all that money on these expensive roses and not truly be sorry? Dad doesn’t really know him like I do.

“Dad,” Leah said on their way home. “Maybe he is truly sorry. Maybe I ought to give him another chance…”

58

“Another chance, Leah? Are you crazy? Obviously you have not been listening to me,” her father said. “He’s sorry all right—sorry he got caught. Jokers like that don’t deserve another chance.”

Leah waited for her dad to continue.

“Let me give it to you straight. I want you to enjoy your life. I want you to find a Christian young man, get married, and have a happy home if that is what you want to do. But I also want you to be friends with a young man who will respect you and who won’t cheat on you. If he is cheating on you now, no telling what he’ll do once you get married; and believe me, that was probably not his first time cheating on you. If Xavier truly respected you, he would have never done what he did, and he would not have been pressuring you to have sex with him. Your mother told me that was what he was doing.”

Leah started to protest, but her Dad continued. “You have a good heart. You’re determined to keep yourself pure until marriage. Xavier knows that and that’s part of the reason why he’s stayed with you for so long. Now when he can’t get what he wants from you and he wants to go mess around, he’ll go to other women who falsely believe the way to get a man is to have sex with him.

These women will lower their standards and disrespect themselves to have sex with a man. That is so stupid; and I did not raise you to be stupid.”

Leah’s cell phone rang late that night. It was Xavier.

She reached over to answer it but her father’s words slowed her down: You have the power to control and direct 59

the relationship in the way you want it to go. Never give your heart to any man you are not married to until he puts a ring on your finger. Until then, keep your heart to yourself. Men are very good at playing with a woman’s emotions. Respect yourself first by demanding that he respects you.

Her phone kept ringing. She listened as he left a message: “Leah, my girl, please answer the phone. I know you’re listening. I can’t wait to speak with you.” She laid the phone down on the pillow beside her head.

It rang again, and she picked it up. Sighing, she pressed the answer button. I’ll give him a chance to have his say.

“Leah, you’re all I’ve been thinking about. Did you get my gifts?” Xavier said. He sounded more eager than remorseful.

“Yes, I got them,” Leah said flatly, trying to guard her emotions. She didn’t want to let Xavier know how she really felt.

“I can’t stop thinking about you, Leah. I could kick myself for doing what I did. Do you forgive me?” Xavier said. “I’m really sorry.”

He’s gonna be calling you, apologizing and saying how sorry he is. Leah thought back to her dad’s conversation with her in the car.

“Leah, are you there?” Xavier asked.

“Yes, I am. How long have you been seeing this other woman? I mean, how could you?” Leah angrily asked.

Tears of hurt and anger welled up in her eyes.

“She’s not important to me. She was just a one time 60

thing. You know I love you, right?”

What if he really does love me? “I asked you a question: how could you? Here I am keeping myself pure for you, being faithful to you and you do this to me.” Leah moved her cellphone away from her mouth as she quickly wiped away the tears and cleared her throat. I have to remain strong and in control, she thought to herself.

“Leah, I love you. You are the one for me, and I mean that.” He’ll come speaking all that romantic jive just to get you back. “Like I said, she’s not important, but you are…”

“You’re just sorry you got caught, you lying cheat,” Leah said raising her voice.

“Give me another chance and I’ll make it up to you.

Trust me…” pleaded Xavier.

Leah hung up the phone and rolled over to get some much-needed sleep.

61

Chapter 10 “Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.” (Psalm 4:4) Stacy stopped by to visit Monica shortly after she returned from the hospital. Her pregnancy was going well, so Stacy had postponed returning to college until after the birth of the baby. Just a few weeks after going off to FAMU, she became pregnant. Even though her boyfriend had urged her to get an abortion, she eventually decided against it, thanks to the prayers of her family and friends. After that ordeal, her parents had insisted that she come home immediately.

“He’s one caring man if you ask me,” Stacy said after Monica shared with her Jonathan’s many phone calls and the gifts and cards he dropped off for her. “I knew he was a good catch.”

63

“Ready for a real modern-day fairy tale?” Monica continued not waiting for an answer. “He told me and swore on it, that he pulled me out of my coma with a kiss. Can you believe that?”

“Whoo, girl! Just the thought of it sends goosebumps all over me,” Stacy said shivering with a giggle.

“This is what he told me. He said, ‘I just felt this strong pull that I could not resist. No sooner had I kissed you—on the lips—then you opened your eyes.’ I told him, that’s a classic modern-day Sleeping Beauty story which I did not believe,” Monica said giggling. “Whether it’s true or not, the thought of it is so romantic.”

“Oooh, girl! You got you one romantic guy. I am so happy for you,” Stacy said as they high-fived each other.

“I hear the sound of wedding bells.”

“Mmm, I wouldn’t take it that far, but it sure feels good to think about,” Monica replied with a laugh. “‘Lady, I’m your knight in shining armor and I love you.’ Go Lionel Richie!” Monica and Stacy fell out on the bed in laughter.

After pulling themselves together, Monica asked, “So what’s been happening with you? Anymore news from Robert?”

Stacy got serious. “Well, he’s finally opened up and has been more willing to talk. He apologized for everything, especially for denying the baby was his. He said he was scared and felt unprepared to be a father.

We’ve been talking quite a bit lately. I’m glad I didn’t change my cell number.”

“Good for you. Is he talking positive—you know, like 64

he wants you both to continue as more than just friends—maybe marriage?”

“He is. He says he wants to pick up where we left off and wants to have a more active part in Trevon’s or Trelawny’s life.”

Monica looked puzzled. “Who is Trevon, and who is Trelawny?”

“Oh, those are the names he’s chosen for the baby,” a beaming Stacy said. “Wait ‘till you hear this one: he’s talked about me taking a trip up to New York to meet his family.”

“He’s talking serious, Stacy,” Monica said.

Stacy smiled. “I told him I would pray about it—you know—trying to sound spiritual. I really want to go, but I can’t let him see how eager I am. But as I think about it: it’s one thing to have him be the father of the baby; it’s another thing for us to be married. I mean, I don’t want us to get married simply because we had a child together.

We may not make it living under the same roof.”

“You have a point there,” Monica said with a laugh.

“What do your parents think?”

“Dad had a serious talk with him about doing the responsible thing. As far as us getting married that was up to us.” Monica nodded. “See, I don’t want to get so caught up with the idea of getting married that I don’t think about the after I say ‘I do’ part. You know what I mean?”

“I sure do. I feel the same about Jonathan. The before ‘I do’ is all lovey-dovey; it’s the after ‘I do’ that scares me 65

sometimes. Anyway,” Monica continued giving her friend a hug, “it doesn’t hurt to dream every now and then. Has he told his parents yet?”

“Yeah. He says they were a little disappointed and were hoping for a grandchild after he got married. Other than that, they are eager to meet me.”

“You know, Monica, it’s amazing how God takes our mistakes and turns them around to make something good come out of them,” Stacy said, referring to her younger half-sister, Lisa Wilmington. Lisa was the girl that her father had had with another woman. Stacy had found out just before she went off to college. At the time, she had been extremely upset about it. “My Mom and Lisa’s mother, Rochelle, have been talking lately. Lisa is welcome to visit at any time. Mom says it’s not her fault so we just have to love her and make her feel special. In fact, she’s spending the weekend with us and will be in church with us on Sunday. She’s called me everyday to make sure we have not changed our minds. You’re going to love her.”

“I’m sure I will,” Monica said.

“Well, bye for now. Until we meet up again for some more romantic gossip,” Stacy said.

66

Chapter 11 “Praise the Lord; for the LORD is good: sing praises unto his name; for it is pleasant.” (Psalm 135:3) To say that Yvette was mad would be an understatement. Those who knew her well, knew she had mastered the art of looking cool and unruffled on the outside, but fuming and scheming on the inside. That cheater is going to pay for deceiving me like that. Being knowledgeable of Charles Herron’s work schedule, she used it to her advantage. Yvette spent the first week calling his job and leaving messages for him using a different female name with each message. That should rock his spiritual world. Bro. Herron suspected that it was her. Unknown to him, the following Tuesday and Thursday, Yvette followed him home. Knowing he normally worked a little late on Fridays, Yvette turned

67

up at his apartment on Friday evening. Tiffany answered the door.

“Hi, Sweetie. Is your Daddy, Mr. Herron, home?”

“No, ma’am, but my Mama is here,” Tiffany answered, before shouting back into the room, “Mama, there’s a lady here asking for Daddy.”

“Yes. Can I help you?” Sis. Herron asked once she got to the door.

“I stopped by to see Charles.” Yvette eyed Sis. Herron from head to toe. “Are you his wife? What’s your name, now?”

“Gloria, and yes, I am his wife,” Sis. Herron answered with hesitation.

“Well, Gloria, my name is Yvette and I stopped by to speak with your husband. I don’t know how much he’s told you about me, if he’s mentioned me at all. I just wanted to let you know that he and I are still living together while you all are separated. I don’t feel right deceiving you like this.”

Sis. Herron took a moment to digest it all while trying to suppress a smile. Yvette is certainly making a fool of herself, Sis. Herron thought. Sis. Herron knew her husband had come completely clean with her because he did not have to tell her what took place during their separation. She had never known him to lie to her.

“Yvette. You said, Yvette, right? Well, my husband told me all about you. So what can I do for you?”

“Well, just tell him I stopped by,” and with that, Yvette was gone. That should give him a peaceful night, 68

Yvette snickered to herself as she pulled off in her red Mazda.

“You wouldn’t believe who just left here,” Sis. Herron told her husband over the phone.

“Oh, boy,” Bro. Herron sighed after she related to him about Yvette’s visit. “Now, what does she want?

Gloria, I don’t know what is wrong with her. I don’t even know how she found out where we live. Don’t open the door to her anymore, and tell Tiffany not to open the door at all. We’ll talk more when I get there.” _______________ Yvette was not finished scheming. She planned on shaking up Gloria little by little with small disturbances to drive a wedge between her and her husband.

Remembering the name ‘Montague’ from a previous conversation with Charles, she decided to Google it. One listing came up in the online Yellow Pages—Terrence and Stella Montague. Yvette picked up the phone to dial their number.

“Mrs. Montague, my name is Yvette. I was talking with a friend, Charles Herron, and he was telling me about your church. I forgot the name of it…Yes, that’s it.

Anyway, I’d like to visit on Sunday and I was calling to get the address…I’m looking forward to being there.”

On Sunday morning, Yvette arrived a little before ten o’clock at the church. She parked under the tree where she had a clear view of the front entrance so she could

69

wait for the arrival of the Herron family. They arrived at 9:55. Just as I thought; just in time for Sunday School. Yvette waited in her car until eleven o’clock before entering the auditorium. Taking a seat close to the back, she kept a close watch on Bro. Herron who was seated in the middle of the auditorium with his family.

After services, while the Herrons were fellowshipping with others in the church, Yvette boldly made her presence known. “Oh, Charles, it’s so good to see you again.” She threw her arms around him causing him to almost fall backwards. “You are lookin’ great, Charlie,” she continued in a voice loud enough for those close by to hear. Heads began turning and people watched with curiosity as she, with an impudent face, kissed him on the lips as Bro. Herron tried to jerk his head away in vain.

Before Bro. Herron could regain his composure, Sis. Herron swung at Yvette with her purse, exclaiming, “What in the world do you think you’re doing?”

“Hi, Gloria,” Yvette said with a smirk and continued sarcastically, “Remember me? Your husband and I are very good friends as you can see.” Turning to Bro. Herron, she said, “Call you later, baby.”

She turned and strutted out of the church. I know he’s mortified, she thought. That’s only the beginning.

70

Episode 5

71

Chapter 12 “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.” (Psalm 37:23) “Charles, what’s going on here? I mean, this is embarrassing…and before the whole church. You got to do something about her now,” Sis. Herron said to her husband as they pulled out of the church parking lot after Sunday services.

“Listen, Gloria, like I told you, I don’t know what’s going on in her mind. She is mad because I came back to you. Don’t worry. I’ll put a stop to this fiasco,” Bro. Herron assured his wife.

“You don’t seem to be doing a good job of it,” she replied. “Are you sure you told me everything about her?”

“Yes, I did,” Bro. Herron said pulling up into the gas station. Turning to his wife, he continued, “Look, Gloria,

73

I know this was embarrassing, but you hang in there with me and we’ll come through this. She’ll soon run out of steam.” Then with a grin he added, “Any woman who swings her purse with the force that you did in protection of her man is worth fighting to keep.”

Sis. Herron chuckled as he leaned over to kiss her.

“Thank you, baby. I love you,” he said.

“I love you too. Now go and get the gas so we can head on home. I can smell my roast from here,” his wife said returning his kiss.

“Yuck!” Tiffany said from the back seat.

“Oh, Little Tiff, I forgot you were back there,” Bro. Herron said reaching over to tickle her. _________________ “Some drama is always going on at this church,” Bro. Montague said to his family as they sat down for their Sunday meal. “That was Brother Herron I was talking with. That was his old girlfriend causing a scene. She’s still mad at him for leaving her and going back to his wife and daughter. What’s wrong with these women nowadays?”

“What’s wrong with these lying, cheating men nowadays?” Leah said to Monica later in her room as they prepared for bed. “Xavier fits the bill. I am so angry at him for what he did.”

“Oh, don’t worry about him. You’ll soon get over

74

him,” Monica told her.

“Easier said than done,” Leah replied. “Just when I think I have gotten over him, memories of him flood my mind. I tell you, it ain’t easy getting over someone.”

“I believe there is someone better out there for you.

He just hasn’t found you yet.”

“Thanks, Monica. I don’t mean to dump my sorrows on you, and thank you for trying to make me feel better,” Leah said giving her sister a hug.

“That’s what sisters are for.”

With a chuckle, Leah asked, “Does Jonathan have a brother or cousin or somebody like him?”

“Not that I know of,” Monica said with a laugh. “If he does, I’ll be sure to let you know.” ________________ “What was all that commotion about in the auditorium, Bettie?” Sis. Mills asked as they pulled out of the church’s parking lot.

“Some woman trying to disturb the Herrons; you know that couple that’s been coming recently with the pretty little girl. How you manage to miss it? Girl, it was better than reality TV,” Sis. Bettie answered.

Here we go again with the untamed tongue, Bro. Harold thought.

“I was fixin’ to make my way over there, but Harold stopped me before I could even take the first step. I saw some woman, it seems, hugging on Bro. Herron. He…”

75

“Hugging on? No, she was throwing herself on him.”

“Whatever it was she was doing, he didn’t look too pleased,” Sis. Mills said.

Why should he be pleased? His wife was right there, Bro. Harold thought.

“He sure wasn’t. And his wife did not look too pleased either, especially after this woman kissed her husband on the lips. Did you see her clobber the woman with her purse?”

“What in the world…”

“I lie not,” Sis. Bettie said. “I was right there talking with Sis. Gladys. She’s about ready to pass off the scene, so I am trying to talk with her as much as I can. She kind of gets lonely during the week days.”

You gossip her ears off all evening on Sundays; she don’t want to talk to you all week long, Bro. Harold smiled to himself.

“I know. I know. What did the Herrons do?” Sis. Mills asked getting back to the main point.

“He pushed the lady off of him. She had no choice but to back up and leave. I was preparing myself to see a fight break out,” Sis. Bettie said.

We three are going to have a fight if you two don’t shut up, Bro. Harold sighed.

“I know. There’s nothing uglier than two women, especially two church women, fighting over a man. That there takes the cake,” Sis. Mills said.

Sis. Bettie agreed with a chuckle.

Bro. Harold had heard about all he could take. “What 76

takes the cake is two gossipping church women. Can you two leave people’s business alone? I guess Pastor Richardson’s sermon on the sins of the tongue a while back did not sink in. You two may have to listen to the tape again.” He glared at his wife. “Can we have one quiet, pleasant ride home after church?” Sis. Mills and Sis. Bettie immediately fell silent. “Bettie, you’re still welcome to come over for dinner, but I do not want to hear any more about that incident at the church.”

Sis. Bettie nodded.

“Now, that’s more like it,” Bro. Harold said as he pulled into their garage after a quiet ride home. “Peace and quiet. I love it.”

77

Chapter 13 “Finally , brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8) Xavier called Leah numerous times over the week.

He was full of apologies, saying it would never happen again and how much he wanted them to continue the relationship. Leah, as trusting as she was, wanted to believe him, but her parents’ words kept ringing in her ears: I do not trust him. The power is in your hands.

What’s to say he won’t do it again? He’s only sorry he got caught. That first week with her family, and away from Xavier, helped her reexamine their relationship, and she had to finally settle within herself that things

79

were not going to work out between them. __________________ The Montague family was in their place at New Mt. Zion on Sunday. A number of visitors were present including Richard, Bro. Montague’s former boss, and Anthony, the EMT who took Monica in to the hospital a few weeks earlier.

“Bro. Anthony, it’s so good to see you again. How did you like the services?” Bro. Montague greeted him.

“It was fantastic. I’ve passed by here before but never really paid much attention to what was going on. Now, I’m glad I stopped in.”

Bro. Montague introduced Anthony to a few of the folks at the church including Leah, Stacy, Monica, and Jonathan who were fellowshipping together. Stacy soon said goodbye. Monica and Jonathan walked off arm-inarm. Leah and Anthony talked for awhile, and they ended up exchanging phone numbers. ___________________ Bro. Montague’s former boss, Richard, found the services enjoyable. He had served his time in jail for selling drugs. While there, he had done some serious thinking. The Lord had used Bro. Montague to continually bring conviction to him and to show him his need not only to resume going to church, but to get back on praying ground. Richard had turned away from

80

God after losing his wife and five-year-old son in a tragic car accident. And, as he related the incident to Bro. Montague, after contacting him that Monday, “I never got to say goodbye. Just like that, they were gone. It’s been six years and it still hurts. I kept asking God, why?

But He has never given me an answer.”

Bro. Montague listened patiently.

“Shortly after the accident, I ran into an old high school friend. He introduced me to the world of drugs.

Against my better judgment, and knowing that it would displease God, I began distributing drugs. The money was promising and I deceived myself into thinking that it was well worth the risk. I knew you to be an honest man, but I never felt any threat of you reporting me to the police.

If anything, I expected you to quit and remain silent. But, you know, brother, I felt a great relief when the trial brought everything to an end. I thank you for standing for what is right.”

“Praise the Lord,” was all Bro. Montague could say.

“New Mt. Zion’s location has been etched in my mind since the day you invited me to its services. And I am glad I came yesterday. The warmth I felt from the people brought tears to my eyes. My heart burned within me as I listened to the Word being preached. Thank you, my brother, for remaining faithful in praying for me. I felt your prayers even while I was in jail.”

81

Chapter 14 “Rejoice in the Lord, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.” (Psalm 33:1) Yvette was still plotting. She was hurt. She was angry.

She was jealous of Gloria because Gloria took away from her the best man that had ever come into her life. If I get rid of her, he’ll definitely come back to me, she thought.

Yvette drove by the Herron’s apartment frequently. She drove by Bro. Herron’s job. When she found out that Bro. Herron had changed his cell phone number, she was ticked off. She noticed that sometimes he and his wife car-pooled. I am gonna get him and if wifey gets hurt in the process—too bad.

On this particular day, Yvette pulled out of the parking lot behind Charles’ car. She had been waiting for him. He was so occupied listening to the Christian

83

radio station and praising God he did not notice her following him. It was not until he exited the ramp onto the highway that he noticed someone driving behind him too close for comfort. Whenever he sped up, she would speed up. Whenever he slowed down, she would slow down. Whenever he changed lanes, she would change lanes. What the heck! he thought after realizing who was driving the car. This woman is crazy!

Yvette tried to force him off the road a few times. If I can’t have you, Charles Herron, neither can your wife, she thought.

As he exited the three lane highway taking the lane farthest right on the ramp, Yvette pulled up beside him at the stoplight. Looking across at him, she rolled her window down. She blew him a kiss, and with a sneaky, devilish grin, mouthed, “I’m not done with you yet.”

You are nuts, Bro. Herron thought shaking his head as he turned right.

On arriving home he shared the bizarre incident with his wife. “She’s a fighter for sure,” Gloria said. “I would think she would have left us alone by now. Don’t you think you should get the police in on this?”

“I was thinking about it, but I am going to talk with her one more time in person,” Bro. Herron said. “I just hope she does not mess with you or Tiffany. She’s acting crazy enough to do that.”

The next few days Yvette laid low. After about a week, she pulled the same trick again. That day Bro. and Sis. Herron had car-pooled and they were on their way home 84

after Gloria had picked up her husband from work. After not hearing from Yvette for a week, they had put her out of their minds, and were so busy talking, that they were shocked when her red Mazda zoomed in front of them.

Sis. Herron slammed the brakes just in time to avoid hitting Yvette’s car. Thank God the car behind them had changed lanes. Yvette slowed until the Herrons had pulled even with her and then she tried forcing them into the next lane. A Mack truck was bearing down rapidly in that lane.

“Oh, my goodness! I cannot believe this witch is doing this! Jesus, help us,” Sis. Herron said gripping the steering wheel tightly.

“Don’t panic. Just stay in the lane,” her husband said keeping an eye on Yvette’s car.

Yvette came within inches of slamming into the Herron’s car a couple of times. The driver of the Mack truck blew his horn frantically as he rolled past them.

Other drivers switched lanes to get out of the way. The Herrons missed their exit, but were thankful Yvette got off the expressway at her exit.

“Hopefully that’s the last we’ll see or hear from her,” Bro. Herron said with a sigh.

Their evening was interrupted by a pounding on their apartment door. “Police. Open up,” a low voice demanded.

Surprised, Bro. Herron opened the door to see two policemen standing in front him. “How can I help you?” he asked.

85

“Are you Charles Herron?” one of the officers asked.

Bro. Herron nodded.

“Someone called and reported domestic abuse coming from this apartment. They gave us your name, Charles Herron, as the perpetrator and your wife’s name, Gloria, as the victim. The caller also said this was not the first time this has happened, and that she feared for your wife’s life.”

Bro. Herron was stunned into silence. He could not believe what he was hearing; neither could his wife, who had walked into the living room.

“Is your wife in, sir? We would like to speak with her.”

“I’m right here, sir,” Sis. Herron said approaching the door behind her husband. “You both can come in.

As you can see I am in one piece, and my husband has never laid a hand on me in our eleven years of marriage.

We don’t know who could have made that call to you.”

“Probably a prank phone call,” one of the officers said. “There’s this new thing called swatting sweeping the country, where people make false reports to get the police to go out to a residence. Do you have any enemies?”

Bro. Herron thought about mentioning Yvette’s name, but thought it would be better not to get into that at the moment.

“Prank phone call, my foot,” Bro. Herron said after the officers left. “I guarantee you, Yvette has something to do with this. If you noticed the officer said it was a 86

‘she’ who made the call.”

After about thirty minutes, Bro. Herron put his shoes on. “I’ll be back shortly, Gloria. Keep the door locked and don’t open up for anyone.”

Within twenty minutes he was pounding on the door at Yvette’s apartment.

“Why, Charles, it’s so good to see you at this late hour. What brings you here?”

“Cut the crap, Yvette,” he said stepping past her into the apartment.

“Yes, you may come in even without my permission.”

Yvette swung the door wide open with a sly smile.

Once inside, Charles closed and locked the door behind him. He grabbed Yvette by the arm and looked her dead in the eyes. He said, “You can try to hurt me all you want, but if you ever hurt my wife or daughter in any way, I am going to put a hurting on you in a way you will never forget, and a hurting that will cause you to regret you ever met me.”

Yvette winced in pain as he tightened his grip on her arm. She tried to protest, but Bro. Herron continued.

“Don’t you say one word. I have had enough of you terrorizing me and my family. You try to run me off the highway again, and I promise you’ll go off the road before I do…and this is no idle threat. You got that?”

Yvette nodded. Not only did she hear the seriousness in his voice, but she saw it in his face.

“I may be back in the church now, but you still don’t want to mess with me. I am not playing games with you.”

87

With that, Charles Herron left to spend a quiet evening with his wife and daughter.

“I don’t think we’ll be having any more problems out of her,” he told his wife. “I had a long talk with her and I think she got the message this time.”

88

Episode 6

89

Chapter 15 “And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” (Ephesians 4:24) Sis. Bettie could not wait to get Sis. Mills on the phone. “Sis. Mills, wasn’t that a lovely service today?” she said “It sure was.”

“And did you see all the new couples?” Sis. Bettie asked.

“What new couples? I didn’t see no new couples. Tell me about ‘em.”

“Well, there were the two Montague girls for one thing. The younger one, Monica, and Bro. Reynolds’ son seem to be having eyes for each other lately. I believe some good things is brewing,” Sis. Bettie said.

“Yes, I noticed that, too. Been noticed that for a while

91

now. They make a lovely couple. Now, who’s the next couple?” Sis. Mills asked.

“The other daughter was there. I saw her with a new man. I had never seen him before. Seems like they get along fine.”

“Good for her. I never did like the one she come to church with every now and then, anyway. He seem to look at every other woman but her,” Sis. Mills said. “Talk about a man with wandering eyes.”

“And there was this little girl with the Wilmingtons,” Sis. Bettie continued. “I think she’s the sister they did not know about. She look the splitting image of Bro. Wilmington, don’t she?”

“Now that you mention it, she sure does look like him. Well, seems like all is well with them,” Sis. Mills said.

“What you two gossiping about now?” Bro. Harold said walking in the room folding his newspaper.

“Nothing much. Just the love going on in the church,” his wife answered. “I think I hear wedding bells.”

“Well, don’t listen too hard because you may not get invited.” Bro. Harold chuckled as he walked out of the room.

92

Chapter 16 “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) It was Saturday afternoon when Jonathan and Monica headed to the store to pick up a few gift items for Tiffany’s eleventh birthday. Once at the local WalMart, Monica’s first stop was the school supplies section where she picked up some pencils, pens, a pencil case, a diary, some notebooks, and a backpack.

“Tiffany will love this diary,” Jonathan said, admiring the gold and red cover.”

“Yes, it will be great for her to keep all of her secrets in,” Monica said.

“Do you have a diary?” Jonathan asked. “If you don’t mind my asking, what secrets are in your diary?”

“You are not supposed to know. That’s the point of

93

a secret. My diary holds the secrets of my heart,” Monica answered.

“Surely you can reveal one of your heart’s secrets.”

“Well…if you insist,” Monica said sheepishly. “I have pages filled with thoughts.”

“About what?” Jonathan pressed.

“Well…lately they’ve been about you.”

“Oh, really. And what thoughts have you been having about me lately?”

“Good thoughts. Great thoughts. How you make me feel when I am around you,” Monica said.

“And…” “And…I…am not supposed to tell you.” She attempted to side-step him in order to end the conversation even though she was loving every minute of it, but Jonathan blocked her path.

“Not until you tell me one of your great thoughts about me, and I insist,” said Jonathan.

“Well, if you insist,” Monica giggled. Speaking deliberately and slowly she said, “I wrote…I think you’re very handsome, and something stirs inside me whenever our eyes meet, and when you are standing close to me like you’re doing right now. That’s three things.”

“Who’s counting?” Jonathan said. “I could kiss you right now.”

“What? In front of all these people?” Monica blushed.

One of her diary entries was that she could not wait for their first kiss—one when she was fully awake to experience it.

94

“Talk about a crowd. I’m glad to get out of there,” Jonathan said once they paid for the gifts.

Their next stop was at Subway where they both ordered turkey subs with extra cheese and mayonnaise.

“While we are eating, you can tell me more about the secrets your diary holds about me,” Jonathan said as they returned to the car.

“No way,” Monica replied. “My lips are sealed.”

“I have some secrets of the heart, too. I can probably show you better than I can tell you,” Jonathan said with a sly smile. Then, he became very serious. “Monica, have you ever had a boyfriend before?” he asked.

“No,” Monica answered as she bit into her sub.

“Have you ever kissed a boy before?”

“No,” she answered licking a drop of mayonnaise off her finger.

“I guess you just answered my third question, which is, have you ever had sex before?”

“No, again,” Monica answered. “Why do you ask, and have you done these things?” As good looking as Jonathan was, Monica felt sure that he had had a girlfriend or two.

“I kissed this girl on prom night, but apart from that, I haven’t done any of those things either. I had three girlfriends I thought were good prospects for marriage, but I had to let them go after they shared with me they were not virgins. One kept bragging about how good sex made her feel. I guess she thought that would spur me on to get intimate with her. The second one said hers 95

was a date rape. The third one told me she got pregnant and had an abortion. I respected their honesty though,” Jonathan said looking across at Monica.

As Jonathan spoke, Monica’s thoughts went to some of the things she had heard her father telling her older sister, Leah: Women have the power to stop any man from using them to fulfill their lustful desires. A woman can say, no, and mean, no. Now a man can have sex with just about any woman he wishes to if these women are not willing to exercise their God-given power to say, no. If they exercise that power, men will have a godly fear and respect for them.

Monica took the last bite of her sub. She appreciated Jonathan’s openness, and strangely this made her feel closer to him.

“I know it’s not fair,” he continued, “but I could not carry on a serious relationship with the possibility of marriage with any of those girls. I mean, if they did it with other men, who is to say they won’t do it again?”

“Wait a minute now,” Monica said sharply. “They may not. They may have learned from their mistake, and isn’t there room for forgiveness?”

“Oh, there is room for forgiveness, but…” his voice trailed off as he stared out the window.

“Yes, but you can’t just look down on them because of that one mistake,” Monica insisted. After thinking for a while, she continued, “You know, life is not fair; a girl has sex one time and she is looked down on, and a guy does not want to marry her because of that one mistake.

On the other hand, a guy has sex multiple times and some 96

people, who obviously are not thinking biblically, see him as a hero.”

“I know what you mean,” Jonathan said. “It’s sad how our society is wired that way.”

They turned left at the light and drove by the Mexican Mart. “Now this is just me, and I believe most men feel the same way — at least the guys I used to run with have said this at one time or another — when it comes to marriage, I want to marry a virgin. I do not want a girl who has been with a bunch of other men.”

Monica nodded. She could understand that kind of thinking. Thank God that, up to that point, she had kept herself pure and had all intentions on remaining a virgin until she got married. Her conversation with Jonathan simply confirmed what her father had often told her and Leah in family conversations: A woman who keeps herself pure and remains a virgin until marriage always wins.

97

Chapter 17 “Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine.” (Song of Solomon 1:2) It was the middle of the week and Monica stopped by the Reynolds’ house to deliver one of her mother’s home-made dishes. Jonathan answered the door.

“Don’t tell me you miss me already,” he said.

“Yes and no. My mother sent this for your mother.

Is she home?”

“Let me take that. No. She’s not home. They all went to the movies.”

“Why didn’t you go with them?” Monica asked.

“Oh, I had to work and I just got off a short while ago and came on home. Come on in for a while. Whatever this is, it sure smells good.”

“Thank you,” Monica said as they went into the

99

living room where she made herself comfortable on one end of the couch. He sat at the other end facing her.

“I’m glad we can have this time together,” Jonathan said. “I’ve been wanting to talk with you more and to ask you something.”

Monica straightened up as Jonathan continued.

“First, I want to tell you that I really like you and I am hoping our relationship will go much deeper than it has already gone.” Monica smiled shyly. “I’m not talking about just a surface relationship; I mean a deep, special relationship, you know.”

Monica did know, and she liked what she was hearing and what she was feeling at that moment.

“Well, what about you?” Jonathan asked.

After a few seconds, Monica answered. “Well, I feel the same way about you, but…well…I just have certain rules I do not want to break and…”

“What kind of rules?” Jonathan asked.

“Well, what do you feel about…you know…sex in a deep, special relationship?” Monica asked quickly and nervously. “I really do not want to do anything like that until I get married. I know we talked about it some, but I just wanted to make sure you know where I stand.”

“Well, for your peace of mind, I promise you I have no intentions on getting involved with you like that.

Anything else?” Jonathan said with a smile.

Monica looked him in the eyes. “Well…one more thing: kissing.”

“Kissing?” asked Jonathan.

100

Monica nodded.

“What about it?” Jonathan said.

“I…I…don’t think we should do that either,” Monica said intertwining her fingers in her lap.

“I’ll try not to do that,” Jonathan replied slowly nodding his head. “Is it all right if I hug you, you know, once in a while?”

Pursing her lips Monica lowered her eyes and quietly said, “The truth is, I am not sure about that. I’ve heard that one thing leads to another, if you know what I mean.”

Jonathan, sensing she was getting uncomfortable said, “Come on with me to the kitchen while I get us something to drink.”

Monica raised her hand to decline. She thought it would be best to leave. She had not intended to stay so long. But Jonathan quickly grabbed her hand and said, “Come on.” He pulled her up from the couch and led her into the kitchen. Monica stared out the kitchen window as Jonathan poured them both a glass of lemonade and then stood beside her at the kitchen window. Monica took a couple of sips trying to steady her trembling hand.

She drank the rest down non-stop coughing on her last swallow.

“Are you all right?” Jonathan asked quickly placing a hand under her chin raising her face toward his.

Monica bit down on her lower lip in an attempt to stop its trembling. She slowly raised her eyes to meet his.

Without another word, he placed his lips on hers. It 101

seemed as though a spark of electricity swept through her. There was something about that kiss—her first kiss.

“I…I…thought we weren’t going to do any kissing,” she said lamely.

“I did not say that,” Jonathan replied softly.

“Well…you just promised…”

“Nope… I promised not to have sex with you. I said I would try not to kiss you.”

“Well…I don’t…think you tried very hard. We should….”

Before she could finish her statement, Jonathan kissed her again. Monica tried to resist, but a part of her wished this moment would last forever. “I think…” she started to say, but Jonathan embraced her even tighter, pressing his lips to hers.

Neither Jonathan or Monica heard the front door swing open.

“Dad!” Jonathan said, suddenly releasing Monica from his embrace. Monica pressed her fingers to her lips in surprise.

Assistant Pastor Dwayne Reynolds, and his wife, Jacqueline, stood in the entrance to the kitchen. “What’s going on here?” Brother Reynolds asked.

102

Episode 7

103

Chapter 18 “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” (James 4:14) Monica hung her head. She was embarrassed. She hadn’t intended to let Jonathan kiss her.

“Dad! Mom! I did not hear you come in,” Jonathan said in a surprised tone.

“We know, son,” Brother Reynolds replied in a stiff voice. “How are you doing, Monica?” he and his wife asked.

“Uh…fine,” Monica answered sheepishly.

Janice and James entered the room not quite knowing what was going on. “Here are the car keys, Dad,” James said handing the keys to his father after he and Janice greeted Monica.

“Dad, I apologize…” Jonathan started to say.

105

“Jonathan, we’ll talk about this later,” his father said sternly.

Sister Reynolds gave Monica a hug as she opened the house door for her to leave.

Trying to save Monica further embarrassment, Jonathan told his parents, “Actually, Monica was just leaving. She stopped by to drop off one of her mother’s homemade dishes.”

“Tell your mother thank you for us and tell her I’ll give her a call tomorrow,” Sister Reynolds said. “Have a great night, Monica.”

“Son, isn’t it about time you asked her to marry you?

It’s been a while,” Sister Reynolds said to Jonathan after Monica had left. “The longer you wait the more you’ll struggle with your sexual desires.”

“Yes, Jonathan. And as my son and an example to the other young men in the church, you ought to hold yourself to a higher standard. How am I supposed to instruct the young men in the church to control themselves and treat young women with respect and I come home and find that you aren’t doing it yourself.”

Jonathan’s face fell. “I didn’t mean to get so carried away,” he mumbled.

“If you want to marry her, then tell her so. But no more of this,” his father continued. “And if you don’t believe she’s the one for you, then don’t lead her on.”

“You’re right, I need to make a decision soon,” Jonathan said running his hand through his hair. “I’ve been praying about it.”

106

Janice returned to the kitchen after setting down her things in her room. “Jonathan, I forgot to tell you this earlier,” she said. “But the manager at the apartment complex called and said there’s a two bedroom available, and for you to give her a call in the morning by ten if you are interested.”

“Yes! Thanks, Jan. Are you ready to do some decorating?”

“Sure, but only if Monica helps me,” Janice said with a wink. Jonathan gave a hint of a smile, but Brother Reynolds frowned.

That night, Jonathan called Monica who said she’d love to help Janice and Sister Reynolds furnish his apartment.

“I’m sorry about what happened this afternoon,” Jonathan said quietly. “I shouldn’t have let myself get so caught up in the moment.”

“Yeah, me too,” mumbled Monica. “I should have left as soon as I delivered my mother’s meal.”

“I promise it won’t happen again,”Jonathan said firmly. “I really want you to feel like you can trust me when we’re alone together.”

“Yeah, we’ll see,” Monica said before hanging up. ___________________ Families were being strengthened at the New Mt. Zion Missionary Evangelical Church. Debbie Campbell was hired on as the new assistant director of the school

107

under Sister Richardson. Even though she was a white person, she was accepted openly and highly respected in the church’s education department. Other members of her family began to join the church when she told them about the congregation’s friendliness even to people who were different. ___________________ Brother Harold and Sister Mills celebrated their fifty year wedding anniversary. The church held a lovely dinner in their honor. “Fifty years of marriage and still going strong,” Pastor Richardson beamed. “This is quite a testimony in this day and time.”

“Quite a testimony considering all the gossiping I have had to put up with,” Brother Harold laughed goodnaturedly. ___________________ Brother and Sister Wilmington settled into their grandparenting role. The bond grew stronger between them as a couple and between them and their daughter, Stacy. Stacy was settling into her new role as a young, single mother having given birth to a nine pound baby boy named Trevon. She told her best friend, Monica, “I am glad I decided to have the baby. He’s brought me so much joy.” When she shared her testimony with the youth group at New Mt. Zion, she said, “Never leave home upset with your parents or with any of your siblings.

108

Always keep the door of communication open between you and your family. If you don’t, you may end up doing things you will regret.” ___________________ Brother and Sister Herron quickly found their roles of service in the church. Both of them became Sunday School teachers for the pre-teens, and often helped out on Friday nights with the youth service. Even though the devil had tried to use Yvette to destroy their reunion, that only seemed to draw them closer together. ___________________ Brother Montague continued to work closely with Pastor Richardson and Brother Reynolds. He never, in his wildest dreams, thought that he would be so active in church work and loving every minute of it. Pastor Richardson called on him more and more to help with the Wednesday night prayer meeting and Bible study.

His wife, Stella, worked closely with Sister Gene Willis in coordinating the ladies’ church activities. ___________________ The Montague’s oldest daughter, Leah, having returned home for the time being, helped her mother and volunteered in the children’s department. She and Anthony, the EMT, spent more time together after Anthony become a regular attender at New Mt. Zion.

109

___________________ Richard, also having become an active member, began showing interest in Sister Willis. She had proven to be a good friend to him as he got back on his feet after his time in prison. Although he had no desire to marry her, as he believed no other woman could replace his wife, they continued to be close friends for years to come. ___________________ Sister Bettie saw seven more blessed years before the Lord called her on home to be with her husband. She had faithfully attended church until her last day on earth.

She was mourned and missed by all. ___________________ Sister Richardson enjoyed her time at home with her ‘miracle’ child. The baby boy was named Samuel.

Everyday, she expressed her joy to the Lord in giving her what she had so often prayed for and desired. ___________________ The Reynolds family began to expand their horizons: Sister Reynolds started teaching at the New Mt. Zion Academy; Janice taught special needs children at the public school; James, after graduating from high school, went on a short-term mission trip to Mexico; Brother Reynolds began writing his first book from his experiences in life and ministry.

110

Chapter 19 “He that loveth pureness of heart, for the grace of his lips the king shall be his friend.” (Proverbs 22:11) Ron and Debbie Campbell were very happy to be a part of the church family at New Mt. Zion. Even though they were a mixed couple, this did not seem to cause a problem with any of the members. Sister Campbell, having her Master’s Degree and working towards her Doctorate, was hired as the Assistant Director for New Mt. Zion Christian Academy. She was a trusted employee that often times led the day-to-day operation of the school.

She also filled in as a twelfth grade teacher for one year. The thirteen twelfth grade students proved to be an exciting but challenging group. One child proved to be an extra challenge. Trey was from a single parent

111

home. His mother, Mrs. Caldwell, insisted on enrolling him at the school, because as she said, “He needs to be surrounded by good people.”

Trey was on suspension pending possible expulsion from his previous school when his mother transferred him to New Mt. Zion Christian Academy.

“He never used to be like this,” Mrs. Caldwell shared with Sister Campbell who had expressed some reservations about enrolling Trey in the school because of the negative report from his previous school. “Please give him a chance,” his mother pleaded. “His daddy just up and left and he has not been the same since. I’ll be honest with you, Sister Campbell, he needs some help.

This church school is my last hope. Please help me with him.”

Sister Campbell’s heart was touched and she took Trey in knowing that it was not going to be easy. Trey took great pleasure in terrorizing the girls. One day he brought in a lizard and threw it across the classroom, as the girls scattered from their desks to avoid the flying reptile. He was always instigating fights among the boys.

He even threatened to “pull a knife out” if they bothered him. The vulgar language that came out of his mouth shocked the teachers. He constantly disturbed the class, especially during morning prayer and Bible reading times. “God don’t care about me so why should I care about Him,” he said walking out during one of the Bible studies.

“I’ve done all I know to do with Trey,” Sister 112

Campbell shared with Sister Wilmington who was now working at the school as advisor and counselor. “We are his mother’s last hope. We’ve got to do something for them.”

“He’s a handful,” Trey’s mother shared with Sister Wilmington. “He used to hang with his dad before his dad left. Now he hangs with hoodlums off the street. I try to keep him in the house, but he just comes and goes as he pleases. I get worried about him.”

“Does he ever talk about his father,” Sister Wilmington asked.

“He used to ask if he was coming back. Now it seems he is filled with bitterness towards him for leaving. He told me once he hated his dad. But he’s also told me that he sometimes wishes his dad was with us again.”

“What kind of family life did you all have before your husband left? I mean what caused your husband to leave?”

“We started out as a happy family even though our families did not want us to get married,” Mrs. Caldwell began with a faraway look in her eyes. “You see, my husband’s white and with me being black, both of our families felt this would add unnecessary stress to our relationship. They were right. We were negatively treated just about everywhere we went—even in the churches we attended. We thought our love for each other would bring us through, but my husband was not strong enough to handle the racial slurs often directed towards us, especially from church folks. He made things worse 113

by clamming up about everything. After a while, he began to mention divorce. I was against it. Then he started drinking and getting verbally abusive. He shoved me a few times. Trey would sometimes catch us fighting.”

Closing her eyes, she continued. “One night, my husband did not come home; neither did he come the next night. It’s going on two years now. That’s when Trey’s behavior took a turn for the worst. I just don’t know what else to do.”

Sister Wilmington shared this exchange with Sister Campbell and thought it would be good for her and Brother Campbell to fellowship more with Mrs. Caldwell and Trey since they were a mixed couple as well. They encouraged Mrs. Caldwell to begin attending New Mt. Zion as she was still seeking a permanent church home.

Sister Wilmington now knew the direction she should take with Trey.

“Trey, tell me about your dad,” she said after asking him to come to her office during the lunch period one day at school “Ain’t nothing to tell. I don’t have a Dad. I thought my Mama already told you that.”

“Yes, you do have a dad. Come on, tell me about him,” Sister Wilmington said.

“He’s white.” Trey clammed up after that, and all attempts by Sister Wilmington to get him to open up failed.

Later that week, Trey told Sister Campbell that he hated white people and that he was going to hurt her.

114

This placed everyone on alert. Pastor Richardson took a special interest in Trey who was often sent to his office whenever his behavior got out of hand. “I have no problems out of him,” he told Sister Campbell. “I believe he just needs his father back in his life. We will pray towards that end.”

Brother and Sister Campbell often invited Trey and his mother over for dinner. Once Trey got up and walked out in the middle of the meal. “I just took a walk around the block,” he told them nonchalantly when he came back in.

Sister Wilmington patiently carried on the counseling sessions with Trey. She had seen this kind of behavior in children caught in the middle of a custody battle or other family issues. “Trey, your Mom shared with me how that your dad just walked out without saying goodbye,” she said.

“Yeah, he never came home. He never came home.

He cussed my Mama so bad and then left. He cussed her because she’s black. She can’t help it if she black. He say he should have never married her, and that she caused problems for him, and then he left. He left my Mama crying. He did not even say goodbye.” Trey started to cry. Sis Wilmington had finally broken past his hardened exterior. “He…just left…He did not even say goodbye.”

“It’s okay to cry, Trey. It will do you good.” Sister Wilmington said feeling that healing could now begin to take place.

Trey tried to stop crying before he went on. “We had 115

it good for a long time, then he started fussing at everything. He started drinking. He even fussed at me when I didn’t do something. Then he went crazy— cussing and breaking things like a mad man. Then he left. Mama says that’s what happens when you hold anger and hurt inside of you.”

Sister Wilmington smiled. “Do you hate your dad, Trey?”

“Sometimes I do. But I still love him and I miss him too.”

“Do you think your Mama hates him?”

“Nope. She tells me she’ll always love him and she prays for him and hopes he comes back. I hear her cry sometimes when she thinks I’m not listening, but since we started coming to this church, I hear her praying more, and she tells me to do the same.”

“Do you believe God can fix it all, Trey?”

“My question is, why did God let it happen in the first place?” Trey said.

“Trey, God allows things to happen to help us change and to make us better, so that we will become more like Him.”

116

Chapter 20 “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41) It was after five in the evening on Friday when Jonathan and Monica pulled out of the Montagues’ driveway anticipating spending a great time together.

“I like your dad. He’s a great man,” Jonathan said after Brother Montague wished them an enjoyable time out. “I think he’ll make a great father-in-law.”

Monica had been looking out the window and didn’t get the hint.

“Thanks for helping Janice with the apartment. It looks great. That’s what it needed—a female touch.”

Monica smiled as Jonathan continued. “Anywhere special you want to go?”

“Somewhere real quiet.”

117

“Sounds good to me. If you don’t mind, I’ll need to stop by the apartment for a few minutes to take a shower and put on some clean clothes. I had to put in a few extra hours on the job to tie things up for the weekend so I did not have time to shower and change before I was due to pick you up. We can get something to eat and take it to the apartment, if you like. I had plans to go to a movie, but that would not be too quiet.”

Once at the apartment, Monica made herself comfortable on the plush couch. “It really does look nice,” she said.

Jonathan smiled. “Well, stay put. I’ll be out the shower shortly.”

Jonathan showered quickly and went to his bedroom to get dressed. “You alright out there?” he called. When he did not receive an answer, he hurried out holding his shoes in hand. He smiled and shook his head when he saw Monica asleep on the couch. Well, you asked for a quiet place, he thought. After putting his shoes on, he covered her with a blanket, and quietly took off to pick up some Chinese food and something to drink.

He was fixing both plates when Monica stirred.

“Well, Sleeping Beauty is stirring. You did not even give me a chance to wake you with a kiss.”

“My goodness, did I fall asleep? I am so sorry. This whole week has been a busy one for me. I didn’t realize how tired I was. Well, let’s go.”

“Don’t worry about it. You wanted to go somewhere quiet. This is as quiet a place as we are going to get on a 118

Friday night. Where do you want to eat—there or at the table?”

“The table,” she said rising from the couch.

“Something smells good.”

“I snuck out and picked up some Chinese food.”

He pulled his chair next to hers before saying the blessing.

“This is good,” Monica said putting a forkful into her mouth. She liked having him close to her. It made her feel secure.

“Tell me something, Monica,” Jonathan said, “What makes a woman push so hard to get a man’s attention, almost to the point of making a fool of herself, especially when that man is not interested in her?”

Monica paused for a minute holding her fork in the air. “You know, I don’t really know. Maybe he’s just so handsome she gets pulled in by his looks. Or, she feels she just has to have a male companion. You know a lot of girls feel their life is not complete unless they have a man.”

“Do you feel that way?” Jonathan asked.

Monica look him in the eyes. She hoped that what she was about to say would not lead him to lose interest in her. “No. I think your life can be complete without a man.”

“I guess you don’t want to get married then,” Jonathan said.

“I did not say that. I would like to get married one day, have children, and do something great with my life.”

119

Jonathan looked at her lovingly. “You will someday.”

He wanted badly to take her in his arms all night and express to her how he really felt about her, but out of respect for God, for Monica, for their parents — and in light of their recent failing — he was trying to restrain himself.

Monica was having similar feelings. She could not help but wonder if a woman besides herself would enjoy the apartment that she and Janice had decorated for Jonathan. Jonathan was beyond handsome, and he had a great personality to accompany his looks; he could have any woman he desired. Maybe he already has another woman at the job, she thought.

“Penny for your thoughts,” he said placing an arm around her.

“Oh, nothing,” she said with a smile. “What made you ask your question?”

“There’s this lady on my job—Sherrice. We work in the same department. She’s quite attractive, but she’s been pushing for my attention ever since I started working there. She started wearing some revealing clothes, keeps asking for my phone number, and always wants to talk…”

I knew it, Monica thought. He’s already in a relationship with someone else. She was so deep in her own thoughts she missed his ending statement which was, “I get turned off by women like that.”

Monica continued thinking, He used me to decorate his apartment only to bring someone else in and I fell for it.

120

Dumb me. And here I am allowing myself to fall for him.

“Monica, what’s on your mind?” Jonathan said finally breaking into her thoughts. “You hardly heard a word I said.”

“Oh, nothing much. Just thinking,” Monica mumbled.

“You were saying something…”

Jonathan shook his head. “You did not hear anything I said.” Cupping her head in his hands he turned her face towards his. “Come on. What’s on your mind? You can tell me.”

Monica hesitated. “Sherrice…and others…I guess.”

She searched his eyes for an honest explanation.

Jonathan burst out laughing. “If you hadn’t allowed your thoughts to run away with you, I was saying, I do not like pushy women, and Sherrice is one of them. You did not come off that way and that’s what attracted me to you. You still do not come off that way and that is why I am still attracted to you.”

Monica’s eyes moved back and forth between his and the food on the table, uncertain if he was telling the truth.

“You still need more assurance?” He leaned towards her and kissed her passionately. She soaked in every second of that kiss. It ended too soon.

Resting her head on his shoulders, she said, “I guess it was silly of me to think that.”

“Not really. It gave me an excuse to show you how much I care for you.”

They sat like that for a while—enjoying the quietness 121

of the moment and each other.

“Come on, let’s go sit on the couch,” Jonathan said.

“The couch?” Monica questioned remembering how she and Jonathan had gotten carried away with each other just a few weeks earlier.

“It’ll be alright,” Jonathan assured her. He led her by the hand to the couch where they resumed their original position: Jonathan cuddling her and she resting her head on his shoulder. They exchanged kisses in between small talk, but soon their passion got the better of them. He pulled her in closer to him and she succumbed. It was as though they could not get enough of each other. She drank it all in as he massaged her back down to her thighs. She held onto his upper arm loving every moment of it.

“You seem a little reserved tonight. What’s on your mind?” Jonathan asked softly.

“I’m just struggling with something right now,” Monica answered.

“Some things like what?”

Adjusting herself, Monica replied sheepishly, “My feelings for you.” She was looking directly in his eyes wishing her pounding heart would slow down, even though she loved the strong vibrations it sent through her.

Jonathan pulled her even closer to him. There was no need for words; he knew exactly what she was experiencing. He wanted to take all of her—tonight, and truly express how he had been feeling about her for 122

months now. Two unseen forces were at work pulling him in opposite directions: Go ahead. The setting’s perfect. She’s all ready and yours for the taking, one voice said.

No, my son. Think of the hurt, and remember your promise to her. Do the right thing, the other voice urged.

She’s ready. What are you waiting for? You have nothing to lose, the first voice argued.

No, do the right thing. This would be a great testimony and I will bless you if you obey Me. “I’ll be honest with you. I’ve been having the same feelings for you. Maybe…” Jonathan loosened his hold on her as he turned her face towards his. He wanted to see her reaction to what he was about to say. “Monica.”

“Yes?” “You know, a while ago we talked about sex.”

Jonathan felt her body tense. “I’ll be upfront with you. I don’t know how much longer I can hold out. The way things are going and the strong feelings I am having for you…I don’t know. I mean, I don’t want to disrespect you in any way, or God for that matter. I’m really struggling with that right now.”

“Oh, Jonathan,” Monica said repositioning herself on the couch. “That’s what I’ve been struggling with too.

I’m having some strong and sometimes overpowering feelings for you. I don’t know if I can handle them much longer.” Lowering her eyes she continued. “I have never felt like this before. I…I…don’t know if I should be ashamed of this or not.”

123

“I don’t think it’s anything to be ashamed of. I mean two people who care about each other feel this way all the time. I just don’t want us to do anything we’ll regret later.”

Monica nodded.

She reluctantly pulled away from his arms and stood up beside the sliding door that led out to the small balcony. She folded her arms across her chest begging her pounding heart to slow down. Although she did not want to, she knew deep down if Jonathan asked her to give in and have sex with him that night, she would give in. The two unseen forces worked on her mind as well: Aw, you don’t have to wait for him to ask you. Go ahead and make the first move, a loud voice seemed to be speaking inside her head.

Monica, my child, you know what My Word says about sex before marriage, a still, small voice whispered.

No one will ever know, the first voice countered. Plus all your friends have done it. Remember Stacy? She’s happy right now.

But, look what it almost cost her, the second voice said quietly. She almost lost her family and now she’s taking care of a child without the presence of the father.

Almost is the word. Your situation is different. Plus, no one will ever know.

Do the right thing, Monica.

Monica’s father’s words suddenly came back to her: “The power is in your hands. Virgins always win.” Even Sister Reynold’s words came to her mind then: “We just 124

have to learn to control ourselves so we won’t do anything we’ll regret later.”

Monica shuddered as Jonathan slipped his arms around her shoulders and across her chest. He cupped her hands in his and kissed her gently on the back of her head. Monica rested her head against his shoulder.

Jonathan raised her slender hands to caress his cheeks and in so doing he happened to take a closer look at the ring she wore. He had never really paid much attention to it before. But, now, for the first time, he noticed its inscription—”True love waits.”

How long they stood there like that, they were uncertain, but both were sure of the feelings they had for each other.

Against his desires, Jonathan broke the silence with a prayer: “Lord, we need your help right now. If You do not help us we’re both going to do something we’ll regret and something that is contrary to Your will. You know the feelings we have for each other. Help us to place them under Your control. You know I care about Monica and I do not want to do anything to hurt her. Please help us, right now. Amen.”

Jonathan kissed Monica lightly and said, “As much as I hate to, I think I should take you home.”

Monica nodded in agreement. She hated it too, but she knew it was best.

125

Episode 8

127

Chapter 21 “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world.

If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” (I John 2:15) Friday could not come soon enough. The Montagues had been invited to dinner at the Reynolds’ home. They arrived promptly at six o’ clock. After fellowshipping for a while, they all settled down to enjoy an Italian-style meal of veal parmesan and vegetable medley. After they ate their meal, they all went to the living room to enjoy a dessert of cinnamon apple pie and vanilla ice cream with coffee.

While they were having dessert, Jonathan excused himself. Upon returning to the room, he nodded at his father as he stood next to the side table by the couch.

Leah, Monica, and Janice were seated on the couch. Their

129

mothers were seated on the loveseat.

“Listen up, everyone,” Brother Reynolds said. “This is a special time for both of our families. Jonathan has an important announcement to make. Take it away, son.”

“Thanks, Dad. Mom and Dad, I want to thank you both for being great parents and for giving us your blessings. Brother and Sister Montague, thank you for being great friends and also for giving us your blessings.

By ‘us’ I mean Monica and myself.”

Brother and Sister Montague smiled at Jonathan and then at each other, as Jonathan stepped towards the couch where Monica was sitting. Monica looked up into Jonathan’s face as he gently took her hands in his and pulled her to her feet. Monica gazed into his eyes. She saw an expression that she had come to love: one of love, one of confidence, and one of faith in God. “Monica, you are the love of my life. Will you marry me?”

Monica’s lips parted but no words came out. After a few moments, she finally uttered, “I do…I mean…I will.

Yes, I will.”

Janice cheered as James congratulated them.

“You go, girl!” Leah exclaimed.

Jonathan slipped a gorgeous 24-carat diamond ring on Monica’s finger as they gazed into each other’s eyes.

“C’mon, Jonathan,” Brother Montague said. “Please give her a hug or a kiss or whatever so I can finish my pie. My ice cream’s melting.”

Everyone laughed. Jonathan kissed Monica on the 130

cheek and hugged her as both of their families cheered and raised their glass to the newly engaged couple.

Sister Reynolds invited the ladies upstairs to her bedroom. She pulled out a very exquisite jewelry box from her closet. Inside were three very beautiful antique necklaces. “They have been in my family as far back as I can remember,” she said. “My mother said her great grandmother gave it to her grandmother as a wedding gift. One is for Janice when she gets married; one is for James’ wife when he gets married; and this one is for you, Monica.”

Monica blinked in an attempt to hold back her tears.

“It’s beautiful,” she said.

“Welcome to the family, and we love you,” Sister Reynolds and her daughter said giving her a hug.

After the men had finished their dessert, the Montagues prepared to leave.

“Hold on a minute, Monica,” Jonathan said to her.

Monica waited by the front door as everyone else went outside. Jonathan approached with a small package in his hand. Pushing the door closed he pulled her into his arms. “Well, how do you feel?”

“So happy that we are actually going to spend the rest of our lives together!” Monica said.

Jonathan handed her the package. “This is for you.

It goes with the ring. You can open it when you get home tonight.” He kissed her tenderly. “I love you so much.”

“I love you, too,” Monica said laying her head on his shoulder. “I will always remember this night.”

131

Chapter 22 “Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth.”

(I Corinthians 10:24) Monica could not wait to share the wonderful news with Stacy.

“I knew it! I knew it!” Stacy exclaimed. “I am so happy for you. Ooh, girl, you got you a good one.”

“I can hardly believe I’m actually engaged to be married,” Monica said. “So are you ready to be my maidof-honor? You know you saw this before I did.” Monica remembered how Stacy had pointed out how much Jonathan seemed to be interested in her when they had first met over a year and a half ago at a youth group meeting at church.

“Of course. I would never forgive you if you left me out,” Stacy joked. “When is the wedding?”

133

“Probably a few months. My mother and Jonathan’s mom are taking care of everything,” Monica said.

“Great. That will work out perfectly because I’ve decided to take Robert up on his offer. “I’ll be off to New York in the next two weeks. I’ll be staying about three days with his parents. He floats between his parents’ home and his brother’s apartment when he’s on break from college,” Stacy said. “I talked with them over the phone and they are eager to meet me and Trevon. Mom and Dad feel good about me taking the trip.”

“Girl, I wish I could come with you. I can just picture us both snapping pictures in Times Square,” Monica said with laughter.

“And leave Jonathan craving your companionship?

No, girl, you stay right here. I would not miss your wedding for a million bucks,” Stacy said.

“How do I know that for sure,” Monica said. “You go up to New York, fall in love with the Big Apple, and get all head-over-heels crazy again about Robert. Next thing you know, I’m getting a phone call: ‘Ah, Monica, forgive me, but I won’t be returning to Texas any time soon, so I can’t make it to your wedding.’ I’d be at your front door in a heartbeat.”

“That will definitely not be happening because you have to be a part of my wedding, too,” Stacy replied.

“Your wedding?”

“Yes, his parents were talking with me about a wedding, so I just might have a ring on my finger soon,” Stacy sang. “I’m not getting my hopes up yet, but I believe 134

it’s going to happen.” ________________ Two weeks later, Stacy was having a wonderful time in Syracuse, New York. Robert took her on campus at Syracuse University where he was finishing off his last year studying engineering. He had transferred from Florida A&M to Syracuse to be closer to his family.

“Florida is just too far away,” Robert said.

On her last day in New York, Robert expressed his desire to marry Stacy if she was willing to wait until he graduated. Stacy accepted. They both made a promise to stay true to each other. That promise was sealed with an engagement ring. “This is just to make it official,” Robert said as he kissed her.

Plans were made for return trips throughout the year not only for Stacy and Trevon, but also for Robert and his parents to visit Stacy’s family in Texas. One major decision to be made was where to have the wedding and where to take up residency once they exchanged vows.

“You have a year to decide,” Monica said. “Hopefully by then I’ll be well settled into married life and won’t mind you moving away to New York, if you have to. I am hoping you won’t have to, though.”

135

Chapter 23 “Have faith in God.” (Mark 11:22) Sister Wilmington continued to work faithfully with Trey, and little by little, everyone started to notice his much-improved behavior. As the school staff poured more of God’s love on him, he became a better student and a better son. “I don’t know how you folks do it, but he hardly takes off in the evenings now,” a happy Mrs. Caldwell reported. “He’s even asking to do the dishes and is making an effort to pick up after himself.”

“It’s all because of Jesus,” Sister Campbell told her as she proudly showed off Trey’s improved test scores to his mother. “He’ll be an honour student before he graduates from this school.”

Trey often remembered Sister Wilmington’s words that God allows certain things to happen to us so that

137

we will depend on Him. He listened more closely as Sister Campbell explained the story of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.

“All you have to do is believe on Jesus Christ. John 3:16 says, ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.’”

Trey asked Jesus to save him as he silently prayed with the class: “Heavenly Father, I know that I am a sinner. Please forgive me of all of my sins. Based on Your Holy Word that tells me that whoever believes on You will be saved, I believe that Jesus died for my sins, was buried, and rose from the dead. Please come into my heart and save my soul. In Jesus Christ’s name I pray, Amen.”

After the “Amen,” he quickly added, “And, Lord, please bring my Dad back?”

Brother and Sister Campbell continued to spend time with Trey. On one particular Sunday, Trey and Brother Campbell went to the store to pick up some dinner rolls, a pecan pie, and some butter pecan ice cream to complete their dinner meal. Trey was allowed to pick up an extra item of his choice. “Meet me at register seven,” Brother Campbell told him. As Trey was turning the corner out of an aisle swinging a six pack of Gatorade, he bumped into a middle-aged, bald-headed man.

“Excuse me, Sir,” he said reaching down to pick up the loaf of bread that had fallen out of the man’s hand.

“Here you go.” The man reached out to take the loaf of bread.

138

Their eyes met. “Dad? Dad?” Trey said.

The man stared down at him with a surprised look.

“Trey?” he asked.

Brother Campbell who had been watching from the checkout line noticed what was taking place with great interest. He saw as Trey reached out to seemingly hug the strange man, who took an apprehensive step back.

“Trey, where’s your mother? Who are you here with?”

“I’m here with Brother Campbell from the church.

He’s over there by the register. Come and meet him. He’s been a good friend to me and mom.”

Mr. Caldwell followed his son out of curiosity. Who is this Mr. Campbell? How much of a friend is he to my son and wife? Is my wife dating him? Does Trey see him as a father figure now?

Trey introduced his father to Brother Campbell.

“How are you, Mr. Caldwell?” Brother Campbell extended his hand. “I’m glad to finally meet you.”

Mr. Caldwell shook the offered hand hesitantly, then he turned abruptly and headed for the express checkout lane.

“Dad, when are you coming home?” Trey called after him. He received no answer as he watched his father walk away.”

“Come on, Trey. We have to get home,” Brother Campbell said laying his hand on Trey’s shoulder.

Why didn’t he answer me? Trey thought angrily. I thought God was answering my prayers. These questions 139

and others bombarded Trey’s mind as they drove back to the Campbell’s home. He told his mother about meeting his father in the store.

“We’ll continue to pray for God’s will, Trey,” his mother told him.

“I believe God is setting things up, Mrs. Caldwell,” Brother Campbell shared with them. “Too many of us are praying for your family to be restored for God not to intervene.” _____________ Mr. Caldwell left the store in a hurry. Trey? I can’t believe it’s been almost two years. My, he has grown taller.

And what is he doing with this Brother Campbell? And where is my wife? Mr. Caldwell and his wife had never officially gotten a divorce. Surely she’s not seeing this Brother Campbell.

Sitting in the grocery store parking lot, he drank deeply from a beer bottle as he watched Trey and Brother Campbell exiting the store. Why is Angie allowing our son to go places with this man alone? He was determined to get some answers.

140

Episode 9

141

Chapter 24 “Follow peace with all men, and holiness without which no man shall see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14) Mr. Caldwell drove by his wife’s home Monday morning and Monday evening; nothing seemed suspicious. He knew that Brother Campbell was a black man. He felt that after all the rejection he and his wife had received as a mixed couple, it would be easy for his wife to fall for someone of her own race, even as he had felt inclined to do.

Seeing his son, Trey, in the store only brought back memories—guilt-laden memories. Guilt because he had not been strong enough to overlook the negative responses of people, including family members, towards them. Guilt because he had blamed his wife, Angie. Guilt because he had not been man enough to stay with Angie

143

at least for his son’s sake. Guilt because he had not even tried to contact them since he walked out. He drove by the house every now and then to check on them, and he had never seen a strange car, Mr. Campbell, or any other man at the house. Deep down he still loved his wife and son.

On Tuesday, Mr. Caldwell decided to get some answers to his questions. He knocked firmly on his wife’s front door around 8:30 that evening. Mrs. Caldwell was washing the dishes and Trey was watching television.

They were not expecting anyone. Mrs. Caldwell approached the door cautiously. “Who is it?”

“It’s me, Eldon.”

Angie’s heart skipped a beat. Eldon? What is he doing here? Where has he been? Trey joined his mother at the door. “Yes, Eldon, what do you want?”

“I just want to talk, Angie. Did Trey tell you I saw him at the store on Sunday?”

“Yes, he did, and he also told me you did not want to talk with him.”

“Well, I can explain that. Are you going to open up the door so we can talk?”

Mrs. Caldwell was unsure what to do. He sounded sober. She had not seen or heard from him in almost a year. Surely he did not expect her to just open up the door.

She looked at Trey. He shrugged his shoulders. Mrs. Caldwell took Trey with her to the bedroom where she called Brother and Sister Campbell. “I am not sure what 144

to do,” she told them. Her husband was still knocking and calling for her to open up.

“Tell you what,” Brother Campbell said, “since you are both still legally married and there’s no restraining order, and he has not bothered you since he left, we just have to trust that God is hearing our prayers for your husband. Go ahead and answer the door. My wife and I will be right over—just in case.”

“Hi,” Mr. Caldwell said after his wife opened the door even though she kept the chain on. “I know it’s been a while and I do not blame you for not wanting to let me in, but I have not forgotten you or Trey. It’s been torture since I walked out. Can I come in so we can talk?”

“No, not tonight. We can talk like this,” his wife said.

“What do you want, Eldon?” Mixed emotions came over her. She had been angry at him for a while after he left.

But now, she was, in fact, glad to see him.

“Hey, Trey,” Eldon said. “Forgive me for not wanting to talk more on Sunday at the store. I was not expecting to see you and was caught off guard.”

“It was a surprise for me to see you, too. I was hoping we could talk some, though,” Trey said.

“Who was the person you were with, Brother Campbell, I think his name was? Where is he from?” Mr. Caldwell asked. He felt he had to get that settled first.

Mrs. Caldwell smiled. Her husband had always been the jealous type. “He and his wife are a mixed couple, so they understand what we were going through,” she said.

“I wish we could have met them earlier. They have taken 145

us under their wings. Trey’s become like a son to them.”

Eldon winced. “We’ve started going to their church. Trey is going to the school there,” Angie continued.

“Oh, really.” Another surge of guilt rushed through Mr. Caldwell; this time because another man had taken on his role and was filling in as father for his son.

A light beamed across the porch as Brother and Sister Campbell’s car swung into the driveway. Mr. Caldwell glanced over his shoulder. “Expecting company?”

“Yes,” his wife said.

“Guess I’ll go,” Eldon said turning to leave.

“No, no. I want you to meet them.” Mrs. Caldwell unlocked the chain as the Campbells walked onto the porch.

“Hello, Mr. Caldwell. It’s so good to see you again,” Brother Campbell said extending a hand. “This is my wife, Debbie.”

Mr. Caldwell relaxed some as he stared at the mixed couple before him. They seemed to be genuinely in love with each other. After about five minutes of small talk, Mr. Caldwell wrote down the address of New Mt. Zion Church and promised to visit. He left after telling Trey he would give him a call. He chided himself for thinking his wife would be interested in someone else, but just to be sure, he would visit the church on Sunday.

On Sunday, Mr. Caldwell slipped into the back pew at New Mt. Zion. He thought he was missing the preliminaries, but no sooner had he seated himself, then 146

Pastor Richardson asked all members to look around for any visitors. A young man immediately left his position by the main entrance to greet Mr. Caldwell.

“So glad you could come worship with us today, sir.

Could you please fill out this card so we can get in contact with you later?” He chatted with Mr. Caldwell until Pastor Richardson called the congregants to return to their seats.

Mr. Caldwell was surprised at the openness of the people. He had to admit that he felt right at home. He noticed a few white people, Hispanic people, and people of other races scattered throughout the mostly AfricanAmerican crowd. He saw Brother and Sister Campbell, and, if he counted accurately, three other mixed couples.

They seemed to fit right in. He also noticed how freely his wife and son moved among the people. The pastor preached a message that was for everyone. During the closing prayer, Mr. Caldwell thought he could quietly slip out, but Pastor Richardson beat him to the main exit.

“So glad you could come join us today. I’m Pastor Richardson. What’s your name, sir?”

They exchanged a few more words, and as Mr. Caldwell was preparing to leave, he heard a familiar voice call, “Dad, wait up!”

“Trey, how are you?”

“I’m so glad to see you, Dad,” Trey said giving him a hug. “Does Mom know you are here? Have you met Pastor Richardson yet? How do you like the church? Pastor, this is my father.”

147

Pastor Richardson talked Mr. Caldwell into going out to eat with him. Mrs. Caldwell had to come see her husband for herself after Trey got her permission to go out to eat with them.

They had a great time of fellowship as Mr. Caldwell poured out his heart to Pastor Richardson.

“You know, Pastor Richardson, I feel so badly about walking out on my wife and son. I just could not handle the racism we felt. I felt bad that I could not protect my wife from it. And I felt I was doing Trey a favor by leaving.

But that is still no excuse to do what I did—to risk losing my son because I was not willing to stand and fight like a man.” Turning to Trey, Mr. Caldwell said, “Son, I apologize for walking out on you. That is no example of how a man should handle business. As your father, I should have stayed no matter what and guided you and your mother through it all so that you could have a stable home situation rather than just leaving you out there all by yourself.” Before the Caldwells left, Pastor Richardson assured Eldon that he and his family were very welcome at the church.

Mr. Caldwell decided he was going back home with his wife and son. Mrs. Caldwell welcomed him with open arms. She was happy they were back together again. After a few emotional moments in the living room, Trey disappeared to his bedroom so his parents could talk alone. He awakened the next morning to see his father sipping coffee at the kitchen table. He had not smelled that familiar aroma since his father had left.

148

“Good morning, son. I’ll drop you off at school today,” he said.

Trey put on a wide smile. “Sure, Dad.” He was glad that God was working everything out for his family.

149

Chapter 25 “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands as it is fit in the Lord.” (Colossians 3:18) The New Mount Zion Missionary Evangelical Church family rejoiced with Jonathan and Monica after Pastor Richardson announced their engagement.

“I knew it,” Sister Bettie said to Sister Mills. “I told you something was a brewing. They makes a lovely couple.”

“I know the Montagues and the Reynolds can’t wait to have them some grand-babies,” Sister Mills said.

Turning to her husband, she said, “Harold, remember when you asked me to marry you? I tell you, Sister Bettie, he was scared ‘cause he had to get permission from my Papa. For some reason, he thought my Papa did not like him, but Papa just wanted to make sure he could take

151

care of me. But it all worked out, didn’t it, Harold?”

“It sure did,” Brother Harold grinned.

“What you grinning about now?” Sister Mills asked him smiling herself.

“We fuss at each other all the time, but you turned out to be a good wife.”

Sister Mills blushed. “Well, thank you, Harold. You not a bad husband yourself.”

Sister Bettie cleared her throat. “I guess we best be looking about a new dress to wear, don’t we Sister Mills?”

“That’s if you get invited,” Brother Harold mumbled.

“Speak up, Harold. We didn’t hear you,” Sister Mills said to her husband.

“Oh, nothing. Just saying how happy I is for Brother Jonathan and Sister Monica.” _____________ Jonathan and Monica met at his apartment to go over their plans for their wedding. They had decided to get married in six months from the date of their engagement, but both of their families wanted to start planning for the wedding as soon as possible.

“Mom wants us to pull together a list of people we want to invite, and things we want done for the wedding,” Monica said as she pulled out a notepad and pen.

“Do we have to do that right now?” Jonathan said sitting down on the couch. “You women do a much

152

better job at that.”

“This is all our mothers want us to do. They’ll take it from here,” Monica said making herself comfortable beside him.

“Okay, what you got?” Jonathan asked putting a DVD into the player.

“So far there’s Leah, Stacy, Janice, Sister Herron, and my two cousins who will be flying in from St. Kitts. Let’s see who we can pair off with them.”

“You can pair off with me,” Jonathan said reaching over to tickle her.

“Come on, Jonathan,” Monica giggled, “the sooner we get this done the better.” He slid his hand up closer to her underarm tickling her. Monica grabbed a couch pillow and attempted to block him. “Stop, Jonathan!” she giggled.

“Stop me if you can.”

Monica hit at him with the pillow. Laughing, he tossed his pillow at her. Their pillow fight continued for about five minutes before Jonathan gave up.

“Okay, where were we?” Monica said. “Let’s see, James can pair off with Janice…”

“That’s going to be something putting those two together for a wedding. Janice loves formal events and James hates them.”

“I figured we could pair off Brother Herron with his wife, and Brother Anthony with Stacy…”

“Anthony…Anthony…You mean the EMT guy who drove you to the hospital? Yes, we’ll definitely need him 153

because I predict you are going to faint while you are making your vows.”

Monica laughed as she playfully punched him on the arm. “Do you have someone we could pair off with Leah?

She’s going to be the maid-of-honor,” she asked him.

After thinking for a few seconds, Jonathan snapped his fingers. “Oh, man, I almost forgot. My old college buddy, Kirby Rollins. I promised him while we were in college that if I ever got married he would be the first to know and he would be my best man. I got to get in touch with him,” Jonathan said with a chuckle. “He told me once that I was too picky when it came to deciding what kind of woman I would like to marry. He, on the other hand, seemed to be interested in all kinds of women.

That’s when I promised him I’d get married before he did and that he’d be my best man and ring bearer.

Somehow we have not been in touch recently.”

“Let’s look him up on Facebook,” Monica suggested.

“Let’s do that after the movie,” Jonathan said.

“We’ll need two of your other friends or family to pair with my two cousins flying in from St. Kitts,” Monica said. “And we can’t forget Tiffany; she will be my flower girl.”

“Oh, yes, we can’t forget her. She’s the one who predicted us getting married. Remember—in the library that Saturday. You were beautiful then and you still are,” he said reaching for her hand. Jonathan hit the ‘play’ button on the remote control. Adjusting the pillows behind his back, he moved into a more comfortable 154

position. “Okay, movie time,” he said.

Monica slid over closer to him—a place where she always felt secure. _____________ Pastor and Sister Richardson counseled the couple throughout the engagement period.

“I hope you both read and meditated on the verses I gave you earlier,” Pastor Richardson said at one of their counseling sessions about three months before the wedding was scheduled to take place. “Jonathan, I’ll address you first because you’ll soon be the head of your home. If you’re scared to take that position, you do not need to get married. A woman loves and feels secure with a man who takes the lead and who makes things happen, contrary to what the world says. She wants a man who knows what he wants and who is not afraid to set the agenda for the family and even for her. Lead your family in a firm and loving way. Some men think they have to lead their family in a harsh manner, but that’s not the case. Your wife will know whether or not you mean what you say without you being harsh. On the flip side, you have some men who believe that they should be weak and passive and who believe that the woman should guide them. Women do not like that either; it makes them feel insecure even though they will not admit it; so be firm and loving at the same time.”

Sister Richardson piped in. “Now, Jonathan, Monica

155

may resist your leadership at first,” she said with a smile.

“Pastor will tell you, I did that a few times when we first got married. But you lead no matter what. This is not to say she does not have an opinion, but you be the final decision maker in the family. Just always remember God is your head and you have to do what you feel God is leading you to do. As you do what you feel God is leading you to do, I am sure Monica will respect that and will follow your leadership.”

Jonathan nodded as Pastor Richardson continued.

“The Bible tells husbands to love their wives as Christ loves the Church. Love is a choice and is not conditional: ‘I’ll love you if you do this or if you do that.’ You’ll have to love her during the good times and during the bad times; when she is at her worst as well as when she is at her best; and don’t be afraid to correct her if and when she does something that is wrong. God corrects us when we do something that does not please Him. That’s tough love and it’s true love.”

“And another thing, Jonathan,” Sister Richardson added, “Women are stronger than what many men give us credit for; yes, the Bible says we are the weaker vessel and we lean on our husbands to help give us direction and stability. Sometimes women have a tendency to react to a situation and let our emotions take over sound reasoning. But you have to stand strong and navigate your family through the rough parts of life.”

“Now, if you are not willing to do these things, you don’t need to get married,” Pastor Richardson added.

156

Without hesitating, Jonathan nodded, “Yes, Pastor Richardson, I am willing to do what the Bible says.”

“It’s the Bible-way or no-way if it is going to work,” Pastor Richardson said. Turning to Monica he said, “I’ll let my wife speak to you first, Monica. Go ahead, Wanda.”

Sister Richardson smiled. “Monica, you’ve heard my husband preach on Ephesians chapter five about the home before and how that it tells a wife to be submissive to her husband. Many women have misunderstood that word to mean being a slave to her husband, but that’s not what it means. Submission is another word for obedience; it is obedience from the heart and not just an outward behavior. You can be obedient in your actions but not from your heart. Love your husband, respect him at all times, don’t talk back to him, keep the house clean, and take care of any children God may bless you with.”

“You do plan on having children, right?” Pastor Richardson piped in.

Both Monica and Jonathan nodded.

“Praise the Lord,” both Pastor and Sister Richardson said in unison. “That leads to my next subject and that is sex.”

Monica blushed.

“Don’t ever deny each other that pleasure. Don’t ever use sex as a means of controlling each other. Have sex as often as the desire arises and not just to have children, but for other reasons: it relieves stress; it reaffirms your love for each other; it solves some things that talking cannot solve. Isn’t that right, Wanda?” Pastor Richardson 157

said looking at his wife.

She nodded.

“I am a straight shooter,” Pastor continued, “so let me ask you this: Have you had sex yet?”

“No, Pastor,” Jonathan quickly replied, “and neither of us has had sex with anyone else.”

“Praise the Lord! You both keep yourselves pure and God will bless you for that. Don’t worry, the next ninety days will go by fast,” he said with a smile. “I leave this for last because I want you to remember it and that is, pray, pray and pray some more. Pray for each other and pray with each other. Have a daily family devotional time.

I cannot put a price on that. Many times you are going to have to pray yourself out of some things. And also, always keep the line of communication open. Do not clam up on each other to show that you are mad, or as a means of controlling one other.”

After a short prayer, Pastor Richardson dismissed them from the counseling session.

“Well,” Jonathan said on their drive home after one of their sessions, “are you still willing to become Mrs. Jonathan Reynolds?”

“Yes,” Monica replied quickly. “It’s going to take some work, but I am still looking forward to being Mrs. Jonathan Reynolds. How about you?”

“I am looking forward to being your husband.”

158

Chapter 26 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”

(Genesis 2:24) The final two months until the wedding were very busy ones for the Reynolds and the Montague families— especially for the women who did most of the preparation for the wedding. Everyone was eagerly anticipating a glorious ceremony and prayers were offered up for good weather as the mothers took Monica, along with Stacy, Leah, Janice, Sister Herron, and Tiffany shopping for wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses. Monica tried on so many dresses she lost count; even Stacy, Janice and Leah tried on one dress each as they dreamed of their own wedding day.

“They’re all so beautiful; it’s hard to choose,” Monica

159

said. “I wish I could wear them all.” She finally settled on one by Vera Wang with a four yard train. The end of the train had a single row of lilac flowers spanning about two feet. They ended up ordering the bridesmaid dresses and the dress for the flower girl online.

“You’re going to look beautiful,” Janice and Stacy said. Monica noticed Leah was quieter than normal; she became more reserved as the wedding date drew closer.

“What do you think, Leah?” Monica asked.

“It’s nice, very nice,” Leah said blinking real hard.

Sister Montague gave Leah a hug. She knew this was a difficult time for Leah who had expected that she would be married at least a few years before her younger sister.

The mothers employed the services of Weddings by Antonia Rose to help them put together the special day.

Two weeks before the wedding, family members began arriving. It was a happy time and although it was getting harder for Jonathan and Monica to spend some moments together alone, they managed to spend a few hours on the phone late at nights after everyone was asleep. After meeting her family members from the Caribbean, Jonathan said, “I know where we will be spending our honeymoon–St. Kitts. I just love your cousins’ accent.”

A week before the wedding, Monica had her bridal shower at the Reynolds’ home. Sister Reynolds, Sister Bettie, Sister Mills, Sister Richardson and other ladies all shared comical experiences they had being a wife and mother. This helped relieve some of the nervousness Monica was beginning to experience as the wedding day 160

drew closer.

“I know you feel overwhelmed,” her mother said to her, “but just take it one day at a time and pray for wisdom as you go through each day.”

There were other surprises along the way. Stacy’s fiance, Robert, came down to visit and decided to stay for the wedding. Jonathan located his college friend, Kirby Rollins, who was thrilled to be the best man. “You had me fooled, my brother,” he said. “You have what it takes to secure a wife and a beautiful one at that. Let’s not lose contact with each other any more. I have big plans I want to share with you after you return from your honeymoon and get settled in.”

On the Tuesday before the wedding, Monica crashed into her bed exhausted. Even though she had taken off the week from her job to get rested, she was busier than ever. “This is your last day helping,” her mother told her. “You’ll be drained on your wedding day.” Leah had given up her room to their two cousins and was bunking with Monica on the hide-away bed that slid neatly beside Monica’s bed to make a double bed.

“Leah,” Monica said softly, “are you alright? I noticed you’ve been extremely quiet lately.”

“Yes, I’m alright,” Leah said flatly.

“You don’t sound like it.”

“Okay, I am not alright,” Leah sighed. “I guess I am a little jealous. I can’t seem to get over the fact that you are getting married before me. If things had worked out between me and Xavier, I would be getting married. Don’t 161

get me wrong; I am very happy for you and I wish you the best. I just wish it was me first.”

“I am so sorry,” Monica said reaching over to hug her.

“No need to be sorry,” Leah said then added with a chuckle, “You do know Leah got married before Rachel, don’t you?”

Monica joined in her chuckle. “Only I am not Rachel.

I love you, Leah.”

“And, I’m happy for you, Monica. I hope I can get over these weird feelings before it’s time for you to walk down the aisle. I’m sure you will want your maid-of-honor to be wearing a big smile.”

“Of course,” said Monica. “I know you can pull it off.” _______________ Saturday could not come any sooner. Monica and her bridesmaids used the Montagues home as their dressing parlour. Brother Montague was dressed and ready to go by 11:30 a.m. The wedding was scheduled to begin at 2:00.

He paced the floor glancing at his watch every so often.

Why do women take so long to get dressed, he thought, and where is Mrs. Duval? He wanted to take some pictures at the house before they left and…

“Terrence, is she here yet?” his wife called from upstairs.

Before he could answer, the doorbell rang. “I’ll get it,” he said hurrying to the door. “Thank God you’re

162

here,” he said to Mrs. Duval, the Mary Kay representative who was hired to help Monica and the other ladies with their makeup and hair styles.

“She’s here,” Brother Montague shouted as he directed her upstairs to the master bedroom. He still could not believe he would be walking down the church aisle that afternoon to give his baby daughter in marriage. He passed the time reminiscing about the wonderful years they had spent together.

“Close your eyes!” his wife said half an hour later bringing him back to reality as she descended the stairs.

Monica and her bridesmaids came and stood on the stairs one behind the other. Brother Montague’s mouth fell open when he saw his beautiful daughter before him.

“Tell me I am not dreaming,” he said as he approached her. “You look beautiful, Monica. Jonathan is going to be stunned.” Glancing at all of them, he said, “You all look so beautiful.”

Monica, who was on the lowest stair, smiled at her father as he stretched out his arm to her. “Just want to remind you, Monica, to remember all your mother and I have shared with you down through the years. Above all, be a godly, virtuous woman.”

“Is that a tear I see falling, Dad?” Monica said softly.

“Grown men don’t cry,” Brother Montague said clearing his throat and pushing his chest out while blinking hard.

“That is a tear,” Monica said reaching up to wipe it away. “I love you, Dad, and I’ll remember all you’ve taught 163

me.”

“I love you, too,” he said giving her a hug. “I wanted to take a few pictures myself. You all know what it’s going to be like after the wedding.”

While they were in the middle of their photo shoot, there was a firm knock on the door. Brother Montague answered the door.

“Okay, everyone, let’s go!” he said.

Monica stepped out the door. A shiny limousine was parked on the side of the road.

“You’ve always wanted to ride in a limousine,” her Dad said taking her by the arm. “Mrs. Duval, you ride with us.”

Jonathan and his groomsmen had not started getting ready as early, but they were at the church before the ladies and were waiting in the lounge just outside the church offices.

“Do you have the ring?” Jonathan asked Kirby who was serving as his best man.

“My brother, have no fear. In my pocket, it’s right here,” Kirby said retrieving the ring from his front pocket.

Pastor Richardson beamed as a proud grandfather.

He and Jonathan’s father, the assistant pastor, Brother Reynolds, shared some funny father/husband stories to set everyone, especially Jonathan, at ease.

Brother Harold stuck his head in the door. “They’re here,” he announced to Pastor Richardson. Brother 164

Harold was serving as one of the ushers and looked mighty sharp in his three piece black suit offset by a gold chain hanging from his tie pin. Sister Mills beamed with pride as she remembered their wedding day. “You and Bettie look gorgeous in your new dresses,” Brother Harold complimented them. “Don’t go spoiling this day with your gossiping.”

As Pastor Richardson called the guests to order, Jonathan and his groomsmen filed out of the lounge looking very distinguished in their black tuxedos offset with lilac colored handkerchiefs barely visible above the top of their jacket pocket. Jonathan had never looked better as he stood at almost six feet tall.

“Do you mind if I take a look at your bride before you do?” Kirby whispered.

“Don’t you dare,” Jonathan said in a low tone.

Jonathan could not wait to see Monica after seeing how beautiful the maid-of-honor and the bridesmaids were dressed. They looked like they had stepped out of a fashion magazine.

Tiffany wore a captivating smile as she marched slowly down the aisle with steady steps sprinkling flower petals along the way. She even tossed some out onto the guests.

The pianist began to play “Here Comes the Bride” as the front doors to the auditorium swung open. With one hand on her father’s arm, Monica glided down the aisle, her train flowing behind her in a majestic manner. Leah, the maid-of-honor, walked just behind and to the right 165

of Monica, holding the bride’s bouquet. She wore a huge smile.

Wow, thought Jonathan as he took in the beautiful sight. People across the auditorium oohed and aahed.

Monica was proud to see her man standing tall, ready to receive her; she hardly noticed how beautifully decorated the church was. Pastor Richardson’s voice seemed distant. She only had eyes for her Jonathan.

“Who gives this woman to be married to this man?”

Pastor Richardson asked.

“We do,” Brother and Sister Montague answered.

“If there is anyone here who sees any reason why these two, Jonathan Reynolds and Monica Montague, should not be joined in holy matrimony speak now or forever hold your peace,” Pastor Richardson continued.

Jonathan, not realizing he was holding his breath, breathed a sigh of relief when no one answered.

“Brother Montague, you may now give your daughter to the groom.”

Brother Montague kissed his daughter on the cheek and hurried to join his wife in the second pew.

Jonathan took a long look at his bride as she stepped into position across from him.

Pastor Richardson continued with the ceremony.

“Do you, Jonathan Reynolds, take this young lady, Monica Montague, to be your lawful wedded wife, to love, to honour, to uphold, in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, for better or for worse, and to remain faithful to her until death do you part?”

166

“I do,” Jonathan answered seriously.

“Do you, Monica Montague, take this young man, Jonathan Reynolds, to be your lawful wedded husband, to obey, to love, to honour, to uphold, in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, for better or for worse, and to remain faithful to him until death do you part?”

“I do,” Monica answered.

As Kirby handed the bride’s ring to Jonathan and Leah handed the groom’s ring to Monica, Pastor Richardson prayed over the couple. “You may now place the rings on each other’s fingers,” he said.

As the gold and silver bands slipped onto the bride’s and groom’s fingers, Pastor Richardson said, “What God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. You may now kiss the bride.”

Amens and loud cheers went up all over the auditorium.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I now present to you, Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Reynolds. Receive them with joy, love, and open arms.”

167

Episode 10

169

Chapter 27 “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.”

(Genesis 2:24) The church family received the newlyweds with cheers, hugs, and handshakes as the wedding party marched down the church aisle and into the vestibule where they were greeted by some of the guests. After about fifteen minutes, Pastor Richardson called everyone to attention, and said, “As the wedding party returns to the front, I am giving everyone fifteen minutes to snap your pictures; do not get in the way of the professional photographers. After your fifteen minutes are up, I want you all to clear out of the way and head on down to the Reception Hall while the professional photographers do their thing. The ushers and servers will guide you once

171

you get down there. Stay seated until the bride and groom join you.

“I am waiting to catch her bouquet,” someone shouted.

Everyone laughed as some nodded their heads.

After taking pictures in the auditorium, the wedding party moved to one of the larger classrooms that had been transformed into a photo studio to have more pictures taken. Brother and Sister Montague and Brother and Sister Reynolds proudly stood by their children. It was a touching moment for them.

“This is going to be us any day now,” Robert whispered to Stacy. They had talked him into taking a few pictures with Stacy and the rest of the wedding party.

“You won’t have to wait a full year anymore to say ‘I do’ for me.”

Sister Mills was beside herself. She stood proudly next to her husband as they took pictures with the bride and groom. “You look mighty sharp, Harold,” she said to her husband.

“You look mighty sharp yourself, Gladys. Now smile as this may be the last set of pictures we’ll take together for a while,” Brother Harold said grinning at the camera.

They pulled Sister Bettie who had been waiting just inside the door into the room so she could take some pictures with them. “You know we’re not going to leave you out, Bettie,” Brother Harold said.

Before they moved to the Reception Hall, Monica requested one more set of pictures to be taken after she 172

said a few words to her bridesmaids. “I want to thank each of you for helping to make this the happiest day in my life. I want to break tradition by giving each of you a small gift as a token of my appreciation.”

Her mother handed her, one by one, six bouquets, one for each of her bridesmaids. Each bouquet was an exact replica of her bridal bouquet. The girls were surprised at the unexpected gift. This is even better than catching the bride’s bouquet, they thought. Taking six single flower buds from her own bouquet Monica placed one in each of the bouquets as she handed one bouquet to each of her bridesmaids along with a hug. “I love you so much, and thank you for making this day a special day for me, and for being such great friends.”

When she got to Leah, she gave her the rest of her bridal bouquet. “Your dream will come true, Leah, even as mine has. You’re the greatest sister. I love you so much.” The sisters shed tears as they clung to each other.

There was not a dry eye in the room.

Pastor Richardson cleared his throat after a few seconds. “I hate to interrupt, folks, but we have to move on.”

Jonathan proudly took his new bride’s arm in his as they, following Pastor and Sister Richardson, Brother and Sister Reynolds, and Brother and Sister Montague, joined the waiting guests in the beautifully decorated Reception Hall where they were met with cheers as they took their seats. The prevailing color scheme was lilac and white.

173

The reception went smoothly. Everyone was awed as the couple cut the three tier cake which was unveiled once they took their place next to the table it was sitting on. Cameras flashed throughout the evening. Soft music played in the background.

“You went all out,” Kirby Rollins said to Jonathan once Jonathan took his seat. “I am impressed, my brother.”

“Yes, sir. I had to do it for my wife. She’s worth every bit of it,” Jonathan said beaming.

“I appreciate you searching me out,” Kirby said. “I would never forgive you if I missed this.”

“I didn’t see your family. Are they here?” Jonathan asked.

“No, I decided to come alone. But you’ll be meeting them soon.”

Jonathan gave Monica a hug.

“You look stunning. How do you feel?”

“Truly blessed,” she said with a smile.

“Jonathan,” said a loud voice. Jonathan looked up to see Clarence his co-worker.

“Clarence, so glad you could make it,” Jonathan said reaching across the table to shake Clarence’s hand.

“I would not miss it for the world. Everything was beautiful and a beautiful bride you have.”

“Monica, this is Clarence from my job,” Jonathan said introducing his new wife to Clarence. “He’s the one I told you about.”

“I hope it’s all been good,” Clarence said with a 174

chuckle. Shaking Monica’s hand firmly he continued, “You have a great husband. He’s like a son to me, so if he mistreats you in any way, you just let me know and I’ll take care of him.”

“Is everything still quiet, Clarence?” Jonathan asked him.

“Sure. She does not know a thing—not her or anyone else.”

“Thanks, Clarence. You’re a great friend.”

“Any time, Jonathan,” Clarence said shaking his hand. “Let me go mingle. As you know, no one is a stranger to me.”

Monica looked quizzically at Jonathan. “What was that all about? Still quiet about what? Who is ‘she’?”

“Oh, nothing. I just told him not to tell Sherrice I was getting married. You remember Sherrice—that crazy woman from the job I keep telling you about. She is the kind that would bother you for an invitation or turn up uninvited.”

Stacy took note of everything as she mentally planned her own wedding day. Leah, having overcome her jealousy, was quite talkative and had Monica and Stacy in laughter as she shared some of the pranks she and Monica did as little girls.

The meal was catered by Cathy’s Soul Food Restaurant and Catering Services. They were often used by the church for special events. After a couple hours of feasting and merriment, Pastor Richardson called everyone to attention.

175

“Since the beginning of time, a wedding day has always been a day of feasting, music, fellowship, and celebration…”

“And dancing, Pastor,” someone shouted.

“I’m getting to that. I’m getting to that,” Pastor Richardson said joining in the laughter. “I can’t believe I let you people talk me into this,” he continued while shaking his head. “I am going to be watching you with eagle’s eyes now. Anyway, since this is a celebratory time, I am going to allow some dancing, but like I said, I’ll be watching. I’ve already instructed the person in charge of the music on what to play. We don’t want to get carried away here.”

“We’ll be good, Pastor.”

“So Jonathan and Monica, if you’ll open up the dance floor for us. We’ll have some slow music to accompany you. Get your cameras ready, folks.”

The collapsible walls were pushed aside to reveal an empty space already prepared for the dancing. Leah, Stacy, and Sister Herron skillfully removed Monica’s detachable train from her dress so she could move more freely. Jonathan escorted her to the middle of the floor.

“I am not very good at this,” she whispered.

“Me neither, but I took some lessons to get ready for this. Just let your leg rest against mine and follow my lead. I won’t move around too much.”

Monica felt like Cinderella dancing with her prince.

Brother and Sister Montague and Brother and Sister Reynolds joined them as did the Wilmingtons, the 176

Herrons, the Caldwells, the Campbells, and even Pastor and Sister Richardson.

“Do you think we can still do it, Harold?” Sister Mills asked her husband.

“I still got what it takes,” he said taking her by the arm. “The question is, do you?”

“Would you care to join me?” Anthony asked Leah.

She graciously accepted.

Stacy and Robert joined the group as other couples filled the dance floor. “You know, Robert, I’ve been thinking, about asking Pastor Richardson’s blessings on us before you leave. I already shared with him our plans.”

“Sure. I am quite impressed by what I saw today and since I’ve been here. It would be easier for my family to drive down or fly down for our wedding. Plus, I think you would rather have the wedding on familiar ground.”

Younger couples took over the dance floor to more fast beat music as the first set cleared the way for them.

“I can’t keep up with these young ones,” Sister Mills said taking a seat beside Sister Bettie. After not getting a response from her she said, “What’s wrong, Bettie? It’s not like you to be this quiet.”

“Oh, I was just a remembering when I got married. I sure do miss my husband.”

Shortly after returning to their seats, Jonathan and Monica sent Tiffany to both their parents with a message: “We’re going to sneak out of here. Tell everyone goodbye for us.”

At Brother Montague’s request, they waited for 177

about five minutes giving the limousine time to pull around to the Reception Hall. Both parents escorted them to the limousine where hasty goodbyes were said.

Brother Montague slipped Jonathan an envelope. “This is a gift from me and my wife and Leah to you. Take good care of her, son.”

“I will,” Jonathan said. “I will.”

178

Chapter 28 “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.” (Psalm 42:1) “I’ll take you in,” Jonathan said swinging his new bride up into his arms. “Give me the honour of carrying you over the threshold, Mrs. Reynolds, into our humble place of beginnings.”

“Be my guest,” Monica said tightly hugging his neck.

“Just don’t drop me.” She giggled all the way into the bedroom where he gently placed her on the bed.

“What’s so funny? You’ve been giggling all the way over here.”

“Oh, I’m just happy,” Monica said dabbing at her eyes.

“I still can’t believe it’s not a dream.”

“You make a beautiful bride,” Jonathan said gazing at her. “Go ahead and take care of yourself while I get us

179

something to drink. I believe our mothers stocked up the refrigerator.”

The envelope Brother Montague gave him fell out of his pocket as he removed his bow tie and jacket. He had forgotten about it. He smiled as he viewed its contents: a note from his in-laws, two plane tickets for a round trip to St. Kitts, some cash and a Master Card. The note read: We love you both and our prayers are with you.

These are plane tickets for a two week vacation to St. Kitts. We have everything covered: room, food, extra spending money, and a chauffeur to take you around.

We’ve notified our family there. They’ll meet you during your second week after Monica’s cousins return. They’ll be spending another week with us. Your suitcases are already packed and in the living room. Just don’t forget your plane tickets. Rest all day on tomorrow; you’re going to need the rest. We’ll be by at 5:30 on Monday morning to take you to the airport. May God bless your new life together. We love you.

Mom and Dad Montague Monica was in the shower when Jonathan returned with two glasses of fruit punch. Her dress was neatly hung up and the comforter and sheet were pulled back.

Cutting off the lights he took off his tuxedo and climbed into the bed. He could not have asked for a better day.

The wedding and the reception lasted about six hours; it was already nine and he was more exhausted than he realized.

When Monica returned to the room Jonathan was 180

already asleep. She cuddled up close to him, wrapped her arms around him, and squeezed him. “Hey, baby,” he said.

“I must have dozed off. I didn’t know weddings could take so much out of you. Come on up closer.” He rolled over and took her into his arms. ______________ Kirby Rollins felt honored to be a part of his old college mate’s wedding. He smiled to himself as he drove home that night thinking back on their college days.

Jonathan was the more serious type and the more disciplined of the two, and he always brought Kirby and others in the class back into focus on the subject being discussed. I, on the other hand, was the clown of the class, Kirby thought with a chuckle. He remembered the day he bet Jonathan he could walk up to five of the young ladies on campus whom he had never met and propose to them. Jonathan dared him to. Kirby did, although one threw a cup of coke at him stating, “I am not that type of girl.”

“I just love to laugh and have fun and I want others to do the same,” he told Jonathan who swore Kirby was going crazy.

“We had many good times in college,” Kirby told his wife, Kristy, after Jonathan had gotten in touch with him regarding the wedding.

“Why don’t you invite him over?” she asked.

“I tell you, he’s the kind of fellow I would want for

181

my assistant here at the church. Together we could do a mighty work for the Lord. He was my soul-winning partner in college.”

“I wish I had let you come to the wedding,” he told his wife as he undressed for bed late that Saturday night after the wedding. “It is one I will never forget. They went all out. Here, put up my tuxedo,” he said handing his suit to her. I have to return it to the New Mt. Zion Church on Monday. You can ride with me out there if you want to. It’s a little over an hour’s drive to get there.

It’s amazing we were this close to each other and never knew it.” ________________ “A little over an hour to go,” Clarence said glancing at his watch. “They are going to be very impressed with this project.”

Sherrice fingered her pen. She clicked a few buttons on the computer. She sighed a long sigh.

“What’s wrong with you now?” Clarence asked.

“You’ve been sighing and looking forlorn all morning, in fact, since last week. This project cannot be that boring.” They were working on a new graphic design project for another company up north. Jonathan normally worked with them as a team and had been doing so for over four years. Sherrice had been vying for his attention since shortly after he started working there.

“It’s been a week now,” she said to Clarence the

182

Monday after Jonathan’s wedding. “Did he skip town or something? You have to have heard something.”

“Boy, you don’t give up easily, do you?” Clarence said with a chuckle. “Jonathan is a grown man. He does not have to report to me his whereabouts. As long as he has permission from the boss to leave for a few weeks, he can leave. Stop pining away over someone who is not even paying you any attention.”

“Clarence, you’re looking at it all wrong,” Sherrice said feigning hurt. “He’s a co-worker, he’s young, he’s…”

“He’s handsome, and he’s younger than you,” Clarence said.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Sherrice said.

“You know.”

“No, I do not know. All I was saying was, he is a likable fellow. What’s wrong with me wondering what’s happened to him? He normally calls and lets us know something.”

“Yes, he normally does. Anyway,” Clarence said looking at his watch, “as of right now, 12:02, he’s probably relaxing on the beach on one of the islands with his new wife.”

“What?” Sherrice could not believe what she just heard even though she tried to hide her shock. “Are you telling me he got married without letting us know?”

“He did not let you know,” Clarence said trying to stifle a laugh. “He told me about it and made me promise not to tell anyone.”

183

Sherrice turned red. That’s not fair. I thought we were his friends. We’ve been working together for years now.

“Sherrice, I’m going to put this as softly as I can: Jonathan is a private person and ever since he started working here, you have tried to get into his personal life. You knew he had a fiance, but you still kept going at him. Men don’t like a woman to be forward like that.

Anyway, he told me not to say anything to you or to anyone until after the wedding. And when he comes back, please remember he’s now married.” Turning back to the monitor, Clarence continued, “We have about another hour on this project. I am willing to wait until we’re finished to break for lunch. How about you?”

Sherrice did not answer right away as she was engulfed in her own thoughts. How could he? I’ll have something for him when he gets back. “I guess I can wait, too,” she pouted while digging in her purse. “Let me run and get a candy bar out of the machine.”

“Get me a coke, will you?” Clarence said.

184

Chapter 29 “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.” (Proverbs 25:26) The Lord blessed Jonathan and Monica with an enjoyable time in St. Kitts. “I will never forget these two weeks,” Jonathan said as they boarded the plane.

“Me, neither,” Monica said. They returned home to find everyone and everything in place and doing well.

There was a plaque with the words, ‘Congratulations on your new life’ on his desk when he returned to the job. Sherrice, pretending not to be paying any attention, listened intently to the conversation between him and Clarence. He did not want me to know about his marriage, so I will pretend not to know who put the plaque on his desk.

“So did you enjoy your honeymoon?” Clarence asked.

“I sure did,” Jonathan said. “Here’s a little gift for

185

you. My wife insisted we get you something.” Clarence opened his bag to find a colorful island shirt.

“Isn’t this lovely, Sherrice?” Clarence said showing off his shirt. “I am going to put it on right now,” he said unbuttoning the buttons. “You be sure to tell your wife I say ‘Thank you.’ I tell you, Sherrice, he has a beautiful wife and that wedding was something else.”

Sherrice did not respond as she was upset at Jonathan for not telling her about his marriage. She had to admit she was jealous over a woman she had never even met.

Looking across at Sherrice, Jonathan said, “Don’t worry, Sherrice, my wife sent something for you, too.”

Handing Sherrice the other bag, a bright smile broke out across her face as she eagerly took the gift. Inside was a beautiful, colorful native dress.

“Thank you so much, Jonathan. Be sure to tell your wife ‘thank you’ and that I hope to meet her soon.”

Turning to Clarence who already had his shirt on, she said, “I’ll just try this on later. Sure hope it’s the right size. It’s beautiful.” She folded the dress carefully and put it back in the bag.

“So do you like my gift?” she said to Jonathan, motioning to the plaque on his desk. She glanced at his fingers to see the ring, still finding it hard to believe that he was now married.

“Yes, he does,” Clarence said. “We were talking about it a moment ago. Now let’s get back to work.” _______________ 186

The Lord blessed Jonathan and Monica with a great first year of marriage. They continued serving at New Mt. Zion. Monica kept her job at the pediatrics clinic, and Jonathan continued working at Computer Plus Technologies. He enrolled in the New Ministers’ Class taught by Pastor Richardson. The church was expanding the educational arm of its ministry to include several four year Bible College Degree Programs including World Evangelism, Church Planting and Evangelism, Pastoral Studies, and Christian Education with its focus on the elementary grades. The New Ministers’ Class was a nine months program for those who already had their degree but who wanted more hands-on training while waiting to launch out on their own.

Their first child arrived in their second year of marriage. The Lord blessed Jonathan and Monica with a baby boy they named Jonathan Mitchell “Mitch” Reynolds, Jr. Monica’s pregnancy was a little bit of an unusual struggle and it took a toll on her emotionally, physically, and mentally. It was during this time that Jonathan began to notice a change in Monica’s overall attitude and spirit. Her consistent cheerfulness that he had seen throughout their early days together now seemed to be up and down. His mind was occupied with other things that he did not take the time to keep up with what was going on at home. But he was taken aback by her short and snappy responses at times. On one particular day, he left her pleasant enough, but returned to a 187

despondent wife.

“Don’t tell me you are going through your emotional cycle again,” he said after not receiving her normal upbeat response to his greeting.

This day as at some other times, Monica did not want to be bothered with anyone. For the most part she kept her moodiness under control, but today she just let it out. “And what if I am? You know, sometimes a person just wants some alone time,” she said nonchalantly.

“Alone time?” Jonathan said. “Lest you have forgotten, Mrs. Monica Reynolds, you are now a wife and will soon be a new mother; there won’t be much, if any, ‘alone time’ as you call it.”

Monica sighed and rolled her eyes as she slid the dinner plates onto the table followed by the pyrex tray of vegetable lasagna. Jonathan stared at the new dish.

Vegetable lasagna was one of his favorite meals, but what he saw before him did not look like anything he had ever seen his mother make. Not waiting on his wife, who was moving slower than normal to fix his plate as she oftentimes did, he reached over to help himself to a huge serving. The lasagna slithered off the serving spoon and back into the pyrex tray as bite-sized pieces of carrots and peas dropped onto the table.

“New dish, Monica?” he said with a chuckle.

“You don’t have to serve it. Give me the honors.”

Pulling his plate before her, she skillfully placed three dripping spoonfuls on his plate. “There, enjoy it,” she said with a faint smile.

188

“Amazing,” Jonathan said. “Aren’t you going to join me?”

“I’m not hungry.”

Jonathan managed to place a forkful in his mouth.

The noodles slithered down his throat causing him to choke. Tasteless. Mushy. No more!

“Listen, Monica, we have to talk,” he said dropping his fork onto his plate. “We cannot continue like this.

You are going to have to get control of your mood swings which are becoming more frequent.”

Monica stared at him as though he was speaking a foreign language.

“It’s not fair to me, and it won’t be fair to any children we may have to go through this roller-coaster ride with you. I have lovingly put up with it for a couple months now and I am not going through it any more and I won’t have any of our children to go through it with you either. You can have your attitude during your ‘alone time’, but not when we’re together.”

“But, Jonathan, you’re not me. You’re not a woman and you’ll never know what we women go through, nor will you know how I feel.”

“Whoa!” Jonathan said leaning forward. “Here we go again with feelings. I am not going to get caught up in your feelings. But this is one thing I do know, and that is, this saying among black folk that ‘if mama ain’t happy ain’t nobody happy,’ is not going to work in this house. No, ma’am. If something is bothering you, talk about it. Tell me what is going on with you. But just know 189

that I am not going to let your feelings control the atmosphere in this house or determine the direction of this family on any given day.”

Monica sighed, rolled her eyes and looked away.

“See what I mean: the rolling of the eyes; that has to go back to wherever you got it from,” he said almost shouting. Monica jumped as he raised his voice. “Look at me!” He had never raised his voice to that level before.

“You also tend to mess up the food during your ‘feeling sorry for yourself’ moments.”

“But…but…sometimes I just don’t feel like myself; I don’t feel…”

“Like I’ve told you before, you cannot act on your feelings; you have to act on facts—the facts of God’s Word—all the time. None of us can depend on our feelings,” Jonathan continued. “I don’t feel like going to work all the time. I wish I could lay on the beach on one of those Hawaiian islands all day sipping a pina colada. I wish I could spend all our days on that beautiful beach in St. Kitts. But if I acted on my feelings, we would not have this apartment and we would not be looking into buying our own home soon; in fact, we’d be broke.”

Jonathan took a sip of his fruit punch that could use a lot more sweetener. “I don’t always feel like praying. If I followed my feelings, I would not pray and if I did not pray down the Holy Spirit’s restraining power on this marriage, we would not be having this civilized conversation.” Fanning his hand toward the lasagna, he continued, “Do something with this. Maybe you can drain 190

the liquid off, bake it some more, and save it. But whatever you do, we do not waste food in this house. Too many starving children would love to have it.”

Monica was almost in tears. Jonathan was right.

“So what will it be?” Jonathan asked. He was never one to leave an argument open. “Let’s deal with this now so we can move forward.”

Closing her eyes for a few seconds, Monica replied, “I’m sorry. I thought I had this area of my life under control. It just seems to creep up on me.”

“Well, you don’t have it under control.” Jonathan’s tone softened. “It’s funny, but I never saw this in you before we got married. Whatever the case, we can’t let it disrupt the family.”

Rising from his seat, he gave her a hug. “Don’t be embarrassed. Just recognize it and do what you have to do to get it under control. The only solution I have is for you to pray and ask God to help you get the victory in this area. And let me know something ahead of time. Will you?”

Monica nodded as she determined in her heart to fight the negative feelings that sometimes got her down.

I won’t let them defeat me, she thought. I never will.

191

Episode 11

193

Chapter 30 “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.” (Proverbs 31:10) Jonathan turned in his two weeks resignation notice at Computer Plus Technologies in order to work on staff at the New Mt. Zion Church. He was feeling a strong calling from the Lord to go into full-time ministry. This Sunday was a special Sunday for him. ____________________ “Yes, folks, we have some young ministers who God is going to use mightily in years to come, if they remain faithful to His calling on their lives,” Pastor Richardson shared with his congregation on Sunday morning. “As you know, we have one of those young ministers to deliver the message here once a month as part of their 195

training. Today, we welcome Jonathan Reynolds to the pulpit to share what God has laid on his heart.”

As the crowd applauded him, Jonathan rose to the pulpit. He began, “God has a plan for transforming the lives of Christians so that we can become more like Him. Many of us claim to be Christians, but our behavior is questionable. People around us are asking are we really Christians? Worse yet, they begin to question the power of the Blood of Jesus Christ in our lives by thinking: Their God does not seem to be making a difference in their lives, so why should I serve Him? So this morning, I want to share with you just a few words from the Word of God on: How to Obtain Wisdom from God.” Pastor Richardson, who had taken a seat on the front pew with his wife and son, shouted, “And don’t we all need wisdom.”

Jonathan smiled and continued, “As Solomon said, ‘Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.’”

Janice patted Monica’s hand as she rocked her oneyear-old niece, Jerrilyn. She was the newest addition to the Reynolds’ family.

“Some of you may be wondering, well, Brother Jonathan, what is wisdom and how do I get it? First, your wisdom and my wisdom is not the same as God’s wisdom.

Let me repeat: my wisdom and your wisdom is not the same as God’s wisdom. Our wisdom says, ‘I’ll do it my way.

I do not need God or man to tell me what to do.’ It is like talking to your son or daughter and they respond with ‘I 196

already know that.’ If you already know that then why aren’t you doing that?”

“Tell the truth,” Brother Montague shouted.

“You hear that, Gladys?” Brother Harold said. Those close by laughed.

“Many of us plan our lives leaving God out of the picture. We know what we are going to do a year from today, three years from today, and even ten years from today, but my question to you is: Where is God in all this planning?”

“Nowhere,” someone in the crowd answered.

Jonathan continued, “We are depending on our college degrees or the fact that our boss speaks highly of us. Young people, do not think that because you are the top athlete in your school, or because you lead the debate team to victory year after year that you are full of wisdom. No, my friend. You can have all that human success, but if God is nowhere to be found, you have been duped by the devil. You have no wisdom at all.”

“The Bible says, ‘There is a way that seemeth right to a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.’ The Bible also says, ‘Broad is the road that leadeth to destruction and many there be who find it.’ Wisdom is hearing the Word of God, and doing the Word of God.” “Hearing and doing,” Pastor Richardson shouted.

Little Mitch Reynolds listened intently to his father.

He was looking more and more like his Dad each day.

“Children, since the Word of God tells you to be obedient to your parents, then wisdom tells you to obey.

197

Wives, since the Word of God tells you to be obedient to your husbands, then wisdom tells you to obey. Husbands, since the Word of God tells you to lovingly lead your family and not walk out on them, then wisdom tells you to lovingly lead and not leave your family hanging. You cannot get around God’s Word.”

“Say it, Brother Jonathan,” Sister Roque said rising from her seat and clapping her hands. Jonathan and Monica had had the privilege of leading her to the Lord.

She had been in a deep depression after going through a heartbreaking divorce and having to take on the role of a single mother. Now employed at one of the county jails, she shared her faith with the inmates in hopes that at least one, if not all, would get saved.

“Paul used to kill the Christians because he was following his own foolish ideas. King Nebuchadnezzar’s motto was: ‘I’ll do it my way.’ But God…” “But God, Preacher!”

“But God brought him down. Another king dropped dead and worms crawled out of his body because he thought his wisdom was wiser than God’s wisdom. Adam and Eve’s wisdom brought us nothing but sin and wickedness, but it also brought us the Blood of Jesus Christ. If you have never accepted the shed Blood of Jesus Christ, you are walking in your own foolishness.”

A young lady in a full length skirt was sitting midway in the auditorium. She soaked up every word. She had never heard the Word being preached as clearly as she was hearing it today. A holy hush fell over the crowd 198

as Jonathan asked a rather sobering question: What is the first step to getting God’s wisdom?

“The first step to getting God’s wisdom is to realize that you are a sinner bent on doing your own thing, bent on going your own way. Is there any righteous? No. The Bible says, ‘there is none righteous; there is none that seek after God.’ It’s right there in Romans 3:10-11. Verse 23 says all of us have sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God. You ask, what can I do about my sinful, depraved condition? How can I get right with God? There is nothing you can do, but there is everything God can do and has done through the Blood of Jesus His Son.” “Nothing but the Blood! Nothing but the Blood!”

Pastor Richardson shouted in a sing-song voice. He was beyond himself at the powerful message this young man was delivering.

“Only the Blood, my brothers and sisters. ‘But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.’ We see that in Romans 5:8. So how do you get God’s wisdom? If you want God’s wisdom, pray this prayer with me: “Dear God, I confess my sins before You. I confess following my own foolish thinking. Right now, I admit that Your way is the wise way. I admit that as a sinner only the Blood of Jesus can wash away my sins. I accept Jesus’ shed blood for my sins. Please forgive me of my sins, come into my heart and change my life. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”

“If you just prayed that prayer, come forward so we 199

can rejoice with you and give you some literature that will explain more about salvation, and that will strengthen you in your new-found faith in Jesus Christ,�

Pastor Richardson said to the folks.

The lady in the full length skirt was the first down the aisle. Jonathan could not believe his eyes. It was Sherrice.

200

Chapter 31 “Thy testimonies are wonderful therefore doth my soul keep them.” (Proverbs 119:129) Kirby Rollins was sitting in the auditorium all fired up after hearing Jonathan preach. That’s him — my old ace boon coon. He’s the one I want to help me build my church, he thought. Kirby scrutinized the New Mt. Zion auditorium. He would look over the program again. The membership has got to be eight thousand plus, Kirby thought.

As soon as the crowd thinned out, Kirby made his presence known. “Big Jon,” he said, tapping Jonathan on the shoulder.

“Kirby Rollins, you’re the last person I expected to see here today. It’s good to see you again. As many times as we’ve spoken over the phone, why didn’t you let me know you were coming?”

201

“I wanted to surprise you, and I wanted you to see how serious I am about what I have to talk with you about,” Kirby Rollins said.

“Let me introduce you to my family and you’re coming home with us for dinner,” Jonathan said.

Jonathan and Kirby had a great time catching up on events since the wedding and sharing future plans.

“I am looking for an assistant pastor — one who can shuck the corn,” Kirby told him. “My assistant pastor left almost a year ago. I haven’t been able to find a suitable replacement.”

“I hope he left in good standing,” Jonathan said.

“Yes and no. But that’s another story,” Kirby said.

“And this is where you come in. I took this trip to ask you, to beg you, to become my assistant pastor. You were always one of those fired up preacher boys and after hearing you today, I am convinced you’re the man for the job. I want someone who can deliver, and deliver every time. You certainly delivered today.”

“All praises go to God, bro,” Jonathan said.

“Don’t take my next statement in the wrong way, but I believe you know my heart,” Kirby Rollins said.

“Surely, you don’t plan on spending the rest of your life feeding off your pastor. You need to let others feed off of you now — just like you did today.”

Jonathan agreed. “It’s been a recurring thought that’s becoming stronger and more frequent. I’m still praying about moving on.”

“You’ve been praying about this since college days,” 202

Kirby chuckled. “There’s a time to stop praying and get to moving, Big Jon. I have no doubt that you’re the one to help me move forward. Tell you what: come preach for us, not this Sunday but next Sunday, and you’ll see where we are as a church.”

Jonathan graciously accepted the invitation.

“We’re about a two-day drive from here so we’ll take care of all the expenses — gas, meals, hotel fare — the whole trip.”

Jonathan eagerly shared the news with Monica. “You can view this as a little vacation,” he told her.

Jonathan was very impressed with the Ninth Street Baptist Church family and the apparent success God was granting his servant, Kirby Rollins. Over dinner at the restaurant after the services, Jonathan accepted the position as assistant pastor.

“I envision God doing great things with this church through us,” Kirby said.

“I see it, too, bro,” Jonathan said.

Monica did not quite see things the same way.

203

Chapter 32 “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.” (Colossians 3:18) Monica was quiet on the ride home. Two-day drive, she thought. It took us almost three full days to get here.

Jonathan did not even have the decency to consult with me before making such an important decision for a major move.

She looked back at Mitch and Jerrilyn in the back seat.

Mitch would be four-years-old within a week’s time. He was busy looking out the window counting the passing cars. She wondered what else was going through his curious mind. Jerrilyn would be two in another three months. She was asleep.The children are far too young to be uprooted from their home and from…

“Monica, are you alright? You’re extremely quiet.”

Jonathan asked. “Didn’t you enjoy meeting Kirby’s family

205

and the church family?”

Monica nodded and forced a smile.

“They have something going on at that church; the excitement there is contagious,” Jonathan said.

“Yeah,” Monica agreed.

“And to think we’ll be a part of it. I’m proud of how God has been using my friend, Kirby. Yes, ma’am, I am,” he said reaching over to place his hand on hers.

Without thinking, Monica moved her hand away from his.

“What’s eating you up now?” Jonathan asked. Monica did not respond to his question. “This trip could not have been that bad. The Ninth Street Baptist Church family has already adopted us as their own…”

“Maybe adopted you,” Monica sighed.

“Especially Sister Millie and Sister Anise, they were just loving on us, treating us like a king and queen…”

Sister Anise was all up in your face, Monica thought.

“Brother Kirby’s wife, Kristy, was so eager to meet you. You and her should have a lot to talk about; you’re about the same age; our children are about the same age.

What are their names again? You’re good at remembering things like that.”

Monica reluctantly gave the children’s names and ages: Karl, 6; Dionne, 4; and Lincoln, 3.

“Oh, so now we’re talking,” Jonathan said sarcastically. “You’re not talking happily, but at least you’re talking. What’s on your mind? I know it’s been a tiring weekend, but that can’t be it.”

206

“Jonathan,” Monica said, forcing her voice to remain calm and measured, “you told Kirby you would be moving out to Oklahoma to join him on staff as assistant pastor and how excited we were, yet, I do not recall you even asking me if I would be willing to move to Oklahoma or how I felt about joining up with Ninth St. Baptist Church or anything like that. Don’t I even have a say in this?”

“Oh! So that’s what you’re mad about?”

“No, I’m not mad,” Monica said looking him directly in the eye. “You just can’t make such an important decision and not talk with me about it. This move will not affect just you; it will affect the whole family.”

Slowing the car down, Jonathan responded, “Look, Monica, I have mentioned to you on and off about going full time in the ministry — whether starting my own church or taking over someone else’s church or joining up with someone else — we’ve both been praying about it. I mentioned to you that I felt a strong urging to quit my job and join up with the staff at New Mt. Zion — I did that. You have been praying with me about branching out on my own — at least I hope you’ve been praying with me. Have you?”

“No need to be sarcastic. And, yes, I have been praying with you, but when I prayed I was not praying about us moving across state lines. Why couldn’t you accept something close to home?” Monica pursed her lips and turned her attention to the wheat fields that streaked past as they drove.

“So that’s it. You don’t want to leave the comforts of 207

home,” Jonathan said. “Monica, we can get a new home.

Now, I’m sorry, but I thought you would be happy for me.”

“Well, you can prove how sorry you are by telling Kirby you cannot accept his offer. I mean, it took us almost three days to drive up there and you never once told me you were thinking about accepting his offer. You lied to me the whole trip,” Monica snapped.

“Lied to you?” Jonathan shook his head. “Now, you know I have never lied to you. In between us praying and asking God for a clear answer, I told you to prepare to possibly stay. Of course, we would come back to get our belongings. I even spoke the whole trip about the possibilities of us joining up with Kirby. God had not given me a definite answer yet.”

“Well, you chose a fine way to go about letting me know you accepted that position, right in front of them at the dinner table.”

“Well, I must say, you responded well,” Jonathan said.

“I don’t need any compliments now,” Monica snapped. “You’re uprooting this whole family including our two little children.” Mitch had fallen off to sleep hugging his stuffed toys. Monica reached back to gently stroke his cheeks and prop his head up straight.

“Monica, you’ve always told me you would stick with me no matter what. Why the sudden change?”

“Not why the sudden change? Why make such an important decision without consulting me to see how I felt about it? This is a major move, and…”

208

“And I hope you’ll adjust to it just as Sarah did,” Jonathan said.

“Sarah? Who the hell is Sarah?”

“Sarah. Abraham and Sarah,” Jonathan said.

“You better not start another sermon because I’m not in the mood for it.” Monica folded her arms across her chest.

“Well, I’m going to preach it anyway. You can take a cue from the women of the Bible,” Jonathan said.

“Remember when God called Abraham, he did not consult with Sarah, his wife. He just got up in obedience to God, got his whole family together and went. Where he was going, he had no idea. At least we know for sure where we are going.”

“Is God going to make you a great nation next because I can tell you for sure you’re not Abraham and I surely am not Sarah!” Monica said sarcastically.

“Well, I know all that, but I have no doubt that God is going to bless us and we already have two children,” Jonathan chuckled.

“Are you going to tell me next He told you to sacrifice our son?” Monica gave him such an angry look he immediately changed to a more serious disposition.

“I’m certain God won’t go that far,” Jonathan said.

“But I do know He has called me to love Him more than I love anyone else and to listen to His voice quicker than I listen to anyone else’s.”

“Seems like you listened rather quickly to Kirby Rollins voice!”

209

“Look, Monica,” Jonathan said raising his voice, “I am going to say one more thing, then it’s up to you, and that is, I am joining up with Kirby Rollins. You can come with me if you want to and enjoy the blessings from it, or you can be stubborn and not come, but I don’t think God is going to bless that. All I know is, I am going to do what I believe God is leading me to do. You may want to consider Mitch and Jerrilyn as you have the rest of the trip to decide which way you’re going.”

After traveling some distance in silence, Monica reached into her purse and pulled out her cellphone.

“Who are you calling now?”Jonathan asked.

“Mom…and maybe Stacy.”

“Oh, no you’re not. Put that phone up right now. They have no choice in this matter.”

“Try to stop me,” Monica said.

210

Episode 12

211

Chapter 33 “Help, Lord; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.” (Psalm 12:1) Pastor Kirby Rollins pulled into his driveway hoping for a quiet evening. He remembered the conversation he had over lunch with the Reynolds family, after Jonathan had preached at his church, Ninth Street Baptist: “I can’t wait for you to come preach for us next month, Brother Jonathan. You all will live in the guest house until we secure permanent housing for you and your family,” Kirby told them.

Turning to Monica, he said, “Sister Reynolds, thank you for your willingness to join your husband in helping us out here at Ninth Street Baptist. If there is anything you would like for my wife and the ladies of the church to do for you to make your stay here more comfortable,

213

don’t hesitate to call and let them know.”

“Thank you,” Monica nodded with a smile as she turned her attention to her children, pretending to secure Mitch and Jerrilyn in their car seats. She was ready to get home. _________________ “Kirby, Brother Cameron left a message for you to return his call. He said something about some money you owe him,” Kristy Rollins said to her husband as soon as he stepped through the front door.

He hurried into his home study without acknowledging that he had heard her. He slammed the door shut behind him and snatched up the receiver to return the call.

“Yes, Cam, my wife told me you called. I asked you to call me on my cell instead of at the house. My number is still the same…Oh, Sandy told you to call me here…I see…Well, sorry, my brother, for the delay in sending you the money, but we’ve been real busy here moving into our new building and yesterday we had a guest speaker.”

“Yeah, I heard he’s going to be my replacement,” Bro. Cameron said. “We could’ve made a winning team, but…”

“Alright, alright, we don’t need to go into all that again. You did get the money, didn’t you? And Cam, I told you not to say anything to my wife about this, not even in the slightest.”

“Well, all bets are off when you don’t get my money

214

to me on time,” Bro. Cam interrupted. “But I showed you mercy, I could have spilled the beans and told her everything.”

Kirby Rollins sighed but said nothing.

“I told you, you tread on a tightrope if I receive the money even one day late, but I know how to show mercy,” Bro. Cam said. “Anyway, I’ve been thinking, I’ve been protecting your good name and helping to make you look good in the community by keeping silent. I drove by the church yesterday; I like what I see. Since you are doing so well, I’m sure with an increase in pay and all that, I’m sure you won’t mind increasing the $1,000 to $1,300. With the crowd I saw on Sunday, you can easily handle that.”

“Now, look, Cameron, you can’t just drop that on me like that…plus, we agreed…”

“I just did,” Bro. Cam said firmly. “Think about your reputation and your rising big name. I can drag both through the mud with just two phone calls and everything you’ve built up will come crumbling down.”

“You wouldn’t do that, Cam!” “Try me. It’s $1,300 every two weeks or all deals are off. The first phone call would be to your wife, but for her sake and your three little kids, I’m holding back. The second call would be to the newspapers, and you know once it hits the internet, in a matter of seconds you’ll be known worldwide, and…”

“Ok, ok, $1,300 it is.”

Click.

Pastor Kirby slumped against the back of his chair. I 215

have to keep him quiet at all costs. Right now, I need to get this off my mind. I need to relax and nothing relaxes me better than this. He reached into his bottom desk drawer and took out a bottle of Chardonnay wine. Not my favorite.

But it’ll do. Nothing hits the spot like Pinot Noir, though.

Gulping down over half of the bottle, he laid back in his swivel chair trying to figure out the best way to go about asking the church for a $300 increase in his salary to take care of Bro. Cam. I could easily pay him out of my current check, but what the heck, let the church take care of it.

Emerging from his office about an hour later, he headed towards the kitchen.

“Dad!” Six-year-old Karl and three-year-old Dionne shouted. Karl was reading a picture book to his sister while their mother placed the last of the dishes in the dishwasher.

“We went ahead and ate,” Kristy told him. “I wasn’t sure how long you’d be on the phone.” She placed his dinner in front of him. After he’d devoured a few spoonfuls, his wife asked, “What was that all about anyway? Cam said something about money you owe him.

I didn’t know we owe him money.”

“You don’t need to worry about it,” Kirby said shoving another spoonful of rice in his mouth.

“When you say that, I know I need to worry,” Kristy said. “How can we be ‘one flesh’ if you’re constantly hiding things from me? We’re supposed to be open and honest with each other. You know, the trust here is 216

slowly eroding.”

“This is something between me and Cameron. Just some money I should’ve paid him before he resigned his post as assistant pastor. You know how hard he worked to help me in laying the foundation for the church. Are you happy now?” Kirby said pointedly to his wife.

“You know what, Kirby? I’m tired of playing second place and being the last to know everything. I feel like you’re pushing me to the background more and more,” his wife said.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Kirby asked. He was getting irritated.

“Kirby, we had a much more open relationship before you got bogged down with this church. You spend way more time in your office once you get home and it’s strange that it is completely off limits to me, your own wife, and to your children. By the way,” Kristy added, “you need to spend more time with the kids. I’m not done.” Kristy held up her hand as her husband attempted to put in a few words. “Every time we talk, we end up shouting at each other. And sex is…well…just something to do. Are you having an affair?”

“Are you?” Kirby retorted.

“No. I’m too busy taking care of my children. But I asked you first, can you say the same?”

Kirby dropped his spoon onto his plate, gulped down the rest of his water, and pushing away from the table, he said with frustration, “I don’t have to take this. I’m the man here and I can do what I want, and might I add, 217

I don’t have to report back to you. Got it?”

“Keep this up and we won’t be together much longer!” Kristy yelled after him as he slammed the door to his office.

218

Chapter 34 “Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end.” (Psalm 119:33) Monica sighed deeply. As she was getting ready to punch the first number to her mother, the cellphone rang. It was Kristy Rollins. Not her, she thought.

“Well, aren’t you going to answer that?” Jonathan asked glancing over to see who it was.

“It’s Kristy, Kristy Rollins. And I really don’t want to talk to anyone right now,” she replied.

“Well, you’re gonna answer it because you’re not going to cause your frustration with me to interfere in your relationship with her,” Jonathan said. “Let me talk with her after you get done.”

Monica reluctantly pressed the ‘talk’ button, switching her tone of voice to a more pleasant one.

219

“Hello, Sister Rollins, how are you doing?”

“I’m doing great. I just wanted to call and say goodbye since I didn’t get to do so earlier, and also to let you know we’re looking forward to having you and your family join us here soon.”

“Thank you, Sister Rollins. We’re looking forward to being a part of the church family as well.”

Jonathan smiled. He and Monica could be mad at each other, but he thanked God she was mature enough not to let it show in her interactions with others.

“Yes, we’ll be stopping over at a hotel in a few hours and then head back home early in the morning. Anyway, hold on for my husband,” Monica said.

“Sister Rollins, I just wanted to thank you again for making us feel at home and we look forward to joining you all there at Ninth Street. Tell your husband I’ll give him a call once we get home…Okay, have a blessed night.”

Monica held her hand out for the cellphone after Jonathan hung up, but he placed it in his shirt pocket instead.

“You can talk to your mom later. Right now we’re travelling, so wait until we get home.”

Monica was about to reach over and make an attempt to grab her cell phone back, but having second thoughts, she pulled a book out of her travel bag and silently fumed.

220

Chapter 35 “Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:19) As soon as the family returned home and settled down, Monica placed a call to her mother.

“It’s good to have you back,” Sis. Montague said cheerfully. “How was the trip?”

“It was good,” Monica said.

“Tell me I’m wrong, but you don’t sound too enthusiastic,” Sis. Montague said.

“Something came up.” Monica told her mother about Jonathan’s decision ending with, “Mom, that’s a major move. Jonathan should not have made such an important decision without first telling me. I mean, what if I don’t want to move to Oklahoma — “

221

“Well, do you want to move to Oklahoma?” Sis. Montague interrupted.

“Of course not! I’ll be pulled away from everything I know: you, Dad, Leah, the church family. And not just me, but the kids will be pulled away from all they know.”

“Monica, trust me on this: the children won’t know the difference. At their young age, they’ll see this as an adventure, they’ll be happy to go anywhere as long as they have you and their dad by their side. As for you, I believe insecurity is getting the best of you; you don’t want to be pulled out of your comfort zone. And, have you ever thought that Jonathan may not want to be pulled out of his comfort zone to start all over again?”

“He has his old friend, Kirby Rollins. I have no one.”

“Well, make some friends,” Sis. Montague said.

“That’s how God sometimes works when He wants to move us to higher ground — He calls us out of our comfort zone. We can respond in one of two ways: either go willingly or delay and let Him yank us out, but we’re going one way or another.”

“Mom,” Monica said, “God didn’t even tell me about making a move to Oklahoma. Doesn’t God speak to wives also or wouldn’t He speak to both of us? After all, we are a family.”

Sis. Montague chuckled. “Monica, yes, God speaks to wives. Right now, He’s speaking to you through Jonathan, besides, you have both asked us to pray with you about Jonathan going into full-time ministry as a pastor. This might be God answering your prayers.”

222

“Yes, but I saw that way down the road and a church just around the corner from New Mt. Zion — not Oklahoma with it’s cold winters and tornadoes…”

“Well, I’m sure you two discussed it on the ride up.”

“We did, but he was not sure he should take it — even up until he got up to preach, he wasn’t sure,” Monica still protested.

“Monica, I do agree that Jonathan should have discussed this matter with you before making the final decision. But, right now, since his mind is made up, I would suggest that you just settle down and follow your husband. God may be testing you,” Sis. Montague said gently.

“OK,” Monica said reluctantly, “but I’m still mad and I guess you’re going to tell me next to pray for God to give me the right heart about this.”

“You got it, baby.” ________________ Monica tried praying about the move, but that did not change her despondent spirit as she called Stacy.

“Hey, Stacy, what’s been happening?”

“Girl, a lot. Being a wife and mom keeps me busy. I tell you, that saying ‘a woman’s work is never done’ certainly is true,” Stacy laughed. “But what’s been happening with you?”

“Too much. Jonathan accepted the position of assistant pastor at this church in Oklahoma.”

223

“What! Ooh, girl, you’re about to be a first lady. I’m so happy for you.”

“What? Stacy, you don’t understand. The whole family is being moved to Oklahoma. The kids — four and one years old. We’ll be leaving everything and everyone we know and love.”

“I know you said ‘we’, but I think you wanted to say ‘I’ referring to yourself,” Stacy said. “Monica, stop a minute, you’re thinking about yourself.”

“I am not. I’m thinking about the family — the children…”

“Look, Monica, I know you. You’re pretty levelheaded and have set me straight many times, but right now you’re talking crazy,” Stacy said. “I’m no super Christian, but you’ve always spoken with excitement about being a pastor’s wife and being an encouragement to other people. What happened to all that excitement you had for the Lord’s work?”

“It was there until I found out we had to move, and what gets me angry is that Jonathan didn’t even consult me for such a major move,” Monica said sulkily.

Stacy burst out laughing. “Girl, get a grip. You ought to hear yourself talk.” She tried to mimic Monica. “Go ahead, laugh,” Stacy told her. Monica’s smile ended up in laughter.

“See this as a spiritual adventure, Monica. God wants to do great things with you and for you,” Stacy encouraged. “Now, I’m beginning to feel a little jealous.

I help in the K-5 ministry in my church where Trelawny 224

is. Sometimes I wish something exciting would happen, so you make sure you share your new adventure with me.”

“I will, and thanks, Stacy, for hearing me out,” Monica said.

“That’s what true friends are for,” Stacy replied. “But I have some news for you now. We’re planning a 2-3 week vacation trip down to visit you guys. Make sure you send me your new address so we can visit.”

“Sure thing,” Monica said. “I can’t wait to see you and the family.”

“I can’t wait to see you all either. Just remember, Monica,” Stacy added, “many times in life the end of one good thing is the beginning of something greater.”

225

Episode 13

227

Chapter 36 “Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?” –Psalm 77:13 Pastor Richardson and the New Mt. Zion Church family were elated at the new ministry opportunity God had opened up for Jonathan and Monica. Words of encouragement, financial support, and other gifts poured in from the church family.

“This is why I don’t want to leave,” Monica tearfully said to Jonathan on their last night in their old home.

“This is tearing me up inside.”

Jonathan hugged her and kissed her on the forehead.

“This is hard for me, too, Monica, but I have to look ahead to greater service for the Lord and the greater blessings God has for us—not just for me, but for our family.”

229

Wiping away a tear from her cheek, he continued, “This is where I met you; this is where our first two children were born; this is where I preached my first sermon; and this is where I matured as a young Christian. My Dad always told me as a child, to embrace change and never cling to the past; to always look ahead and move forward.

I am just glad you can move forward with me. I love you so much.”

The move to Oklahoma went much smoother than expected. After a three week stay in the church’s guest house, they moved into their own home. “It’s a mansion,” Monica told Stacy. She still had her reservations about moving, but she felt better once she got settled into her beautiful new place. _______________ “We have some stubborn people at our church,” Kristy Rollins said jokingly. She had Monica and the children over to her house while the moving company unloaded the furniture at the Reynolds’ house. “We told them to leave you all alone for about a month so you can get settled in, but trust me, some of the ladies are still going to stop by.”

Monica appreciated Kristy Rollins’ friendly spirit.

“I’ve been where you are, Monica. I had to leave familiar ground to join Kirby in planting this church. No sooner had I settled in, and it took me a while to settle down, but no sooner had I settled down and began to feel

230

comfortable being a pastor’s wife, Kirby felt led of the Lord to move to a new building. It was just across town, but it was a move nonetheless. Give it time and you’ll feel at home. Don’t hesitate to call me if you need anything.”

Monica felt as though she had a friend for life and they conversed as though they had known each other for a long time. Even though Kristy Rollins and Monica hit it off immediately, and the Rollins’ young children, Karl, Dionne, and Lincoln, fell in love with her, Monica wondered why she had an uneasy feeling about Kirby Rollins. Maybe in my subconscious mind I am blaming him for uprooting our family, she kept thinking. But something just does not sit well in my spirit about him. _______________ Monica slid the casserole into the oven. She placed the last of the dishes into the dish washer. She glanced at the plaque above the kitchen sink which read, Prayer Changes Things. An old saying, but so true, she thought.

Even though she had not done much of the physical moving, she felt exhausted as she was three months away from giving birth to their third child.

“Well, Mitch,” she said to her four-year-old son as she took a seat beside him at the kitchen table, “I thought I wouldn’t have enough to fill up my days as a stay-athome Mom, but I was wrong.” She frowned as she remembered what brought that about.

231

_______________ “Monica, I know you have big dreams of opening up your own practice some day, but I want you to put that on hold for right now,” Jonathan said to her one evening after supper.

“What are you trying to say?” Monica asked a little surprised.

“I want you to stay home after the baby is born.”

Monica was eight months pregnant with Mitch then.

“Stay home? You want me to just throw my degree to the side and stay home? I can’t do that.”

“Sure you can,” Jonathan said.

“I know I’m not hearing you right,” Monica said in disbelief. “I have worked hard for that medical degree.

You know how hard I have worked for it. I can’t just throw it away like that. This is what I have always wanted to do. I can’t let it go to waste.”

“Who says it will be going to waste? You–” “I don’t want to hear it. You just don’t think I can balance being a practicing doctor and a wife and mother all at the same time, do you?” Monica asked. She was getting irritated now, noticing that stern look he sometimes showed on his face whenever they were having a serious conversation in which they did not immediately see eye to eye.

“Monica, I believe you can juggle all three with ease.

It’s just that while I was growing up both my parents were always involved in the ministry. My mother was 232

hardly home to welcome me back from school or–” “Wait a minute. Let’s get something straight now: we will not be producing a blueprint of how you grew up. Your mother and I are two different people; you and I are two different people from our parents. This will not be the Reynolds’ Family two.”

“And neither will it be the Montague Family two,” Jonathan chuckled. “All I am saying is, as a child, I felt like I was neglected not knowing whether or not at least my mother would be available whenever I needed her.”

“Well, both my parents worked and I didn’t feel that way,” Monica said. “I never once felt neglected. I hope you’re not thinking for one minute that I will be neglecting any children we have. Are you?”

“No, Monica. I know how good you are with children.

I just want you to be there for our children twenty-four/ seven.”

“What about the extra income we’ll be losing?”

“You got it right—extra income. I make enough for us to live comfortably—not extravagantly, but comfortably. On top of that, as you know, God will provide whatever we need.”

Monica pressed her lips tightly together. She was not in the mood to argue. Later that evening she placed a call to her mother.

“What’s so wrong with me working while we raise our children? What’s the use of having a degree if I can’t use it? There is nothing anti-Bible about a wife and a mother working outside the home, is there?”

233

“True,” her mother said. “But there is something anti-Bible when a wife goes against her husband’s wishes and has a bad attitude about it. If Jonathan does not want you to work and would rather you stay home with the children then it’s best for you to submit and God will bless you for doing so. Like I shared with you when you were getting married, when you obey Jonathan you are obeying God. I know you don’t want to hear that, and I didn’t want to hear it when I was a young wife, and most women don’t want to hear it, however, it is true and it works.”

Monica could not argue with those words. She could not help but smile at her mother’s next words: “Don’t worry. You’ll be applying your doctoring skills taking care of your children’s cuts, bruises and illnesses, including Jonathan’s; he’ll be the biggest baby when it comes to being sick. You’ll be doctoring enough.” _______________ “That’s my mother for you,” Monica said snapping out of her thoughts.

234

Chapter 37 “For the ways of man are before the eyes of the Lord, and he pondereth all his goings.”

–Proverbs 5:21 The Ninth Street Baptist Church grew steadily as word got around about the two fired up young preachers — Kirby Rollins and Jonathan Reynolds.

“I haven’t heard such powerful preaching in a long time,” Leanne Rider said to Anise Caverly one Sunday after services, “and from such fine young men.”

Both ladies had gotten saved some years earlier through Pastor Rollins’ witnessing efforts.

Leanne, at fifty-one years old, had experienced enough of the good, the bad, and the ugly of life to now live in a state of contentment. She was striving to live for the Lord and enjoyed hearing the Word preached. As

235

she often shared with others, “I thank God for Pastor Rollins taking the time to talk with me on that rainy day I came to know Jesus. I almost lived my whole life without making the most important decision ever.”

Anise, at thirty-four years old, was a knockout. She had curves in all the right places. She knew it and she flaunted it at every opportunity she got.

“Brother Jonathan is right, Anise,” Leanne continued. “We women really need to watch our eyes, and how we walk and talk. Like he preached today, we can’t place all the blame on the men; women have to shoulder some of the blame when men disrespect us.”

“You’re right, Leanne,” Anise said with some reservation. She had her eyes on a few of the men in the church, but one in particular, and despite Pastor Jonathan’s insightful preaching on “Lustful Men and Loose Women,” she harbored more and more of a desire to thoroughly check this man out—and soon. Her and her husband’s marriage was increasingly becoming just for show. As she shared with one of her single friends, Valorie, right after she got married, “I may be married now, but come what may, I am going to live like I am single.”

“I don’t know if that will work, Anise,” Valorie had told her. “When I was planning on marrying Earnest, my mother told me that if I was not willing to make some sacrifices, I would just be getting married to make his life miserable. She said Earnest would not have to sacrifice as much in the marriage as the man of the house.

236

Girl, I was not ready to give up some things I was used to doing. My mentality was, you put in your fifty percent and I’ll put in my fifty percent. So I canceled our wedding.

I had to be fair to Earnest, plus I did not want hell in my marriage.”

“Your Mama and my Mama are from the old school,” Anise said. “Anyway, how did Earnest take it?”

“After I told him why I canceled the wedding, he said he appreciated my honesty.”

Anise did not see things that way. When she was single she wanted to get married; now that she was married, she wanted to continue living as though she were single and not having to answer to any authority.

Leanne broke into her thoughts. “You know, when I think about it, Anise, married women ought not to come to the church house without their husbands; there are just too many temptations with the opposite sex.”

“How so, Leanne?”

“As Christians we all share the most important thing on earth,” Leanne said.

“And what’s that now?” Anise dreaded the answer.

She was beginning to feel uncomfortable with the direction of the conversation.

“We are all saved now and we fellowship together to encourage one another, but as we encourage one another, we begin to share our weaknesses, struggles, and temptations. This intimate sharing draws us closer together creating a bond. I want to say ‘spiritual bond’ but I don’t think that’s a fitting word,” she said with a 237

chuckle. “I didn’t just start coming to church now; I’ve been in the church for some time. I may not have been saved, but I have been attending church since I was a child and have been around church people for a long time.”

Anise had an uncomfortable feeling as she listened to Leanne. They were close friends and sometimes, Leanne seemed to be able to read her mind.

“You must admit though, Leanne,” Anise said.

“Pastor Jonathan is one handsome man, and we must do what we can to protect him from some of the silly women in this church who don’t have their minds in the right place — especially those too eager to give out holy kisses.”

“His wife seems to be doing a great job at that. I can tell they love each other, so we don’t need to worry about that; we just need to pray for them and keep a respectful distance.”

Leanne’s comments put a stop to anything else Anise wanted to say.

238

Chapter 38 “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?”

–Amos 3:3 “This has been one busy day,” Jonathan said to Monica late one evening after he had spent all day with Pastor Kirby witnessing to people, inviting them to the church, and counseling them. “I didn’t know people had so many problems; some were just hungry for someone to talk to.”

“People are hurting,” Monica said as she helped him take off his jacket.

“We do not have any real problems compared to some of the people we spoke with,” Jonathan said.

“I thank God for that.”

Jonathan tossed his tie and shirt on the bed. “Give me a few minutes to unwind,” he said laying down. “Come

239

on. Have a seat. You look like you’ve had a busy day yourself.”

“I have. You men are keeping us busy,” she said reaching over to massage his shoulders. “Relax a little; you’re very tense.”

“Whatever you say, Dr. Reynolds. See, your doctoring skills aren’t going to waste.”

Monica smiled. “Mitch was complaining this evening about not wanting to go back to his school. He kept saying he does not like it there. In fact, he’s been complaining ever since we enrolled him. He was stressed out over it so I put him to bed early. Jerrilyn is asleep too.”

Jonathan twisted his shoulders. “That feels good. I’ll talk with Mitch in the morning. Move on down my back and across my waist there.”

Rolling onto his side, Jonathan pulled Monica down beside him, and kissed her. “Do you want your reward now or later?” he said.

“Mmm, later,” Monica replied with a grin. Sitting up suddenly, she said, “You know there’s something not right with Brother and Sister Rollins. I’ve noticed lately that she’ll be talking and laughing with us, but as soon as her husband shows up, she’ll fall quiet and watch him with a sharp eye. Something just doesn’t seem right between them. Have you noticed anything?”

“Are you the private eye of the church? We just joined up with them and…”

“We’ve been here over a month now,” Monica said.

240

Jonathan smiled as he shook his head. “I know you’re still upset at me for dragging you all the way out here to Oklahoma, but you’re handling it well. Anyway, they are under a lot of stress. I’m finding out more and more how stressful doing ministry can be, and Kirby’s wife is not immune to the stress. Remember what Pastor and Sister Richardson shared with us before we left: how that we are involved in a spiritual battle, and if we stay engaged in God’s work, the devil will fight us, and one of the ways he does that is by putting a strain on the relationship between the husband and wife.”

Monica nodded. She had already forgotten those words of wisdom from the Richardsons. Even though she missed her church family, she could not let it show especially around her children.

“That is why I am limiting how much you do at the church. I just want you to focus on the children. Do a little at the church and pray for Sister Rollins.”

“Okay,” Monica sighed. After a few seconds she continued, “You know, I’ve been thinking, you and Kirby and the soul-winning team are wearing yourselves out knocking on doors. Why don’t you all look more into using the internet as a witnessing tool. Remember my dad said something about having church on-line for New Mt. Zion. Why couldn’t we do the same here?”

“Exactly what do you have in mind?”

“I spoke with Dad earlier. He told me to go to New Mt. Zion website, which I did, and I was very impressed at what I saw. I believe you will be impressed also,” 241

Monica said. “In fact, I looked up some other churches and a couple of them had their entire worship service on-demand on their site for people to watch at their convenience. I listened to one of them. It was almost as if I was in the physical building worshiping with them.

Ninth Street is going to get left behind if we don’t get on board. My dad wants you to call him to discuss it some more.”

“Not only are you beautiful, but you’re smart and insightful,” Jonathan said kissing her. “Are you sure you want your reward later? I get turned on real fast when I lay next to a beautiful, smart and insightful woman. I am in the mood right now.” He started to softly rub her back.

“Let me give you a massage now.”

“I am beginning to change my mind,” Monica said returning his kisses. “Anyway, as I was saying, you can reach more people with the Gospel and attract more visitors, and it will lessen the wear and tear on your body, which,” she added with a smile, “I’d like to keep around— muscles and all—for as long as I’m alive.”

“Now you’re talking,” Jonathan said pulling her closer to him in a loving embrace.

“Jon, I am trying to talk with you about something important,” Monica said between giggles.

“And I am trying to respond to it positively,” Jonathan said. “Besides, you’re the one who started all this talking about muscles and all. We’ll talk about the online ministry later. Right now, I’m ready to practice what I preach, Barry White-style.”

242

Episode 14

243

Chapter 39 “Doth not wisdom cry? And understanding put forth her voice?” (Proverbs 8:1) After doing more research that week and after talking at length with Brother Montague, Monica and Jonathan were fully convinced Internet church was the way to go. As Brother Montague shared with them: “God wants us to reach all people until He comes; the message must remain the same, but we have the liberty to change our methods. We have to meet people where they are, and the Internet allows us to do that.”

Pastor Rollins was all for this new move. Yes, he loved the Lord; but he also loved anything that spread his name abroad.

“Now I know why the Lord led me to search you out and to have you work with me in building up this church,”

245

Pastor Rollins told Jonathan. “You and your wife have been a blessing to us. That’s one of the things I want for this church – growth – numerically and spiritually.”

“It’s all for the glory of God,” Jonathan said.

“You know, I’ve been thinking,” Pastor Rollins began with a smug smile, “of adding the title ‘Bishop’ before my name – Bishop Kirby Rollins. Doesn’t that have a ring to it?”

“Why the title change?” Jonathan asked.

“Well… ‘Pastor’ and ‘Preacher’ and ‘Reverend’ sound so common and un-fashionable nowadays. ‘Bishop’ has a bit more flair to it.”

“You were always one to add flair to everything you do,” Jonathan said with a laugh. “Remember our first trial sermon in the Introduction to Preaching class, how you dressed in your long robe? In your words, ‘as the prophets of old.’ Where did you get that thing anyway?

You never did tell us.”

Pastor Rollins laughed. “I borrowed it…no, I stole it from the music/drama room. That was one class I enjoyed tremendously. I don’t believe I ever returned that robe, so if I end up in jail, remember the stolen robe.”

After a good laugh, Pastor Rollins continued, “Seriously though, I believe the title of ‘Bishop’ will attract more people to our church.”

“Sounds good to me,” Jonathan said.

“What about you? I would give you the title of ‘Bishop’ also but we can’t have two ‘Bishops’ now.”

“Oh, no, Brother. I don’t even feel worthy of my great 246

position as assistant pastor. ‘Pastor’ will do for me.

Unless I am overlooking something, I believe I have the respect of the congregation without a title.” ___________ Kirby Rollins pulled out the church’s parking lot and drove east down Manhattan Street towards the less populated area of town. Every now and then he loved to take a quiet ride to help him think, plan, unwind, and visit his good friend, Sandy Dillon. He had put those visits to her on hold for several months now. I’m putting out big money to keep Cam silent, Kirby Rollins thought. Sandy has been a fighter. Not only do I have to protect my name, but I have to look out for her…and our son.

He looked out the window over the grassy field that served as a barrier between the bustling, noisy side of town and the quiet side. It was dotted with a few cows here and there. He pulled into a housing community of about twenty houses, and slowed down so as not to draw attention to himself. Pulling up into the driveway of the last house which was painted a light pink with beige shutters, had two bedrooms, two baths, and an open yard, he noticed the familiar signal: a red electric light in one of the front windows.

Kirby sat in his car for a few minutes observing the street to make sure Brother Cam and his wife were home.

They were not.

Sandy answered the door after he knocked – first on

247

the window, then on the door. He never rang the doorbell.

“It’s so good to see you again,” Sandy said falling into his arms. “I miss seeing you as often as I used to.”

“Me too, sugah’,” Kirby said embracing her. “How much time do I have?”

“I’m afraid not enough. Uncle Cam will be here soon.

He went out to dine with his wife. He still wants you to keep your distance. Oh, thanks for the money. You know you don’t have to send so much. Most of it just goes in savings right now.”

“Try telling that to your uncle,” Kirby said. “I’m not going to overstay. I just wanted to see you so badly. How’s the baby?”

“He’s asleep.” Sandy took Kirby by the hand to see their son, Solomon. Kirby stroked his cheeks.

“He’s looking more like you,” Sandy commented. “So much so that I’m beginning to get nervous about people asking questions.”

“Oh, don’t worry about that. As long as you keep quiet and I give the money to Cam on time, all will be well.”

Kirby hugged her to give her some assurance, but he was wondering whether or not he was trying to reassure himself. “I kind of mentioned this before, but I want you to consider moving out on your own since you’re nineteen years old now, and continue your studies – go ahead on to college. You’ll have enough time. I’ll pay for everything, including housing. If you want to live on campus, that’s fine. You would probably do well to go on 248

campus out in the big city. By the time you come back, no one will even be thinking about us. Your uncle will have forgotten everything. I guess your aunt still doesn’t know.” Sandy shook her head no. “Promise me you’ll think about it?” Kirby asked.

“I promise,” Sandy said without hesitation. “We only have a few minutes to spare,” she said, giving him an extended kiss, her fingers pulling his tie loose.

“Okay, if you say so.”

After nearly ten minutes, Kirby Rollins was getting dressed. “Are you sure you can’t take a quick trip with me to the store to pick up some things with the baby?”

“I’m sorry, but my uncle should be here any minute.

Plus, I can’t keep doing that. He’s suspecting things,” Sandy said.

“No problem, sugah’. I’ll pick up the things myself. I best be rolling on home before Cam comes. You have my private number. Call and let me know what the deal is; I’m very serious about you going to college.”

Kirby Rollins was soon making the left turn out of the housing complex, heading home. He placed his hand over his eyes to shield the bright light from the oncoming car which was turning into the complex. I bet that’s Cam and Mitzie, Kirby thought, quickly turning his head. Hard to tell in the dark.

“Cam, honey, take your lights off high beam; you’re probably blinding the driver in that car,” Mitzie said to her husband.

“If the city would put some lights on these darn 249

streets, I would not have to put my lights on so bright,” Brother Cam said. “Hey! That looks like Pastor Rollins’ car,” he said, straining his neck to get a better look.

“You’re going to run off the road, Cam. Turn around and look where you’re going. What would Pastor Rollins be doing out here this time of night? You’re right though, the city does need to put up some lights,” Mitzie declared. __________ As soon as Brother Cam entered the house, he went to check on Sandy. Always one to get to the bottom of things, he called out her name loudly a few times. Sandy, pretending to be asleep, moaned but produced no further response.

“Sandy!” Brother Cam called again, shaking her.

“Did Pastor Rollins stop by earlier?”

“Mmm,” was her only response.

“Pastor Rollins. Did he stop by here?”

“Mmmm. No.” “Let her get her sleep, Cam,” Mitzie said to her husband. “Taking care of a baby can wear you out. She needs her sleep and so do we.”

250

Chapter 40 “Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.” (Proverbs 13:11) Jonathan and Kirby Rollins left for a two-day preachers’ conference early Monday morning. Mitch, Jerrilyn, and newborn Caleb joined their mother in the “big comfy bed” as Mitch and Jerrilyn called their parents’ bed.

“I miss Daddy,” Mitch said. “Can we call him?”

“He’ll call us when he gets out of the meeting, I’m sure,” Monica told him as she turned the page of the Winnie-the-Pooh picture book she was reading to them.

It was almost midnight when Jonathan called. “All’s going great at the meeting. I love you and I miss you all,” he said. “Give Kristy a call if you need anything.” He spoke with them for about thirty minutes before saying

251

goodbye.

On Tuesday, after dinner, Monica stopped by Sister Kristy Rollins’ for a visit. They had a wonderful time fellowshipping and watching the children play together.

“I can’t believe it’s been almost a year since you all came here and you have one more child to show for it,” Kristy commented, cuddling Caleb. Monica loved her warm spirit and always enjoyed talking with her.

It was very late when Monica said goodbye. When she finally pulled into their garage, Jonathan’s car was parked inside and he met her at the door leading into the house. “Where in the world have you been?” he asked, reaching down to help Mitch up the steps.

“Hi, Daddy!” Jerrilyn greeted him sleepily. Monica walked in holding a sleeping Caleb.

After putting the children to bed, Jonathan confronted Monica. “Where have you been? I have been home for the past two hours and I have been calling you ever since then, but you did not answer. Here it is; 12:35, and you are just coming home with the children. So, let me ask again. Where were you?”

“I stopped by Kristy’s house for a short visit, seeing she was home alone with the kids for a few days,” Monica replied.

“Now you know that was dumb to do —,” Jonathan began.

“What’s so dumb about that?” Monica questioned.

Jonathan shook his head. “I’ll tell you what’s so dumb about that: for one thing, I am out of town; another thing, 252

you did not have the decency to call and let me know what you were doing; thirdly, for some reason you did not answer your cell phone. I’ve been calling you all night. Why didn’t you at least answer your cell?”

“I thought to call you myself, but your meeting had already started and I didn’t want to disturb you -” “That’s a stupid reason,” Jonathan muttered.

Monica rolled her eyes but continued anyway. “I gave Mitch the phone to play a game while we were driving over to Kristy’s house. I thought he brought it in the house with him once we got there, but he didn’t. He left it on the seat.”

“That certainly was dumb not to check,” Jonathan commented.

Monica rolled her eyes again. Will he shut up with the sarcastic remarks, she thought.

“Why did you stay out so late knowing Mitch has school tomorrow?” Jonathan asked loudly. “That sure was inconsiderate of you.”

“Listen! It’s not going to hurt the kids to stay up late one night. They enjoyed it. Besides, I wasn’t thinking of that,” Monica answered.

“Next time, think!” Jonathan retorted. “Because I come home to an empty house, van’s gone, and no one knows where you are. I was worried sick thinking something had happened to you and the children.”

By this time, Jonathan was yelling. “Keeping these dear children out at this late hour just so you can yak with your friend! Did you temporarily lose your mind?

253

Wait! Don’t answer that,” he said, pointing a finger at her. “You know you should let me know where you’re going, especially at night. That should not be a hard rule to follow, especially with your cellphone! And there’s no excuse not to call. I always have my cellphone on.

Why? So you can call me anytime, and even if you do not get me, you can leave a message.”

Monica opened her mouth to answer but thought better. She swallowed hard as she tried to blink back the tears ready to flow from her eyes.

“With all these crazy people running around, I must know where you and the children are at all times!”

Jonathan reiterated.

His ringing cellphone startled them. Jonathan snatched it up. “Yes, Officer Carlson,” he said. “Thank you for calling back. They made it home safely. I was getting ready to give you a call. Thanks again.”

Clicking the ‘end call’ button, he said to Monica. “I had to call the police!” He marched towards the bedroom door, threw it open, and turned around, asking: “Are you sure you were over at Kristy Rollins’ house this whole time?”

“I resent that, Jonathan,” Monica said grimly. “Have I ever lied to you before? No! Are you trying to say I was off with someone else – no doubt, some man, because if that’s what you’re implying, I really don’t appreciate it.

You must not know me!” Monica was really upset now.

She lost the calmness she was trying to maintain. “After seven years of marriage, you are going to question me 254

about some mess like that, when I have never lied to you!

Not once!” She made a fist with her right hand and pounded her left hand with it for emphasis. “Too much preaching and flattery must have gotten to your brains over the past two days!”

“Did I ask you anything about you being with another man?” Jonathan asked.

“No, but that’s what you’re implying. I am not stupid,” Monica said.

An uneasy silence settled between them as they stared at each other.

“Go ahead and get in the bed. I’m going to see if your phone’s in the van,” Jonathan said calmly.

Monica burst into tears as she yanked her nightclothes out of her drawer. How dare he accuse me of lying and adultery! she thought. __________ Jonathan tossed her phone on the bed when he returned to their bedroom. Monica pulled the comforter up to her shoulders and hugged her pillow tighter.

Jonathan climbed into bed but stayed on his side. He was off to sleep in no time.

Monica had a restless night. She was mad at herself for deciding to visit Kristy on the spur of the moment without informing her husband, but she was equally upset at Jonathan for making it a huge issue and for implying she was lying to him. They had gone to bed

255

angry at each other before but either awoke to resolve the issue or tackle it first thing in the morning; that was one of the resolutions they had made when they got married.

After drifting off to sleep, Monica awoke in a few hours.

“Jonathan, Jonathan, wake up,” she called, gingerly scooting closer to him and softly slipping her arm around his bare chest, nudging him in the process. “Jonathan, wake up. We have to talk.”

“What’s the problem?” he asked, lifting his head slightly.

“We have to talk. Look, I’m sorry about last night.

You’re right. I should have never left the house without you knowing, and I’m sorry for staying out much later than I should have.”

Receiving no response from Jonathan, Monica continued, “And I’m sorry for raising my voice at you.”

Jonathan rolled over to face her. “No, I’m the one who should apologize first. I’m sorry for not trusting your word. You have never given me any reason not to trust you. To be honest, deep down, I was scared because I kept imagining the worst that could have happened to you and the children.”

“I love you,” Monica said.

“I love you, too,” Jonathan said, embracing her.

Looking at the clock, he told her, “It’s past time to get Mitch up and ready for school. I’ll watch the other children.”

256

“Mitch will not be going to school today, or any other day,” Monica declared.

“What are you talking about?”

“Remember, I told you a couple weeks back that he was not too happy there and that he kept telling me he wanted to stay home.”

“Yes, but I thought I resolved that after talking to him.”

“Temporarily, but he’s still not happy. I heard about the rise in homeschooling, so I looked it up on the Internet and I am pleased with what I saw. You will be too.”

“So?” “Well, I decided to pull him out and keep him home, and I will be teaching all our other children right here in the comfort and safety of our home.”

“Don’t you think that’s a rather big and important decision to make without my input and knowledge?”

Jonathan questioned.

“Well, you made that big and important decision to move here to Oklahoma to become assistant pastor of Ninth Street Baptist Church without my input and knowledge,” Monica replied.

Jonathan smiled. “Okay, you got me on that one.

Teaching the children at home sounds good to me. I’ll definitely feel better about you guys being in one place with all the crazy things happening in the world. I’ll research homeschooling myself. Come on over closer.”

He reached over and kissing her said, “We’ll just let the 257

children sleep then. This gives me some more time alone with you. I really missed you these past two days.”

“Jon, stop,” Monica laughed.

“Daddy, are you hurting Mommy?” a voice asked.

“Hey, Jerrilyn! When did you sneak in here? Come on, climb on up.”

258

Chapter 41 “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”

(Matthew 18:6) “Daddy, we had fun,” Mitch said as his father slid into the driver’s seat.

“You did?” he said reaching over to give Monica a kiss.

“We went to the bookstore and I got me a bunch of new books to read. I read a bunch of books at the library too,” Mitch told him triumphantly.

Jonathan pulled out of the church’s parking lot and headed to Ruby Tuesday’s for a late lunch.

“How about you, Jerri? Did you have fun?”

259

“Yes,” Jerrilyn said. “Mommy had me making some funny sounds even though I told her I can already talk.”

“That’s so you can be smart and read big words like me,” Mitch boasted. “And it’s called phonics. I hate phonics,” Mitch said.

Jonathan smiled at Monica and said, “That was a smart move on your part to homeschool and I am glad you did it. Mitch seems so much happier.” ____________ Jonathan decided to do some work at home rather than go into his office at the church. He settled down in the living room for some quiet time and to listen to the afternoon news. Mitch was sitting beside him playing with his trucks. Jerrilyn was showing a picture book to her dolls and Monica was upstairs putting Caleb down for his nap.

“Monica, hurry! Breaking news!” Jonathan shouted up to her. He pointed to the television screen as she came down the stairs. A reporter was speaking: “Breaking news: A deranged nineteen-year-old, opened fire at the Elmore Elementary School around 2:06 after forcing his way into the building. So far, seventeen children and three teachers have been pronounced dead. Several others are in critical condition. Stay tuned as we keep you updated on this tragedy.”

“Makes no sense at all,” Jonathan said shaking his head as the commercials came on the screen.

260

Monica sat down on the couch. She looked down at her own children, knowing that it could have been one of her own.

“Dad, what’s deranged?” Mitch asked.

“It means he’s insane or mad and he does things like shooting innocent children.”

“Why did he do it then, Dad?” Mitch asked again.

“We don’t quite know, Mitch. He was probably angry about something.”

“Dad, what would he be angry about?” Mitch’s curious mind was whirling with many questions.

“We’ll find out soon enough, son,” Jonathan said, giving him a hug. “I just want you to know I love you, Mitch.”

“Yeah, Dad, I love you too, but why-” “Come on up here on the couch with us, Jerri,” Jonathan said.

Monica and Jonathan made sure to hug their kids extra tight that afternoon and night. Neither of them could even begin to imagine what the parents of those seventeen children must have been going through as the news report continued: “The police have contacted the mother of the gunman.

She has informed police that her son was angry after she and his father divorced when he was fourteen.”

“There is no human explanation for this type of behavior,” Jonathan said. “Monica, I’m glad we have made the decision to homeschool our children.”

261

___________ At breakfast the next morning, Jonathan said, “I can’t get that senseless shooting, no, murder, out of my mind.

It could have been at Mitch’s school. He could have been one of the victims. I feel better now that they will be home, Monica.”

Monica smiled as she refilled Jerrilyn’s glass of juice.

“Mom?” Mitch said quietly. “Are you and Dad getting a divorce?”

“No, why?” Monica asked.

“Well, yesterday when we were watching the news and they said the boy who killed all the kids and…”

“I hope you weren’t up all night worrying about that.

Come on over here.” Jonathan looked Mitch in the eye and said, “You don’t ever have to worry about that. We will always be together as a family. Tell you what, why not hurry up and eat and we’ll make today a school outing day. We’ll take you and Jerrilyn to the Oklahoma City Zoo, like I promised you some time back.”

“OK, I’ll finish my breakfast before you, Jerri,” Mitch called as he scrambled back up in his seat.

“Too fast for ya’,” Jerrilyn laughed as she showed him her empty plate. __________ The family returned home from the zoo at two in the afternoon. Jonathan then left again to meet with Pastor Rollins, to visit Anise Caverly and her husband, 262

and to meet with the deacons to discuss a plan for further outreach work for the church through the Internet.

After fixing the children a snack and tucking them in on the living room floor for a nap, Monica was just settling down with a book she’d wanted to finish when she received a disturbing phone call.

263

Episode 15

265

Chapter 42 “It is joy to the just to do judgment: but destruction shall be to the workers of iniquity.” (Proverbs 21:15) “I’ll get it,” Mitch said springing out of his sleeping bag as the phone rang. “Hi, Stacy…yes, Mommy’s here.”

Monica took the phone and motioned for Mitch to go to sleep. “Are you all still coming? I can’t wait for you to get here,” she greeted eagerly. “Why…what’s wrong, Stacy?”

“It’s Trelawny. We can’t find her.”

“What do you mean you can’t find her?” Monica asked.

“She’s been missing since yesterday. I went to pick them up from school. I try to get there about ten minutes early. There was a bad accident on the road so I took a side road, but that didn’t help much. I ended up running

267

a few minutes late. Trevon said they were waiting at the spot where I told them to wait. A car pulled up and a man got out, grabbed Trelawney, and forced her into the car.

Trevon said it happened so fast. He gave the police a description of the man they could work with — curly hair, dimple on one cheek, and a split chin. Hopefully, that will help. I’m taking him down to the police station tomorrow to look through their mug book to see if they can identify the kidnapper. Oh, Monica, I feel so hopeless.”

“Don’t the teachers stay outside with the children until they are all gone?” Monica asked.

“Yes, but there are so many children; they can only do so much,” Stacy said starting to cry again.

Monica waited for her to continue. She could barely begin to understand what Stacy was going through. She looked across the room at her sleeping children. Tears filled her eyes as she shuddered at the thought of losing one of them.

“We’ve been searching for her all night. Please pray for her safe return as only God knows where she is.”

“I will, Stacy,” Monica assured her. “Where’s Trevon now?”

“He’s here with me. Pray for him also. He feels terrible for not protecting his little sister,” Stacy said.

Monica’s heart sunk. “So much for an eight-yearold to go through. How’s Robert taking it?”

“He’s about ready to kill somebody. He wanted to take off a few days from his job, but his mother suggested he 268

keep working. She said it was best for him to go ahead on to work as that would help keep his mind occupied since there’s nothing he can do right now. He’s up at the school talking to the principal and Trelawney’s teacher. I wanted to go with him, but we felt it was best to keep Trevon away from there.”

“Let me pray with you now,” Monica said. After praying with Stacy, Monica also prayed with Trevon. “We all love you, Trevon. God will bring your sister back,” she said.

Whatever words of comfort Monica thought to offer seemed lame. She thought of the news reports of missing children, many of whom had been missing for years. She began to think of what she could do to help.

“Stacy, send me Trelawney’s latest picture. I’m going to put it up wherever I can online. I just can’t sit back and do nothing.”

“That’s what’s eating me and Robert up — not knowing whether she is dead or alive, or even where she is. Why did it have to be her?” Stacy continued to cry.

Yes, why her? Monica thought. She knew she had to be strong for Stacy’s sake. _______________ “That could have been one of our children,” Jonathan said after Monica shared the telephone conversation with him. “What have they done to find

269

her?”

“Stacy said the police sent out an AMBER alert. They are also searching wooded areas outside the city and the local campsites. It’s just…it’s just…” But Monica couldn’t go on.

Jonathan hugged her and wiped away a few tears.

“Don’t worry. God will bring her back safely,” he said.

270

Chapter 43 Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth. (Proverbs 27:1) Kirby Rollins’ cellphone rang.

“Hey, Sandy, what’s up? Have you thought about what I asked you as far as going off to college?”

“Yes. I mentioned it to Aunt Mitzie. She’s more than willing to keep the baby while I’m away at school. In fact, she says the change might do me good.”

Kirby asked, “I’m thinking out of the city or even out of state, and don’t worry, I’ll send money directly to you to take care of your housing. You can get a job if you want. Let me know how you really feel about this.”

“Well, I’d rather stay here close to you, but I do need to get away from home. From this lie that I’m living before people I love,” Sandy said.

271

“Don’t see it as a lie; see it as helping to protect the man of God and taking care of his needs,” Kirby said.

“Yeah, right,” Sandy chuckled. “Seriously, though, I wish it was that easy. I told my family that I got pregnant from a date rape. Except for Uncle Cam, they all still believe that. Aunt Mitzie keeps asking me, ‘who is it?’, and why I won’t tell them so they can at least get the man to pay child support. She’s always saying, ‘I never saw you going out with any boy. Ya’ll must have been mighty secret about your relationship.’”

“So as far as you know, your uncle Cam has not said anything to her?” Kirby asked.

“As far as I know,” Sandy said, then added with a chuckle, “Money does talk.”

“I really appreciate you keeping quiet about us and taking all of that for the sake of our relationship. Be patient and you’ll be rewarded,” Kirby said.

“With my being gone for long periods of time in college, who will take care of your needs?” Sandy asked.

“I’ll just have to wait until I see you. But that can be easily arranged,” Kirby assured her. “It will be a sacrifice, but it will be worth it when we are together.”

“Four years just seems like a long time.”

“Trust me, it will go by faster than you think,” Kirby said.

“Also, like I said before, Solomon is looking more and more like you and I’m afraid people are going to notice and begin putting two and two together. I mean, people aren’t stupid,” Sandy said.

272

“Where’s your faith?” Kirby asked.

“It’s faltering right now. Plus, how can I trust God to fix something when I’m living a lie?” ____________ That Wednesday Kirby asked Jonathan to lead midweek Bible study at Ninth Street. Jonathan drew his text from Luke 12:2-3.

“If I should give a title to this mini sermon, I would title it: Walk the Talk. Folks, one of the reasons we are not enjoying the Christian life as we should is because we are not walking the talk. We do not have the peace that God promised us because we are not walking the talk. We say we are Christians but our behaviour is questionable.

“The unsaved are watching us and they wonder just what kind of a God do we serve. They see us lie and steal and cheat on the job and they wonder what God do we serve. How many of you turn up late or leave early or take longer lunch breaks than you should, yet you put in that you did 40-hours of work at the end of the week?

We need to stop living a lie before the world, folks.

“Let me help you some more. Some of you married people have a girlfriend or a boyfriend on the side that nobody knows about. Your walk does not fit your talk.

“Some of you are not tithing: you’re robbing God of what is His. Your walk does not reflect your talk.

“Some of you husbands are mean to your wives,

273

always snapping at her and finding fault with everything she does. You stay angry with her. Your walk does not fit your talk.

“And some of you wives are just as mean and rebellious to your husbands. Your walk does not fit your talk.

“You believe no one knows, no one see the evil you are doing. But our text says: ‘For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known.’ It goes on to say that the lies you have spoken, the hypocritical life you are living will be revealed – ‘Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.’

“The Bible says we shall all give an account of everything we do. Look at your account right now – does it reflect a Godly lifestyle?”

Kirby sat stiffly on the front row as Jonathan led the congregation in a closing prayer. It took everything within him to say “Amen.”

274

Chapter 44 Surely the churning of milk bringeth forth butter, and the wringing of the nose bringeth forth blood: so the forcing of wrath bringeth forth strife.

(Proverbs 30:33) The work continued to thrive under Pastor Kirby’s and Pastor Jonathan’s leadership, and soon Ninth Street Baptist Church became a prominent church impacting not only the local community but around the world. As they shared more of their vision for the church, they began to respect each other’s opinions and suggestions.

After a full day’s work, Pastor Rollins would retire to his home office for what his wife thought was quiet time to unwind before interacting with his family. Those times were beginning to turn into hours, and eventually, not much family interaction was taking place. He was

275

spending less and less time with his children, and after a while, they seemed oblivious to his presence. Kristy did not like that. This evening, however, she had a hard time keeping them away from his office.

Seven-year-old Karl wanted to find out if his father was coming to his baseball game. “Mom, Dad hardly came out to any of my practice sessions this year. Is he still mad at me for not wanting to play football instead? I might give football a try next year.”

“Karl, he’s never been mad at you. It’s just that he played football when he was your age, and he wanted you to show more interest in it.”

“Well, I’m only seven, so I have time,” Karl said.

Three-year-old Dionne just wanted her father to join in her tea party.

On this evening, Kristy made no attempt to keep the children away from Kirby’s office.

“Kristy, I need some time to unwind. If the children don’t stop knocking on my door, or if I hear any loud sounds, I’m going to blow my top!” Kirby shouted as he stuck his head out of the office door. “Whatever they want, tell them it will have to wait.”

“Kirby, they are your children, too. They want you to spend time with them like you used to,” Kristy said walking out into the kitchen. “You’ve just been ignoring them lately, and they are complaining to me more and more that you won’t spend time with them.”

“I already explained everything to you, Kristy, and to the children, and that is, I have to give all my time to 276

the building up of the church and the studying of the Word of God. You will have to run the house while I focus on what I need to focus on.”

“I understand all that,” Kristy said waving her hand in the air dismissively, “But you have to do your part. A few times, you haven’t even greeted them when you came in. You go straight to your little man-hole. That’s not being fatherly.”

“It’s a man-cave, not a man-hole. And I’ll decide what being fatherly is,” Kirby said slamming the door.

“How long does it take for a church to get on its feet anyway? With Brother Jonathan here to help and with as many people as we have coming now, you should be able to delegate some of this work so you can have some time for your own children!” Kristy shouted through the door. She didn’t care that the children were standing in the hall watching wide-eyed.

You speak like a foolish woman, Kirby thought taking a seat at his desk.

“Come on, kids; let’s go ahead and eat. No telling how long he’ll be in there.” _______________ Kirby Rollins sat in front of his computer and tapped the ‘on’ button. Tapping a few keys he settled down to view his favorite website. Clicking from page to page, he eventually put on his earphones, propped his feet up on the desk, and reclined in his chair for a relaxing evening.

277

It was after twelve when he retired to his bedroom.

“Stay on your side,” Kristy cautioned him as she pulled the comforter snugly around her shoulders.

“Just go to sleep,” Kirby said flopping into the bed.

“I really do not want to be bothered with you tonight.”

“Did you think to check on your children?”

“Even if I haven’t, you should have done that already.”

Kristy sighed but remained silent. The marriage had started out well, but after about five short years, things had started to go sour. It took her a while to find a solid footing in their marriage where she felt confident and secure. “Kirby,” she remembered telling her husband when he decided to start a church, “I don’t think I’m mature enough or ready to be a pastor’s wife. I’m just now settling down into my role as wife.”

“Well, you just have to adjust,” Kirby had said.

“And, I hate to say this,” Kristy remembered saying.

“I don’t think you’re mature enough either; give yourself a few more years.”

Kirby had been upset at her last words. “This is what God called me to do and God did not say at what age I should begin. You should have never married me if you did not want to join me in pastoring a church.”

“It’s not that I did not want to join you; I just feel we are not mature enough for such a large task. I think we should give it some more years.”

Kirby went ahead with the calling on his life. He furthered his studies, attended just about every 278

preachers’ meeting, and preached at every opportunity given to him. Kristy had to admit he was a preaching machine. But she noticed that while he was busy building up the church, he was tearing apart his home. Whether this was intentional or not, she did not like it.

This marriage and family is going the wrong way, she had thought more than once, and I do not know how much longer I can hang in there.

279

Episode 16

281

Chapter 45 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

-James 4:17 Brother Cam stopped by Pastor Rollins’ office unexpectedly late Monday evening after noticing his car parked outside. Monday is normally his day off, Brother Cam thought.Well, let me see what is going on with him.

The main door to the offices was unlocked so he let himself in. He quietly pushed open the secretary’s door and looking across the room saw that Kirby’s door was slightly ajar. There were low voices coming from his office.

“That was sweet of you,” one voice said.

“That’s because I’m a sweet guy. One more for the road,” another voice said. That sounds like Pastor Kirby’s

283

voice, Brother Cam thought.

After a few minutes of silence, the first person spoke again. “Don’t you think you should hurry home to your wifey now?”

“And don’t you think you should hurry home to your husband now. I am sure Brother Marvin is waiting for his dinner.” Definitely Kirby’s voice.

“Not ‘Brother’; he never attends church. Here, help me button up.”

Brother Cam peered through the crack between the door and the wall to see Pastor Kirby helping a rather voluptuous woman button her blouse in the front.

“You’re the best counselor I know,” she said, stepping away from behind the desk. “Keep counselling me like this and I’ll remain a member of your church forever.”

Brother Cam thought of barging in, but so as not to cause embarrassment to the woman, he stepped a few paces from the door and shouted, “Pastor Kirby, are you in the office? This is Cam. Saw your car in the parking lot.”

Darn, Kirby thought. He’s the last person I need to see right now. He quickly darted to open the door as Brother Cam pushed it.

“Hey, Pastor Kirby. I was just driving by on my way home and saw you might be here, so I decided to stop by to discuss some things with you…Oh, excuse me! I didn’t know you had company.” Turning to the young woman who was blushing, he introduced himself. “I’m Cameron; 284

you can call me Brother Cam though.”

“I’m Anise, Sister Anise Caverly. Pleased to meet you,” she said somewhat hesitantly as she shook his outstretched hand.

“Yes, Cam. This is Mrs. Anise. She stopped by to tell me she was interested in volunteering to help our secretary out. I was just running through a few preliminaries with her.”

I bet you were, Brother Cam thought. “Do you have a minute or are you still busy?” he asked.

“No. No. I’m free. She was just leaving,” Kirby replied.

After Sister Anise left, Brother Cam slammed the door. “Okay, Kirby, cut the crap! I know what I heard and what I saw. You have not learned your lesson. You are still running women. Do you know what that means?”

Pastor Kirby tried to keep a calm and controlled expression on his face.

“That means more m-o-n-e-y in my pocket if you want me to be quiet about it. Let me see,” Brother Cam said looking up at the ceiling. “You now pay me $1600 to take care of little Solomon from an affair you had with my niece, Sandy, who is also little, might I remind you.

This Anise Caverly thing is big – caught you red handed – so that doubles my earnings, which means my next check from you should be $3200.”

Lowering his eyes to meet Pastor Kirby’s, he chuckled, “But I am a merciful person and I love to give people a second chance, in your case, a third chance, so I’ll just charge $600, which means I should expect $2200 285

deposited in my account or written as a money order — makes no difference to me, my brother.”

The grim look on Pastor Kirby’s face said better what words could not say. He slowly shook his head. “Fine, Cam. Whatever you say. Now, why did you actually stop by?”

“I came to let you know Sandy decided to go off to college. I’m not sure if you’ve already heard about her decision.”

Pastor Kirby remained silent. He could not indicate, even in the slightest, that he and Sandy were still seeing each other and that he was responsible for putting the thought of returning to college in her head.

Brother Cam studied Pastor Kirby as he spoke. “She has decided to go out of state — to Texas. I can’t recall the name of the university she applied for. You don’t look surprised.”

Pastor Kirby shrugged his shoulders. “I’m just glad she’s decided to go on with her life. Who’s going to care for Solomon in her absence?”

“His Aunt Mitzie. She loves him to death,” Brother Cam said. “On second thought, maybe I should drop him off at your house so he’ll grow up with his siblings and his real father…” He let the words linger in the air for a moment as if to see the effect they would have on Kirby’s countenance, before continuing. “But, no. I don’t wish to scare your poor wife. Now, just because I told you this information does not mean that you are free to see her. I still want you to stay away from her. Just remember — 286

one phone call to the right person can and will bring you down. Have a good evening, Kirby.”

Giving Cam a few minutes to be certain he was gone, Pastor Kirby called Sandy.

“Hey, sugah’, your uncle just stopped by to give me the good news. What college have you chosen?”

“TCU,” Sandy said.

“That’s a good college. In fact, my assistant pastor went there…Don’t worry, I did not let on that I knew you were leaving for college….When do you leave?…Okay, I’ll try to see you before then….Are you going to drive down or take the bus?

“No,” Sandy replied. “The family is going to drive down with me in my car so I’ll have it available. Then we’re going to look into renting me a place, instead of my having to stay on campus.”

“Don’t forget to give me your address as soon as you get settled in. I might be able to pop in.”

“I won’t forget,” Sandy promised. “I have to go.”

Sandy settled down in Texas, and in searching for a church to attend, she ended up visiting New Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church. In conversing with Sister Montague, her personal shepherdess, she found they had one thing in common – Ninth St. Baptist Church and Pastor Kirby Rollins.

287

Chapter 46 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

-Matthew 6:13 Jonathan, Pastor Kirby, and some of the men from Ninth Street were preparing to go out of town for a three day ministers’ meeting. Pastor Kirby asked Jonathan to make a quick trip to the hospital to visit one of their members who had been in a motorcycle accident, seeing that he was busy tying up loose ends for the trip.

“I’ve reviewed the contents of the conference package. I’ll leave it here with Monica,” Jonathan told him, “in case I miss you.”

Jonathan waited around as long as he could for Pastor Kirby to come by and pick up the package. “I have a very important package on my desk. Pastor Kirby should be swinging by to pick it up soon,” Jonathan told Monica

289

before he and Mitch left for the hospital. “Pray we return before the rainstorm hits tonight,” Jonathan said as he gave Monica a kiss on the cheek and Monica gave their son, Mitch a kiss on the cheek “Love you.”

About fifteen minutes after Jonathan left, it started to rain heavily. The rain was accompanied by thunder and lightning. Monica was ready to turn on the electric heater and curl up with one of her favorite books when the doorbell rang. Now, who can that be? she thought as she hurried to the door. Due to the heavy downpour of rain, she felt sure Pastor Kirby had changed his mind about coming over. After looking through the peephole, she saw his familiar face.

“Hello, Pastor Kirby. Step inside. I’ll get the package for you. It’ll only take me a few seconds.”

“Thank you. Let me just say this is some downpour,” Kirby said, stepping inside and shutting the door behind him. “It came so suddenly. I got caught in it on the way over. I had to stop a couple times.” He proceeded to brush rain water off his jacket. Leaving Pastor Kirby by the front door, Monica walked into Jonathan’s office.

Just as I thought. He forgot to leave it on his desk. Monica began rummaging through his desk drawers and filing cabinet, but was unsuccessful in locating the package.

She swung around to see Pastor Kirby standing inside the office with his lips curled up in a suggestive smile.

Will you look at this idiot. What does he take me for?

Precisely why I don’t trust him,Monica thought. “Pastor Kirby, let me give my husband a call. The package is not 290

on his desk,” she said reaching for the phone.

“No matter. I can help you search for it,” Pastor Kirby said taking a step forward. “I’m a good helper.”

“No. No. No need to,” Monica repeated as she rapidly dialed Jonathan’s number.

“Hello, honey, Pastor Kirby’s here, but I can’t locate the conference package. It’s not on your office desk. I’ve already looked through everything else. Are you almost home?…No, there’s no off-green envelope….Yes, the rain’s letting up over here….I’m going to let you talk to Pastor Kirby while I check on the children.”

Raising her voice a little louder, Monica said, “Excuse me, Pastor Kirby, my husband wants to talk with you.” Monica dropped the phone into his hand as she slid by him swiftly and hurried upstairs. She locked herself in Jerrilyn’s bedroom.

Monica breathed a sigh of relief when she heard Jonathan pulling into their garage. He came up the stairs and into the master bedroom after greeting Pastor Kirby.

“Here it is,” he announced, returning to the living room.

“I left it on my bedside table. Sorry about that.”

As they climbed into bed that night, Monica told Jonathan what took place. “I just don’t trust him, Jon. I know he’s your friend and a pastor and all that, but something just doesn’t set right in my spirit about him.”

“Well, I’ve known Kirby Rollins since college. He’s a fun loving guy, real friendly,” Jonathan said. “Maybe you read too much into people’s actions.”

“Whatever,” Monica said. “I’ve felt this way about 291

him ever since we moved here, and I do not read into things like that. I’ve tried to give him the benefit of the doubt, but I don’t believe he and Kristy are getting along at all.�

Jonathan gave her a quizzical look before kissing her goodnight. Monica turned off her bedside lamp and drifted into an uneasy sleep.

292

Chapter 47 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

- Galatians 6:2 One of the biggest events of Ninth Street Baptist Church was the annual ladies conference which was exploding in growth each year. This year’s conference promised to be the best and biggest one yet as ladies from the New Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church and other churches across the nation would be attending.

Sister Richardson would be this year’s keynote speaker.

Monica was chosen as a speaker as well. The conference theme was: Loving Them Makes the Difference, taken from Jude 22: “And of some have compassion, making a difference.”

It was an absolute blessing for Monica to see old friends again: Sister Campbell, Sister Herron, Sister

293

Wilmington, Sherrice, and of course, Sister Montague, and many more who filled up three of Mt. Zion’s large buses. Even Sister Mills came along wearing one of her huge hats. Monica opened up her home to five of the ladies: her mother, Sister Mills, Sherrice, Sister Herron, and Sandy.

“Monica, honey, this is Sandy,” Sister Montague told her daughter. “She knows Pastor Kirby. She’s from this area but now is going to college in Texas. It took some doing, but I managed to persuade her to take a break and come up here with us.”

“Pleasure to meet you, Sandy. I’m sure you are enjoying Texas,” Monica told her. All of the ladies arrived late Thursday evening, and rested on Friday in preparation for the big day on Saturday. Their excitement was contagious.

The meeting commenced with breakfast served at the church. The singing was spirit filled and uplifting. A couple of women even broke out in dance. As all hearts joined in prayer, one could sense an openness as the Holy Spirit moved.

Sister Richardson, who by the end of the day was being addressed as Mother Richardson, brought down the house as she shared with the ladies from her years of experience walking with the Lord and much of it as a pastor’s wife.

“I thought I was going to be a first lady dressed in the finest clothes, having the biggest house on the block with plush furniture, wearing the widest hat with the 294

biggest feathers to each church service, and manicured nails. In other words, I thought I would not dirty my hands doing the sometimes messy work of the ministry.”

“Then one day, my husband brought home two – not one – but two derelicts, two drunkards. Dirty, stinking, and unkempt as they were, he sat them down on my couch. Can you imagine how shocked I was when I walked out my bedroom and saw that sight! My husband, ladies, has an evangelist’s heart; his main aim is to see souls come to Jesus. So, as you share the Word of God with the unsaved, you have to truly love them, because loving them is what will make the difference.

“I took my husband to the bedroom and asked, ‘What is this?’ All he said was: ‘And of some have compassion, making a difference.’ He just quoted his life verse. He then took our soft plush towels out of the closet and let those men bathe in our bathroom — and I had to clean up after each of them. While they were showering, my husband instructed me to fix a fantastic meal like I was serving the president and provide for adequate sleeping space as well.

“Ladies, I was steaming; I was mad. On top of that, while I finished up the meal, he took our money and went to the store and shopped for those men.

“Talk about a humbling experience. I spent all night battling and arguing with God. See, God knew I was a proud person, full of myself, and he sent those two homeless drunkards to humble me down. God made those two men stay with us for a whole week. By the end of the 295

week I was a new person — humble and full of compassion for others. But guess what? Both those men got saved and are still serving God today because we — my husband first — showed them the Gospel by showing them compassion.”

The crowd of women erupted in applause. ____________ “I don’t know if I can top Momma Richardson’s speech, but I can only share with you what I feel God has laid upon my heart to share with you ladies,” Monica said as she launched into her speech.

“Too often after we get saved, we tend to forget that we have not been saved all our lives, and thus we all have a tendency to look down our noses at each other. I’ll share an experience of mine with you as briefly as I can.

There was a young, very attractive lady who worked at my husband’s former job and she has given me permission to tell this as a testimony. She had eyes for him. Of course, he told me all about her, so it was no surprise when she and I met up at one of the company’s fancy get-togethers. This lady was all up in my husband’s face. I was tempted to have a hateful attitude towards her, but following a prompting in my spirit, I chose to love on her and pray for her each day. About a month later, my husband preached his first sermon. We didn’t know it at the time, but this lady was sitting in the auditorium, and at the end of the service she asked Jesus

296

to come into her heart and save her. She took heed to the verse which states ‘believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.’ Many times we can win people to Jesus by just loving them and praying for them daily. I will never forget her parting words to me after she accepted the Lord Jesus. She said, ‘Sister Monica, thank you so much for speaking to me, stopping by my house, sharing Jesus with me, and for praying for me.’

“Before I close, I would like for each of us to pray for my very best friend – Stacy. Stacy’s mother, Sister Wilmington, is here with us today. Some of you know of her situation and are already praying for her. A few weeks ago she called me to tell me that someone kidnapped her five-year-old daughter, Trelawny. To date, the police have no clue as to where she might be. My heart is extremely heavy for her. Please, pause right now and pray for her. Pray that God would comfort her heart and her husband’s heart and her eight year old son’s heart. His name is Trevon. Also pray that Trelawny would be found immediately. Shall we pray?”

A resounding “Yes!” rose up from the auditorium of women. ____________ During the two hour long lunch break, Sandy met up with Kirby Rollins in his office.

“I told you it wouldn’t be long before we saw each other again,” Pastor Kirby said to Sandy as he embraced

297

her. Remembering how Brother Cam stumbled upon him and Sister Anise, he hurriedly locked both doors so they could have this time together uninterrupted.

“Does your uncle know you’re here?”

“No, I didn’t let him nor my aunt know I was coming.

I believe I saw my aunt in the crowd though,” Sandy said, hugging his neck. “I’m going to call them after the meeting and meet up with them tomorrow. I’ve been dying to see Solomon. I’m thinking of letting him come stay with me in Texas. New Mt. Zion has a great day care center.”

Hmm, Kirby thought. Getting Solomon away from here will prevent people from noticing how much he looks like me.

298

Episode 17

299

Chapter 48 For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God? -1 Timothy 3:5 The ladies from New Mt. Zion stayed over and worshiped with the Ninth Street Baptist Church family on Sunday following the ladies’ conference. It was a blessed and memorable time. Monica reluctantly said goodbye to her first church family as they left to return home early on Monday. Anise could not wait to get on the phone with Leanne after Sunday services.

“Wasn’t that a tremendous meeting, Leanne? I mean God was moving. Even my hard heart was touched,” Anise said laughing.

“God sure was moving. I will never forget this meeting,” Leanne said. “And it’s been getting better and

301

better every year. I hope we have Sister Richardson again next year.”

“I hope so too. Pastor Jonathan’s wife did not do too badly. Apparently, she needs a little more experience,” Anise chuckled.

“She’s just quiet, more of an introvert,” Leanne said.

“I believe she likes to stay in the background.”

“Do you remember Brother Cam from the old building? His niece, Sandy, was there. I have not seen her in a long time. She was looking good too,” Leanne said. “I heard she left the church because she got pregnant by somebody in the church.”

“Oh, really? She’s nothing but a baby herself. Isn’t she about 18 or 19?”

“Something like that. Anyway I exchanged a few words with her. She told me she was going to college in Texas,” Leanne said. “She seemed kind of evasive, though, when I asked her about her baby. Almost like she did not want to talk about her own baby.”

“Mmm, I wonder why. Do you have any idea who the father is?”

“Nope,” Leanne replied, “but I did see her going into Pastor Kirby’s office a little before we broke for lunch on yesterday.

“You don’t say,” Anise said. “Is that all you saw?”

Jealousy started to rise up in Anise. “How long was she in his office?”

“Anise, I don’t know. I was hurrying to use the bathroom down there because the one by the conference 302

room was filling up fast. Then I went to eat lunch with everyone else.”

I don’t like this one bit, Anise thought.

“Did you notice Pastor Jonathan with their children?

I guess he stopped by to make sure everything was under control. He was so patient with those children,” Leanne continued. “I can tell he’s a great father.”

“Well, I also saw him and this young lady off to the side talking. Too close and too freely for my comfort.”

Leanne laughed. “Shame on you, Anise. Pastor Jonathan is not that kind of man. You’re not jealous because he hasn’t been paying you the attention you really want him to pay you.”

“Leanne, where did you get that from?” Anise said trying to make light of her previous comment.

“Oh, come on now, Anise. Are you going to tell me that a young voluptuous woman like you is not in the least bit interested in a young handsome preacher like Pastor Jonathan? Come on now,” Leanne said. She added with a laugh, “those glances you throw at him are noticeable.”

Anise felt a strong surge of guilt overcome her and decided to end the telephone call. She had another thing on her mind right now such as why would Sandy be going into Pastor Kirby’s office on the day of a ladies’ conference?

Anise was not able to get Pastor Kirby by phone on Monday, his day off, so she surprised him with a visit on Tuesday right after the secretary left.

303

“Anise, just the person I wanted to see.” Kirby locked his office door and he and Anise began exchanging kisses.

“I can’t stay long today, Kirby. I stopped by for one reason,” Anise said quickly getting to the point, “Who was that young woman who came in your office on Saturday during lunch break at the conference?”

“Oh, she wanted some counseling.”

“She looked like Sandy, Brother Cam’s niece. I thought they had left the church,” Anise said, pushing him away slightly.

“Yes, they did. But she came to me for some counseling. She still considers me her pastor. Plus, she came to the ladies’ conference which is open to all ladies.”

“You’re not lying, are you?” Anise asked. “And I hope you’re not counseling her the way you’re counseling me,” she said sarcastically.

Kirby laughed. “Would I lie to you? No, I’m not counseling her the way I’m counseling you. Come on you silly woman and make your visit worth the trouble you took to get here.”

304

Chapter 49 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.

- Proverbs 12:17 One would think all the ladies would come away from Saturday’s meeting on a spiritual high. But not so.

“Kirby, I called here at the house on our lunch break and Carlita answered the phone. She told me you called and asked her to watch the children. On top of that, I could not even get you on your cell. Where in the world were you?” Kristy asked as soon as she stepped in the door.

“Oh, I stopped by the church to make sure everything was under control,” Kirby said. “So, how did everything go?”

“You just said you stopped by. How do you think

305

everything went?” Kristy snapped. “Kirby, I’m upset and disappointed. You promised me you would make it up to the children by spending all day with them. You could have packed them all up in the van and taken them with you. They would have loved it. Pastor Jonathan did it and his children are younger than yours.”

“Oh, so now you’re comparing?”

“Nobody is comparing. You know it’s been a sore spot between us – you not spending more time with the children. I mean what is it going to take for you to do that? They would have loved to ride out there with you, then to the park, and maybe for an ice cream cone. You’re hopeless sometimes,” Kristy said angrily, walking off to give the children their bath.

On Monday evening, Kristy stopped off by the Reynold’s home to speak with Monica about the conference while it was fresh on their minds, and what they could do to make it better next year. She began sharing with Monica some of the problems going on inside of her marriage.

“We’re just not getting along like we should, Monica.

Almost every time we talk we end up arguing,” Kristy said. “Do you know he’s hardly been to any of Karl’s baseball games? He does not even look at a picture book anymore with Dionne.”

Monica listened quietly. I knew it, she kept thinking, I knew it.

“And, Monica, when he comes home in the evenings, he locks himself in his office for hours. If he is spending 306

all evening in his office at home, I wonder what he is doing at the church during the day time.”

After a pause, Kristy said rather distantly, “I just hope he’s not seeing another woman, Monica, because if he is, he’s going to pay in more ways than one.”

Monica swallowed hard. She hoped the negative vibes she had been having about Kirby Rollins were not all true.

“I’ll pray harder for you both,” Monica said giving Kristy a hug. “That is all I know to do.” _______________ Later that evening, Monica told her husband about Kristy’s visit.

“Jonathan,” she said, “I told you things weren’t right between them. And I think it’s more than what Kristy has told me.”

“All marriages have their problems. We’ll just pray for them. I do know it’s very stressful pastoring a church,” Jonathan said.

Yeah right, Monica thought. _______________ Kristy returned home to find an anonymous message left on their answering machine: Kristy, the ladies’ meeting was a blast. We’d love to have Sister Richardson again next year. It was good to see Sandy Cameron again. I saw her going into your husband’s office

307

during the lunch break. I thought you might want to know. _______________ “What do you think of that, Monica?” Kristy asked, after she shared the message with her that night.

“Why don’t you ask him, Kristy?” Monica suggested.

“He told me he did stop at the church to make sure everything was under control.”

“I’m sure he wouldn’t lie to you,” Monica said. Or would he?

308

Chapter 50 Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.

—Matthew 7:1-2 Sister Montague gave Monica a call the day after she returned home from the conference.

“It was a blessing,” Sister Montague said. “I will never forget it. I only wish I could have stayed longer and spent more time with my grandkids.”

“I wish you all could have stayed longer too, Mom,” Monica agreed. “You never finished telling me about Leah.”

“Oh, yes. Well, her and Anthony are finally planning on getting married. The date is set for about four months from today. She didn’t want me to say anything; she

309

wanted to surprise you with the invitation. But it’s finally in the mail. You should be receiving it in a day or two.”

“I was wondering what was taking them so long to tie the knot,” Monica said laughing.

“Oh, there’s a story behind that. I won’t go into details, but Xavier tried to come back into her life after almost three years. He turned up at the church, all dressed up, and tried to persuade her to come back, saying he was a new man and all. Then, he turned up at her job and tried to persuade her to come back. He caused a scene once when Leah and Anthony went out to eat.

Apparently, he followed them to the restaurant and ended up punching Anthony over something.”

“Really? My goodness, that’s no new man to me,” Monica said.

“I know it. To this day she’s still embarrassed about it. She was confused. She kept telling me if Xavier did not really love her why would he be fighting so hard for her, why would he come back? Your father and I had to sit her down and firmly talk some sense into her before she made the biggest mistake of her life. We had to tell her Xavier is the jealous type and if he’s acting this crazy now, he is going to act even crazier after they get married. Pastor Richardson even had to counsel her. Her and Anthony were planning on getting married earlier, but this craziness by Xavier halted those plans. I tell you, the drama that happens in our lives never ceases,” Sister Montague said.

“I can’t believe she never said a word to me,” Monica 310

said. “She always told me everything was going well.”

“She was too embarrassed to tell you,” her mother said. “Plus, you were still adjusting to your new life as pastor’s wife and she did not want to burden you with her problems.”

“Well, I’m going to give her a talking to because that’s what sisters are for,” Monica said with a laugh. “You can plan on us, at least me and the children, staying for at least two weeks if not longer after the wedding.”

“Hold a second, Monica. Your dad says to tell you ‘hello’.”

“Mom, you tell Dad to get on this phone; he knows I want to talk with him,” Monica chuckled. _______________ Trelawny was still missing after one month and the police had no leads on her disappearance. Monica called Stacy to share the conference events with her.

“I did get the invitation. Now, I wish I had come,” Stacy said. “Even Robert thought it would have been good for me and Trevon to get away for a while. I tell you what, Monica, it seems everywhere I go, I see Trelawny’s face.”

“I can imagine,” Monica said.

“One good thing that’s coming out of this,” Stacy said, “is that Robert and I are praying more. There’s nothing like trouble to keep you on your knees.”

“You are right,” Monica agreed. “But you know in a

311

sense, that’s a shame. I mean, we know we ought to pray at all times, but we refuse to and God has to bring some trouble in our lives to get us to pray.”

The two friends talked and encouraged each other and made plans at least for Stacy and Trevon to come down for a short vacation.

“All three of you need to get out of New York for a while. You all can spend some time with us, maybe ride down with us for Leah’s wedding, spend time with your parents — it will be refreshing for both of you.” _______________ As soon as Monica received her wedding invitation, she gave Leah a call.

“About time, Leah. What have you been waiting on?”

Monica kidded her sister. “And why haven’t you been calling me?”

“Oh, please forgive, me but I’ve been in a state of confusion this past year.” Leah shared with her all she went through with Xavier coming back in her life; doubts as to whether or not she wanted to get married at all; then Anthony getting very sick. “Setback after setback,” Leah said with a sigh.

After giving Leah Stacy’s address, the sisters said goodbye, and promised to stay in touch with each other more than they had in the past. _______________

312

Kristy Rollins said nothing to her husband about the anonymous message left on their answering machine.

But Tuesday morning before he left, she stopped him.

“Kirby, listen to this,” she said pressing the play button for him to hear the message. “I didn’t want to disturb you about it on yesterday as you are always so busy.” Kristy watched him closely for any unusual reactions.

“You didn’t tell me you were counseling Sandy on Saturday. I mean, if you had this all scheduled, why didn’t you tell me?” Kristy asked firmly. “And, couldn’t the counseling have waited until after the conference, even until Sunday after church? I have not seen her in church since Brother Cam and Mitzie left. What’s going on, Kirby?”

“Kristy, I’m in a hurry. Can this wait until later?”

“No, we talk now or I’ll put my own interpretation into the message,” Kristy said. “What’s wrong with her getting counseling with the pastor at the church she is going to now?”

“Look, Kristy, she still considers me her pastor. Is there anything wrong with that?”

“She came off the bus with the ladies from New Mt. Zion church. Sister Montague introduced us all, or was trying to anyway. Did you know she had moved to Texas?”

“Yes,” Kirby answered hurriedly.

“And you never said anything to me knowing I treated her like a daughter. She used to babysit our 313

children, Kirby, until they decided to leave the church,” Kristy said. “What’s going on? You used to be more open and share things with me.”

“Kristy,” her husband said giving her a hug. “Yes, Sandy did move to Texas to get a change of pace and to go on to college. Yes, as her former pastor, she came to me for some counseling. She wanted to find out if she should take the baby to Texas with her or leave the baby here with her aunt and uncle. I told her it would be wise to take the baby with her if she could find a trustworthy babysitter. She told me New Mt. Zion had a day care center so that would not be a problem. I told her to go for it. Now, is your mind at ease?”

Kristy allowed him to kiss her on the cheeks and although she nodded her head, she was still very unsettled in her spirit. If everything was as innocent as he portrayed it to be, why would someone leave such a message, making it seem as though there was something more going on? And why wouldn’t he just tell her he had met with her for counseling on his own on Saturday?

314

Episode 18

315

Chapter 51 But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the Lord: and be sure your sin will find you out.

- Numbers 32:23 Monica returned home from the library with the children to find a message on her answering machine. It was from Stacy.

“Hello, Stacy,” she greeted, returning the call.

“What’s up? Do you have good news about Trelawny?”

“I wish, but nothing so far. We’re trying not to think the worst and to remember that it’s all in God’s hands,” Stacy said in a tired voice. “Anyway, I was calling to let you know we’ll be taking a short vacation down to Texas a week before Thanksgiving.”

“Oh, my goodness! Finally,” Monica exclaimed joyfully. “After what? Seven or so years, we get to see

317

each other again. Jon and I were talking just yesterday, he’s taking a two week vacation from the church and he was thinking of going home for Thanksgiving. Why don’t we meet up at home?”

“That would be great,” Stacy said. “What can I say?

Robert felt it would be good for us to get out of New York for a while.”

“I can’t wait to see you all again. We’ll be traveling down the Monday of Thanksgiving week,” Monica said.

The two friends chatted for a while as they made vacation plans. ____________ Kristy Rollins was having an inner conflict. She was not satisfied with the answer her husband had given her regarding the meeting he had with Sandy and especially since another message was left two days later which said: Kristy, I would watch your husband if I were you.

On top of that, someone kept calling their home and hanging the phone up whenever she answered.

“What do you think about that?” Kristy asked Monica. “I can’t help but to think he’s cheating on me, Monica. Like I told you before, things have been very tense between us for a couple of years now, and it’s getting worse.”

“Kristy, all I can tell you is to pray and ask God to reveal the truth to you. I know the ministry can be stressful. You both probably need to take an extended

318

vacation – if not as a family, maybe just the two of you.

I’d be more than willing to keep your children while you both get some physical and spiritual rest.”

“Thank you, Monica, but for right now, I’ll pray some more about it. Thanks for listening to my concerns.”

Kristy hung up the phone thinking, I’ve been praying about it long enough. It’s time for some action.

Kristy called Mitzie, Brother Cam’s wife, next.

“Hello, Mitzie, it’s been a while since we spoke. How have you been doing?”

“Wonderful, Kristy,” Mitzie answered. “God is good.

I was just here enjoying my little grand-nephew, Solomon, and praying for his Mama. Did you know she moved on down to Texas to go to school?”

“Yes, Mitzie, I just found that out on Saturday. My husband was telling me she came in to see him during the lunch hour of the ladies’ conference for some advice as to whether or not to take Solomon down to live with her in Texas. He told her it would be good to have her son with her.”

“I didn’t know she spoke with Pastor Kirby,” Mitzie said. “She never said anything to us on Sunday when we spoke with her. She did tell us she was thinking of taking Solomon to live with her though.”

Kristy said ‘goodbye’ to Mitzie, telling her to be sure to visit Ninth Street Baptist. ____________

319

That evening Mitzie mentioned the conversation she had with Kristy to her husband. Brother Cam became angry instantly.

“I told that two-timer not to have any contact with Sandy at all. I can’t believe he did it. This is it for him!”

“What’s going on, Cam? I can’t see where they did anything wrong. Sandy just needed some advice,” Mitzie said.

“Look, Mitzie, I never told you this and I told Sandy not to tell you because, frankly, I did not know how you would handle it, but Kirby just messed all that up,” Cam said.

“What are you talking about?” Mitzie asked.

“Kirby is Solomon’s daddy,” Cam stated.

“Oh, my goodness! Say that’s not true,” Mitzie said, collapsing into the nearest chair.

“I wish I could, but I can’t,” Brother Cam said. “I am the only person who knows about this and Kirby has been paying me big money to keep quiet.”

“How? When? That means Sandy was at least seventeen when this happened — a minor. Does Kirby know he could have gone to jail for this? Kristy must know something for her to call me like she did. My Lord, help us,” Mitzie breathed. “And Sandy never said a word to me. She told me she was raped, and you–” “Lord, help him when I’m done with him,” Cam said.

“I told him to stay away from Sandy and if he did not he’d get in trouble with me. You stay right here. We’ll talk more when I get back. I have some business to take 320

care of.”

Cam threw his jacket back on.

“Why don’t you call Sandy first?”

“I’ll call her later. First things first.”

“Cam, please don’t do anything rash,” Mitzie pleaded. ____________ Brother Cam screeched to a halt in the church’s parking lot and stormed into the building. Kirby was on the phone when Cam barged into his office, slamming the door shut behind him. Kirby was surprised.

“Cameron, how–” “Cut the crap, Kirby,” Cam said reaching for the phone to hang it up. “Didn’t I tell you to leave my niece alone? Didn’t I tell you not to talk with her anymore?”

“What are you talking about, Cam?” Kirby said standing up. “I haven’t–” “You lying hypocrite!” Cam exclaimed, swinging his fist. The impact with which he hit Kirby in the mouth left him with a busted lip.

“Hey!” Kirby shouted as Cam punched him across the cheek. This sent Kirby sprawling backwards into his leather chair.

“Leave Sandy alone! You hear me! Leave Sandy alone!

You done messed up now! Big time – and you’re supposed to be a man of God!” Kirby put his hands up to protect his face from

321

further damage. Brother Cam delivered another blow to Kirby in his stomach and was getting ready to deliver another blow when someone grabbed him around the waist from behind.

It was Jonathan. “Stop it! Stop it now!” he yelled.

Brother Cam and Jonathan staggered backwards.

“Let me finish my job,” Cam shouted.

“Cam, calm down,” the secretary, Carmen, urged.

Jonathan held on to Cam until he cooled off. Looking at Kirby, he said, “What’s going on?”

“I’ll tell you what’s going on,” Cam said. “This lying cheat done got my niece pregnant over a year ago. She was a minor — only seventeen years old. I told him to stay away from her, but he’s still seeing her behind my back. I just found that out, and I’m gonna’ beat the hell out of him!” Cam took a leap forward, but Jonathan blocked his path.

“Sit down! I’m sure we can talk it out. What’s your name again?”

“Just call me Cam. I used to be the assistant pastor here, but after finding out he got my niece pregnant, my wife and I left the church. Right now, he’s paying me $2200 a month to keep quiet, but, Kirby, no amount of money can keep me quiet now. It’s a matter of honor for my family and my niece. And it’s a matter of you keeping your word after I have forgiven you and given you a chance to do the right thing. Every time I look at my niece or that baby, it breaks me down as a man because I didn’t do more to protect my minor niece.”

322

Carmen returned with an ice pack which she handed to Pastor Kirby.

“Is this true?” Jonathan asked Kirby.

“No need to ask the liar,” Cam said. “I couldn’t even make up something like that. You’re going to pay in more ways than one, Kirby. Just wait and see. Your sins have found you out.”

323

Chapter 52 He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.

- Proverbs 28:13 Jonathan stepped outside the office with Brother Cam. Kirby could hear muffled sounds coming through the door. He rested his head on the back of his chair.

Your sins will find you out, ran through his mind.

Another verse that rolled through his mind was: “Be not deceived, God is not mocked, for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”

It seemed like hours before Jonathan returned to his office. “Carmen, can you excuse us? Thank you for your help. You can take off now and, please, don’t say a word to anyone about this,” Jonathan told her.

As soon as Carmen closed the door behind her,

325

Jonathan confronted Kirby. “Is this true, Kirby?”

Kirby lifted his right hand but allowed it to fall weakly back to the chair’s armrest. He held the icepack with his left hand firmly on his swollen lip.

“Look, Kirby, you don’t have to lie to me. Cam just told me everything. My wife told me that your wife had confided in her about a message left on her answering machine about you seeing Sandy on the day of the ladies’ meeting. Just come clean, man!”

“It’s true,” Kirby said reluctantly. “I did have a relationship with Sandy and we had a son together. I’ve been keeping it quiet so as not to hurt the good work we’re doing here.”

“That’s all fine and dandy, Kirby, but you should absolutely not have been involved with an underage girl, and when Cam told you to leave Sandy alone, you should have. I mean, why didn’t you?”

“Jonathan, I just wanted to do the responsible thing and take care of my son,” Kirby said.

“But you broke the law by having sex with a minor!

To cover your tracks, you’re paying Cam to keep quiet.

On top of that, Kirby, you’re living a lie before the church family and before me, your friend! Where’s your conscience, man?”

Kirby removed the ice pack from his lip.

“You know, Kirby,” Jonathan continued, “people will forgive you, and will, most times, overlook and forget the wrong you’ve done if you come clean with them; but to do wrong and hide it, that’s not going to go over well 326

at all, and neither should it. They’ll see you as a liar. The church family is not going to trust you anymore.”

“I’m sorry, man. I’m sorry,” Kirby said trying not to move his aching head.

“You don’t need to apologize to me,” Jonathan said.

“You have a wife and a congregation you need to confess this to and seek forgiveness from. And since your children now have a little brother, you need to tell them about it while they are young, and you need to start including that child in your prayers everyday along with your other children. If I were you, I’d do it soon before Cam starts talking. He is furious, and from what he told me, he’s going to lay it on you thick. My advice is to tell Kristy first before you tell the church family so that she won’t be embarrassed.” ____________ That evening, Jonathan told Monica about Kirby’s mess. As much as she wanted to say, ‘I told you he wasn’t trustworthy,’ she restrained herself.

“Poor Kristy,” she sighed. “She told me she believed he was up to something but she hoped he was not committing adultery.”

Jonathan did not respond. His thoughts were on his longtime friend. Can I still trust him?

“Jon,” Monica said quietly. “I hate to think this, but do you think Sandy is the only person he’s messed around with?”

327

Jonathan shrugged his shoulders.

“Well, I’m going to give Kristy a call. I’m sure she could use some encouragement right now.”

“Monica, forgive me for not taking you seriously when you told me about Kirby flirting with you. You remember when he stopped by to pick up the package for that ministers’ meeting. That was just not a right response on my part,” Jonathan confessed.

Monica kissed him. “Think nothing of it. Right now we have a marriage and a church that are on the verge of being torn apart and we have to help Kirby and his wife through this and help stabilize the church while they go through this as well..”

“About calling Kristy,” Jonathan began, “I wouldn’t advise it right now. Maybe in the morning, honey. Give Kirby some time to hopefully confess his sins to her and we’ll just pray for God to intervene.”

“Do you think he’ll come clean? I mean he’s been living a lie before her for so long, and on top of that, she’s been questioning his every move and — “ “I only hope so, Monica,” Jonathan interrupted.

“That’s the best thing for him to do right now. Let’s just pray for them.” ____________ Jonathan took charge of the midweek prayer service at Kirby’s last minute request.

“Everything’s fine between me and Kristy. We just

328

need some time away. I should be back by Sunday, but if you don’t hear from me by Saturday night be prepared to preach again on Sunday,” Kirby told Jonathan. “And, Jonathan, give me some time to tell the church family.

Let me be the one to do it. This doesn’t need to be on you.”

On Wednesday night, Monica stopped by the Ladies’ Lounge, or the Pink Room, as the women called it, to freshen up her make-up. She was in one of the stalls when Leanne and Anise walked in laughing and conversing in low tones, but still loud enough for her to hear.

“Anise, I tell you, ain’t nothing like church business.”

“What do you mean, Leanne? What have you heard now?” Anise asked.

“Well, I heard through the grapevine something that’s going to shock you out of your $300.00 shoes. Yes, girl, you’re not going to believe this one.”

“Leanne, will you spill it and stop going around in circles,” Anise said.

“It’s about our Pastor Kirby. You remember that Sandy girl? Well, child, that baby she got pregnant with belongs to Pastor Kirby.”

“You trippin’,” Anise said shocked. “Tell me you are lying.”

“I told you you were going to be shocked out of your Prada shoes. No, I’m not lying,” Leanne said. “I heard it from a reputable source who has no reason to lie.”

“Who’s that?”

“Sorry. I told the person I would not tell and that I 329

would just pray for the situation,” Leanne replied smugly.

“I’ve already said enough so my lips are sealed.”

“I’ll be praying too,” Anise said, after I lay hands on that liar, she thought.

“Now, don’t you go tell anyone. It stops with me and you,” Leanne warned. “We love Pastor Kirby and we don’t want a scandal on his name now.”

“Sandy must have thrown herself at him for him to do that,” Anise said. I’m gonna throw myself at him and put a hurting on him he’ll never forget, she thought.

“Let me take care of business, then we can head on to the service,” Leanne told Anise.

Monica walked out of the stall and greeted both ladies with a smile. “How are you ladies this evening?” she asked.

“Blessed and highly favored,” they both answered.

“Do you think she overheard us?” Anise asked after Monica left the room.

“I don’t think so,” Leanne said. “Plus, I wouldn’t worry about her. She’s the kind that will hear a scandal and keep on stepping. She’ll keep quiet about it. She’s not a gossiper.”

330

Chapter 53 The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked: the Lord hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.

- Nahum 1:3 Jonathan preached a simple message using 1 Peter 5:8 as his text: “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”

He was surprised, but not too surprised to see Brother Cam sitting in the congregation. After introducing Monica to him, Brother Cam took Jonathan off to the side.

“Where’s Kirby?”

“He took a few days off. Why?” “I bet he did,” Cam said. “Anyway, I just wanted to

331

let you know I spoke with my niece and she verified everything. She told me some other things which I won’t bother you with right now. She told me she was tired of living a lie. Jonathan, I’m sorry you had to get caught up in the middle of this, but that’s just a part of being a pastor. By the way, if you talk with Kirby, tell him Sandy will be home for Thanksgiving. You have a great Thanksgiving, Jonathan.”

Jonathan watched Brother Cam exit the auditorium and wondered what he was up to.

He and Monica were up late into the early hours of the morning talking about the whole situation as Monica told him the conversation she had overheard in the ladies’ lounge. He decided not to bother Kirby about Cam’s visit, nor about Leanne and Anise’s conversation until he returned. Jonathan and Monica upheld the Rollins family in prayer. Sunday morning rolled around and Jonathan had to fill the pulpit again.

“Please be praying for Pastor Kirby and his family.

They had to take a mini-vacation and get some much needed rest, but he’ll hopefully be back in the pulpit on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Pray for my family and me as we will be pulling out early tomorrow morning heading for Texas to be with our families for Thanksgiving. We’ll be away for a couple of weeks. The offices will also be closed this week. If you have an emergency leave a message on the answering machine.

The secretary, Carmen, will be checking it once a day up until Wednesday and will return your call. I wish 332

everyone a happy Thanksgiving.” ____________ Monica and her family had a great Thanksgiving week. It was an extra special Thanksgiving as Stacy, Robert, and Trevon were able to make it down also.

“I think I’ll talk with Pastor Richardson about this whole fiasco,” Jonathan said to Monica on the drive down. “I’d rather you not say anything about it to our mothers. I don’t want them to start thinking negatively of Sandy in any way. That is if she returns to go back to college. No telling what’s going to come out of this whole mess.” ____________ Pastor Richardson was shocked at the news of the situation Kirby had placed himself in, as was Brother Montague and Brother Reynolds whom he had asked to sit in on the meeting with him and Jonathan.

“Ain’t nothing but the devil, Jonathan. This is nothing but the devil attacking the great work God is doing there at Ninth Street Baptist,” Pastor Richardson said. “Jonathan, I’ve been walking with the Lord a long time and I can smell the devil afar off.”

“I never heard it put that way,” Jonathan said.

“Now that you’re a part of the leadership there, the devil has his weapons pointed right at you and your family,” Brother Reynolds said. “Your weakness may not

333

be with other women, but be sure that ol’ serpent knows where your Achilles’ heel is; he knows just where to shoot at to bring you down. Son, make sure you stay prayed up.”

“Yes, Jonathan,” Brother Montague agreed. “I’ve done some battles with the devil and he does not play.

Like an old friend of mine would say, ‘I guaranteed you that.’”

“I have a question, where do you think he’s getting all that money to pay off Cam?” Pastor Richardson asked.

“I hate to say this, Pastor Richardson, but I think he may be ‘stealing’ money from the church,” Jonathan said.

“What?”

“Let me clarify that,” Jonathan said quickly. “Maybe not outright stealing it, but I have noticed he has been launching a lot of new initiatives and requesting, in my opinion, unnecessary funds for different things. The people trust Pastor Kirby and love him and willingly follow him, so it wouldn’t be hard for him to get more money from them.”

Pastor Richardson shook his head. “This is what I would advise you to tell him, Jonathan. He first needs to go to his wife and apologize and come clean with her.

He then needs to tell it to all his staff and apologize to them. Third, he needs to come clean before the entire church, ask them for their forgiveness, and be willing to step down if they demand that he does. From my years of experience in the ministry and in observing other pastors and church leaders who have been caught up in similar 334

situations, if he comes clean before the congregation finds out on their own and is truly repentant, the people will be more willing to forgive him. They might even forget it and even continue to stand with him. I don’t know exactly how God does it, but that’s just how God works.”

“Its called grace,” Brother Reynolds said. “The people can forgive your sin; it’s the lying, the deceit, and the covering up that they cannot live with.”

Jonathan nodded.

“Would you like for me to talk with him?” Pastor Richardson asked.

“Could you? That would be a great help to him especially with your years of experience. He should be back by Sunday.”

“What trouble do you think Cam will cause?” Brother Montague asked.

“I really don’t know. All I know is he was angry, really angry,” Jonathan sighed. “I have not mentioned this to Monica, but I was thinking of cutting our vacation short so I could be up there to help him through this, so please pray with me about it.”

“Sure, let’s pray right now.”

After prayer, Pastor Richardson said, “Jonathan, if you don’t mind, this Sunday, prepare to give our people an update on the work there–not the negatives though, just the positives.”

The church family gave Jonathan and his family, as well as Stacy and her family, a warm welcome as Jonathan 335

took his place behind the podium.

“Ladies and gentlemen, it is good to be back. Monica and I missed you all. We often talk about you and the good times we’ve had here. We pray for you all daily. The church is going well. The Lord is blessing beyond measure and we are growing spiritually and numerically.

I ask that you continue to pray for us as the devil is pulling out all the stops against us. But as Pastor Richardson often told us, if the devil is attacking then you know you are doing something right. So, please continue to pray for us. We love you all. God bless.”

After the services, Pastor Richardson asked for anyone who would like to become a member of the church to come to the front. A husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Matt and Trisha Gurber, came forward. They shared their salvation testimony and, before Pastor Richardson turned them over to Brother and Sister Wilmington as their personal shepherds, the church family welcomed them into the fold with a round of applause. The couple followed the Wilmingtons to the discipleship room to receive their new member’s packet.

“We’ve actually been visiting here for a couple of weeks now,” Mrs. Gurber began, “and we love the spirit of the people here, and that the Word is being preached.

We feel like family already.”

“Wonderful,” Sister Wilmington said, giving her a hug. “We’re glad to have you both. This is for you to review. It has information about the church and its various ministries. And this is our home number and my 336

cell number. Please call me if you need anything at all.

Your card says here that you have one child?”

“Yes, we have a little girl. She’s five years old. We’ve been looking for a school for her to attend. I noticed you have a school here.”

“Oh, yes. In fact, we have some openings in the K-5 classes. Why don’t you stop by and speak with Debbie Campbell. She’s our director. We would love to have your daughter here. What’s her name?”

“It’s Shania,” Mr. and Mrs. Gurber said.

“Well, it seems like everything is working out after all,” Mr. Gurber said as he and his wife drove home. ____________ Brother and Sister Reynolds, Janice, and Jonathan and his family, joined Brother and Sister Montague at their home for Sunday dinner. It was like old times. While enjoying dessert in the living room, Brother Montague was flipping through the channels to find a good movie when he caught a ‘breaking news’ report as it flashed across the screen. The reporter was announcing: “Another rising pastor has fallen. Pastor Kirby Rollins, of Ninth Street Baptist Church, has been placed in police custody for allegedly having sex and an ongoing relationship with a minor over a year ago and for possibly embezzling money from the church to use as hush money. More people are coming forward with accusations, so please stay with us for further updates.”

337

Everyone in the room fell silent. Jonathan got up and went into the kitchen to give Pastor Richardson a call asking him to tune into Channel 6 Eyewitness News.

About an hour later, Jonathan received a phone call from Carmen, the Ninth Street Baptist Church secretary. She wanted to know what to tell the press who were camping outside the church seeking an official statement from them. Late into the night, he continued to receive calls from the deacons of Ninth Street and concerned church members who wanted to know if the accusations against Kirby were true.

After a word of prayer with Pastor Richardson, Brother Reynolds, and Brother Montague, Jonathan called Carmen again.

“Don’t say anything to the press,” he instructed her.

“Here’s what I want you to do: Alert the staff and the other members of the prayer team and begin praying for the church, for Kirby, and for his wife and children. As we prepare to leave here early, Monica and I will be praying, along with our families.”

“What do I say to the church members who are calling?” Carmen asked. “Right now, all five lines here are blinking with a call waiting to be answered, and the voicemail is filling up fast.”

“Let them know that everything will be discussed in full at our Wednesday night prayer meeting,” Jonathan said. “And one other thing: get in touch with Kristy. Kirby said they needed some time away together, and I don’t know where they went, or who is keeping the children.

338

Monica here is calling Kristy’s cell phone, but she’s not answering.”

“Got it,” said Carmen as she hung up.

“Well,” said Jonathan as he walked back into the living room. “I need to get back home to deal with this situation. Monica, you and the kids can stay here for a few more days.”

“No,” said Monica getting up and standing beside her husband. “I’m going back with you now.”

Monica’s mother nodded, “That’s right, honey, you two need to be together. You stand beside your husband; he’s going to need you. And you need to be there for Kristy.”

Night had already fallen when Jonathan and Monica pulled out on Sunday evening to head back to Ninth Street. As Jonathan drove, they prayed together about the dark storm that had entered their lives. It seemed like it was going to be a long time before it blew over.

THE END

339

Do You Know Jesus Christ as Your Savior?

A note from the publisher: Our goal in publishing inspirational fiction is two-fold: (1) To help those who know Jesus Christ as their Savior live more faithful Christian lives, and (2) To show those who do not know Jesus Christ as their Savior how they can get to know Him in the course of life circumstances that many people face.

That being said, if you do not know Jesus Christ as your Savior, here is how you can get to know Him today: First, accept the fact that you are a sinner, and that you have broken God’s law. The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 7: 20: “For there is not a just man upon earth that doeth good, and sinneth not.” Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

341

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The Bible states in Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death…”

Third, accept the fact that you are on the road to hell. Jesus Christ said in Matthew 10:28: “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.”

The Bible also says in Revelation 21:8: “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”

Fourth, accept the fact that you cannot do anything to save yourself! The Bible states in Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace are ye saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is a gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

Fifth, accept the fact that God loves you more than you love yourself, and that He wants to save you from hell. “For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (Jesus Christ, John 3:16).

Sixth, with these facts in mind, please repent of your sins, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and pray and ask Him to come into your heart and save you this very moment.

342

The Bible states in the book of Romans 10:9, 13: “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

Seventh, if you are willing to trust Christ as your Saviour, please pray with me the following prayer: Heavenly Father, I realize that I am a sinner. For Jesus Christ’s sake, please forgive me of my sins. I now believe with all of my heart that Jesus Christ died, was buried, and rose again. Lord Jesus, please come into my heart and save my soul and change my life. Amen.

For more information to help you grow in your newfound faith in Christ, go to GospelLightSociety.com and read What To Do After You Enter Through the Door.

Please e-mail us at gls@gospellightsociety.com so that we can send you free material that will help you grow in your walk with Christ.

343

FICTION BY DANIEL WHYTE III WITH MERIQUA WHYTE FAMILY DRAMA ...And Family Drama Just Won't Stop I ...And Family Drama Just Won't Stop II ...And Family Drama Just Won't Stop III THE PRAYER TRILOGY The Unspoken Prayer Request I Need Someone to Pray With Me I Know What Prayer Can Do Charmaine The Common Prayer Not for the Righteous I'm Dreaming of a Black Christmas The Thanksgiving Letters Shaking the Gates of Hell No Time for Evil The Writer's Life All the Bishop's Children 1 All the Bishop's Children 2 TO BE A TEEN AFTER GOD'S OWN HEART Zelphur Giné

WITH DANIEL D.P. WHYTE IV The Prophet, the President, and the Pastor The Correction The Cover-Up (The Cover-Up, #1) The Candidate (The Cover-Up, #2) Judas Church Letters to the Supreme Court

WITH DANITA WHYTE The Great Train Ride to Liberty Mountain

WITH DANIELLA WHYTE Eden, N.C.