the christmas rapture

8/8/2019 The Christmas Rapture

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Written by: Tony Ellsworth

The Christ mas Rapture

Once in a Blue Moon…



T h e C h r i s t m a s R a t u r e b T o n E l l s w o r t h

Author’s Note ~

“The Christmas Rapture” as the name implies is about both Christmas and theRapture. Before diving in to what is a frequently misunderstood subject, I wanted to take amoment to address what I will call “Rapture Barriers”. Frequently, I have encountered thefollowing questions or objections:

1. “What is the Rapture?” There is a large segment of people who have no idea what the Raptureis. Is it too late to learn? No. The Rapture is simply the “miracle” enabling us to be withJesus in heaven. And, does Jesus love you enough to want to be with you? Yes! Lookingthrough the Gospels, Jesus’ followers were ordinary people of all types. He taught them usingparables from everyday life that they could easily understand. It’s not too complicated, or toolate to learn about it. This book is designed to help people have a better understanding of thisbelief.

2. “No one knows the day or hour…” This oft quoted verse by Christians is perceived to be theproper justification to tuck this great promise in a back pocket of their mind somewhere, andmove on with life. Many unsuspecting people quoting this scripture, know about the Rapture,but don’t know what to do about it. Before diving into a theological argument, let’s try andremember this is foremost a matter of the heart. If you are separated from someone you lovewith all your heart, don’t you forget about everything else and focus on the moment you will seethis person’s face? Love involves, time, risk, passion and so much more. It can’t be put in a backpocket.

3. “The all knowing Rapture Genius” Enoch , Elijah and Jesus all have firsthand experience being

Raptured. Yet, the rest of us are still waiting. Watching, learning, communicating and sharingare all wonderful things to do together. But, when this promise is turned into an intellectualriddle for only the wise and learned, we have lost our way. The Rapture is about being withJesus in Heaven, where we will be joined with lots of other believers. It’s safe to say that whenwe get to Heaven, God will be rectifying our flawed philosophies and teaching us many newthings. “I don’t know” and “I’m sorry I was wrong,” are two phrases we could all use morefrequently. Praise God for grace! Like the Apostle Paul says, we can have all the prophetic giftsin the world, but if we lack love then we are one loud and obnoxious Gong!

You don’t have to be a theologian to be included in the Rapture. The “Rapture Journey” ismuch about desperately needing a Savior. True Love risks much, and there is no other way.

I am anxiously watching shoulder to shoulder with you waiting for that day. May it be soon!

Merry Christmas Maranatha!!!

~ Tony Ellsworth




Table of Contents

Introduction: The Christmas Rapture ......................................................... .......... 4

Book I: The Age of Heaven ............................................................................................. 6

Chapter 1: Christmas Banquet in Salem ..................................................... .......... 7

Chapter 2: The Shadow .................................................................................................. 11

Chapter 3: Making the Request ...................................................... ........................... 13

Chapter 4: Dark Corners ............................................................................................... 18

Chapter 5: The Precious Courtroom ..................................................... .................. 21

Book II: The Age of Innocence ....................................................... ........................... 25

Chapter 6: A Sinner’s Remorse ........................................................ ........................... 26

Book III: Age of Faith ..................................................................................................... 30

Chapter 7: Star Chaser ..................................................................................................... 31

Book IV: The Age of Kings ............................................................................................. 37

Chapter 8: Greener Pastures ........................................................................................ 38

Book V: The Age of Grace ............................................................................................... 44

Chapter 9: The Lamb of God ........................................................................................ 45

Book VI: The Age of Man ............................................................................................... 57

Chapter 10: Philadelphian Father ....................................................... .................. 58

Chapter 11: In the Beginning… .................................................... ........................... 62

Book VII: The Rapture Age .......................................................................................... 69

Chapter 12: Born Again ................................................................................................ 70

Chapter 13: Wind & Wave ............................................................................................. 73

Chapter 14: My Fathers .................................................................................................. 78

Chapter 15: The Prodigal ............................................................................................. 85

Chapter 16: My Captain Story ......................................................... ........................... 92

Chapter 17: The Christmas Castle ................................................. ......................... 105

Epilogue: Eternal Implications ..................................................... ......................... 112

Watch Alert, December 2008 ........................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.

About the Author .............................................................................................................. 113




Introduction: Introduction: Introduction: Introduction: The Christmas Rapture The Christmas Rapture The Christmas Rapture The Christmas Rapture

~

There must be something about Christmas. Ask any child what holiday they look forward tomost, and you would be hard pressed to find an answer other than this treasured holiday. Giftsgalore and an enchanted grandfather figure flying through the night sky, spreading his cheerutilizing his bellowing laughter. What’s not to like from a child’s perspective?

However…

We have secular progressives and atheists systematically eliminating nativities, school plays andthe very word “Christmas”. I guess they don’t know who Ebenezer Scrooge is and haven’t methis haunting ghosts.

Then there are Christians. Surely they don’t have anything against Christmas – right? Youwould be hard pressed to find a story talking about Jesus’ birth not prefaced with, “we are quitesure he wasn’t born on this day…” Can you effectively defend something you don’t believe in?No. And that’s not the only friendly fire I know of!

Eliminate, Disclaim, Disparage, and Discourage – Bah Humbug, it all says to me!

It was the Heavenly Host of angels that appeared to the simple shepherds, revealing the firstarrival of God’s son. The wise men were relative latecomers and King Herod and his advisorsnever figured it out.

Jesus said you must enter the Kingdom of Heaven like a child. Have you ever seen a childanxiously waiting to open his Christmas presents???

Matthew 18:2-4

2 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,

3 And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

4Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in thekingdom of heaven.

A disturbing commonality with atheists and Christians is a war on Christmas and the Rapture. Whythese two particular ideologies?




Book I: The Age of Heaven Book I: The Age of Heaven Book I: The Age of Heaven Book I: The Age of Heaven




Chapter 1Chapter 1Chapter 1Chapter 1: : : : Christmas Banquet in Salem Christmas Banquet in Salem Christmas Banquet in Salem Christmas Banquet in Salem

~

The snow began to come down harder than Balazzare’ had remembered. Though it was acommon occurrence to have snow fall in Salem on Christmas, he could not take his vision off of the large uniquely designed snowflakes that danced and shimmered in the glow of the City.There was a white dusting which covered the satchel Balazzare’ was carrying to the banquet. Adeep sigh unknowingly came out as he brushed it off with his gloved hand. He quickened hispace as his footsteps took him up the Castle stairs and into the banquet room.

Two greeters opened the door and they said in unison “Merry Christmas Balazzare’, how nice itis to see you and may King Elyon richly bless you!”

“Thank you and same to you both” he replied dryly. He removed his cloak and handed it to theattendant, who was overmatched on what looked to be her first night of work at this station.Even an experienced clerk would be challenged to keep up during Christmas Banquet, thenagain, there is no way to gain experience other than experience itself. The Kingdom alwaysneeded extra hands for the holidays, so it was good to be tolerant and understanding of thenew workers as they “learned the ropes”. “I just hope I get my cloak back,” Balazzare’ thoughtto himself as he began to look about the room.

Balazzare’ made his way to the front and checked with his chief steward Shebna. Shebna wasespecially meticulous, which is why he chose him for the position. King Elyon held theChristmas Eve banquet, and for that matter all Christmas affairs in high regard. As the High

Treasurer, Administrator and holder of The Keys Balazzare’ was entrusted with much. He couldill afford a mistake. For this he was glad to have a shrewd steward like Shebna he could counton to keep things ultra efficient.

“Is everything in order for the gift distribution post-banquet?”

“Yes my lord” was Shebna’s reply. I have the yeomen ready to serve on cue when the dessertdishes have been cleared and the silver trumpets are blown.

Christmas administration required quite an elaborate matrix. This was necessary since theKing’s wishes were that everyone had ample opportunity to be served and also receive gifts.“Of course that is the whole purpose of Christmas,” Balazzare’ mumbled to himself. The Kinghad the Castle Officers and staff serve the citizens of Salem who only came on special occasionssuch as this. But when they did attend, it really was quite an amazing production. Throughoutthe Kingdom, towns would be abuzz with anticipation, as each year something original andcreative was done.




King Elyon allowed quite a bit of latitude for originality, and someone always volunteered to bea spectacle of delight for the crowd. Last year, there was an abundant multitude of womenfrom all walks of life that sang as a precursor to dinner. It was quite refreshing to see them allparticipating together – such a wide variety of talent from so many differing backgrounds. Aseveryone anticipated being served, it was quite an elegant and soothing performance. Then

after dinner, they broke out into joyful dancing with tambourines, colorful scarves and otherprops. Those married or otherwise attached petitioned their men to dance, and thoseunattached made new acquaintances. It really was quite a joyous occasion and everyone had amagnificent time. This year there was a rumor that one of the King’s sons, and some particularmen of great talent, would perform a visually stimulating light show. Of course no one knewexactly what to expect. So folks were prepared for anything from fire to lightning, as this wasthe sort of extravaganza that was possible this time of year in Salem.

The specifics of what would take place Balazzare’ was not aware. He cared not as he waspreoccupied with other matters. As such, he decided to step out onto a balcony to get somefresh air and silence. He looked off into the night, back towards where he called home. A partof him was considering what needed to be done, and another part of him trying to let it go.There was always something to be done. He looked to the stars filling the sky, as snow fell onhis face melting on his skin. The terrace was well lit with several burning torches behind him.Taking his gaze off of the night sky, he turned to lean against the rail and noticed his ownshadow. It suddenly dawned on him how bizarre this shady manifestation was - a replicareflecting no beauty, only darkness. “What is the purpose in that?” he thought. Then he let itgo, “just another mystery…” he supposed in a whisper to himself.

He wandered back inside and saw Shebna already ordering the other stewards and yeomanaround. Shebna had done this countless times and Balazzare’ felt no need whatsoever to check

in with him. Now it was his time to do a little preparation.

After the public banquet was done, the Castle Officers would serve their stewards and yeoman.This was an important time of bonding since they all worked so closely together as a team on anumber of varying projects. Balazzare’ took careful inventory of his direct reports. He madeconscious notes through the year knowing well in advance the gifts he would distribute. Highlytalented craftsman would design an ornate medal of honor in regards to Shebna’s service. Itwas gold with rubies, diamonds and black onyx. He knew in advance it was exactly what hewould desire most. It would go well with his favorite robes he wore to all the special holidayevents as Chief Steward and Administrator. Moments later when Balazzare’ saw Shebna open

the gift and his intuition was confirmed. Shebna’s face shown with delight, as he promptlypinned the medal proudly on his chest.

Finally there was a private meal with the King for His Officers and family at the Royal table. TheKing himself and His personal staff prepared a truly miraculous meal. Upon walking into theroom, the scent was absolutely intoxicating. Silence was not hard to come by, since all inattendance had served in some capacity throughout the day, and mouthwatering anticipationand hunger had set in.




After thanking Father for provision, all you could hear was the clanking of silverware andglasses. Everyone tried to maintain a balance of dignity and grace while their appetites weregiving them every instinct to devour the delicious food in front of them. The sons would rapidlyfinish their first course, and then help themselves to a second serving. Subsequently, they

could be heard abruptly asking for butter, salt and pepper from one end of the room toanother. One of the women would always be sure to say something about slowing down and“tasting” their food, but it was to no avail.

After things calmed a bit, the King would always give them some pristine information on Hisnewest creations, tidbits of wisdom, and even some humor. The room would vary betweensilences, as they listened to the details of such new wonders, and roaring laughter after anamusing and jovial story. At times, the King would tenderly sing to give a more profounddescription of the splendor and essence of a newborn spirit, which gave off an ambiance of euphoria.

Desert was always quite a glorious adventure, since each Christmas King Elyon’s chef created anentirely new delight that no one had ever tasted before. After desert all the formalities werefinished. The staff along with the Officer’s extended family was dismissed, to pursue their ownpersonal gatherings and conversation, which had been arranged spontaneously throughout theevening. Amusement and chatter followed the dissipating group as they wandered out thedoor.

Only the Officers of the Castle remained with King Elyon. They retired from the table and tookto more comfortable surroundings in a living area with a great hearth. The fire took on all kindsof tongue like shapes with every color imaginable. The purple, blue, red, orange and yellow fire

would dance about – it was fantastically mesmerizing.

There was a quite important reason for the King and His Officers to be alone in this type of setting, because they were not only His ruling class, but also His sons. He longed for this timeto share with them, and they equally enjoyed it with him. It had been this way since anyonecould ever remember.

At the appropriate time, “Father El” as they affectionately called Him, would give each of hissons a chance to ask for an eternal spiritual capability. His sons did not have any material needsor wants, but they were rulers and as such bore great responsibility. These spiritual capability

gifts would increase wisdom, creativity, charisma, etc. Father El would always make sure toremind all of them that, “with such great ability came the accountability to be a great blessingto their peoples.”

Balazzare’ found himself lost in the black and red flames of the fire. His brother’s requests andthe subsequent conversation became a blur in the background of his imagination. Balazzare’was continually entrenched in ambitious reflection. He saw a great need to ensure his realmwas extremely industrious. Taking time to contemplate the asking of spiritual capabilities, he




Chapter 2Chapter 2Chapter 2Chapter 2: : : : The Shadow The Shadow The Shadow The Shadow ~~~~

It didn’t take Balazzare’ long once he cleared the portal outside of Salem to enter his own city

gate. Apollinaris was a densely populated city, with an embodiment of constant animation,that he had designed from the ground up. He had chosen the highest mountain and leveled thepeak. This created a massive plateau which would be the foundation and boundary for hismetropolis. Early in the design phase, he had called for a centerpiece structure to be a tributereflecting his distinctiveness. Balazzare’s prized temple began as a stone structure whichresembled something similar in Salem. Still something more was needed, and so a monumentwas built in the heart of the temple. Iron was brought in by the ton. City workers toiled manyhours, to complete what would be the prongs for the setting of his exquisite masterpiece. Afterthe laborious work was finished, he brought in an embodiment himself which he considered hismagnum opus. Once it was set in place, Balazzare’ did the honors and created the spark thatset ablaze his colossal orb of fire. Its massive size and sheer intensity gave off enough heat toneutralize the cold of winter for quite a radius. Also, it was used to provide the significantamount of energy needed to complete the projects Balazzare’ had set forth. This predominantpoint was also where his home was. He had built a sleek and lustrous pyramid shaped tower,which straddled the heat and energy producing orb. You could see the skyscraper shimmeringday or night for miles and even from far above. His living quarters were at the very top of thistower, from which he was able to oversee his entire ordered production taking place at once.

Once he cleared the portal gate, his personal attendant greeted him with a bureaucraticsalutation, which Balazzare’ largely ignored. The official took his cloak, which was unnecessarybecause of the heat emanating from the orb even though it was winter time.

“Prince Balazzare’” said his personal attendant, “will you be requiring any further assistancetonight?” Even in his tired condition, Balazzare’ gloated in the veneration that came with hisposition of power in his homeland that he had created. Regardless of the affirmation,Balazzare’ dismissively dusted the attendant off with a gesture who gave a closing salutationand went on his way.

Prince Balazzare’ approached his tower, his home, his monument and great source of energyand pride – the orb of fire. He drew close to it, and let his gaze fall upon it. It lacked thekaleidoscope of color Father El’s tongues of flame, appearing in reds and oranges, but what it

lacked in beauty it made up for in sheer power. The Prince meditatively focused on the raginginferno, “Yes, power was the answer, power…power…power.” At that moment he turned hisback to the fiery orb, and took a glance upon the city that he had built. His heart pounded ashe thought to himself, how majestic, how assiduous, and how magnificent. Yes indeed, he saidto himself, and just then he looked at the wall of the building not far from him. There it wasagain…his shadow.




The dark silhouette moved with quick aggression, seizing upon on the moment of opportunity.It entered into Prince Balazzare’s’ soul through the access gateway of pride. The Prince lost allof the air he had in his lungs, and he felt paralyzed and helpless. He gasped, and his eyeswidened, as he attempted to regain his control. After what seemed like hours, but in realitywas only a few seconds, his air and then his senses returned.

“Enlightenment,” something seemed to be whispering to him.

“Knowledge” it said. “Supremacy” it coerced. “Control” he heard himself say out loud. Yesthat is it. This is what he had been waiting for, but did not know how to obtain it. It was a giftFather would never relinquish.

“What is your name?” He spoke to the phantom now in the abode of himself.

“sssssss”…came a whisper like a gentle voice.

Silence.

It came yet again “sssssss”…again he heard the whisper.

Silence.

“Tell me what your name is?” Balazzare’ questioned.

His anguish, frustration and all the conflicting emotions he had felt before bubbled to thesurface. He turned to face the fiery orb. “The orb that I built” his mind shouted!

“…YOUR NAME!” He shouted uncompromisingly and with fury.

Again the whisper “ssssSSS…” – “Satan!” he heard himself shout.

“SATAN! SATAN! SATAN! I AM SATAN he shouted out with a roar.

He looked into the night’s starry sky, still keeping the glow of the orb in his peripheral view.Many strategic plans of sinister ambition ran through his mind. He stayed there all night, juststaring and releasing cackles into the dark air.




Chapter 3: Chapter 3: Chapter 3: Chapter 3: Making the Request Making the Request Making the Request Making the Request

~~~~

“I’d like to have The Ring Father.” Balazzare’ said with an undertone of insolence that did notgo unnoticed by King Elyon’s court.

The court was caught unsuspectingly by this shocking bombshell. You could hear a gasp or twobefore the room fell to utter silence. The unfounded presumption was unreservedly obvious,but the profound and the eternal reaching implications were only fully known by One.

“The Ring” specified in Balazzare’s request, unmistakably referred to the King’s Signet Ring .Each of the King’s sons wore a signet ring with their original heraldry engraved on the face. Thisreflected their respective individual Offices and realms of rulership. It was also used for

practical matters, acting as a legally binding seal. So there was symbol and substance, powerand practical, attached to each of the rings. There were others in the Kingdom that had rings,denoting a person’s position or office. However, a large majority had freedom from this type of

jewelry and the responsibility it bears.

King Elyon never flinched, not a blink, a gasp, not a single visible move.

Joshua’s gaze went back and forth between his twin brother and his Father. His mind wasracing to pick up the pieces of the metaphoric crystal egg that had just been shattered intothousands of pieces on the throne room floor. Aghast at the newfound dilemma, Joshua let hiseyes and faculties turn their attention to his brother.

His thoughts led him back to the most recent happenstance he could remember. At theChristmas Feast, as Balazzare’ departed, there was an unmistakable, awkward coldness to theirlast farewell. As he thought more on his relationship with his brother, he discovered aperversely competitive spirit he had not recognized before. In a thick, smoky haze Joshua couldbarely make it out. Ah, there it was! It certainly was hidden behind the scenes waiting topounce like a predator on its prey.

The first thing that came to Joshua’s mind was a time when they were children. Joshua hadbegun to take a great interest in his Father’s flocks. He would spend hours in the fields as a

young boy caring for the sheep. He spent much time asking Father El all kinds of questions,reading books, and taking in anything that was available. He could remember the gorgeousgreen hills, in stark contrast to the deep blue skies. The lambs were puffs of white on the grass,as the clouds were white puffs in the sky. He would lie on his back, just looking up andpicturing that clouds were sheep, casually bumping into one another. Then as he was lyingthere, he would feel the soft wet kiss, by the tongue of a young ewe lamb. He becameespecially fond of this ewe lamb. There were many days he would just spend time with it alone




wandering in the woods. When a bond like this transformed into a friendship with an animal,they would receive a name. Joshua named the lamb Davey.

Balazzare’ spent much time on his own establishing his position. He would sit in the publicsquare and the streets daily studying architecture, building materials and the trades. He was a

large and handsome man, as the King’s sons were. Balazzare’ had long dark curls and was builtrather broadly. His strikingly attractive appearance was renowned throughout the Kingdom.Having the most natural physical strength of all the sons he longed for the opportunity tochallenge his brothers often winning wrestling matches and other tests of brute strength.Jamikal was the only one who could match his brute power with any regularity. Joshua partookin the athletics as well, but had a more lean build and had to rely on quick reflexes andinstincts. He was the fastest in the group and had a hard time finding anyone that wouldcompete with him in a race. Each of the sons had their own forte. Father El reminded themthat He intended it to be as such. Father would often say “Not one of you has all of the gifts,but you can also be assured that each one has at least one unique gift” – this was a reminderwhether in sport or occupation to have mercy, respect, appreciation and mutual admiration forone another.

One day Joshua’s lamb, Davey, had gotten a bit too adventurous and wandered from thesecurity of the barn and fence arena. Davey was busy chasing blue and orange butterflies andmade his way out to the green hills. He was having so much fun, that he forgot where he wasand he became lost in the woods.

Joshua was waiting for Davey to come home. He waited for a very long time, long enough tolose track…

Joshua heard a knock on his bedroom door and hurriedly got himself up, sure that he would seeDavey. He opened the door with eager anticipation only to drop to the ground in a torrent of tears. What he saw in that moment was Balazzare’ holding a limp lamb in his arms – Davey waslifeless. Davey took it, held it and kissed it and sobbed for hours.

Balazzare’ finally spoke. “…A wild animal. I found it when I was hunting in the North woods…”

Soon after Balazzare’ left Joshua scooped up the lifeless ball of white fur in his arms and ran forhis Father.

“Father! Father! Father!” Joshua exclaimed.

“Father look what has happened! Look what has happened to Davey!”

Joshua lost his words breaking into sobs and tears that he planted in his Father’s chest. FatherEl kissed his head and told him how sorry He was this had happened.




The next morning Joshua heard a knock at his door. He barely could get out of bed. It was allhe could do to push back the covers and throw his legs off of the bed to stand erect. Heopened his bedroom door. It was his Father.

“Yes Father”?

“Put on some clothes and shoes and prepare a pack for yourself. We are going on a hike totake care of Davey.”

“Okay Father” was Joshua’s reply. He had no idea where they were going or what “take care of Davey” meant, but he got ready nonetheless.

When he was ready, he stepped outside of his room where his Father was waiting for him.They walked together through a door to go outside. There Joshua saw a donkey with Davey’swhite furry body tied down to its back. In the silence of the moment Joshua could hear thecrunching of gravel beneath his shoes. They began to walk in the direction of a great mountainthat overlooked the North Woods from the beyond. Joshua didn’t ask his Father where theywere going, he had learned to trust Him wholly. After walking a ways, Joshua told his Fatherhow he had discovered the news about Davey. Father El listened patiently and simply toldJoshua “I’m so sorry,” and that He loved him.

Finally, they had made it to the highest natural plateau on the mountain. Father El askedJoshua to gather wood and sticks. Joshua did this quickly. As Joshua found and gatheredbrushwood, he handed it to his Father, who then made a bed and final resting place for Davey.When it was finished, they took one of Davey’s hooves in each hand and gently laid him down.

Father lit the brush and sticks on fire. As it burned, Joshua wept again and buried his head inthe chest that was always so readily available on this difficult journey. Pulling his head up, helooked at his Father’s face and saw him wipe a tear away.

“Son” Father El said, “I need to explain to you about Davey.”

“Davey’s life has escaped him, which is called death. My original design did not include death,although I knew it would occur one day. The causation for this travesty is called evil. I alsonever desired for this to come about, but its origination was inescapable. Evil is like theantithesis of a flower blossom. Similar in structure, they both have a root. The root of evil is

pride. It is this entity – “pride” that killed Davey. I am so sorry son.”

Joshua soon found out that this was not the end of this rather deep conversation, just thebeginning. He and his Father would be on the mountain together for forty days.

Breaking out of a trancelike state, he was suddenly aware of his physical presence back in theRoyal Courtroom. Joshua changed his gaze from Balazzare’ to his Father. Davey’s death toldhim all he needed to know about this present licentious proposal.




Father El quickly became King Elyon, as he sat forward on his throne. He looked Balazzare’ inthe face, and said with absolute certainty, “No.”

Balazzare’ did not expect such a short and pointed answer. He reacted poorly to his Father’s

blunt reply. “That is unfair!” Balazzare’ retorted. “You granted time to make my request, andnow I make it – The Ring!” Then he quickly quieted and collected himself.

Unaffected by this absurd rebuttal, King Elyon still leaning forward with authority, said, “Thegift you ask for and the gift I promised are quite different in nature. Are they not Balazzare’?”

Balazzare’ was well prepared for this line of argument, and he shifted from rebuttal topleasantry in a slithering sort of dark eloquence.

“Touché, my Father, and may I remind our King of all the deeds on my resume from my years of service to the Kingdom? Also, I would be remiss without mentioning my strategic plans for thebetterment and beautification of the Kingdom. I am sure it is not outside of the King’s realm of observation to see all the productivity and industry in my humble abode. I would simply seekto extend my graciousness and spiritual gifting beyond the feast times. I wish to be a service toour great City of Salem, to the entire Kingdom – a servant to the people.”

Balazzare’s’ speech went on beyond this, but with the same deceptive magnanimous spirit,until he had come full circle to his close – the request.

“With this abundance of evidence, resulting in benefit and good for my fellow man, may I haveThe Ring ?”

King Elyon grabbed his scepter and rose to stand in front of the throne. There was completeand utter silence, the kind of which no one had ever experienced. Needless to say, the Kingwas not deceived.

“Balazzare’,” the King said, “you have knowingly made a request with eternal repercussions tothe Kingdom, yourself, and all who would listen in their hearts to you. Bringing forth suchserious destructive consequences requires JUDGEMENT and JUSTICE to come forth.”

Silence…

Then the King raised His scepter, which prepared the court to hear His judgment.

“Balazzare’, you are removed from your Office of High Treasurer, Administrator, and Holder of The Keys and all other offices held. Furthermore, you are barred from Holiday Feastattendance. As a proper successor, your authority and responsibility for the City of Salem andthe Holiday Feasts are given to Joshua. Give over immediately, The Keys to my personalattendant.”




Chapter 4: Dark Corners Chapter 4: Dark Corners Chapter 4: Dark Corners Chapter 4: Dark Corners

~

Even after some time had passed, many whispers of Balazzare’s rebellious request filled theKingdom. Quiet debate and discussion began to take place in dark corners.

The shadow’s frequency of possessing Balazzare’ was increasing at an alarming rate. The morehe focused on his anger and jealousy, the more it would physically and emotionally manifestitself within him. He began to have two-way conversations with himself.

“Satan” he said to himself, “it is time to seek out the lost, the disparaged and the hungry.Whispers have been sent out. Where is the answer to what it is we seek?”

Shebna was sent on missions outside his own realm to persuasively speak in undertones tothose who had been wronged. He was pleased to find many spreading murmurs of their own.Their numbers increased daily, more than could be counted. Shebna gave promises of recompense, for those who felt wronged or slighted by the King or his sons.

Rumors, Recompense, Revelry….Rebellion!

Gratification, Gaiety, Gloating…Glory for all - not just one!

So said the swindler.

Shebna brought news to Satan of defectors from the Holy City itself. A smattering of officialshad taken up the cause. He found those passed over for advancement. They were not content.A banker found a baker, a baker a butler and soon there were several empty posts.

Eliakim, Joshua’s chief steward of the treasury, noticed many discrepancies in the periodicaccounting reports. Further, there began to surface reports of missing items of great value. Itbecame a common occurrence for workers not to show at their post, and many were missingfrom the city altogether. Bailey was overseer of Salem’s portal gate and gave a startlingaccount. He reported personally witnessing Korbyl and his brother Keyshawn, both treasuryyeoman, leaving the gate weighed down carrying several satchels.

…And so the underground rebellion took place by the King’s own son. Yet it was onlyunderground to the extent that there was no formal announcement. For it was universallyknown throughout the Kingdom that this virtually open uprising had begun.

The King was well aware of what was taking place, and the day came for the summons.




Malak, one of the King’s messengers came to the door of Balazzare’s tower. An attendant sentfor Shebna. Soon enough, Shebna was at the door with a chillingly smug demeanor.

“To what occasion do we owe the pleasure Malak? Have you elected to join our regalrenovation?” Shebna mockingly remarked.

Malak was rather unadventurous and even bit reclusive. However, his resolve wasunquestionable, and this made him a perfect choice for this errand. The messenger handedShebna a scroll which was an official summons. With that he did an about face and left for theportal gate. Shebna hurriedly delivered the scroll to Balazzare’. The leader of the rebellionunrolled it. He studied it for a moment and then tossed it onto his credenza.

“What is it my lord?” Shebna inquired weakly.

“A summons,” Balazzare’ plainly replied still in deep thought.

“Are you going master?” queried Shebna.

“Of course” replied Balazzare’. “What do we have to fear? Look at the vast support we aregathering. Nearly one third of the Kingdom now stands behind our intrepid cause.”

The sands of time passed hastily, and soon the day had come. The summons was due.

Balazzare’, Shebna and a scribe were the only ones to go. They walked down the streettogether and through the portal gate to Salem. The courtroom was empty, with the exceptionof the King and Joshua, who were already waiting for them.

“What is your report to Me on the state of your kingdom Balazzare’?” King Elyon spoke forth.

“Splendid my King. My entire kingdom is splendid,” was Balazzare’s sarcastic reply.

“Why have you sought to persuade others to your cause of perdition?” King Elyon statedbrusquely.

This was the second time Balazzare’ was caught unexpectedly. The King had an inherentcapability to strike words into the heart of the issue at hand. Differing from the first time, he

managed to keep silent for a pause, and collected himself before replying.

Balazzare’ feigned innocence and ignorance, which was a very predictable defense. “What inparticular are you referring to my King?” questioned Balazzare. He left only brief pause beforecontinuing, “I am unaware of any behavior of that nature that would take place in my kingdomamong my subjects. However, if you have a list of the perpetrators I will have them hastilyrounded up to answer for this offense.”




Chapter 5: Chapter 5: Chapter 5: Chapter 5: The Precious The Precious The Precious The Precious Courtroom Courtroom Courtroom Courtroom

~The night sky was a dark, black manifestation of evil over the city of Apollinaris. Swirls of fogrolled along the cities’ walkways and streets. A great focus of ingenuity and entrepreneurshiphad been put forth to counterfeit King Elyon’s joys and blessings. One of the most popular wasa newly invented stimulant provided a form of immediate gratification. Lokiel, a former employof the Royal Castle, had put together a new beverage which produced light headedness andlaughter. The people simply called it “Spirits”. Clearly, this was a blatant mockery of “Bliss”.“Bliss” was the indwelling euphoria King Elyon often talked about during some of his mostnotable Holiday Feast speeches. The demand for drinking “Spirits” became so high, thatresources such as buildings and workers were dedicated solely to this pastime. At first Shebnadiscouraged this novelty, but Satan pulled him aside and explained its subliminal powers of

control. He said it was an essential ingredient, in their scheme to “seduce the people”. He laterexplained the manipulative philosophy in more detail. Since then Shebna and his closecompatriots had come up with new and more powerful intoxications.

Many were persuaded by the delusion sent forth by Satan and his minions. Periodicallysomeone new would walk through the portal gate into his city. Shebna had staff dedicated asgreeters to make sure a home was found for them. Construction was constant. The clamor of busyness became standard background noise throughout their planets. Countryside,mountains, hills, jungle and every sort of wilderness were bulldozed to make way for aprogressive new lifestyle. The new converts were taken on a tour and introductions weremade. They would end the tour with a private meeting with Shebna. He would explain to themthe rich rewards of exceeding productivity expectations – “upward mobility” he called it. Someof the newcomers were overwhelmed, and some elated with anticipation. Many had never hadthe capability of upward mobility within the social class system of their former kingdom. Thehigher ranking converts often were immediately rewarded. Many times this was a recruitingincentive that had been used to lure them to Apollinaris in the first place. They were offeredpositions and titles that had previously eluded them, under King Elyon and his sons.

When a rookie class would be completed, a grand reception celebration would take place. Amyriad of acquaintances were made. Friendships were formed rapidly. This was handily aidedby the “spirit” beverages, just as Satan had predicted and explained to Shebna. Unbeknownst

to the new citizen, and often times the indoctrinators, a rapid informal subconsciouspropaganda program was taking place at work and leisure time.

Satan sent spies and recruiters into his brother’s realms. Consequently, galactic borderskirmishes broke out as families became divided. Physical fights broke out, and brawls ensuedspreading into the streets. Sports equipment of all sorts was modified into weapons. It was




used to cause bodily harm which spread terror throughout the Cosmos. Villages were raidedwith despicable deeds and merciless acts inflicted on defenseless people.

Many reports were made and delivered to Salem. Royal High Court, Official Legal Summonswere sent. Royal High Court, Official Legal Summons were ignored.

Armies were raised rapidly by each realm. Massive amounts of time were spent, innovatingand developing advanced technology for war. Shebna announced longer work hours, andfactories were built dedicated to the production of automated war machines. Scientists studiedavidly with one focus. They continually found new ways to destroy enemy existence andresources. A heavy burden of taxation was announced and imposed. A few minor riots brokeout, but were quickly put down. There was a significant incident involving a radical plot onShebna’s life, but it was put down by the militia. After which, Shebna implemented a specialPraetorian Guard dedicated to the protection of Satan and himself.

Countless casualties and endless destruction left families, lands and even worlds destroyed.Famines broke out, desperation and depression prevailed.

The war had an explosive introduction. It all began when Satan struck the first major blow witha massive invasion. His armies poured into a nearby galaxy which was ruled by his formerbrother Jamikal. They were longtime rivals, both having the greatest physical strength assiblings. The surprise of the first attack by Satan’s army caught his brother flatfooted, andcompletely unaware. This gave his realm what they believed was a telling victory, and causedtheir pride to swell even further. However, Jamikal’s neighboring brothers came to his aid, andSatan was driven back into his own realm.

Being severely outnumbered, and without the advantage of surprise, Satan turned toapocalyptic, metaphysical weapons of mass destruction. This strategy led to a temporaryadvantage. However, it was soon countered by defense technology and proactive strikes onfactories dedicated to building these weapons of mass destruction.

Subsequent times Satan had rebuilt his army and launched new offensive attacks against hisformer brothers. This time they took the warfront into Satan’s dark territory and his planetstook a heavy toll of destruction. Many of his outlaying worlds were destroyed and becamebarren. This left Satan in a dilemma since his ambitions never tapered off. This hunger led tofurther depletion, severely limited his remaining planet’s resources. He could ill afford to have

the people’s will turn against him. He became nearly mad in his insidious drive for newdestructive technologies. Greater gambles led to greater losses - bitter pills for a being withgreat pride to swallow. It came to the point where Satan had makeshift ruins of only oneviable planet left. Satan was outnumbered and outmatched.

A good majority of Satan’s minions lost hope and fled the planet. They took abodes in anyplace they could find and adopted a life of temporary residences. Satan had seemingly run out




of options. He decided to call a meeting with King Elyon. Shebna was sent to deliver therequest and he returned with a date and time for the High Royal Courtroom.

Soon enough the day came, and Satan walked through the portal gateway with Shebna in tow.It had been quite some time since he had been to Salem. He had ignored all the legal summons

for quite a while, and the wars had lasted for many millennia. What Satan had lost insmugness, he had gained in grizzled anger - which was impossible to root out at this point. Ithad become who he was. His teeth ground together harder each step he took towards hisFather’s castle.

It was as he expected when he entered the courtroom, just King Elyon and Joshua – no oneelse. With the exception of King Elyon, who had been prepared for some time, each of themtook a moment to settle themselves. The King waited patiently until the shuffling of garments,satchels, and the like came to a hush.

“Has your rebellion brought you the outcome you had hoped?” King Elyon inquired.

Already brisling with anger and disdain for the figurehead which was once his Father and King,Satan bellowed out, “It is unfair! You are merely more powerful, and I am severelyoutnumbered. Nevertheless, that does not make my cause or my case any less.”

“I demand equality!” “I demand opportunity!” “I demand choice!”

“You have the strength. But, does that give you the right? You do not love me. You do notlove my people. You have the power to rule. However, you are unloving and unfair and Idemand satisfaction!!!”

King Elyon allowed a longer than normal pause. This let the stench of malicious accusationclear the air a bit. Even with the wisdom and advance knowledge of all things, the seriousnessof matter at hand called for careful consideration.

“I hear your many accusations taking them under consideration,” said King Elyon, simply as anacknowledgement that Satan had spoken.

“The remaining planet in your realm, the third from the Sun, you are the steward of this planet – correct?” King Elyon probed.

There was silence, the cause of which was Satan’s thoughts still processing. What King Elyonstated was true and there was no denying it. It had been a very long time since anyonereminded Satan that he was a ruler over many, but still a steward to the King.

Finally Satan answered a simple “yes.”




Then King Elyon did something that only Joshua had foreknowledge of. It caught Satan andShebna by complete surprise. He offered a compromise and proposal.

“While it is true that I am able to rule by strength, it is of eternal importance and consequencethat love and freewill be established.”

“In this, I am willing to offer a legal and living archetype. Should you accept, this modelprovides you and I with the equal opportunity for rulership, within the constraints that I setforth. However, you may not overstep your bounds or consequences shall be enforced.”

“People will be influenced by My Spirit and yours - My plan for salvation and yours. You havebecome a father of many things, the lie, betray, death, war and much more. As such, it isproper that you have an eternal kingdom of which to call your own. Your fiery orb is planted ina habitation which has given birth to a place called Hades and Hell. You are the master of thisdominion. The people I will create will be called “man” and they will have a final opportunity tohave eternal habitation in your realm or Mine.”

“If you are willing to accept these general terms, I will have the specific guidelines andprocedures drawn up. Do you accept?”

The decision seemed rather simple, and this gave Satan renewed wicked aspiration. Up to thispoint, the greatest obstacle he was unable to overcome was the King’s Sovereign power. InSatan’s mind, by standing on equal ground with Him on this matter it gave him a decidedadvantage. He saw how the people of his world craved the immediate gratification. They wereeasily enticed by lustful indulgences. Satan was sure this would be a battle he could win, andwinning was power. How foolish his former father was.

“I accept” said Satan.

…and so began the age of man, which we know as “Adam” and his wife “Eve” in Genesis.

Epilogue:

One day on a long walk, Joshua asked his Father what he would do with these people he wouldcreate, when his purposes had been carried out. Father El replied, “The road is narrow son andmany will take the wide road of destruction.” “And, for those Father choosing this narrow

road?” replied Joshua. “Earth itself is a home and needs inhabitants. Besides we’ve lost onethird of our Kingdom citizens’ son, which means there are offices and positions to fill…”

At that moment they reached the summit of the mountain. They sat together at the place theyhad given Joshua’s lamb Davey a funeral, long ago. Together, they looked at the horizon andwatched a glorious sunset - the end of a day.




Chapter 6: A Sinner’s Remorse Chapter 6: A Sinner’s Remorse Chapter 6: A Sinner’s Remorse Chapter 6: A Sinner’s Remorse

~~~~

Adam leaned hard into the handle of the spade, which he was using to turn up dirt. Theremorse was agonizing, and seemed like more than he could bear. He had tried to comfort hiswife the best that he knew how, but it was of no use. Each day seemed harder than the next.Now he faced this tragedy, the death of his son. What was worse, it was no accident, but agruesome act carried out by another son. How horrifying. What an absolute failure as a fatherhe was. His mind said aloud, “what kind of a plan is this, to have me be the father of allmankind? Surely you’ve made a mistake in your creation Father. I should have been a sacrifice,like the sheep you commanded us to take a knife to.”

His questioning thoughts bordering on anger drifted off, and then Adam’s mind went back tothe task at hand. There was something about putting his son back into the ground that gavehim a little peace. He was made by the Father’s hand from the ground, and now this is wherehe was burying his son. “Dust to dust,” he muttered to himself out loud. It was plainly said byGod that he, Eve and all their children would die one day. How could he ever tolerate that?One death was more than he could bear, and what of Eve? She would never be consoled overthe death of her son. Once they were so close, “flesh of his flesh,” and now there was a distinct“wall of coldness”. All of this was unbelievably intolerable.

He would lay the lifeless body of his son Able, into the pit he was nearly finished digging. Andwhere was Cain??! He had no idea where the perpetrator, his son Cain was. God had told himwhat had transpired, and where Able’s body was. Since that day, neither he nor Eve had seen

Cain. It was like losing two sons. And, for practical purposes it was. Surely Cain was ashamed,angry and quite possibly afraid. He had sensed something was wrong, but he never would haveguessed it would end in murder! How could he ever think of such a thought? Still as Cain’sfather he knew where mistakes came from – “Me!” He said in his mind, as he hit himself in thechest harshly.

The first man of earth looked down at the first dead man on planet earth - his own son. Howutterly agonizing! The finality was really setting in hard as it was getting time to say “goodbye.”

“I love you Able,” Adam said out loud.

“Your mother loves you Able…”

”I wish I could have been there for you son.”

“I wish somehow it could have been me that died and not you,” as tears began to well up in hiseyes.




“I remember the lamb you took to the alter that day son. It was an outstanding one. Your verybest.”

“I know how hard that must have been for you.”

“I’m proud of you Able, really and truly proud.” Adam lost control of his emotions falling to hisknees and sobbing for quite some time. Until no more tears would come. So it came to pass,Able’s blood was spilled out on the ground, and now his father’s tears were spilled out there aswell. There was no more left to do – it was finished.

Adam gently picked up his son’s body, and he laid it in the grave. He gave him one lastembrace, and kissed his forehead.

“Sleep easy son, until the day I see your face again. Sleep easy son.” Adam had a few moretears and sobs that remained, which fell on Able’s chest.

He couldn’t bear the sadness. So he hurriedly took the spade, and tossed dirt onto his son’sbody. The first few shovels were the hardest. Then the rest came but only the slightest biteasier. It took all the strength Adam had to finish the job. When the dirt mound was complete,he dropped his tool, and went to the thicket and broke off two branches. Along the way hepulled up some long grasses, and made his way back to what was now his son’s gravesite. Hedidn’t want to forget where this place was. Maybe when she was ready Eve would be able togive a few words to her son, and it would give her some closure. So Adam tied the stickstogether with the long grass, just as God had taught them to do for the sacrifice of the lambs.He put the “cross” made of sticks in the mound as a marker where his son was laid to rest. Thiswould be a testament to his “lamb,” his son - Able.

It was getting late, and darkness was falling quickly. Adam admired the sunset, as he wiped hisbrow. This reminded him of God’s words after he and Eve had sinned – “by the sweat of yourbrow…” Now, it had more to do with burying his son than planting crops. He still vividlyremembered the events as they happened. Though ashamed, and deeply dismayed, he had noidea what the full impact of what God’s words were that day. However, shortly thereafterAdam got a real sense of the severity of sin. He and his wife began to see the chaoticdestruction, and literal earth shattering changes that were taking place.

Adam’s thoughts took him back to that stitch in time…

Adam awoke in a sweat. He and Eve were no longer naked. God had mercifully taught themabout sacrifice, of which they used the animal pelts as clothing. He could see Eve, and she wasstill sleeping soundly, as beautiful as ever. There was a great noise about which Adam hadnever heard. A deep rumbling and the ground shook with tremendous tremors. At a greatdistance, he saw where their home had been. Eden which was slowly but surely being lifted outof the Earth, and carried away into the dark night sky. God had reshaped and encased it, in aprotective and circular stone like shape, with a roughly hewn surface. Adam looked downward




and could make out where Eden used to be. The crater was filling in rapidly with water. Itseemed like it was sufficiently protective, when God placed an angel to bar them from their oldhome. Although, Adam remembered many times when he was tempted to get a closer look,and dreamt about the paradise they had lost.

It was helpful that God explained some of what had taken place. He told Adam that the pain,anguish, and remorse may feel like more than he could bear. But, said it would ease with time.His Heavenly Father also mentioned that there would be further repercussions of sin. Muchwould occur that Adam could not possibly anticipate, causing further suffering. God sensed allof this was overbearing, and then He told Adam:

“Adam, through one man’s sin death has entered the world. You do not fully know how greatthis death is, or how much it will hurt you. But, one day soon you will. When it does occur Iwant you to remember a promise. As a father, you care greatly for your children, and yourheart will agonize over the pain they experience. Their death will be the greatest agony you willfeel. To comfort you, I give you a promise that you will have children that will never tastedeath. The last generation of this earth will bear a great remnant of this promise. The womb of a woman will bring forth the salvation of man, and your kind will be whole again.”

“As such, I give you a sign for understanding and remembering. When I created you, I did sofrom the dust of the earth. When I created the woman, I did not create her from the earth. Icreated her from your side, and your very own flesh. A wife, in many ways is like a garden thatyou value, nurture, and protect. Your former home Eden is a precious garden in similitude to awife. I have set it in the sky, so that it will not be defiled by what takes place on this earth.“Moon, “is its name. It is the stone I have carved out without hands, and it will become like apearl in the night sky.”

“Adam, in the day you receive light from the sun and it sustains you. It gives life to plants andanimals. In this way, it is a reflection of my nature towards you. The sun is unfathomably large.This home you live in now called earth revolves around the sun. This is a picture of ourrelationship.”

“In the garden you let your wife come between you and Me. So in this way, when the “bride”or Moon, comes between the sun and earth, it will be dark. When you look up in the sky youwill not be able to see it, and this will remind you of the darkness of sin.”

“Through faith and perseverance, when you look up the next night, you will see a sliver of light.This is the beginning of new life. This is a symbol for new hope.”

“Each night the Moon will progress, until the time when it is fully lighted. This is called “fullMoon”. The Moon is fully lit, when it is behind the earth in relation to the sun. This is a granddisplay of the bride’s beauty, like the day you and Eve were married. The light is not of herown, but a reflection of the Sun. In a similar manner, I designed a wife to emulate my qualitiesin her special way. When the bride is properly behind her husband, the earth, she will be a




grand object full of light. Then it will be said, she is a wife beautifully adorned for herhusband.”

“There will be a day when I turn the earth upside down. This will cause a great force to drawthe Moon, containing Eden, back to earth. In this day, men on the earth will faint with fear.

But, men in heaven will leap with joy! They recall my words, “and I saw coming from heaven abride adorned for her husband.” So it shall be in that day Adam. I did not want to move yourhome, and your paradise so far from you, that you would lose hope. It is where you can see itto remind you each passing night. Teach this to your children, and your children’s children. Callthis to mind when things are darkest, and remember you have a reason for hope. The Moonshall be a measure for time, dates, and seasons. Most of all, it is for the appointed time of finalredemption.”

So this day, with all the pain and anguish, was proper for Adam to remember and ponder all of these things. The hour grew late, and he gazed up in the sky. He remembered God’s words andpromises. Adam looked up into the night sky, and he saw the sliver of the “New Moon,” andhope filled his heart.




Book III: Age of Faith Book III: Age of Faith Book III: Age of Faith Book III: Age of Faith




Chapter 7: Chapter 7: Chapter 7: Chapter 7: Star Chaser Star Chaser Star Chaser Star Chaser

~

Abram stared into the overhead interior surface of the tent. He had tossed and turned quite awhile, not able to sleep a wink. There was a frayed stitch on the seam above his head. Hewould be sure to mention it to his wife in the morning. Good thing it was not raining, or they’dbe getting wet about now. But, as it was, it let in the cool night air and a view to the stars.Sarai was an incredibly good seamstress. It seemed that nearly once a week Abram wouldcatch his cloak on something in the fields. He often was tending to the herds, or taking one of his contemplative hikes in the high mountain country. She would always patientlyaccommodate him by doing his mending at night in her spare time. As she was doing so, she’dsay something like, “I’d ask if you ran into a lion. Except, I suspect you and Jehovah were doingsome wrestling again. You know I am able to predict your disposition, based on what yourgarments look like, when you come back from your journey.”

He turned over again, readjusting himself carefully. Making sure he did not wake his sleepingbeauty. The land, the cattle, there were so many things to take care of. “No wonder I can’t geta good night’s rest,” Abram grumbled to himself. And, then his mind wandered back to thedifficult subject at hand. He remembered God’s voice, “Leave your family and your country…”This was no small request to take lightly, that was for sure. It certainly was a very great risk!Not only to himself, but his wife, and all those he was responsible for. Abram did his best toreaffirm in his mind, what his heart and soul was reinforcing. He went through a mentalchecklist, and replayed the day he prayed hearing His voice. There could be no mistake that hehad clearly heard “the call,” to leave this place, his father and brother. For so many years God

had prepared him for this moment, and yet he had conflicting emotions. Now it was time toact, and put into action his final decision. It was so good to have an understanding wife. Onethat did her upmost to listen to what he had to say about this God. So few had heard of Him,and fewer yet followed His ways.

Before they were married, Abram talked exhaustively about this God. He not only followed thisGod, but deeply loved Him. When they were both of marrying age, they caught each other’sattention frequently. Still in their own unique ways, they were unsure of the other onesaffection. There were polite conversations, and Abram helped carry things for her. He treatedher as a true gentleman would. But, this was all before – “the day!”

Abram had been hearing a voice in his heart. One day he set out to find out where this voicewas coming from. He spoke to no one as he prepared for his journey. He loaded the donkey’ssaddlebags with provision, and left for a sabbatical expedition. He set his sights on a great andtall peak off in the distance. It took him quite a while just to make it to the base of themountain. When he arrived, he got off the donkey and took a short break. “Are you here?”Abram said out loud, to this little known God, who had enticed his heart to make this trek. Hesat on the ground, and broke up the dust with stick. As he looked at the ground, he thought of




all the stories passed down about the creation of man, from this very substance. Life in and of itself was a philosophical concept. “What is my purpose?” He said, and then listened to theecho of his voice as it vibrated off the rocks. After some time had passed in deep thought,Abram decided to make his climb. He led the donkey along him, and he selected what lookedlike the best path. A significant amount of time had passed, and Abram’s muscles were aching

from the strain of the climb. Then unexpectedly his donkey lost its footing. Before he could doanything to prevent a fall, the donkey slid down the ledge hundreds of feet. It suffered glancingblows to its head and torso, as it fell down into a chasm. He watched it all happen, but he couldscarcely believe his eyes. As he collected himself, it suddenly set in what danger he was in. Hewas without food, water, and all other provisions he had brought with him. He was alreadyweak in the knees. This was the result of being tired, thirsty, and hungry. This tragic event thathad just happened was very troubling! He sat on a rock not knowing what to do next. Why didhe come out here? If he didn’t make it, his father and brother would likely never find him. If hemanaged somehow to make it back, his reward would be chastisement for not telling themwhere he was going. If he tried to explain to them, it was to find this God he was obsessedwith. It would just make matters worse. They simply didn’t understand him. After his mind ranout of energy thinking of all the possibilities, and consequences, he simply cried out “My God,why have you forsaken me? Why have you called me out here to die?” And then it happened.Abram clearly heard his God’s voice.

“Abram…I am your God Abram. I am the One you have been seeking. I alone am the Most Highover all the earth. There are no other Gods before me. I alone am your very great reward. Iam your provider.”

Abram was so awestruck he could say nothing. Then just as suddenly as the voice was there, itwas gone. Abram tried to put all of it to memory, by repeating it out loud to himself.

“I alone am the Most High, and there are no other gods. You are my great reward, and myprovider.”

Through adrenaline from the epiphany, Abram found his health, and he speedily went downthe side of the mountain. He was careful to watch his step all the way down. He did not wantto make the same mistake, and meet the fate of the donkey he had brought with him. Whenhe had finally reached the bottom, he passed out from exhaustion. After several hours, heawoke to a great surprise. His head had been propped up and he saw camel legs. Thensuddenly, there was someone above him…could it be? “Sarai,” he said astonished. “How did…”

he started, but she put her fingers to his lips. She gently said to him, “Rest Abram…you’ve hadquite an adventure it seems.” She cared for his needs giving him water and food. He wasnursed back to health, to the point where they had much interactive conversation. They foundsynergy in their words, as their friendship deepened. When Abram asked her how she hadknown where he was, and his dire need of rescue. She described the same voice inside herheart that he knew came from his God. His God had directed her to save him! Howfantastically amazing - this was unheard of! When it was his time to share, he told her aboutthe donkey falling, his own injuries, and all the desperate thoughts going through his head.




Then he told her about “God,” who talked to him in an audible voice. He told her howawestruck he was, and then specifically told her what Jehovah had told him.

“He alone is the Most High God Sarai. All the other gods are imposters. He said that he is myprovider and my great reward.” As Abram said this, he and Sarai’s eyes met. Though nothing

was said aloud they both knew they had made a deep connection of the heart. As they journeyed back to their home Abram knew that Sarai was a type of promise fulfillment fromGod. It truly was amazing God was rewarding him with what he was sure would one day soonbe his wife!

When they got back, a relatively short amount of time passed, and it didn’t take long for themarriage to be arranged. It really was a remarkable testimony, that this formerly unknown Godwould give them true happiness in their hearts. Through the years, they had drawn even closerto each other, and to their God. This was not without trials and tribulations. However, thesedeveloped perseverance, and served to broaden and deepen their “triangle” relationship withJehovah. Their Heavenly Father had taught them so many special things, about how Hedesigned marriage to be between a man and woman. All of this testimony was truly a treasurein both of their hearts, and they often recounted his faithfulness with one another.

But there were many things that God had set aside, specifically for a man to understand. Hewas the leader of his family. And, Abram’s heart was quite uniquely different. There were somany nights he stared at the stars, and just dreamed and wondered. He saw a myriad of configurations, and it was always changing, always on the move. He would gaze longingly atthe seven stars of the Pleiades. Wondering if he was able to fly fast enough, and far enough,what he would find upon reaching those distant bright lights. Where was God’s residence upthere? And, why did he feel such a deep longing in his heart to see him face to face? At times,

these thoughts would warm Abram’s heart, and give him elated feelings of jubilation burstingforth inside of him. But increasingly, he began to feel like an outcast in his surroundings, a fishout of water. What could be the purpose behind all of this? Had he become irrational?

His brother Nahor did not seem to have this feeling at all, nor did his Father. Did I go wrongsomewhere, Abram wondered? Is something wrong with me? Abram had numerousconversations with both his brother, and father regarding this subject matter. In familydiscussion, they both would seemingly team up against him, since they had similar belief systems. Throughout most of the debates they were pleasantly polite. Still, in his approachtowards gods and worship, they were decidedly determined to convince him to be more

conventional. Abram recalled their spirited and verbal contest still alive in his head, regardinghis “family exodus” announcement from earlier today. He could remember his brother Nahor’sangry face, as he raised his voice.

“Abram, you’re being too idealistic, and your ideology is farfetched. We live in real world, withreal people. A family requires money to eat. A family needs livestock and a market to take itto. There is no market without the idols and the gods. Are you so sure these deities are notblessing our business? Even if they are not the people won’t buy our goods without them.




And, what about the magistrates? There is not one magistrate that believes in, or has evenheard of your God. What did you say his name was again - “Jehovah”? Are you crazy? I’ve hadit with this nonsense Abram! You know, if you want to do this to your own household, maybewe had better take our share and split ways. And, one more thing - have you noticed theinfluence you are having on Lot? With his own father passed away, he is left confused. He has

no idea whether to involve himself in our family business, or this God of yours – Jehovah.”

Abram’s father Terah cut in. “Nahor, we will not talk about splitting ways. We are a family, anda family sticks together. What do you have, if not for family? Who will watch out for you?Would you do business with someone, who in the night would put a knife in you back for gold?

“Abram,” Terah said pleadingly, “I understand about this God of yours…”

Abram couldn’t help but get his hopes up a bit, that his father truly would understand one day.Many times he tried to explain, and show his heart and his God to his father.

“Surely you have heard from this God “Jehovah,” and you will be great Abram. In your families’eyes, you are already great. Look at your wife Sarai, who has a beauty quite like hers? Are younot blessed by this? I know you are feeling down because you have no children. A man needssons to do work and carry on his name. Abram, I love you, and want what is good for you.Maybe this God “Jehovah” is not so good at fertility. Look at the other gods, and look at thefamilies around you. What about Baal’ and Asherah? Is not Asherah the queen of heaven, andso make sacrifices to her? Let a woman deity, do the work of a woman pertaining to the womb.Does that not make sense?

Abram interrupted, “Father! You know Sarai and I do not accept these gods and goddesses.

We will not put our trust in them for the hope to have children. This thing is an abomination toJehovah. He is a jealous God and does not allow our affections to be with others. With whomwould you have your wife share relations? Would you not be jealous and enraged to thedeath? He is a jealous God, one who demands exclusivity. These other gods are false, and it isa travesty to worship them. They are not the creators of this earth, and they do not control therain, or the blessings of the harvest. They are liars! They speak like a snake with a forkedtongue. A blessing cannot come from a serpent! If you pick up a viper, and toss it in your bag,will it one day not strike you with poison causing death?

“I cannot be someone I am not. I must be true to my calling, in the deep of my very being. If I

betray my own heart, how can I truly live? If I live by the Magistrate and the people, then it isthey who live in my place, and I have already died. When one is already dead to himself, thereis no risk to follow a Savior.”

Nahor jumped into the fray. “Brother live by the land, and not the gods. It is only a traditionthat means nothing. Do not pay any attention to it. Only sell your crops and livestock, so thatyou and your family may live. How else can a man make a living? It is too risky too trust in aGod that does not reveal himself?




Nahor was so angry. He bit his lip and did not speak further, because he had nothingconstructive to say.

Finally, Abram’s father Nahor spoke “Let it be done as you say Abram. You are a grown man,

and who are we to tell you what to do with your family. We will miss you, and we will alwayslove you. If you change your mind, and need to come back, we will be here for you. There is noneed for hurry in your departure, and let there be peace in your heart as you makepreparations. Let there be peace in our family, even in this difficult time of separation.”

Abram spoke up assuredly, “I have already begun many preparations, and I will be leaving byweek’s end. I pray my God’s blessing on you both.”

Terah and Nahor knew there were no more words to change his mind. He was their brotherafter all. They embraced in this deciding hour. This was their “family goodbye.”

Abram was again staring at the uppermost part of the tent, through the hole in the roof. Hecould see the Pleiades star formation. “Oh Father, let me find them and see them soon,” hewhispered to Jehovah. Abram settled in his mind that they would pack and leave tomorrow.“I am coming, I am coming,” were Abram’s last words before he finally dozed off for the night.




Ch Ch Ch Chapter 8: Greener Pastures apter 8: Greener Pastures apter 8: Greener Pastures apter 8: Greener Pastures

~

Helpless! That’s the first thought that appeared in David’s head, as he saw the lion stalking oneof the lambs of the flock, under his care. This lion had become a rather ominous presence. Hehad previously seen the creature, lurking in the hills and looking for prey. The young butexperienced shepherd took a look ahead. He thought it was likely the beast would make hismove in the dark valley, between the two ridges ahead. The lion was just out of range, so indesperation David tried another strategy. He swung his sling speedily, and hurled a stone in thedirection of the predator. The stone glanced off the face of the cliff where the lion was stalkingthis stray lamb. The noise from the rock’s carom bouncing in close proximity, startled the largecat, and he pounced off into the shadows. Though relieved, David was no fool. His shepherd’sintuition told him this was a fully mature and cagy sort. It had set its sights on a meal consistingof one of the tender lambs of the flock under David’s care. And, he wasn’t about to give up.There was only one way back home and that was through “shadowy pass” as he and hisbrothers called it. It lay straight ahead in his sights. He rounded up the stray, and said to him,“what were you thinking little fella? That last little tuft of grass almost caused you to be thebeast’s meal for the night.” David paused for a moment to study the landscape ahead and takea rest with the flock. He sought to encourage himself, knowing it would be no easy task tomake it through the passage ahead unscathed.

David prayed aloud:

“Yahweh, You train my hands for war.” The thumb on his right hand ran over one of the

smooth stones he had in his leather pouch.

“Yahweh, it is You who give the enemy into my hands, and You who are the shepherd over me.Let us pass through darkness unscathed. Let all the lambs rest under Your care. We will dance,

jump and leap with great joy - leaving the dark valley behind us praising your name! I call onYour name alone for safety, Yahweh. I know that You are with me always, just as the day Yousent Samuel to anoint me. It is You alone making the mighty fall, and You cause the simple torise up.”

David squinted his eyes, as he glanced into the late afternoon Sun. Though the task at hand

was daunting, his thoughts distractedly drifted to the day he saw Samuel for the first time…

David woke from his bunk at the initial crow of the rooster, before the first rays of light hadchristened the new day. He always looked forward to the day it was his turn to go into townwith his father. After getting up, and making himself ready for the day, he alertly sat at thebreakfast table. David’s mother was a wonderful cook. She set down some water and utensilsin front of her son, who was eagerly waiting. “Say your blessing son,” she reminded him. Hebowed obediently. His prayer was said in haste, and while his eyes were still closed, he could




hear the food being placed in front of him. He opened his eyes, anxious to take it all in. David’splate had a few strips of lamb meat, unleavened bread and some breakfast pudding. Hisfavorite! Just as he was picking up his utensil, Eliab forcefully butted his little brother over tothe end of the bench, and began eating the pudding. Jesse the boys’ father, walked into theroom and sat down. “The early riser makes haste, and his work is oft promptly finished. There

is no prize for second son,” Jesse said to David, patting him on the head. Though deeplywounded, David knew not to cross his father. And, so he kept silent. He couldn’t help butsneak a glance at Eliab. He was thoroughly enjoying what had been David’s food. Eliab gave hisbrother a wry smile, displaying his enjoyment. David’s mother had seen part of whathappened, and was astute enough to fill in the blanks. She was fully aware of this heatedsibling rivalry. She brought out a plate to her youngest son, with a little extra pudding. Jessehad eight boys, and the rest made their way out and the table. They were full of vivaciousconversation often poking fun at one another. All too often the youngest caught the brunt of their jokes. Suddenly, there was a knock at the door and the room quieted down. Shimea, oneof David’s brothers was in close proximity, and got up from the table to answer it. He let theman in. They all became troubled as they saw it was an elder from town. An early morning callfrom one of the elders surely meant there was something amiss.

“What brings you to our humble abode Jarah?” Jesse said, wondering if this was a public orprivate matter.

“Samuel my master is in Bethlehem this day, and he invites you, and your sons to a sacrifice atthe town’s tabernacle.”

“Does your master wish peace, and blessing on our humble town?” said Jesse. He was thinkingof the word that had spread, regarding the strife between Samuel and King Saul.

“Yes peace and blessing.”

“Ah, that is good to hear, what time will we be expected?”

“The ceremony will begin at noon, and I will let my master know that you are coming” saidJarah. He gave a bow and let himself out the front door.

Jesse sat for a moment of reflection, as he peered about the table at his sons.

“David,” Jesse called his youngest son’s name and he promptly sat up to attention.

“You will tend to the sheep in the pasture today. This event calls for poise, and tenure. So I willtake my eldest sons to this event.”

“Yes father,” said David, as his heart fell from his chest, past his knees and onto the floor.




Even with the assurance of Samuel’s messenger, it was still disquieting news that concernedJesse. His sons saw their father’s demeanor, and wrapped up breakfast early. Each of them gotup from the table, and scattered about to get chores done. They each wanted time to makethemselves ready for this special trip into town. David was the last one sitting at the table. Hewas still shocked by the turn of events. Not only was he missing out on his trip into town with

his father, but a very notable one at that. The news was deflating. However, he did manage topick himself up. His mother was busily putting together a knapsack for her son, who was nowgoing out to look after the sheep for the day. She felt sorry for him, and knew it was a bitter pillof disappointment for her youngest. “That poor boy,” she thought to herself. Still part of herwas glad to have her youngest off in a much safer and trouble-free place. She did not want himcaught up in all this political controversy in Bethlehem. Once she was done, she placed hislunch and other provisions in his shoulder bag. David received help putting it on, and hismother gave him a kiss on the forehead.

“Try not to let it all trouble you too much”, she said.

“Yahweh is our great Father, and he will draw close to you today.” She patted David on the backas he slowly walked out the front door. Many times he looked forward to his shepherdingduties, although today it felt much more like a sentence. He seemed powerless to prevent anyof it. He continued on at a slow pace where the flock was kept. When he got there, he wassurprised to find the pen was left unbolted, evidently a carless oversight by one of his brothers.He couldn’t remember who had been out in the field yesterday, but he’d like to think it wasEliab. David kicked the gate open, and it slammed into the fence behind it.

“Why does Eliab have to be the eldest?” he murmured angrily to himself.

“He always is looming over me, and I am buried in his shadow.”

The breakfast incident was not the first time Eliab had spitefully lashed out at his brother. Eliabwas physically imposing, and even quite a bit larger than his father Jesse. He did his share of bullying his brothers, but David took the brunt of his malice. David had no idea how this couldbe of any lasting benefit to him. Why would Yahweh continue to allow such a personalmisfortune to continue, towards someone who loved him so much?

As he herded the sheep out to pasture, he walked along the heavily trodden trail forged by heand his brothers. It was a sunny day out, and the warmth felt good on his face and back. David

silently prayed to his God, in an attempt to turn over all the misfortunes the day had alreadybrought. He was able to close his eyes and walk, as he felt the familiar path under his feet. Itwas serene times like these, where it felt like the God of Israel was directing his feet, just likethe patriarchs. He would often dream of the stories of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He lovedhearing about Abraham’s battles with the kings of his day. He imagined himself to be a greatwarrior, fighting in Abraham’s army, and leading a charge down a hill and into the enemies’camp. He would ride a great fiery stallion at his master’s side, and raise his sword up high asthey all charged down in concert. “Arrrrhhhhh!!!”- would be the great noise sent into the air,




as the men below would melt with fear of the oncoming slaughter, that was surely befallingthem.

One of the sheep bumped David and bellowed out a “Baaahhhh!” He awoke from his sleepwalklike vision, and looked up to see that they were already at “shadowy pass.” This was the

gateway to the open green pastures. David checked his pouch to make sure he had at least fivesmooth stones, to give him enough ammunition to ward of any predators waiting for themahead. He straightened himself up, and led the sheep through the darkness. In their innocencethey completely trusted him. Their obedience was most important through this troubledstretch of time.

It often was eerily silent through the dark pass. Yet all the while it could be heard – “the Lord ismy light and my salvation,” which is what David would often say sometime during the anxiouscrossing. It was a relatively uneventful pass through the darkness, which was something to begrateful for. When the group came out the other side, the sun came up over the last obstacle.It cast darkness aside, and was nearly a blinding white light. David shielded his eyes, and wasglad to see the familiar green pastures ahead. As the flock came through the opening, thebleating became a jubilant ruckus. Then they all scampered as fast as each individual sheepcould move. At some point, they would settle on a mound of grass and begin to devour it. Itgave David great joy to see them feasting, and he had a great love for the humble creatures. Hethought how wonderful a sheep’s existence could be. Simply turn everything over to yourcaretaker. How wonderful indeed!

It didn’t take them long to feed themselves full, and then the sleepiness set in. Davidpositioned himself under an oak tree on a hill, overlooking his responsibility. It looked to be agood resting place for the balance of the day. He sat against the tree and felt its strength

supporting his back. “A mighty Oak of righteousness,” he said to himself, and he foundcontentment as it gave him relief from the heat of midday. He drifted off a bit deeper thanusual, as the day was more emotionally traumatizing than he admitted to himself.

He awoke to some disorganized bleating, from some of the sheep on the outer edge, closest tothe ridge. David stood up, and narrowed his eyes to see. The sun was now on the other side of the tree casting a long silhouette over the opening of “shadowy pass.” Soon he saw the figureof a man emerging from the darkness. It was his brother - “Eliab”!!??

Surely, there must be trouble in Bethlehem. For what else would bring his brother out here,

especially Eliab the eldest?

“Brother?” David said sheepishly.

“What is the news from town - is all well?”

Eliab gave no answer, but steadily walked towards David on this hillside.




“Father wants you to go to town immediately,” said Eliab scornfully.

At first David wanted to query his brother for more information, but reading Eliab’s demeanorhe thought better of it. At least he was going to town, and it was a matter of urgency thatrequired his attendance. It felt good to be needed! David ran without delay. He made rapid

progress, in a relatively short amount of time, towards the destination of Bethlehem. Thewhole way his mind was traveling as fast as his feet were. He pictured Samuel and his father atthe Tabernacle.

Eliab watched David in his jubilation heading towards town. It wasn’t long before he was out of sight escaping through the portal of “shadowy pass”. Samuel had not yet specified his businesswhile Eliab was in town. At first the Prophet eyed him upon his father’s introduction, and itseemed promising, but then after a pause he moved on to the others. It was more than hecould tolerate, that he asked for his youngest brother David! What could he want with him?Even though he was unsure what the matter at hand was, Eliab deduced that it was a bestowalof a spiritual blessing, or honor of some sort. This is why he volunteered to be the messengerand go fetch David. At least he wouldn’t have to see of it with his own eyes.

“Samuel!” Eliab lamented furiously.

That eccentric, old geezer, has-been was always crossing King Saul since he lost leadership of Israel. Why did his family have to be part of his insane pranks of political partisanship? Surelythis must be true of Samuel. After all, he chose David the runt of the family. King Saul was astrong and powerful man from the tribe of Benjamin. Since he had been in charge, there hadbeen many victories against the Philistines. Samuel’s jealousy was contaminating his worship of God. I’ll make a difference. I am still the oldest and strongest of my family. I’ll show Samuel,

father, David – all of them. I am going to sign up with Saul’s army. Maybe some of my brotherswill follow me as well.

And Eliab began plotting his steps forward into the enlistment in Saul’s army. He bitterlybegrudged David and Samuel.

~

Breathless, David entered through the doors of the town tabernacle. He took a brief momentto collect himself. He then approached the altar where Samuel, the town elders, his brothers

and father were all anxiously waiting for him.

As he was walking down the center aisle, Samuel felt the call of Yahweh on his heart, and heardHis voice telling him that David was his approved choice. He was to be anointed for the throneof all Israel!

“Come here my fine boy,” Samuel said gently.




David took a knee, and bowed his head in front of Samuel. Samuel poured the oil on his head,and said the prayer in front of the witnesses present. It was as Yahweh meant it to be. YoungDavid, not recommended by his overseers, became approved in the sight of God. He wasanointed to be King David beloved by the Lord of Hosts!

It was after this event, that David no longer waited for the day, to go to town with his fatherJesse. He volunteered anxiously, and took great joy shepherding the flocks. He anxiouslywaited on the will and the word of Yahweh…

~

There was a loud shrieking coming from one of the sheep, and David’s daydream of his memorywith Samuel quickly dissolved. He awoke to the urgent danger at hand. The devious lion hadviciously attacked a lamb on the outer edge closest to the dark valley. It had its mouth whollyclosed around the defenseless puff of white wool, and was quickly making off for the land of shadows for a meal. David gathered himself, and hurriedly left the flock behind to save theone. He knew he needed to keep up with the beast, as its goal would be to carry it to a place of safety, and once there in comfort begin to devour the meal. David was not as big as his otherbrothers. But, he was highly coordinated, and fleet of foot which served him well in thisparticular perilous situation. He saw the lion head up the side of the canyon between somerocks. David jumped up the first set of large rocks, and was already eyeing landing pointsahead. He was looking for the most advantageous spots for subsequent leaps. David followedthe predator’s trail, keeping him in his range of vision up a good portion of the canyon wall.Then David momentarily stopped out of pure exhaustion to catch a much needed breath. Itwas at that moment, he spied the large cat’s destination – the cave! Quickly sizing things up,and knowing there was no room for error, he saw a large space he could position himself on.

He lunged forward, and then pulled himself up, until he was on the plateau surface of theboulder. He was just in time for one shot, and one shot only. The lion was pridefully lookingover the dark valley, basking in what it thought was its victory, and savoring the feast at hand.David quickly pulled out his sling, and one of the five smooth stones he had in his leatherpouch. He inserted it into the sling. David swung it forcefully in a circular motion rapidlybuilding up speed to the release point. The stone carved without human hands, hurdledviolently towards its target. It was destined to hit its mark, and sunk squarely in the foreheadregion of the lion’s skull. The lion collapsed, and David breathed a sigh of relief. He gave aresounding praise of joy! “Praise Yahweh! You are my rock, and it is you who gives rise tosalvation for mankind!” Then he made his way up to where the lion and lamb were. He wanted

to make sure first, the lion was fully dead. When he got there, he pulled up the lion’s head by itfur. Its eyes still had a little life in them. David found an oak branch nearby and used it to finishthe job.

He scooped up the lamb tenderly in his arms and held it to his chest. The lamb gleefully lickedhis face, and David looked to the heavens with praise in his heat for Yahweh, knowing the Lordwas his Shepherd.




Chapter 9: Chapter 9: Chapter 9: Chapter 9: The Lamb of God The Lamb of God The Lamb of God The Lamb of God

~

“Payment is due,” Satan sneered. Conversation had become very succinct during theirscheduled meetings, dispensing with any sort of introductions or pleasantries. He often camealone now, leaving Shebna behind to attend to strategic matters with devious intentions.

“Not quite yet Satan,” King Elyon said firmly, with His son Joshua by his side.

“Less than forty Moons, and what could you expect to accomplish that has not already beendone? Though we have had battles, I’ve won the war. Your offspring has failed you, not onehas lived up to the requirement since Adam fell in the garden.”

Joshua looked at Satan whose countenance had changed significantly over the years. He stillcould give the illusion of his former beauty, but there was no reason to expend energy on falsepretenses, in King Elyon’s presence. He had fully given himself over to pride. This subsequentlygave birth to fear, and an unquenchable thirst for power - ultimately demanding evil to bring itabout. Satan’s appearance had become a reflection of his true nature - spirit and soul. Hisbrow had become furled and, his posture bent. Satan’s long black flowing hair, once widelyadmired, had become gnarled and unkempt. His skin was covered in markings, containingwords of blasphemy against his former father. Satan’s body had several ornaments of goldpiercing it. This was a display of his triumphs, and also a tribute to his kingship of the lowerrealm.

All was said in the courtroom that was necessary, so Satan haughtily turned, and took his leaveto his own abode.

The entire Kingdom, especially the capital city of Salem, had their focus on the blue and green jewel of earth. There was great wonder, and even some anxiety building, as the time wasdrawing near. A couple more Moons passed, as everyone speculated about King Elyon andwhat his ultimate plan might be. There was much conversation, and word spread quickly. Alleyes were on the King. He and his son were spending an unusually large amount of timetogether, privately behind Castle walls.

A day finally came, when King Elyon and Joshua walked out the front gate together alone.There was no extravagant send off, but it was impossible not to notice the somber walk of theFather and son. They headed towards a mountain that overlooked the North Woods, whichwas now called “Jehovah Jireh,” meaning God is my provider. You could see them up thereespecially at night. There was a “glow” about them that was impossible to miss. There was noinstantaneous event to see. As much time went by, many gave up their vigilant watch. Somewent back to their daily duties waiting to hear word. Others did a little of both, infrequentlychecking in. If one happened to be surveilling the upmost plateau, you could see Father and




son, until the fortieth night. Then suddenly without warning, in a blink of an eye, a light shot off the mountain like a shooting star, at interstellar speed towards earth!

~

Alewar and Alexandros were two Guardian Cherubim, Joshua had stationed at the portal gateleading to earth. They had heard the rumors from their home city of Salem regarding Satan,Joshua, and King Elyon. Not easily distracted, they still were diligently standing watch.Suddenly, they saw a brilliant shooting star approaching! Even with the spiritual gifting of hyper-keen eyesight, the two Cherubim could scarcely keep up with the speed of the luminaryobject. Abruptly, it stopped within the realm. As it smoothly halted its rapid progressiontowards earth, they were awestruck by its sheer beauty. It was magnificently breathtaking, andseemingly stopped the sands of time. At the very next moment, a bending light wave emergedas a separate entity. It became an elongated ribbon of white light, unfurling in the darkness of space. An elegant metamorphosis occurred, with a high degree of complexity, a transformationone could only watch in awe. Suddenly, the ribbon of light began to take the form of a dovewith an olive branch in its mouth, and it swiftly flew to the earth. Its destination was the regionknown on the planet as Israel.

~

Matthew 1

The Birth of Jesus Christ

18 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.

19 Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to publicdisgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.

20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said,"Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what isconceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.

21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."

22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:

23 "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."




24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And hegave him the name Jesus.

Matthew 2

1Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, therecame wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

2Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and arecome to worship him.

3When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.

4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, hedemanded of them where Christ should be born.

5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,

6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.

7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what timethe star appeared.

8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.

9When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east,went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.

10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother,and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh.

12 And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream,saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou thereuntil I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.




14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:

15 And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of theLord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, fromtwo years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men.Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying,

18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping forher children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.* King James Version

~

Matthew 27

Jesus’ death

11 And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the Kingof the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.

12 And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing.

13 Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee?

14 And he answered him to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.

15 Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they would.

16 And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.

17 Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that Irelease unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?

18 For he knew that for envy they had delivered him.

19 When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have thounothing to do with that just man: for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of him.

20 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.




21 The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release untoyou? They said, Barabbas.

22 Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified.

23 And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.

24 When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just

person: see ye to it.

25 Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.

26 Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him tobe crucified.

27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto himthe whole band of soldiers.

28 And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.

29 And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in hisright hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the

Jews!

30 And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.

31 And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his ownraiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.

32 And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled tobear his cross.

33 And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,

34 They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.

35 And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled whichwas spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.




36 And sitting down they watched him there;

37 And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

38 Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the

left.

39 And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,

40 And saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross.

41 Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said,

42 He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him.

43 He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he said, I am the Son of God.

44 The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth.

45 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour.

46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

47 Some of them that stood there, when they heard that, said, This man calleth for Elias.

48 And straightway one of them ran, and took a spunge, and filled it with vinegar, and put it ona reed, and gave him to drink.

49 The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias will come to save him.

50 Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost.

51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the

earth did quake, and the rocks rent;

52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,

53 And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many.




54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake,and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.

55 And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee,ministering unto him:

56 Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and themother of Zebedees children.

57 When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who alsohimself was Jesus' disciple:

58 He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to bedelivered.

59 And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,

60 And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.

61 And there was Mary Magdalene, and the other Mary, sitting over against the sepulchre.

62 Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Phariseescame together unto Pilate,

63 Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I

will rise again.

64 Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest his disciplescome by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead: so thelast error shall be worse than the first.

65 Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch: go your way, make it as sure as ye can.

66 So they went, and made the sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.* King James Version

~

Luke 24

He Is Risen

1 Now on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they, and certain other womenwith them, came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared.




2 But they found the stone rolled away from the tomb.

3 Then they went in and did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.

4 And it happened, as they were greatly perplexed about this, that behold, two men stood by them in shining garments.

5 Then, as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, “Why do youseek the living among the dead?

6 He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee,

7 saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’”

8 And they remembered His words.

9 Then they returned from the tomb and told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.

10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women withthem, who told these things to the apostles.

11 And their words seemed to them like idle tales, and they did not believe them.

12 But Peter arose and ran to the tomb; and stooping down, he saw the linen cloths lying by

themselves; and he departed, marveling to himself at what had happened.

13 Now behold, two of them were traveling that same day to a village called Emmaus, whichwas seven miles from Jerusalem.

14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened.

15 So it was, while they conversed and reasoned, that Jesus Himself drew near and went withthem.

16 But their eyes were restrained, so that they did not know Him.17 And He said to them, “What kind of conversation is this that you have with one another asyou walk and are sad?”

18 Then the one whose name was Cleopas answered and said to Him, “Are You the only stranger in Jerusalem, and have You not known the things which happened there in thesedays?”




19 And He said to them, “What things?” So they said to Him, “The things concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a Prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people,

20 and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and

crucified Him.

21 But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel. Indeed, besides all this,today is the third day since these things happened.

22 Yes, and certain women of our company, who arrived at the tomb early, astonished us.

23 When they did not find His body, they came saying that they had also seen a vision of angelswho said He was alive.

24 And certain of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but Him they did not see.”

25 Then He said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophetshave spoken!

26 Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?”

27 And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures thethings concerning Himself.

28 Then they drew near to the village where they were going, and He indicated that He would have gone farther.

29 But they constrained Him, saying, “Abide with us, for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent.” And He went in to stay with them.

30 Now it came to pass, as He sat at the table with them, that He took bread, blessed and brokeit, and gave it to them.

31 Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight.

*New King James Version

~

It had been a relatively short while, since Joshua the Great Son of King Elyon, had left Salem.He had become the seed and Savior of mankind. Even so, the reckoning day had come. Satanarrogantly walked through the portal gate and into Salem. This time, he brought Shebna and anescort of his officials with him. They walked brashly with a swagger, into the High Court Room.




The vicinity was filled with officials, scribes and witnesses. A large audience filled the air withwhispers, and there was bustling about the place, like never before.

“All Arise!” said the High Court’s Guardian Cherubim, with great force.

King Elyon came in and sat on his throne, with his Official Judgment Robes. The King took onmany titles and names, one of them being “Judge of the Universe.” In this capacity His name isElohim.

As the King sat, there came a “Mighty Rushing Wind,” and it forcefully blew open the HighCourtroom Doors. Then entering the room like a breeze was a breathtakingly, beautifulluminous form. It twisted elegantly - and then transformed into an elongated ribbon of whitelight. We were all motionless, and the light intensely magnified. It became like the waves of theocean, until it encompassed the whole room. It engulfed us all. Time, relativity, and all of creation became transcendent. We were held in absolute speechless awe. The translucentlight became a Spirit of Witness – Elohim’s Holy Spirit, and it spoke forth in a multitude of voices:

Isaiah 6

1I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple.

2 Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, withtwo they covered their feet, and with two they were flying.

3 And they were calling to one another:

"Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty;the whole earth is full of his glory."

4 At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled withsmoke.* NIV

Revelation 5

1 And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on thebackside, sealed with seven seals.

2 And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof?

3 And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book,neither to look thereon.




4 And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither tolook thereon.

5 And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

6 And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of theelders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are theseven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.

7 And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.

8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down beforethe Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayersof saints.

9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the sealsthereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beastsand the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousandsof thousands;

12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such asare in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and

power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth forever and ever.* King James Version

John 1

1In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

2He was with God in the beginning.

3Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.




Book VI: The Age of Man Book VI: The Age of Man Book VI: The Age of Man Book VI: The Age of Man




Chapter 10: Philadelphian Father Chapter 10: Philadelphian Father Chapter 10: Philadelphian Father Chapter 10: Philadelphian Father

~

General Washington knelt in the snow outside of his Army’s encampment, a safe distance fromenemy and interruption. It had been scarcely six months since the perilous but decisive actionto approve and announce the “Declaration of Independence.” All signors risked not onlyproperty, but their very own lives.

The effort was in dire straits, and it was General Washington who stood in the crux of leadership, in the midst of this risk taking endeavor. Though he did his best to ignore rumors of all sorts, still they would reach him. He heard of General Gates and Lee’s murmurs against him.

“How can an army divided against itself stand?” Washington said to himself.

Much of his army’s enlistment was up at the end of the year. Pay, accommodations, food, andother provisions were in short supply. The future prospects of the revolution were bleakindeed.

In short, a miracle was needed.

The ranking General of the new nation born in Philadelphia, stared through the bare tree limbsinto the starry night sky. His focus was squarely on the Christmas Eve full Moon.

“Providence” Washington said softly, “Divine Providence”.

He looked back over his shoulder to make sure he was still alone. He saw hundreds of tentscontaining men with frostbite, and worse conditions. In looking at them, he was unsurewhether this compelled him to intensify his efforts to lead them, or to resign and save theirlives.

He turned his gaze back to the full Moon and questioned, “How can this be Heavenly Father?

“Have I gone wrong at some point?”

Silence filled the dark air as Washington breathed out deeply from inside. He watched his coldbreath float skyward towards the heavens he spoke to.

He mentally drifted off, which took him back to the French and Indian war. So many times hehad ridden high on his white horse, directing the men under his command fearlessly. He feltGod’s Holy Spirit guiding him. What glorious testimony God had given to him! He could still




remember the conversation with the Chief in the Pennsylvania woods, not too far from wherethey were right now:

“I am a chief and ruler over my tribes. My influence extends to the waters of the great lakes and to the far blue mountains. I have traveled a long and weary path that I might see the young

warrior of the great battle. It was on the day when the white man’s blood mixed with thestreams of our forests that I first beheld this chief [Washington].”

“I called to my young men and said, “Mark yon tall and daring warrior? He is not of the red-coat tribe—he hath an Indian’s wisdom and his warriors fight as we do—himself alone exposed.Quick, let your aim be certain, and he dies.”

“Our rifles were leveled, rifles which, but for you, knew not how to miss—’twas all in vain, a power mightier far than we shielded you.”

“Seeing you were under the special guardianship of the Great Spirit, we immediately ceased to fire at you. I am old and shall soon be gathered to the great council fire of my father’s in theland of the shades, but ere I go, there is something bids me speak in the voice of prophecy:

Listen! The Great Spirit protects that man [pointing at Washington], and guides his destinies—he will become the chief of nations, and a people yet unborn will hail him as the founder of amighty empire. I am come to pay homage to the man who is the particular favorite of Heaven,and who can never die in battle.” * A common rendering regarding George Washington found in school texts until 1934. Source underGodthebook.com

Though he fought a thousand battles, he would never forget that day. What a heartfeltconfirmation provided to forge his faith!

“I still remember Lord,” Washington said, slipping from thoughts to words, knowing Godunderstood both forms of communication.

“Heavenly Father, you are all seeing and all knowing. You make things rise up and fall down.”

“King Nebuchadnezzar, you made him eat grass like a beast for seven years until he submittedto you, and then returned him to power.”

“This nation born in a day, but will it last?”

“I know the answer is founded not on men, cannons, and strategic plans or otherwise. It is Youalone.”

“Still, I lay out my battle plans before your throne for approval.”




“We plan to cross the Delaware River. You took your people Israel through the Red Seadestroying a mighty army. Now I ask your blessing to help us cross the water - to defeat theRed Army. Moses was born into that nation, and I am born into this one.”

“We cross a river to take a promised land, just like Joshua crossed the Jordan to take Jericho.”

“We acknowledge this at a time remembering you came to this earth saving us from our sins.We give ourselves to you this Christmas – Save us!”

“I recall your words in Isaiah Lord, and though our sins are as scarlet, I know you make us whiteas snow, and so we move forward in faith by your word.”

“I thank you for your Divine Providence to depend on. I move forward in faith Father.”

In Jesus name, Amen.

Momentarily, he stayed kneeling letting his thoughts and the prayers sink in. He rose up to hisfeet, taking one last long stare through the treetops into the full Moon that Christmas Eve,1776. He was off to finalize battle preparations with his Senior Officers.

General Washington walked back to camp, prepared to lead his troops into what would be avery decisive battle in the Revolutionary War.

~

Revelation 3

To the Church in Philadelphia

7 "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one canopen.

8 I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.

9I will make those who are of the synagogue of Satan, who claim to be Jews though they arenot, but are liars—I will make them come and fall down at your feet and acknowledge that Ihave loved you.

10 Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth.




11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.

12 Him who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it. Iwill write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem,which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on him my new name.

13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.




Chapter 11: In the Beginning…Chapter 11: In the Beginning…Chapter 11: In the Beginning…Chapter 11: In the Beginning…

~

News Flash

May 5, 1961 - Alan Shepherd a US Navy fighter pilot, one of theoriginal “Mercury 7” becomes the first American Astronaut inspace. Shepherd is a descendant of one of the originalpassengers of the Mayflower – Richard Warren.

Bulletin

May 25, 1961 – President John F. Kennedy announces his supportfor the Apollo Program in a special joint session of Congress.

“First I believe this Nation should commit itself to achievingthis goal, before the decade is out, of landing a man on theMoon and returning him safely to the Earth. No single spaceproject in this period will be more impressive to mankind…”

~

All eyes of the Holy City of Salem were on the blue-green, jewel planet Earth. Jesus sent outEliakim as a Royal Witness for the Kingdom, and he speedily made haste to the realm of theplanet he was assigned to. Upon arrival, he met and exchanged pleasantries with the GuardianCherubim, Alewar and Alexandros.

“Welcome to our humble abode, and very noteworthy post - the realm of Planet Earth,” saidAlexandros who was the more gregarious of the two angels. They both bowed in a sign of respect, as Eliakim was the ranking Officer in the Holy City.

Eliakim graciously nodded his head in acknowledgment, and said “it’s a privilege to be here onsuch a consequential occasion. I have greatly anticipated this watch, and I look forward tospending it in such good company.”

After polite pleasantries were finished, Eliakim made himself ready to stand watch for what heknew would be a momentous event, shaping mankind and heaven’s future. His spiritualcapabilities enabled him to see, hear, and perceive all the mission critical events he was on dutyto observe and record. The Royal Witness pulled his feather quill pen and scrolls from hisshoulder bag, and began his watch…




~

For Immediate Release – Press Kit: RELEASE NO 68-208

NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION (NASA)

Re: FIRST MANNED LUNAR ORBIT MISSION

The United States has scheduled its first mission designed toorbit men around the Moon for launch December 21 at 7:51 a.m.EST from the National Aeronautics Space Administration’s John F.Kennedy Space Center, Florida.

The mission, designated Apollo 8, will be the second mannedflight in the Apollo program and the first manned flight on theSaturn V rocket, the United States largest launch vehicle.

Crewman for Apollo 8 are Spacecraft Commander Frank Borman,Command Module Pilot James A. Lovell, Jr. and Lunar Module PilotWillam A. Anders. Backup crew is Commander Neil A. Armstrong,Command Module Pilot Edwin E. Aldrin, Jr. and Lunar Module PilotFred W. Haise, Jr.

A full duration lunar orbit mission would include 10 orbitsaround the Moon. Earth landing will take place some 147 hoursafter launch at 10:51 a.m. EST, Dec 27…* Ref official NASA.gov website

~

His gaze piercing through the darkness enabled Eliakim to see the manmade rocket. There wasa glaring fire coming from the booster. It was making its way out of earth’s orbit, on its way tothe Moon. Mankind had no idea what the spiritual significance of all this was. It almostseemed he could hear their primordial father Adam crying out to them. Longing to give fatherlyadvice, saving them a troubled past.

Man was rapidly progressing, and had begun to lay the groundwork for significant technologicaladvances. Not only were they challenging the barrier of the sky, and atmosphere of theirplanetary home, but millions of persons would have the capability to see the event. They didthis through a “vision box” they call television. Eliakim shook his head, as the philosophicalparallels to the former so called “utopia” in Satan’s realm, were unmistakable. He couldremember the day King Elohim laid waste the last remnants of Satan’s physical realm on Earth,and sank Atlantis into the Abyss. “Iniquity leads to eternal destruction,” he said reassuringly tohimself. Trusting God’s Sovereign plan kept hope alive, as it seemed man was surely headed forperdition.




In Eliakim’s reckoning of time, a few moments past bringing him to man’s date of December 24,1968. He recorded this on the scroll. As he observed persons on the earth making finalpreparations for Christmas, it reminded him they were doing similar things for the GreatChristmas Feast in Salem. It was good to see that families were still gathering together. Heknew a majority of them would see the broadcast. Eliakim watched and listened as he recorded

the event.

~

(Live broadcast to a worldwide audience on Christmas Eve, December 24 th 1968)

William Anders spoke forth:

“We are now approaching lunar sunrise. And, for all the people back on earth, the crew of Apollo 8 have a message that we would like to send you.

“In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.And the earth was without form and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep.And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.”

Jim Lovell spoke forth:

“And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and themorning were the first day.

And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the watersfrom the waters.And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament fromthe waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.And God called the firmament Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the secondday.”

Frank Borman spoke forth:

“And God said, Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together unto one place, and let

the dry land appear: and it was so.And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called He Seas: andGod saw that it was good.

And from the crew of Apollo 8, we close with good night, good luck, a Merry Christmas – andGod bless all of you, all of you on the good Earth.”*actual Apollo 8 transcript




~

Eliakim recorded in detail the event as he witnessed it. His notes ended with the followingclosing commentary, and proclamation:

“Man circled about the Moon, and it was proclaimed with a great multitude of witnesses the Glory of God – a faithful mission and testimony. King Elohim be praised!”

At that moment, Eliakim looked up and saw Shebna sending forth three evil spirits into theearth to do his bidding. The first was a horrible beast. It had a great horn that spoke fortharrogantly, and it was loudly issuing blasphemies with a false and accusatory tongue. Thesecond entity was a specter, its eyes and mouth were pursed with caution, and it spoke forthlies as it went. Eliakim recognized the apparition as fear. The last phantom was slothful in itsmovement making scarcely any progress, and was almost painful to watch. Also, it had many

eyes, but few were open, and none were aware. It spoke forth nothing at all.

~

Report bulletin

Following the Christmas Eve broadcast of Apollo 8 and theNationally Broadcast Genesis reading, many are referring to as“In the Beginning God,” a lawsuit has been brought forth. It wasfiled by an atheist against NASA stating first amendment rights…

~

Press release

May, 5 1969 – The United States Postal Service has issued astamp commemorating the 1968 Apollo 8 Christmas Eve spaceflightto the Moon. This stamp is issued on the 8 th anniversary of firstmanned U.S. space flight by Alan Shepard. It is called “In thebeginning God…” - and is issued at a face value of 6 cents andpictures “Earthrise”.




~Newswire

July 16, 1969 - NASA, still fighting a lawsuit from an atheistregarding the reading of Genesis during the broadcast of Apollo

8’s flight, launches Apollo 11 today in hopes of putting a manon the Moon. If all goes as planned, literally millions will beable to watch man set foot on the Moon for the first time.There is great anticipation for the event. Many are wonderingwhat this man will do and say to commemorate such a monumentalachievement.

newsflash – for immediate release

July 20, 1969 – Neil Armstrong becomes the first man to set footon the Moon and utters the following words heard worldwide:

“That’s one small step for (a) man, one giant leap for mankind.”

President Nixon was able to watch the whole event from the WhiteHouse, and he took what he called the “most historic call” fromthe astronauts on the Moon.

Buzz Aldrin also set foot on the Moon, while Michael Collins wasthe Command Module Pilot.

Thousands crowded highways and beaches to see the launch, andmillions witnessed the event worldwide on network television.

Many considered it man’s “crowning achievement” of the 20 th century.

~

While man was landing on the Moon for the first time, Eliakim was dutifully watching andcarefully inscribing log notes. This would help him write his final report on the scroll. Eventhough the astronaut’s own wife was completely unaware, he saw Buzz Aldrin privately takecommunion on the Moon. There had been much preparation with his Pastor for the event.Reverend Woodruff, at Webster Presbyterian Church in Texas had worked with Buzz incomplete confidentiality. It was evident Shebna’s wicked spirit of fear and complacency hadmanifested itself through the lawsuit. This caused widespread apprehension and complacency.What a complete contrast between the two missions. Little did they know about the solemnspiritual ramifications. Public praise and acknowledgement of our Heavenly Father and Creatorwas “officially” underground. Eliakim was deeply distressed …




~

On November 14, 1969 Eliakim saw the 6 th manned mission of the Apollo Group - Apollo 12.This mission was the first to have no mention of God in any form. What Eliakim also founddisappointing, was that the mission was particularly foolhardy, and prankish in nature. It was

deeply regrettable that on the first landing, a man was suppressed to the point of only privatelyacknowledging God. They had left him out of the whole mission this time! No mentionwhatsoever! Further, man was adding foolishness to his pride. On this occasion, the mansetting foot on the Moon said jovially:

“Whoopie! Man, that may have been a small one for Neil, but that's a long one for me.”

Also, a practical joke was played. A pornographic picture reflecting a spirit of Sodom andGomorrah was inserted into the lunar checklist.

Eliakim was deeply distraught anticipating the obvious course mankind was headed in. Heknew there would be an abysmal outcome.

~

April 11, 1970 (just a couple of weeks before Passover Eliakim noted) - Apollo 13 had brazenlychosen their mission insignia to be the false god Apollo’s three steeds, and the motto “Ex lunascientia,” which means “from the Moon knowledge”.

“Surely their arrogance and foolishness has reached saturation,” Eliakim said to himself.

Predictably the mission produced an explosion, and was a failure. Mercifully, their lives werespared.

~

After careful reflection, Eliakim decided he had seen enough. He wrote a complete report witha summary of the Apollo missions as follows:

December 24, 1968 - Apollo 8, a Faithful mission publicly proclaiming God’s Creation and Glory.

July 20, 1969 – Apollo 11, man proclaims his own glory by his accomplishments, and acknowledgment of our Heavenly Creator is made private and taken “underground”.

November 14, 1969 – Apollo 12 is a testimony to man’s departure from God, leading to foolishness, folly, and a wicked spirit of Sodom & Gomorrah.




April 11, 1970 – Apollo 13, Tragedy. For now, death is spared. However, the foreboding writing on the wall has occurred, and the lamentable legacy remains.

With his mission completed, Eliakim readied himself for travel back to Salem. There he wouldgive a full witness report to King Elohim and Jesus. He looked over his shoulder and cringed atwhat he saw. Shebna’s minions were in near hysterical amusement conjuring up destructive,tormenting spirits of a wide variety of diabolical natures. Subsequently, they were sendingthem towards the earth to reap havoc among the inhabitants.

Eliakim had been grateful for a semblance of peace since the former “heavenly wars” had cometo a close. Although, seeing this firsthand made him boil with fury! He was anxious for the finalgreat war King Elohim had spoken of – Armageddon.

He would make an exceptionally passionate report to the King.

And with that he was gone… disappearing through the portal gate at “Godspeed”.




Book VII: Book VII: Book VII: Book VII: The The The The Rapture Rapture Rapture Rapture Age Age Age Age




Chapter 12: Born Again Chapter 12: Born Again Chapter 12: Born Again Chapter 12: Born Again ~

I was born on May 5 th 1969. The day the commemorative stamp for the Apollo 8 mission wasofficially issued. When Apollo 8 was orbiting the Moon, and proclaiming God’s creation onNational Television, I was in my mother’s womb. And, I was just a few months old when NeilArmstrong proclaimed man’s great achievement, via Apollo 11. Innocently, my birth took placein the middle of a spiritual crux. How was a young baby in his mother’s arms to knowsomething went terribly wrong after Apollo 8?

It was during the next three Apollo missions 9 -11, that the land of Abraham’s inheritance thestars of the sky, began to exclude their Creator. Appropriately, in the United States, 9-11 hasbecome a set of numbers associated with impending apocalypse. Consider the “Philadelphian”calling God has placed on the United States in these last days, and the “Abrahamic” significance

of the Moon and stars. It certainly is foreboding how we, as a Nation, have turned our backs onGod. Unfortunately, this includes the “next frontier” as well.

In one of the most well known Rapture theology books written, Hal Lindsey wrote the LateGreat Planet earth very near to when I was born – 1969 (same year as Apollo 11). Although theRapture is very rarely mentioned in pulpits, the “Left Behind” series is very well known. Also,the internet has allowed for much informal communication and learning regarding this subject.I believe we are on the very cusp of the Rapture, the unveiling of the anti-christ, the GreatTribulation and what will conclude with the final battle of Armageddon.

I have known since I was a young child, the calling God has placed within me, of which I amfulfilling now. Like Adam, I have sinned greatly, and have no recourse of my own to atone formy mistakes. Often, I have felt the heart of Abraham as I look up at the starry sky. I have adeep desire to be “home” with my Heavenly Father, in my “True Country”. Similar to David, I’vefelt like an orphan in my own family - sent out to the sheepfold to be forgotten. Contrastingly,I’ve felt the jubilation of redemption and blessing - just as David did when he was forsaken byothers, but anointed by God. In George Washington, I see a man willing to risk his life toestablish a new country. Most of all, I see the absolute Sovereignty and Love of our HeavenlyFather in all things.

My journey searching for the Rapture has been as desperate as it is faithful. It has been

comforting to receive confirmations in my life for this calling. One of the examples I look tothat I have not mentioned is Jeremiah. I draw strength and experience from God’s words tohim. God had this to say to him:

Jeremiah 1

4Now the word of the LORD came to me, saying,




Sovereign plan. Most mainstream churches do not teach much on end times, or prophecy.And, many do not have strict regiments to daily read your bible in totality. I am very thankfulfor my mother’s guidance, as I’ve read many translations of the bible through several times.The deep spiritual conviction she has passed on, has taken deep root within me. I have beenreading my bible, and praying to God for truth ever since. Another unpleasant reality is that in

many instances, and for quite a stretch in my life, I’ve been quite a Prodigal. Some of thistestimony is written in this book. Even with the foundation being laid, there has been muchI’ve had to learn completely on my own - through God’s intervention. I feel strongly this is ananswer to heartfelt prayers asking for truth, coming from a very confused child, wantingdesperately to serve God. I studied much on my own, praying and trusting God forunderstanding. I was amazed at the passages in my Bible, that seemingly were not therebefore, even though I had read it cover to cover. I spent hours in contemplation. I examinedcomplex concepts such as the Trinity, eternity and the Rapture!

I have a counseling background as well, and know there would be persons that would look atmy situation, and simply say I have become a product of my childhood. I think these would bethe same persons that say “Jesus is a crutch”. Yes on both counts! But, not the way theybelieve. To imply Jesus, or the fabric of my life, is a sort of emotional delusion - is absolutelyincorrect! Obviously, we are all products of our childhood. We have meaningful experiences inour lives that shape our opinions, hearts, dreams and lives. This is exactly what I hear Godtelling Jeremiah, and why I love the verse so much. He knit me in the womb for a specificcalling. Isn’t this true with all the Patriarchs I’ve mentioned above? When faced with themonumental task of fighting Goliath, David knew this concept and told King Saul: “Your servanthas killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them,because he has defied the armies of the living God” (1 Samuel 17:36). Also, it is the 144 th Psalmwhere David says “you train my hands for war.” What I witness is the masterful matrix our

Heavenly Father is weaving together in each of our lives, coordinating perfectly, and producinga symphony of results. I can see that God has gifted me through my parents, and allowed theexperiences of my life specifically for “time such as this”. My mother was deeply spiritual andcreatively artistic. My father is an estate planning attorney - a logical intellectual, and anenvironmentalist. I’ve always had a peculiar combination of creativity and logic. I have neededto draw from both of these sides, to fully understand both the logic and spirit, of what God issaying in his Word. The Bible is God’s Word, and it is like bread and water – sustenance. It givesus life, and propels us toward the grand purpose God knit us in our mother’s womb to carryout!

I love how the Lord says in Isaiah, “Come, let us reason together.” One of my favorite sayings is“don’t check your brain at the door.” However, I believe the heart rules over the mind, and notthe other way around. We desire, and believe with our hearts. Subsequently, we rationalizeconformingly with our minds. It says in Jeremiah 29:13: “You will seek and find me, when youseek me with all your heart”. As such, I make an appeal to your heart, soul, and spirit sharing awriting regarding the calling God has put on my life. It is the next chapter, a story called “Windand Wave”.




Chapter 13: Wind & Chapter 13: Wind & Chapter 13: Wind & Chapter 13: Wind & Wave Wave Wave Wave

~

One day a breeze swept across the ocean. Majesty was his name. He was a Great King andloved to talk with the ocean.

He blew upon the large deep ocean waters. These bottomless ocean waters were called DeepBlue. He was fierce and rugged. When Majesty would blow so very hard, Deep Blue would beable to raise himself up. When he got high enough with much power, he put on his white cap.He longed for these times, and he loved to see himself in the reflection of the other waters.How majestic he looked with his Deep Blue body and crown of white on top of his head. Surely,all the other waters looked upon him with admiration and fear.

He would wait out in the deepest part for Majesty to come. While he was waiting, he wouldwarm himself in the sun. He could already picture how great he would look, as he was roaringabove the other waters.

Then it would come. A little bit at first, a gentle breeze. He could anticipate the glory. A littlemore and it began to move him. He stretched himself out as far as he could, wanting all thewind Majesty would give him, to make him large and beautiful.

Now he was moving and building. Rise! He told himself. He stretched his head towards the sky.Rise! He told himself again. He stretched further and could feel the wind building at his back.

The waters around him were already trembling with terror. Then Majesty blew a mighty gustand he rose up with all his might!

It was time for Deep Blue to put on his white cap. He put it on, and then looked at his subjectsstaring at him in awe. He could see his reflection in them. He was vast, and a site to behold.

At last the building was done, and it was time to show his massive destructive power. He cameroaring at the beach. He flexed his muscles, he lowered his head…and he pounded the sandwith all his might. His mighty wave exploded over the shore sending water and sandeverywhere.

After it was done, he would bask in delight on the shore thinking about what he had done.Look at all the power and destruction. Slowly he would gather himself and head out to theocean deep where his home was.

Deep Blue in reflection said, “This Ocean is great, which I myself have built. As a place to live,so my power and my glory shall be known.” Unknown to him at that very moment, Majesty




Deep Blue began to cry. He cried and cried, and cried. This is where the saying comes, “hecried an ocean of tears,” and he did. Each tear became a rain drop that went back up into thesky. It went all the way up, and reached Majesty’s presence.

Many years passed. Land began to overcome the sea. Land grew over the water. Majesty gave

land his favor, and it began to produce many things. Deep Blue heard from a bird, that Majestyhad made an image of himself, containing his breath. Majesty called this breathing image of himself, man and woman.

Deep Blue could have never imagined. I thought it was only about me. How could I be soarrogant? I know Majesty’s mercy and love. I will submit to him and serve him. There will be aday he will use me. I long to know my joy again, my reason for being. I long to hear fromMajesty, and feel his breath on my back. Deep Blue waited, and prepared himself for that day.

One day Deep Blue gathered himself together, and felt the strength to move out under the sunlike he used to. He had to move out from under the land now, and he was just a sliver of his oldglory. He pushed out with all his might, and became a puddle amongst some rocks. He saw thesun. He warmed himself. He closed his eyes.

Then, he heard a faint voice…”Blue”. What was that Blue thought? “Deep Blue.” What? Oh,that is what I was called then. Then? Wait, only one is left who knows me by thatname…Majesty! “Here I am! Here I am! Majesty, I am waiting and listening! Speak to me! I amhere to serve you!”

“I have need of you,” Majesty said.

“You will again be great and powerful”.

“The man and woman of this earth have known another breath.”

“They have taken another name – Gigantic. Unlike you, they have not repented from theirpride.”

“I will call you from the depths, and the sky to destroy Gigantic.”

“There is one tree farmer that I have found worthy. He has saved himself and his family.”

“He has heard my voice, and been mindful of my created things, therefore he shall be thecaretaker of them.”

“I will let him ride on your back, as you carry out destruction with your fury.”

“When you are done, I will have you set him down on my mountain, so that I may talk to him.”




Deep Blue didn’t know what to say, and his mouth was silent. When he finally had the strengthto talk he said, “I will Majesty, I will.” Deep Blue pondered these things and he waited.

The day had come. Majesty caused all the rivers under the earth to gather to Deep Blue. Hecaused all his tears to return to the earth. They came back much more rapidly than they had

gone. He grew under the earth. He grew, and grew, until the time where he exploded. Againhe became vast and powerful. He was raging and tossing in Majesty’s breath. “Rise, and praiseMajesty!” Deep Blue said. “Rise, and praise Majesty!” Deep Blue repeated over and over.

Majesty brought him to the land of the people of Gigantic with his breath. He rose up, and puton his white cap. He could see Majesty’s face over the waters. Oh, how glorious and powerfulMajesty is! How glorious! How great is He, and wonderful to show his power to me. How Helets me share it!

Deep Blue rose up much higher than ever before. Majesty blew a gentle breath. He placed thetree farmer, his family, and the animals in the wood box, on Deep Blue’s back. Deep Blue hadlearned to be both powerful and gentle.

Deep Blue put on his white cap, bowed his head to Majesty, and arched his back, so that thetree farmer’s box would be safe on his back. He sent his head crashing into the land of Gigantic. He sent them scattering over the land. He chased them to the tops of mountains. Hecovered them all, until he felt them in his depths.

Deep Blue gently lay down, and brought the tree farmer’s box to rest on his back. He was tired,but satisfied as never before. He began to release tears again. This time they were tears of worship, and joy. Oh, how great Majesty was. Deep Blue placed the tree farmer’s box on the

mountain. Deep Blue went to rest, he needed the sleep.

Deep Blue awoke to Majesty’s voice.

“Deep Blue…”

“Yes,” Deep Blue replied.

“I will give you a new a new name. “Ocean” - I will call you. It means mighty waters.”

“I will take the rainbow from my throne, and place it in the sky, when I send your tears to earth.This will remind my breathing images, that I have created them and had mercy on them. It is areminder of your service to me.”

“Now that I see you are here to serve me, I will make you a caretaker of my breathing imagesand this earth. I will put salt in much of you, and you will preserve the earth, until the time Ihave need of your strength again.”




“When will that be?” “What will happen?” Deep Blue said.

“Rest,” Majesty replied.

“I will breathe upon you again, when it is time. You have learned much, and will know when I

call you.”

“You have become great. You have my bow. You are my reminder to my breathing images.And, you are a caretaker of my great creation.”

“There will be a time when my breathing images will again take on a strange breath. Giganticwill consequently reappear. There will be more tree farmers. I will have need of you again.”

“Until then, your tears will reach me, and I will return them to you with favor.”

Deep Blue had now become “Ocean,” and he felt deeply loved by Majesty. He rested in thewarm sun again, and thought about that day. I will watch for that day to come he said. I willwatch. When it comes, I will be ready.




Chapter 14: My Fathers Chapter 14: My Fathers Chapter 14: My Fathers Chapter 14: My Fathers

~

It was 1987, my senior year of High School. What was a fulfilling time for some was nearlynightmarish for me. It all started when I was baptized as a Jehovah’s Witness, at about twelveyears old. I believed in Jehovah God with all my heart. I wanted to make my parents and theelders proud of me. Once baptized, there was no turning back. That was considered theultimate accountability, as a full endorsement of their religious belief system. I had little insightinto what this commitment would mean to me, and my family. However, it wouldn’t take longto find out.

Just a short time before I made this commitment, my father had moved our family to anacreage outside of a small town called Fort Calhoun. It really was a breathtakingly beautifulsetting, at the bottom of a hill, in a valley all by itself. The entry point was a small gravel roadwinding downwards. This led to a hidden lush green meadow carved out from the woodssurrounding it. The front of our house looked out over an oversized grassy front yard, severalgardens of varying types, horses, and an earthen dam. This picturesque setting was framed byhills, covered by what seemed like endless trees. There were many days we would look out intothe front yard and see deer, red fox, coyote, and raccoons. My favorite pastime was taking longwalks in the woods to explore. There was a hill on the south side of the house. It was open atthe top, with the exception of one large tree. After hiking through the woods, I would reachsome long grasses, and would make my way up to sit under the tree. I just sat taking in theview. I would often go there, to have time with myself and talk to God.

Looking back with the life experience I have gained, it is not altogether hard to see, how someof the problems began in this “garden” hideaway. My father was often gone on business trips,and worked extra hours, while my mother was at home with us kids. The move was especiallyhard on her, since she was cut off from her sister and father, whom she was very close to. Shedidn’t have much family, and I believe she felt very alone without them close by. I believe mydad was overwhelmed with the needs of a family, and busy doing his best to earn a living. Myparents had gotten married years earlier to avoid having a child out of wedlock. This childhappened to be me. I don’t blame them at all for that (since then I’ve had this happen to mecarrying it to the next generation), but it’s obvious now they were not very compatible. They

have vastly different interests and ideals. Certainly, the isolation this setting provided onlyaccelerated the inevitable.

In seventh grade I played football, and was doing reasonably well in my studies and grades. Ihad a close friend who shared in these things with me. His name is John. John playedquarterback and I played wide receiver, which made for plenty of practice time together.Football was very important to me. I have a picture somewhere of when I was probably aboutfour years old. All you can see is the backs of my dad and me, watching a football game




together. Many of my crayon pictures growing up were of football players. I spent hours uponhours playing “pick up” football with friends and neighbors. In seventh grade you didn’t getmuch playing time, as you were learning plays and “paying your dues”. Still, we perseveredthrough this rite of passage, in anticipation playing time in eighth grade. Fort Calhoun was asmall town, with a relatively small school. My class was under fifty people. The junior high,

which consisted of seventh and eighth grade, was in the same building as the high school.Looking forward to football, little did I know how eighth grade would change the trajectory of my life forever.

It’s a little hazy in my memory. I’m not sure I even remember the breaking of the news or who Igot it from. But, I was not allowed to play eighth grade football. Though my father had agreedto become a Jehovah’s Witness, keeping our family under one denomination, he never fullybelieved in them. While he was distracted with business, his attendance at their “meetings”was sporadic at best (Jehovah’s Witnesses don’t use church, or other similar words to describetheir services). Parallel in timeframe, my mother immersed herself in what became a substitutefamily of sorts. My parents unsuspectingly were headed in opposite directions.

The Jehovah’s witnesses refer to anyone that is not of their religion as - “worldly associations”.School activities and even “worldly” friendships were discouraged. Amish societies are similarlystrict (differing theology), but largely isolated, and the children’s peers of course would beraised in similar fashions. If you have had contact with a Jehovah’s Witness, you may knowthey do not celebrate holidays or birthdays. They view the pagan aspects of each to be“unholy” in God’s eyes. As such, I have many memories of my heart pounding in my chest as Iraised my hand in class, telling the teacher I could not celebrate because of my religion. I didmy best to get through an awkward and embarrassing explanation. Then, I would be sent tothe library or an empty classroom. It was very difficult to do this, and unbeknownst to me,

emotionally traumatizing. Imagine a child forbidden from partaking in the joyous momentstheir friends were enjoying - several times over. Schools formerly held the daily routine of the“pledge of allegiance to the flag”. I was not allowed participation in this tradition. Through allof it, I never tried to “sneak” a birthday or holiday. I believed deep in my heart that I wasserving Jehovah God, and obeying my parents. In reflection, even though I celebrate holidaysand birthdays now, I absolutely know I was serving God’s purpose in my life. As a child he wasteaching me to turn away temptation, and my human desires, to take a bold stand for hisname. Even though I am no longer a Jehovah’s Witness, I still serve the same God of mychildhood. Jehovah is God’s name. Differing theology does not negate any of the formativeideals and seeds He was planting in my life. Yahweh, also God’s name, was “training my hands

for war,” as David once said in the Psalms.

Though missing eighth grade football was deeply disappointing and embarrassing, I had no ideawhat the lasting effects on my life would be. I became a “fish out of water.” It becameincreasingly hard for me to carry lunchtime conversations with my friends. They would talkabout football. I sat silently with my heart in my throat. Similar to the holidays, birthdays, andflag - I was on the outside looking in. However, in this circumstance, given the opportunity, Iwould have chosen to play football. The harsh reality was I had no choice in the matter. I had




become a prisoner, and an outcast all at the same time. Though all the same peoplesurrounded me, I spent eighth grade and my freshman year of high school, in virtual isolation.My parents sensed some of the difficulties. They made an attempt to move myself and mysisters, to a different school. My sister Sarah is two years younger than me, and Hannah isseven years younger. My youngest sister Emily was only about three at the time. There was

another small town in the area, and the boundary lines for busing were very close. My parentsgave it a valiant effort, appearing in person before the board to plead their case. Even so, therequest was denied. My high school future moved forward at Fort Calhoun.

When I got my own car everything began to change rapidly. My relationship with my mombecame strained, and deteriorated rapidly. I remember a day, standing in the kitchen, with mymom, when I was in trouble. She went to slap me, and I stopped her arm midair. When myfather got home, she told him about it. They got into an argument, and all I remember was mymom’s words to him. She said she was - “done with me”. At the time I thought that was good.I wanted some freedom, and I knew my dad wouldn’t be around to keep a close eye. Soon, Ifound a friend who also had a troubled family. We spent time together in the freedom of ourcars, and he introduced me to smoking. Like any first time smoker - I coughed my lungs out.Unfortunately that didn’t stop me. Charles and I would spend lots of time wildly driving in thecountryside and smoking cigarettes.

I began to smoke cigarettes in the same woods where I used to take walks. It didn’t take longfor my parents to suspect my new habit, as the awful smell began to overtake my wardrobe. Idon’t remember my mom confronting me on the subject, but I do remember the day I left inthe car with my parents, to go see the elders of the Jehovah Witnesses. It was about a half hour drive to the Kingdom Hall, which is what they call their Church. It was very solemn whenwe arrived. There were about three elders in attendance, two of which had known me for

quite a while, and one who was newer. We went off to have a closed room meeting, andquickly I was on the “hot seat.” They asked me about smoking - which I didn’t deny. I’d like tosay I said I was sorry, but honestly I don’t remember. I did ask some questions of my own. Oneof which was regarding “independent thought.” This was discouraged. If this seems horrifyingto you - think about institutions in general. Don’t they do their utmost to discourage“independent thought?” As I mentioned previously, my father never was “sold” on being aJehovah’s Witness. He wanted to keep the family as one, and so he consented. There wasmuch to like about them as a whole. They take God, and studying the bible seriously. They didhave lots of fellowship, picnics and other social occasions. My parents had enough of what theyhad seen in the world. Quite honestly, there was much that was pure and biblically correct in

what they did. My fondest Jehovah’s Witness memory is something they call a two-daybuilding of a Kingdom Hall. Hundreds of people pitch in, and volunteer their vocational orgifted area. I can truly remember a spirit of love, joy, and cooperation. By the time Sundaycame, an empty lot has been transformed into a place of worship where a service is performed.Honestly, how many times do you hear someone in their early teens spend a couple of days of hard labor for free - and look back on it fondly? It truly was a good experience. Nevertheless, Iknew my father and his family were at differing odds with the religion. This gave meammunition to question to the elders, who in turn were questioning me. My father did speak




back at my horrible attitude, I am grateful for all that they did for me during this troubled time.I have great appreciation and respect for them.

I was conflicted inside of myself. Having been rejected by my mother, I identified with myfather who is an attorney. His family was well to do. His brother is a Harvard Attorney, my

grandfather owned a business, and the whole “Ellsworth” side of the family has wealth fromsome source. One of our neighbors that I spent time with growing up was Howard Buffet, thefamous investor - Warren Buffet’s son. I would play a game called “Stratego” with Howard andhe gave me rides to the bus stop on his snow mobile. I became fascinated by the stock market,and did some reading regarding it. In a business class at school, we had a stock competitionwhere everyone picked an investment, and we tracked the value. I had researched and madean aggressive pick, selecting a small growth company. To my great delight, when it wasannounced, I found out that I had won the contest! This gave me much needed affirmation. Idecided I wanted to be a portfolio manager, broker or have something to do with thisprofession. The difficulty was when I reflected on my own life, I knew I was headed for troublewith the law, more than a successful business career. Many times at school the militaryrecruiters would come. I would join the meetings simply to miss class. Little did I know that atsome point it would turn into a life-changing solution for me. I called one of the recruiters onthe phone and asked about a “six month program”. He laughed and said they had nothing thatshort. I gave him my information for him to follow up on. In my mind, I must have felt I neededapproximately six months to straighten myself out, and “wake up” before heading off tocollege. Upon hearing this idea, my father told me not to join the military, and that he wouldhelp me pay for school. The recruiter called me back and I had a meeting with him. He told meabout a special opportunity called the Navy Sea College Program. I had scored highly on themilitary version of the ACT, which is called the ASVAB. I qualified for the program. The activeduty commitment was two years long. It was much more than six months, but a lot less than

many other enlistments. He told me they would pay for all my school plus expenses. I wasencouraged by this new opportunity, and very seriously considered it.

On a weekend where I was staying with friends in Omaha, I got a call from my dad asking me tocome home. Upon arrival, I noticed something was wrong. The house was emptied missingquite a bit of furniture. He explained to me that mom had left with my two youngest sisters,Emily and Hannah. My sister Sarah had come home Friday from school and found the housethis way. I felt badly for her. He told me there was a note on the fridge from mom, for Sarahand me. It was still there and I read it. I can’t remember what it said, but I don’t think that isimportant. Before this time, as the only son, I was somewhat isolated. I spent much time on

my own. I got along with my three sisters fairly well, but we didn’t have a lot in common.However, one of the benefits to this dreadful situation was that Sarah and I drew close. Wespent many nights sitting up and talking together. Little did we know how important thisemotional venting was. We both wondered about our two youngest siblings and where theywere and what would become of us.

Before I turned 18 and finished my senior year, I officially signed up for the Navy Sea CollegeProgram. It was a relief to make the decision knowing it would pay for college. It seemed like




something to look forward to. I got one of the last “seats,” as Congress had since cancelled theprogram, significantly limiting the number of opportunities. It had been designed for a personto gain enlisted experience in the Navy, complete college, and come back as an officer. But, notenough persons were coming back. I felt it was an ideal opportunity for my situation, and so Itook it. I felt good about the Navy since I looked up to my grandfather who was a Naval Officer

in World War II. After High School Graduation, I had to wait about nine months before thebeginning of my Navy enlistment.

Many times during life’s most difficult tribulations, God moves and speaks to us the loudest. Iwas unaware that He was doing this. But, later I would come to realize the foundation he waslaying under my feet. Jehovah was still with me, holding me gently in his hand. He had neverlet go. God would show me three “life-parable visions” of the Rapture in this trying time of mylife. I knew that each of these occurrences was significant, although I had no idea the profoundimpact they would have on the purpose, and calling for my life. Only years later would I beginto understand. The first of these “revelations” was about to take place. I simply call it - “MyFathers…”

My memory doesn’t serve me in this instance to remember how I found out, but not long aftergraduation, I got an important message from my father’s family. My Great Uncle Harry, whowas 100 years old, and who I had never met, was paying my way on the “Ellsworth fishing trip.”This was no “insignificant” fishing trip. I’m not sure exactly how much, but monetarily it wasvery expensive. Also, logistically it was quite a long trip. It was located on the shore of a lakeup in Canada that there were no roads to. We had to travel there by seaplane. The trip was alongtime family tradition, and held significant prestige. I never remembered my dad going onthis trip, much less mentioning it. This kind hearted, Great Uncle had heard of my troubles andwanted to do this for me. What a grand gesture of grace and love from afar! Who was I to

have such a privilege given to me?

It was an early summer morning and I left by car with my grandfather. It was just he and I. Wedrove to Des Moines, Iowa where we picked up another family member. From there, it wasquite a long time in the car together, as we drove north past the border of Canada. We metother family members at the airport that would take us to our final destination. We climbedinto the rather small sea plane together. The anticipation of the flight was exhilarating! Itwould be hard to forget the tingling sensation in my stomach, as we took off, and rose steadilyin the air. Landing on the large lake in the relatively tiny aircraft was also quite a thrill. Wetaxied to a dock and got out with our luggage. We all watched patiently, as my 100 year old

Great Uncle that made it possible for me to be on this trip, got out of the seaplane. I thankedhim and he was gracious towards me.

Only men were on the trip, except for my grandfather’s elder brother, who brought his wife.Normally it was just for the “guys”, but somehow he had managed an exception. We hadseveral cabins, and I stayed in one with my grandfather. It was truly beautiful countrysurrounded by wilderness! At the time I only had a partial appreciation for just how unique an




opportunity it was. Nevertheless, I was glad to be there with what I fondly refer to now as “MyFathers”.

Each morning we would get up early and head to the lodge, where they would serve usbreakfast. Many mornings I remember sitting by my grandfather’s older brother who was a

courtroom Judge by trade. He kindly joked with me, and I felt at ease sitting next to himmaking conversation. As a teenager I was thinking about friends and other things, but this wasso wonderful it even overpowered things of that nature.

After breakfast we split up in groups and headed for the boats. Each of the boats had an Indianguide that would take us to where all the fish were. I had been fishing previously with myfamily, but certainly was not an avid fisherman. I never really liked it that much since it seemedrather boring. I was often hot and would get eaten up by bugs. But, this time was muchdifferent. We set out together and I had absolutely no idea where we’d be going, and thensuddenly we’d stop. I’d hold out my hook as the guide baited my line. How’s that for fishing?Next, I cast out and was told to expect to catch some Walleye. We all caught one after another- It was a blast! I’d real one in and the guide would take it off the hook, and put on some newbait. We caught as many fish as we could pull in – it was truly amazing!

When lunch time came the guide took our boat to a center island, and we all got out. The otherboats met there as well. The guides built a fire, skinned our fish, and cooked them along withsome side dishes they had prepared. Meanwhile, we all stood anxiously waiting for lunch andmy grandfather even let me drink a beer with all of them. While I drank he taught me only todrink beer for the taste and not for the “buzz”.

Each of the days I spent there were much like this one. Eventually, it came time to go. But, I’ll

never forget the memory, and what it meant to me. Someone from the trip had taken a pictureof us all sitting around the breakfast table together. Whoever it was, sent out someunconventionally large sized copies in the mail. I fondly kept the picture for years. Finally, I hada custom frame made for it. Now it hangs on my wall. I often fondly look at it seeing myself sitting next to my grandfather and his older brother the judge. I am still enjoying the trip to thisday!

Since this time, I have pondered this fishing trip in deep thought many times. If you aresearching for answers, I hope it is obvious to you the prophetic parable the story presents. MyGreat Uncle Harry sure played the part of my Heavenly Father well. It took me many years to

see this, and yet God was not done. He had two more “visions” of this type for me to live out.




Chapter 15: The Chapter 15: The Chapter 15: The Chapter 15: The Prodigal Prodigal Prodigal Prodigal

~

There was an awkward time of waiting after my graduation, and the time for my enlistment inthe Navy. I was due to leave for boot camp, which was located in Great Lakes Michigan, onMarch 1, 1988. My dad had put our home up for sale during the divorce process. My sister andI were living with him at my Grandparents. They lived at a beautiful place outside the city of Omaha called Ginger Cove. It was a lakeside home, with a sandy beach, and the water wascrystal clear making it wonderful to swim in. I had always loved to visit my Grandparents.However, at this time, I was very broken and bitter. I was as rebellious as a teenager could be.

I was a “late bloomer” when it came to dating. I had just met what was my first steadygirlfriend, named Stacy. Her family was very down-to-earth, warm and friendly, and became atype of surrogate family for me. During my months of waiting for the Navy, I spent a lot of mytime in their home. At the same time, my grandparents felt it would be good to occupy me bybeing productive, and learning about the “real world”. I worked in the packing and shippingdepartment in the business my grandfather owned. It is called Briggs Inc., and is a plumbingwholesaler. In the months leading up to my departure, I rode into work each day with mygrandfather. It really was a great time for our relationship together. Since this time he haspassed away. I wish I would have valued this time more.

During this pause something very significant happened. My grandfather officially retired fromhis business. The new President of the company asked my grandmother if there was anything

they could do for my grandfather. It was difficult to come up with something. After thinking itthrough, she suggested that her husband had lost a family ring earlier in his life. It was a veryunique gold ring with a very special family crest engraved into it. His brother had the only copyleft. They arranged to have it shipped, and paid an expensive fee to Borshiem’s (WarrenBuffet’s company) to have it replicated as a custom made ring. Soon after this was complete,the time had come for the celebration in his honor. I’m quite embarrassed regarding the nextpart of the story, where clearly I had become quite a rebellious. My grandmother was all readyfor our family to go to this event. Even though she pleaded with me, the embarrassing truth isthat I refused to go. Regrettably, I decided to go to a basketball game where my girlfriend was.Unintentionally, in my own personal life story, I had played the part of the prodigal perfectly.

Similar to the biblical version, many years later there would be a surprising and miraculousending to this story. I’ll leave you in suspense…

Unfortunately as my departure date approached, my rebellion only grew worse. I was drinkingand out with friends on a regular basis. My grandparents lived outside of a small town. If youhave small town experience, you know that means heavy surveillance by the local police. Imanaged to get several MIP’s (minor in possession of alcohol) before I went into the Navy.Officially, this disqualified me from my program. When my recruiter became aware of this he




was furious. Before I began my enlistment, I had to go and see the area Captain regarding myrecord. I went before the Captain and explained my circumstances, of which I have littlememory. I’m sure I had plenty of anxiety in talking with him, and wondering what was tobecome of me. I was relieved to find out that he gave me a complete “pardon.” This kept meeligible for the Navy Sea College Program. However, as my enlistment of March 1, 1988

approached I tried to call my recruiter and tell him I wanted out of my contract. The answerwas blunt. He wouldn’t let me out, nor would the government once you sign the dotted line.My girlfriend and I had troubles as well, in that she didn’t know what to do, having a boyfriendthat was leaving for two years. I didn’t know what to do either. After some hard discussionsand tears, we decided to try and make a long distance relationship work somehow. This madeit easier to leave. The date, which once seemed off on a far horizon, suddenly came for areckoning.

I left for boot camp. With a small number of other enlistees, I took a plane from Omaha toChicago, O’Hare Airport. There wasn’t much to do but simply “get there, however I was put incharge of the small group based on my military testing scores. Once in Chicago, we followedour written directions. We got onto a military bus where we joined other recruits from acrossthe country. The air was filled with anxiety, and we arrived by design under cover of night, atthe location of our boot camp. They brought us to a bunk room, where we stowed our bagsand laid down to rest, after a long day of angst and travel. At 4 a.m. a “Drill Sergeant” (theNAVY doesn’t have Sergeant’s, but you get the point) woke us all up, and boot camp officiallybegan. It was everything you saw in the movies and more. Beating trash cans, name calling –the whole nine yards.

I can’t emphasize enough that boot camp was an extreme shock to a person’s system. Forpurposes of this story, suffice it to say that it was not only physically demanding, but even more

so, emotionally and mentally challenging. Everything was designed to prepare us for intensesituations, which one could expect in a time of war. We had two enlisted men leading ourgroup which was called a “company.” Our group’s designation was “060”. The highest rankingrepresentative was called a Chief Petty Officer. He was slender, intelligent looking, with smallwire rimmed glasses. His appearance was rather studious, like a scientist. The other manassisting him was a First Class Petty Officer. He was what you would picture as the perfectbrute “Drill Sergeant”. He was overweight and “girthy” with a thick black mustache. He wasn’tthe one who work us up at 4 a.m. our first night, so the military surely is doing a good jobchurning out characters like this – probably all for boot camp. There is much I could say aboutthe whole initiation process of boot camp. But I believe many people have known at least one

person, and heard the “horror stories.” Speaking first handedly, it is quite terrifying for all theenlistees. After we had completed some of the basics in camp, the Chief called out somenames, and pulled a group of us into a meeting. We met in a separate room outside of thenormal barracks. After a brief explanation, he began handing out various positions andassignments. It appeared that I merited a position because of my ASVAB (military testing)score. The “Sea College” program was excellent for college funding, however there were noother advantages, since I was only signed up for two years of active duty. As such, I waspleasantly surprised when the Chief gave me the position of flag bearer. Two men within our




group were selected to lead our company. This modeled the Navy command structure of aship, which had a Captain in charge, and an Executive Officer (XO) as second in command. I fitin the next command tier, with the other selected flag bearers. The rest of our group wasinfantry and would carry a rifle. As I would soon find out, the rifle bearers had much work to doin marching practice. They had to learn all the various positions to carry the weapon while

marching, parading, etc.

There were continuous challenges in boot camp, which were very draining in every way. Therewere physical tests, mental tests, and all the while it was very emotionally traumatizing. It tookevery amount of perseverance a person could muster to make it through. Each day: we ranand did pushups to the point of exhaustion, learned and memorized concepts with subsequenttests, received all kinds of medical shots and tests, simulated jumping overboard from a ship,got very little sleep, stood bunk and uniform inspections, and much more. All of this was takingplace in the middle of a bitter cold winter, with the wind of the Great Lakes sweeping acrossour faces as we marched everywhere. When it was time to eat, we were all starved and weshoved down our food, as we were lucky to have fifteen minutes to eat. The thing I lookedforward to the most was the one time a week we got a fifteen minute phone call. The timeflew by unbelievably quickly. Then, a man would be yelling in your ear threatening you withmany things telling us to get off the phone immediately. Many nights men broke down in tears.Most did it quietly in their bunks at night so no one would know. Occasionally someone wouldbreak down in front of the group. Even though I was able to keep my composure, I felt likelosing it myself. I saw enough to know that everyone felt the same way, whether it was said ornot. We were all barely making it day by day, drill by drill, one minute to the next.

Fast forwarding towards the last portion of boot camp, there was only a little more than aweek until graduation. Graduation was a very formal event which family and friends could be

invited to. At the ceremony, we would all wear our uniforms and march in a great arena.Through letters and by phone I knew my dad, my girlfriend, and her mom were coming to seeme. I had proudly written to tell them about my position as a flag bearer, and was very muchanticipating the day that would be coming soon.

As graduation approached, our marching drills intensified. On weekends, the Chief and theFirst Class Petty Officer (FCPO) would rotate duty, so they each could have some time off.There was a Saturday when the Chief was home, and the FCPO took us out to the courtyard byour barracks for some marching practice. We all could hear the familiar sound of the drum-beat that we marched to. For each beat we were to take a “normal” sized step forward, until

the last beat where we stopped. At this point we needed to be perfectly in line. Though itseems simple, it was much harder in reality. Everyone was nervous. The inclination was to takethree normal steps, and on the fourth beat take one giant-sized step forward. After we haddone this without success several times, the Petty Officer was furious. He stood on a balconyabove us shouting angrily. He gave us one last try, and threatened to demote anyone notmeeting up with his standard. Several thoughts began circulating, but I was able to stay calmunder pressure. I was confident I would get it right. Some of the guys next to me, I was not sosure about. It seemed that even when instructed to take four normal steps, many were still




unable to do it. I had a difficult choice to make, and thought to myself, “Should I do it as I amordered? – a normal sized step. Or, should I try and match the guy next to me who seems to betaking an extra long step on the last drum beat?” I decided to carry out the march asinstructed, avoiding guessing regarding what the guy next to me would do. Soon the drumstared beating. One…two…three…and four times. I was dismayed at what I saw out of the

corner of my eye. The man next to me was half an inch ahead of me.

Now it was up to the judgment of the Petty Officer, as to who was wrong, and what wouldhappen. He burst angrily off the balcony on down to the courtyard. He inspected our feet andthe alignment. When he was done, he somehow determined that I was the one out of order.Immediately, he demoted me and took my flag bearing position away. He berated me in frontof the group. I was humiliated. The flag was taken from my hands, and I was given a rifle in itsstead. This was no temporary demotion, but one that was very serious and permanent. I didnot even have time to gather myself. He told me to hold the rifle over my head. A rifle is fairlyheavy. It’s made of wood and metal and my guess is that it’s about twelve pounds. Once I heldit over my head he ordered me to run around the perimeter of the court yard without stopping.A few times around was all it took before my arms began to tremble. Soon the weight of thewooden and metal gun began to push me to the ground. My arms shook, my legs shook, andthen it got much worse. Military belt buckles have a sliding clasp, and mine began to becomeundone, and I was losing my pants. In “normal” life you would be able to stop and tighten yourbelt, but not if you are in military boot camp under a “Drill Sergeant” who has an axe to grindagainst college kids. In addition, we had been conditioned to know that we were here to becompletely disgraced. I certainly was not the first. They couldn’t physically touch you, but theycould physically “mash” (that’s what they called it) you into the ground. I was mortified whenmy pants fell around my ankles, and then I skidded head first to the pavement - how utterlypainful and shameful.

On the bright side, I was done with that part of the punishment. The unfortunate part was Ionly had a week until graduation, which left me weeks behind to learn how to handle a rifle.The “Drill Sergeant” had not only humiliated me, but also set me up for failure. It seemedcertain that I would not graduate and would have my boot camp extended. Most men who gotpushed back had a hard time even making it at all. Some of these men were going home as“suicide attempts,” or some would claim they were “gay” or go see a “Psychiatrist”. Many weredesperate enough to do anything to get out of such wretched environment. The reality wasyou never knew what happened to them. My prospects seemed bleak, and I thought abouthow I was letting everyone at home down. What would they think?

I began to stay up at night, and practice all the position movement with my rifle. My sleep wasalready insufficient. It was against the regulations for me to be up past “lights out,” but I wasdesperate, and willing to take a risk. I stayed up at night and would plead my case to thewatchman as much as I could. Fortunately, many of them had sympathy for my cause. Most of them were rifleman, and I asked for pointers and tips. I worked hard at perfecting the variouscoordinated movements with the rifle. Finally, I had done it. I am not sure that I was great, butI was adequately able to pass inspection. I would not finish as a Flag Bearer, but at least my




family was able to see me graduate. They had a hard time picking me out, since they expectedthat I would be at the front as a flag bearer. What I found reassuring when it was over is thatthey all loved me all the same. The difference between a rifle and a flag did not mean anythingto them. They were proud that I overcame adversity and were happy to see me. I told my bootcamp story to them for hours. What a relief to have it all behind me.

After a few weeks of basic Seamanship school (called ATD), I was able to go home on a muchanticipated twelve day leave. Being home was great, but the days pass by rather quickly.Towards the end of the stay my mom called me to visit her. As I had mentioned to you earlier,my parents were divorced before I got into the Navy. As it turned out, she had custody of mytwo younger sisters, Hannah and Emily. They were all Jehovah’s Witnesses. I went to see mymom anticipating that she would like to see me while I was home, and give me some sort of send off. When I got to my Mom’s she was rather cold. We sat down on her couch in herapartment. She pulled out a Bible. Next my mom proceeded to read me some scriptures thatthe Jehovah’s Witnesses use to support their beliefs, specifically in regard to my beingdisfellowshipped from them.

Needless to say, I didn’t take this to well. My mom and I both had our parts to play in thismess. I was still ready to rebel at a moment’s notice, and my mom had her own childhoodbackground, where she had been rejected. It was a mess for both of us. I wanted to tell herwhat I thought of the divorce, and she wanted to tell me about my sin. She let me know that Iwas being cut off in my relationship with her, and then she walked me to the door. I hugged mysister’s goodbye, not knowing when I would see them again. My mom shut the door on me,and I collapsed in a heap of tears on her doorstep. Finally, when I built up enough strength toleave, I drove straight to my grandpa’s house -her father. I cried and told him what happened.I buried my head in his chest. He was always so good at just being there and loving me. I

deeply loved him as my Grandfather and I’m glad he was there for me.

Soon my leave was over. After my short stay at home, I was off to see where my orders wouldtake me. It is said that God draws close to the brokenhearted. This is good because I was inworse shape than I knew. It was tragic, all my childhood years I was rejected for being aJehovah’s Witness, and now I was being rejected by one – my own mother. The very person,who taught me from God’s word, was rejecting me with it. Satan, in his schemes, was trying tomake the very thing that was good, whole, and true be the source of my rejection and pain. Hefalsely appeared like an “angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14) hoping the pain would cause meto run away forever from God’s presence. Religion is really very devious at its core. But, God

was still with me and deep in my heart. It was at this time God gave me a second vision of theRapture, but like the ghosts of Ebenezer Scrooge, this one was rather unpleasant. However,upon reflection, I realize it has given me strength since that time knowing God is always withme through the most difficult trials of life. I had walked through many “fires” in life with Godand this was yet another one.

Growing up, I never made it past Denver Colorado, and had never flown on airliners in my lifeuntil the military. Yet my orders said San Diego, and so I was off to see an unknown place I had




never been to before. When I had originally talked to my recruiter, he told me that I would notbe out to sea much since I was only in for a two year enlistment. Of course this is the type of “sales pitch,” half truth where military recruiters get their poor reputation from. After bootcamp, when we had received our paperwork, we had a chance to ask some experiencedenlisted men some questions about them. My orders were for the USS Fort McHenry LSD-43

located in San Diego, CA. Since the description had the word “Fort” in it, and I was in the SeaCollege program, I was told that I would be “land based.” This seemed to match up with whatthe recruiter originally told me. For the moment I was relieved.

After the long flight, I arrived wide eyed in San Diego late at night. At the bustling airport I wentto go pick up my luggage and Sea Bag (extra large green duffle bag containing all your militaryuniforms, etc.) where I was met by two men in white uniforms. I had no idea who these menwere, and they did not know anything about me either, but we had military orders putting ustogether. After the briefest of introductions, I lugged my stuff and followed them out to thewhite van they arrived in. I took a seat in the back, and the two men sat up front. While wewere in transit one of the men said to me:

“Do you know where you are going?”

“No.” I replied rather unsure of myself.

He looked at the other man upfront sitting by him and said, “You are going overseas, on a sixmonth tour called WestPac.”

When you get out of boot camp, you are still called a “boot” (similar to a rookie) for some timethereafter. During basic seamanship school we had been well versed on all the different

initiations that take place, and so I felt well prepared for what I thought was a joke of somesort.

“No I’m not,” I said believing this was exactly what we had learned about. He tried to reassureme he was telling the truth, and his friend looked back at me and confirmed the story. I didn’tbelieve a word of it. I would have to see it for myself. Looking back, I think I was in shock anddidn’t want to believe it was true!

We arrived at the Navy base, and passed through a front gate which was not too dissimilar fromwhat I had seen before. The base itself however was radically different. I could see all kinds of

huge ships moored to the docks, with lights strung up the masts - like stars in stark contrast tothe darkness all around us. The whole trip was quite overwhelming and I began to get nervous.I had a sudden sinking feeling that this man had been telling me the truth all along. I got out of the van. I was on my own, and I did my best to load up all my bags on my back, and carry what Icould with my hands. With the weight of the bags, I could barely keep balance, and felt like Iwas going to tip over. I looked up to see a huge ship, which may as well have been Noah’s ark asit looked enormous. It was moored to the dock, but my eyes noticed there was plenty of spaceto fall down to the deep below. I had never seen the ocean before, and as I looked out over it




all I saw was a mass of darkness. The ship had aluminum stairs leading up to a high entry pointon it, which is called a quarterdeck. I looked up, and wasn’t sure I wanted to get on board. Itook a few hesitant steps. As I carried my bags up the stairway, I felt like at any time I couldlose my balance and fall into the dark ocean below. Finally, I made it to the top and the Officerchecked my identification and orders approving me to come aboard.

The Officer called someone on a phone, and after waiting a bit I was taken to my assignedgroup, which they called “Deck Department”. At first this meant nothing to me, but I quicklylearned this unit does all the “dirty” work no one wants to do. It is where sailors go that haveno qualifications, or special Navy schools – a product of my short two year enlistment and theSea College program. I followed the man assigned to me through a very confusing maze of ladders and corridors. I quickly lost any mapping I tried to do in my mind, and I just simplyfollowed my guide. He finally brought me to my destination. It was a quarters where aboutthirty other men were staying. Most were already asleep as the hour was late, although somewere getting ready to stand watch. Sailors sleep in “racks” which were built in bunk bedsstacked three high. After stowing my gear, uniforms, and luggage I made my rack and lay downto bed. As I lay in bed staring at the ceiling, I wondered where I was and what I had gottenmyself into.

The next morning I awoke early with everyone else. Reality was a quick teacher. I was the newguy, meeting many new persons who I’d be spending all my time with. Through introductions Ifound out some basic information about where I was. We were aboard a rather new and verylarge ship called the USS Fort McHenry LSD-43. It was not as big as an Aircraft Carrier, which islike a small city at sea, but it was large enough to hold almost a thousand men, and was longerthan two football fields put together. The vessel was on an amphibious ship. It was designedto carry and then launch other smaller boats called LCAC’s (Landing Craft Air Cushion) to

strategically land marines, tanks, cannons, and other heavy equipment ashore in a time of war.

One of the morning rituals was called “Quarters.” This was where we all reported to at 7 a.m.sharp on the flight deck of the ship. Being my first day, I followed everyone else. I stood atattention during Quarters, and listened to what the man in charge of our group had to say. Hewas a Chief Petty Officer. They wore a khaki uniform, similar to the officers. When Quarterswas over, he had mercy on me. He let me go quickly ashore to the dock, and make a last phonecall home before we departed for six months of WestPac. The men in white that picked me upfrom the airport had been absolutely right. I quickly went ashore, and attempted a call to mygirlfriend. I let it ring several times and there was no answer. I subsequently called my father.

He answered, and I told him that I was going overseas for six months to various foreigncountries and ports on a ship. There was dead silence on the other end of the phone. Aftersaying goodbye, I left the phone and made my way to my new home. I really felt all alone, and Ihad no idea what to expect from this large vessel, that was taking me out in the middle of theocean. I went back up the ladder and onto the ship. Here I was, officially a sailor, ready toleave everything I knew behind, to venture to places I had never been, with hundreds of men Ididn’t know.




Chapter 16: Chapter 16: Chapter 16: Chapter 16: My Captain Story My Captain Story My Captain Story My Captain Story

~

After the first few days on the ship, I got used to some of the routine. Each morning I’d reportto quarters where the Chief or a Petty Officer would assign duties. Most of these were cleaningassignments. I spent the first month or two cleaning bathrooms and mopping floors. As Ipreviously mentioned, Deck Department got most of the tasks no one wanted. We also stoodwatches out to sea. On watch, one of the assignments was driving the ship which is called thehelm, or one would control the speed which is called the Lee Helm. There also was a stationcalled Aft Helm, which was located below decks in the rear portion of the ship all by itself. Theother watch assignments: starboard, port, and aft included utilizing binoculars to report allsorts of things. This included: other ships, debris in the water, aircraft, etc. All of the watcheswere commanded by the Officer of the Deck which was rotated amongst their group. Therewere times when the Captain would take command of the bridge. This would be in times of war exercises, drills, or times of peril. As such, his quarters were located just off the bridge.This is so he could quickly be alerted if he needed to take command. Watches were rotatedutilizing four sections. The first assigned timeframe was 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. The very next nightwould be the 2 a.m. – 7 a.m. watch. The other two watches covered the remaining timeframes.There was no extra sleep allotted, even though two out of four nights sleep was hard to comeby. Even when you were off duty, it was hard to get thirty men in close quarters to be quietenough to get good sleep. Showers were strictly cold water which did serve to wake you uprather abruptly. Also, there were nights where we ran drills or emergencies kept us up. Duringlunch time in the day, the break rooms would be dark with many men sleeping. The penalty forfalling asleep on watch was steep. If caught, a person would have to answer directly to the

Captain. The procedure for this is called Captain’s Mass, which was basically a military legalproceeding. Sentences handed out by the Captain were usually severe. These often wouldinclude: loss of vacation, pay rank, brig (jail) time or all the above depending on the offense.

Even with the sleep deprivation, serving on the ship was not as traumatizing as boot camp.Still, six months seemed like an amount of time that would outlast my perseverance. Quicklylosing hope, I fell into a deep depression. All I had to think about was my mom rejecting me,my dad’s silence, and the surrogate family I had left behind. I felt orphaned, and I didn’t wantto be stuck out in the middle of the ocean. I began thinking of a way out. In the Navy we gotpaid in cash. While I was mopping a break room floor I began to formulate a plan to get home.

The plan was simplistic. I would take all my cash once we arrived in the Philippines, and find anairport to fly back home, not considering the consequences. Reflecting, I can now see that Godcarried me through this difficult time. I got a few letters from home lifting my spirits, and onthe U.S. Navy base in the Philippines, it was easy to call home. This gave me theencouragement I needed to persevere.

I began to get to know some of the other guys in Deck Department. I found out that some of them were enrolled in the Sea College program. They worked in what was called the PMS




locker (Preventative Maintenance Systems – the Navy doesn’t care what the rest of the worlduses PMS to stand for). The PMS locker was a far better situation to work in, than normal DeckDepartment chores. They worked independently, conducting maintenance on such things asfire stations, CO2 bottles, and other ship equipment. This group was given responsibility,coupled with accountability. It seemed to lend itself well to the Sea College members. After

getting to know some of them, word was passed to the Chief, and soon I had an opportunity to join the group. It really was a blessing to know that you had constructive work to do each day.It was much preferred to cleaning bathrooms. Also, it kept me out of the most dangerous duty,which was hanging over the side of the ship in a safety harness to paint. Sleep was still in shortsupply, but life was getting better. I had a constructive group I belonged to, and started tomake friends.

Days began to go by quickly. I was able to work and learn from the experienced Sea Collegesailors. Like me, they were not in the Navy as a career move and were looking forward toschool. We all were in the same “boat” (pardon the pun). We spent a lot of time talking abouthow much time we had left, and our future plans for college and beyond. They would departfrom the Navy much sooner than I would. This was because I had gotten one of the last spotsfor this program.

After many months of hard waiting on WestPac, we finally headed back home to San Diego. Sixmonths had not flown by - in any way, shape, or form! It was grueling, and probably thelongest six months of my life up to this point. I was able to go home for leave after we got back,and enjoyed my time in Nebraska. With the experience I had gained, the Navy still was noteasy, but I was learning to acclimate myself pretty well.

Not long after this, a seeming hardship came to bear in on me. Though, since this time, I’ve

learned I have a hard time seeing the forest through the trees. God has a plan much greaterthan mine, and so it’s better to just trust His hand in our lives even when things look like asetback.

The Navy had certain professional designations called a person’s “rate”. For example, there areQuartermasters to chart the ship’s course, Engineers working with mechanical equipment, andMess specialists who cook and serve the food to the whole crew. The Mess staff needsassistance in cleaning, serving, and preparing meals for almost a thousand men. This rotatinghelp they receive from other divisions is informally called “Mess Cranking”. Various enlistedpersonnel are sent on a rotating basis to serve in this capacity. When a person is selected to

help in this area, they are assigned for at least three months. Predictably, Deck Department is apreferred place to pull persons for this duty. This is because Deck is a less specialized area, notrequiring the level of technical training relative to other areas.

Precisely which individual would be sent “mess cranking” from the Deck Division, wasdetermined by our Chief. Although it may not seem fair, many persons in Deck had gone morethan one time, whereas, I had never served. There were two main reasons for this. First,trouble makers regularly make the list, and it serves as a form of discipline. Also, it was difficult




to send personnel assigned to the PMS locker, because this was the one specialized area indeck. There was accountability reflecting back on our division, of which the Chief had theultimate responsibility. So, for many political and practical reasons, no one really went MessCranking from the PMS group.

Somehow, this rule was changed, and it was decided that I would need to go serve on the messdecks. I’m not sure how this transpired, but it didn’t really matter since the decision had beenmade. It was hard news to swallow. Just as I had begun to establish myself in this area, and seta routine, everything would change for me. It was like starting over again.

My first assignment was the enlisted mess hall, which lasted no more than a day. Then I wascalled to serve the Officers. Promptly, I got used to the routine. This consisted of serving theofficers three meals a day, which was comparable to waiting tables. In addition to this, wecleaned their staterooms. Some officers had their own quarters, while others had to share.There was a Pilipino man named Javier that was solely taking care of the Captain and XO (2 nd incommand, Executive Officer). His term was nearly up, and I was assigned to take his place. Hewas a good teacher, and I learned everything I could from him, knowing this would be animportant duty. Soon, he moved on and it was time for me to take over. During the meals, Iwould exclusively serve the Captain. I remember specifically, that he liked two glasses of waterwith lemons in them. Our team as a whole, tried to cater to the likes, needs, and wants of theofficers. But, the Captain was the most important of all. One of the other significant duties Icarried out daily was filling his thermos with hot steaming coffee. I was to have it waiting forhim on his desk in the morning. I waited to fill his thermos until I heard him announced ashaving just arrived onboard the ship, when ashore. This way it would be fresh and piping hot. Ialso cleaned his and the XO’s Quarters, and the passageways going to their rooms. I buffed andwaxed the hallways until there was no spot, and you could see your reflection in it. This was

hard work. Nevertheless, I appreciated greatly the opportunity and the responsibility of caringfor the Captain.

Towards the end of my three month span a newsworthy event occurred that ended upinvolving our ship. The Exxon Valdez, an oil tanker, had crashed and caused a great oil spill inPrince William Sound, Alaska. The horrendous tragedy made prime time television andnewspaper headlines. The government and Exxon wrangled over who would clean it up. Aftermuch deliberation, it was decided both parties would work together. The Navy would oversee,house, and assist the operation, while civilian workers did the hands on work. Our ship was anatural fit, being an amphibious assault ship designed to house over a thousand marines. On a

personal level, what this meant was months more time out to sea away from home not longafter a six month WestPac. In retrospect, almost my whole first year in the Navy was spent inboot camp, school, and out to sea.

Once it was determined we would go, there was no delay in getting underway. We made itthere quickly utilizing the ship’s maximum speed. I was on the bridge when we got withinviewing range - and I was astonished! Alaska was so incredibly beautiful! Truth be told, I hadnever understood Alaskan Cruises before. But, now I saw the “light”. Our large ship pulled in




through an inlet, between snowcapped mountains, lined with pine trees. Everywhere youlooked, the water was placid, and the winter paradise was filled with bountiful wildlife. Flyingfish decorated the waters, along with seals, porpoises, and more. The highlight which madeeven the most battle-tested officers stop and stare - were huge, stark black and white KillerWhales jumping up out of the clear blue waters. It was breath-taking and magnificent! When

we saw the oil spill itself, I was literally sickened. It was a horrible tragedy that this accidenthappened in such a picturesque area.

Not long after arriving at our destination, I finished my tour of “mess cranking” duty, and Ipassed my knowledge to the next person. It was during this time in Alaska, where God caused adoor of opportunity to open. Each day we reported to quarters where we receivedcommunication from the Chief. It was routine, to go over what was formally called the Plan of the Day. This report contained information such as announcements, watch schedules, dutyassignments, recognition of performance, etc. It was the central communication piece to theentire ship.

This particular morning, the Plan of the Day had an odd and intriguing announcement. TheCaptain posted a position opening in his office as a Yeoman. The job description was anadministrative position working directly for the Captain, and handling Ship’s correspondence. Itwas this office that published the plan of the day, which had the Captain’s signature on it. Thiswas a rare opportunity indeed. Usually, to apply for a profession you had to have a particularNavy school as a basic qualification. However, there were times where someone would “strike”for a profession by doing the coursework and tests on their own. This was unheard of for SeaCollege participants, since our enlistment was so short.

This unique opportunity presented itself, through a fall of waywardness by one of the current

Yeoman. One of the sailors working in the Captain’s office had been caught smoking marijuana.This is a very serious offense, which was addressed by the Captain through Captain’s Mass. TheCaptain issued the usual punishments for a serious offense - such as reducing pay, vacation andrank. However, in this instance, he also removed the rating of Yeoman and sent him to theDeck Department. At sentencing, it would have been obvious to this man, that he would soonbecome sleep deprived. Also, he would inherit the undesirable tasks that came with his newlyassigned territory. The Captain’s office involved clerical work which made it a highly desirablepost. The best news of all was – they stood no watches! With the exception of emergenciesand drills, each night would be full of rest. Quite a contrast in lifestyles – don’t you think?

Clearly this was a desirable position, and so I had a big decision to make. An official petitionwould be a great risk. I’ll explain why. A request in the Navy involved an official procedure.There was a form that detailed the request, and went up the entire chain of command. Itstarted with your direct supervisor, and eventually work its way up to the Captain. Making upthe largest visible portion of the request, was the section where each of your designated chainof command superiors, would check recommended or not recommended. At the bottom, therewas one sole spot which read approved or not approved. This was reserved exclusively for theCaptain. A range of thoughts went through my mind. I really had enjoyed serving the Captain




before, and would like to do it again. He did know my name, and had given me someaffirmation that I served him well. But, I had some reservations as well. I had no formalqualifications, which would not bode well in a highly competitive environment. Also, I clearlywas not on a military career track, and didn’t have much time in my enlistment left. “This was aprofessional position that would be better served by a qualified candidate looking at a military

career,” the doubts whispered in my head. Outside of these doubts, the great risk came frommy chain of command and their reaction to this request. I had received favor from the Chief byhaving me work in the maintenance locker for a good portion of my service time. Many of theSea College sailors were gone, and it was doubtful he would be inclined to let me go. Further, itwas very possible he could find the request insulting. I could end up cleaning bathrooms again.Or worse yet, hanging over the side of the ship in a safety harness – painting! Considering thecompetition, my qualifications, and the little time I had left – did it make sense to take a chanceby putting in a request?

Through conviction which defied logic, I decided to take an enormous risk and submitted therequest. The pressure began to build each day as I faced the unknown. I become increasinglyself conscious while attending quarters, knowing the Chief had seen my request. As I carriedout my duties, I had plenty of doubts and second guesses creep into my mind. However, I didthe best I could to go about my daily business since it was out of my control at this point.

One night I routinely went to stand my late night watch. I dutifully climbed the ladder to theutmost level, leaving me just outside the Bridge. I was preparing myself to take the helm of theship. While out to sea at night, the atmosphere was complete and utter darkness. The ship hadno lights on, in order to cloak its presence for military purposes. As such, it was required toreport at least fifteen minutes early to watch, letting your eyes adjust. Through routine, I knewI was standing outside of the Bridge, just forward of the Captain’s doorway to his Quarters. Yet,

I was still blind to my surroundings.

Suddenly I heard a loud voice say “Ellsworth!”

“Yes Sir!” I quickly replied. Through serving, his voice had become very familiar, even withoutthe use of my eyes. It was the Captain!

He asked me if I had some requirements done in a military training manual. I had anticipatedthis might come up, as a potential objection from my chain of command. I had been urgentlyworking to complete it, and I let the Captain know it was nearly finished. He asked me if I could

have it done by week’s end. I replied emphatically - “Yes Sir!” He let me know to have it on hisdesk by that Friday.

Though the potential reward was high, I had my work cut out for me to finish on time. I set mymind to finishing the task at hand. Feverishly working, and pleading my cause, I received helpfrom a number of men in other divisions. I required much help in the way of teaching, taskcompletion, testing and official sign off. With God’s grace, and a lot of help from others Icompleted it and handed it in.




Not long after this, I received the final response to my request. Starting at the top of thedocument my eyes scanned downward as my concerns and fears were confirmed. Each of mysuperiors all the way up the chain of command marked - “Not Recommended”. Nevertheless, Ikept scanning to the bottom, with optimism. Then finally my eyes fixed in on it – “Approved!”

The Captain marked “Approved’! That was it! I was out of Deck Department and into theCaptain’s office as a Yeoman! Unbelievable! No more watches in the middle of the night! Nomatter how mad anyone was - they could do nothing. I was safe. And gratefully, I had theCaptain’s approval and his signature. I would soon be gone from Deck Department, and servingthe Captain full time. That night, I lay in my bunk looking at the same ceiling that haunted mebefore. I remembered this unfamiliar place and feeling like an orphan. What a truly miraculousrecovery! Now, I was looking at this same ceiling except with hope and joy!

With still about nine months to serve in my enlistment, I was doing my utmost to quickly learnmy responsibilities in the Captain’s office. I hadn’t been this excited about the Navy since I firstdecided to sign up. I was happy to serve the Captain and I had his favor! My immediatesupervisor was an enlisted man, with the rank of Yeoman first class. There were other yeomanon the ship that I met, but there was only one peer working with me in the Captain’s Office.Our supervisors name was Mathewson, but we called him “YN1”. He was an eccentric and niceman, who was very experienced at his position. He was a heavy smoker, and would light up sooften, that he would have several cigarettes going at the same time. The office was often filledwith busyness, and lighthearted joking. All the while, YN1 patiently taught me my duties. Itwas a blessing to work for him.

Our daily uniforms were dungarees, which consisted of a light blue shirt with dark blue bellbottom jeans. In Deck Department work would get quite messy, and the expectations differed

between the two groups. As such, I had to buy a few new sets of uniforms to fit in with my newwork environment. A few months later, a uniform inspection was announced. The inspectionwas a formal event held on the flight deck of the ship. This event would require our dress whiteuniforms.

All Navy personnel are accustomed to inspections of this type. I was one of the sailors that hadan exclusive uniform stored away along with a hat, ribbons, etc. sealed in plastic bags to keepthem looking new. I also had special “inspection” shoes set aside for this type of event. TheCaptain gave specific instructions to use “edge dressing” on the soles of our shoes. I did mybest to be diligent in every aspect of my uniform preparation. There was a reward for the best

uniform, but I was simply looking to “pass” favorably. Hundreds of men carefully walked out tothe flight deck where we assembled by Division, awaiting the Captain’s scrutiny. We all stoodat attention, and it took a great deal of patience and perseverance, as he closely inspected theuniforms of hundreds. At long last, He came down my row, as I came under examination. Hestopped after me and spoke to my supervisor. “YN1, Ellsworth would have had the bestuniform of the ship, except he did not put edge dressing on his shoes as I had specificallyordered.” My heart sank as I heard these words. With all that I did to ready myself, how couldI have overlooked the very detail the Captain had specifically mentioned? I was deeply




disappointed in my performance. Still, the good news was I passed inspection. Edge dressing isessentially some black polish in a bottle that goes around the soles of your shoes, to darken andclean them up. Through the years, my mind has gone back to this point in my testimony, and Istill have trouble reconciling my mistake. Recently, there was a Sunday where I heard a sermonby Pastor Brewer. He was preaching on Peter, and Jesus’ washing of the apostles’ feet. A “light

bulb” went on for me that gave me peace. I felt I knew now, what God was doing with thisoccasion …

John 13:7-9

7 Jesus answered and said to him, "What I do you do not realize now, but you will understand hereafter."

8 Peter said to Him, "Never shall You wash my feet!" Jesus answered him, "If I do not wash you,you have no part with Me."

9Simon Peter said to Him, "Lord, then wash not only my feet, but also my hands and my head."

10 Jesus said to him, "He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean;and you are clean, but not all of you." *NASB

During wartime and battle drills, the ship sounds an alert called General Quarters. When thisalarm is sounded, you disregard everything you are currently doing, and then you speedilymake your way to your assigned battle station. In these circumstances, the Captain takes directcommand of the ship, as The Officer of the Deck on the Bridge. The situation is considered dire,

and only highly qualified personnel take the most critical positions. These are potential life anddeath situations - nothing is left to chance.

After I had worked in the Captain’s office for a short while, I was named as the Captain’s 1JV1phone talker for General Quarters. Let me explain a little of what that entails. The Captain whois now fully in direct command of his ship, needs his orders communicated authoritatively,precisely, and expediently. He requires someone by his side that he can trust to effectivelyaccomplish this task. Being assigned this station, I would wear head phones that were able toconvey orders to all necessary positions of responsibility, throughout the ship. Staying near theCaptain and listening attentively, was key. This was challenging, whether it was a drill or a realemergency, since the Bridge would be abuzz with noise and activity. I had to listen to his voicecarefully, making sure his orders were repeated precisely, and expediently. Only in the rarest of circumstances, would it be prudent to ask him to repeat anything, since delays potentially couldcost lives. Clearly, this was another example of a bestowal of God’s grace in my life. No otherNavy Sea College person had made it outside of the Deck Department, and here I was at theCaptain’s side during the most critical time. I was truly blessed.




With less than six months to go in the Navy, I had one last surprise in store for me. YN1 hadbeen working on something secretive on our office computer. We carried out our dutiestogether in fairly tight quarters. So, it was easy to know - he was hiding something. Hismystery really had me intrigued! Ultimately, in his off cuff humor sort of way, he let me knowthe surprise. The Captain had named me Sailor of the Quarter for my rank! The official

proclamation was Comphibron Seven’s - Junior Sailor of the Quarter. This was amazing! Here Iwas a lowly Sea College candidate, coming to the end of my short enlistment, with noqualifications through Navy schools. It was completely unprecedented. Many sailors did noteven consider Sea College participants to be full veterans. Actually two years is the minimumamount of service to be considered a veteran. I was astounded!

The Navy put it in the Plan of the day for a quarter, and sent official word home to my family. Igot letters and calls, saying how proud they were of me. There was a formal awards ceremonyfor this sort of recognition. We all were in dress uniform, and reported to the flight deck. TheCaptain said a few words, and then he began to call those forward that were to receive theawards. I waited until the Captain called my name. I came forward in front of all the Ship’spersonnel, and he read my accolades to the group as I stood there. It was embarrassing, andaffirming all at the same time. He handed me the official certificate, and he saluted me as Ireturned his salute. This took place on September 29 th 1989 - Rosh Hashanah. I was JuniorSailor of the Quarter for the months of October, November and December (recognizing myservice for the three prior months). At the time, I knew it was miraculous and had somethoughts about God. But really, I was still clueless. It would be about twelve years later, beforeI would begin to see how God tenderly held me in his hand, in one of the most trying times inmy life. As I’ve pondered, studied, and written about this time period, I am amazed how I’mable to continue to draw wisdom from it. We really serve a Loving Father and a Sovereign God

– He truly is My Captain!!!

The rest of my time in the Navy was really joyous and rather uneventful.

Before my time ended, our Captain moved on to another assignment. I met and served thenew Captain. He was very nice. However, I would never forget the man I previously servedunder, and was sad to see him go. But alas, my time was almost up, and as they call itinformally in the military - “I was a short-timer.” The end was in sight. Finally, the day did comewhere my enlistment officially ended. I got to walk off the same ladder that I had once fearedcoming on to the ship, and then down the dock. Instead of shaking with fear, my legs movedme forward with strength, and jubilation! Yes, I was finally going home! It felt so Glorious and

good!

~

The Prodigal Ring: About a year after my enlistment ended, my Grandfather died. He was myGrandfather that had been in the Navy during WW II, who I went fishing with, and who I rode towork with prior to my departure for the Navy. I was deeply saddened by his death, and weptbitterly. The Christmas immediately following my grandfather’s death, I received a very special




gift from my grandmother. If you recall, I previously worked with my grandfather at hisbusiness. He retired, and received a specially made ring with our family crest engraved on itsface. It really was a treasure with a rather unique design. As a rebellious teenager, I hadrefused to go to the ceremony - something I would regret for a very long time. The Christmasgift my Grandmother presented to me, happened to be this very ring. She had mentioned it to

her eldest son, who was the succeeding patriarch of our family, and at his suggestion shepresented it to me. When I opened it, and set my eyes on it, I was shocked and elated! I wearthis ring now as my wedding band, and it is my most treasured possession. I felt like I was thelast one to deserve it, and this is why I call it my “Prodigal Ring.”

I thought I’d include a scanned picture of the ring. It looks better in person, but it givesyou an impression of what it looks like.

“Redemption” – My prodigal ring

It reminds me of the “mercy seat” of the Ark of the Covenant. The angel wings are affixedto an ornamental base, framing a deep heart, fixed with a crown. Here is the scripturedescribing this in the Bible:

Exodus 25

17 "You shall make a mercy seat of pure gold, two and a half cubits long and one and ahalf cubits wide.

18 "You shall make two cherubim of gold, make them of hammered work at the two endsof the mercy seat.

19 "Make one cherub at one end and one cherub at the other end; you shall make thecherubim of one piece with the mercy seat at its two ends.

20 "The cherubim shall have their wings spread upward, covering the mercy seat withtheir wings and facing one another; the faces of the cherubim are to be turned toward the mercy seat.

21 "You shall put the mercy seat on top of the ark, and in the ark you shall put thetestimony which I will give to you.




22 "There I will meet with you; and from above the mercy seat, from between the twocherubim which are upon the ark of the testimony, I will speak to you about all that I will give you in commandment for the sons of Israel.*NASB

~

After twelve years passed, in May of 2002, I went with my grandmother to her birth town.We went to collect some information about her family history. During our drive, I broughtup my grandfather’s ring and the retirement ceremony. In a heartfelt way, I confessed toher my deep regret regarding my attitude, and having missed this special occasion. I alsotold her how it reminded me of the “Prodigal son” story, and that I called it my “Prodigalring”. She forgave me, and it led to a wonderful discussion about the depth of God’s gracein our lives.

I think the story is worth recording here:

Luke 15

The Prodigal Son11 And He said, "A man had two sons.

12 "The younger of them said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of the estate that falls to me ' So he divided his wealth between them.

13 "And not many days later, the younger son gathered everything together and went ona journey into a distant country, and there he squandered his estate with loose living.

14 "Now when he had spent everything, a severe famine occurred in that country, and hebegan to be impoverished.

15 "So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

16 "And he would have gladly filled his stomach with the pods that the swine wereeating, and no one was giving anything to him.

17 "But when he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men havemore than enough bread, but I am dying here with hunger!

18 'I will get up and go to my father, and will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight;

19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me as one of your hired men."'

20 "So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.




21 "And the son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight; I amno longer worthy to be called your son.'

22 "But the father said to his slaves, 'Quickly bring out the best robe and put it on him,and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet;

23 and bring the fattened calf, kill it, and let us eat and celebrate;

24 for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.' And they began to celebrate.

25 "Now his older son was in the field, and when he came and approached the house, heheard music and dancing.

26 "And he summoned one of the servants and began inquiring what these things could be.

27 "And he said to him, 'Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has received him back safe and sound.'

28 "But he became angry and was not willing to go in; and his father came out and began pleading with him.

29 "But he answered and said to his father, 'Look! For so many years I have been servingyou and I have never neglected a command of yours; and yet you have never given me ayoung goat, so that I might celebrate with my friends;

30 but when this son of yours came, who has devoured your wealth with prostitutes,you killed the fattened calf for him.'

31 "And he said to him, 'Son, you have always been with me, and all that is mine is yours.

32 'But we had to celebrate and rejoice, for this brother of yours was dead and has begunto live, and was lost and has been found.'" *NASB

Here is one last scripture I’ll share that reminds me of my relationship with the Captain and the

redemption of the “Prodigal Son.”

Exodus 21

1"Now these are the ordinances which you are to set before them:




I salute you in my heart & I seek your approval

I seek your recognition & I seek your praise

I take your orders and communicate them to your servants

I listen to you as I send the order to your servants, and call them to arms

I have learned to trust in your voice

You do not let their words come against me

You do not let their schemes come against me

Your hands scoop up ocean waters

You destroy Aircraft Carriers and Battleships with words

You sit calmly in the midst of war

Your eyes strike fear into the hearts of your enemies

They will not survive the day you come against them

As a lowly servant you see me as important

You have not forgotten my service to you

You pay no mind to recommendations of officers and chiefs,Instead you see me and you call my name

You give me accolades and glory

You put my burdens, and my past behind me

I am secure and fulfilled in your service

You are my Lord and my God!

You are my Captain Lord!




Chapter 17: The Christmas Castle Chapter 17: The Christmas Castle Chapter 17: The Christmas Castle Chapter 17: The Christmas Castle

~

Seventeen years later…

I ran my wipers again attempting to clear the clumping snow from the windshield.

“This is really quite a blizzard for April even in Colorado,” I announced to my wife Kellie.

“I know. That’s the way it is up here. Sometimes it can just come out of nowhere.” Shereplied, having lived in the mountains outside of Colorado years ago.

“I’m having a hard time seeing, and we are running low on gas. Let me know if you see a good

place to pull over.”

“Okay honey. Wait… I think I see something over there on the left,” my wife responded to me.Then she used her glove to clear a spot, so she could see out the window.

“Gotcha! I’m moving over. Watch my blind spot, and let me know if you see anyone.”

“In the clear…”

I pulled into the gas station just outside of Garden of the Gods, in Colorado Springs. I got out of

the car, swiped my card, and began pumping gas.

“I’m going in to use the restroom. Do you need anything?”

“Nope, I’m fine,” I replied. As I watched the digital numbers flicker on the readout for thepump, I reflected on our honeymoon, which had taken place in Colorado a little less than a yearearlier, on May 12 th . It was a beautiful wedding, and she made a gorgeous bride. It seems wehave been on a shoestring budget since we met, solely depending on God to be our provider.While Kellie was out dress shopping, I received a call. She was asking me to approve thepurchase of a beautiful white dress, which was more than we had budgeted. I reluctantly saidyes. Mostly, because I knew how happy it would make her, and I knew she would lookabsolutely exquisite in it. When I saw her wearing it on our wedding day, I was notdisappointed. I’ve told her several times over, that it was one of the best investments I evermade. I am so richly blessed by the love of my wife. I’ll never forget how I met Kellie…

It was May 3, 2004 when I first saw her! I was singing with all I had within the confines of myDodge Durango, when it happened. I had just gotten through a ten month, child custody battleto protect my children, and also had to resign from my job. So needless to say, the horizon was




a bit gloomy. I had become accustomed to singing praise music in my car, or praying - notcaring what anyone thought of me. I needed both just to make it. I found joy and peacesurpassing understanding, carrying me through each day. My children had no idea the financialperil we were in, as I was desperately trusting God to be my provider. But alas, one wonderfuladvantage to being jobless - was being able to go on my children’s field trips! I pulled into one

of the parking stalls in front of the school. I was so encompassed in worship; I decided to justfinish singing the song. When I got done, I noticed someone had pulled up next to me. She hadgotten out, and started walking up to the school. I followed her in, and we happened to begoing to the same classroom. When we got in the classroom, I saw her wave to her daughter. Istarted a conversation with her.

“Is that your daughter?” I asked.

“It is.” She replied.

“I have a daughter in class too, her name is Alexah. What’s your daughter’s name?”

“Sydnie” she replied.

“Were you listening to KGBI?” she asked (KGBI is a local Christian Radio station).

“No, but I listen to KGBI…”

And that’s how it started. A bit sheepishly, like any introduction may be at first. We got back inour cars, and followed some buses. We met them at the location of the fieldtrip, which was aplace called Fontenelle Forest. She was a bit behind me in traffic, and when we got there I

waited for her and we walked in together. Off and on, we would sneak looks at each other, andhad a few more chances for conversation. I can remember at one point thinking I was going toask her for her phone number, or an email. But, in my head I said to God, “If she is the one,then you’ll have to bring it back around another day.”

Before Kellie and I met this day, I had been alone for three years, and divorced much longerthan that. Along the way, I had many dinners with my father who was concerned about me.He would ask me questions regarding dating, and I would steadfastly tell him, “I’m waiting forthe woman God sends me dad. Not just a Christian woman, but one who truly loves God deepinside, and has a heart for Him just like me.” I really said this to my father with passion, and

conviction. I had made enough horrible mistakes in my life, which resulted in despondentanguish. I had truly given it over to God to provide a wife for me. I have to admit many times itlooked bleak and I wondered if I would spend the rest of my days alone. Then one night in myprayer time, I felt God give me a verse from the Bible. It was Proverbs 18:22 and it says, “Hewho finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” I was amazed andexcited! But, I had nothing “tangible” to go on - just a heartfelt promise from God based onblind faith. It was this backdrop, which led me to throw out a “fleece” to make sure it was Hiswill.




that looked very similar to her mother’s. At the time I wasn’t thinking about proposing, but Iknew when I did that would be the one. Her mother had died of cancer when she was nineyears old, which was quite traumatic for her. She often fondly talks about her mom. I suspectthey would be very close, if she were still alive. One day, I went with Kellie, as she felt the needto visit her mother’s grave. We prayed over it together. That is one of the great hopes we have

as believers – a God that can defeat death. We say it, but it is so hard to believe.

But purchasing the wedding ring, was putting the cart ahead of the horse. Before I could doanything, I had to get her father’s permission. This was a bit spontaneous, but I set out toaccomplish all of this on a Saturday. I was hoping to have it all done, planned, and ready by thetime I picked Kellie up for our date. This had previously been set for 7 p.m. that night. I droveto Kellie’s parent’s house. When I got there, her sister told me her dad and mom were at theMessianic Jewish Tabernacle. I had been there before, and I knew exactly where that was! So Iraced off to see if I could find him there. When I got there, my timing was nearly perfect, asservice was just ending. I went in and found her parents. They were both pleasantly surprised,and puzzled to see me. I politely asked her father, if I could have a word with him. When wewere in private, I asked him for permission to marry Kellie. He reacted excitedly giving me a bighug, and told me “yes,” and that I had his blessing. We both let his wife in on the news. And,not long after that, I was off to take care of everything else I had to do. Straight from there, Iwent to Oak View Mall to the jewelry store, and purchased the ring. I had all the essentials, butI was not done yet! I planned to take Kellie to the park by the school, where we met the firsttime. Once we were there, I would get down on my knee to formally propose to her. It waswinter out and snow was covering the ground. I thought it would be romantic to buy a crimsonblanket to kneel on, and give it to her as a gift as well. I also made dinner reservations at ourfavorite place to eat. Whew! I was all ready for my proposal of marriage to her. I arrived atKellie’s place but found her demeanor to be out of sorts. I figured I had a great remedy, so I

just assertively moved forward. We walked out to the car, and I drove to the school where wemet. It had been nearly three years ago, but it was still fresh in both of our minds. At thispoint, I asked Kellie to get out of the car with me. It was very cold out, so it was not easy for meto convince her, as she had no idea about my surprise. I pulled out the blanket, and had thering securely in my inside jacket pocket. I walked with her to a grove of trees in the park, and Ilaid down the crimson blanket, covering the white snow. I got down on one knee, pulled outthe ring and asked her to marry me. She said “yes.” (And she still cuddles with the crimsonblanket – I feel very good about that!)

“Do you need to look at your map while we are here?” my wife asked me, suddenly bringing me

back to the present.

“Yes, let me take a quick look at it honey,” I said, as I looked at a printout from the internet,making sure we were still on track for Colorado Springs.

It was getting dark out, and the weather wasn’t letting up a bit. If anything, the snow wascoming down heavier. We wouldn’t be able to read any of the green roadway signs since theywere covered in wet sticky snow. On the other hand, we had Kellie’s intuition and experience




having lived in Colorado, and my sense of direction and so off we went. “Surely we couldnavigate through all of this,” I thought, knowing we were both anxious to reach our goal. Itreally turned into a rather arduous journey. We drove through several toll booths which werean unexpected nuisance. The roads began to quickly accumulate snow and ice, so I kept twohands on the wheel constantly, and slowed down my rate of speed to avoid any accidents. As

we drove, there were quite a few cars off in the ditch. This was a further warning to becautious! The unfamiliarity, and difficulty with the visibility, caused us both to wonder if wewere on the right track. With hazardous roads, and the toll booths we had gone through, itwould be very unpleasant to back track. We got into somewhat familiar territory, as we neareda major tourist attraction near our destination.

Driving down the road, we passed Garden of the Gods, and took a finishing turn. We let out asigh of relief knowing we had finally made it. At long last we arrived safe and sound! We pulledup to the Gate House which guarded the entrance of the Castle. We both took a pause, lettingthe reflective moment sink in. We were about to proceed through a gate previously closed tous.

A little less than a year ago, we had been at this very spot on our honeymoon together. Afterour wedding reception, we headed off in the direction of Colorado. In our previous trips, to ourfavorite state, we never had seven days to explore. We were eagerly looking forward to it. Ourhoneymoon cabin was situated at a wonderful Bed and Breakfast location, called MeadowCreek Inn. We were all by ourselves, in a serene mountain meadow. How absolutelywonderful! Arriving late the first night, and after settling in a bit, we noticed a drastic andsevere change in the climate. God had a snow and lightning show in store for us - in May!Colorado mountain weather is utterly unpredictable, which can make for an exhilaratingexperience.

The extra time allowed us to venture out further than our prior trips. We traveled over thecontinental divide to Steam Boat. Once we arrived we saw a huge waterfall coming down themountains that was absolutely breathtaking, called “Fish Creek Falls”. We hiked up near thetop, and took lots of magnificent photographs. On another excursion, towards the end of ourtime, we went to Colorado Springs. We saw Pikes Peak in the middle of a snow storm, and Iexperienced a very bizarre physical sensation, literally feeling electricity as storm clouds floatedby. We drove through Garden of the Gods, but since it was raining we didn’t get out much.Living in Colorado previously, Kellie had been to a woman’s retreat at a place nearby. It wascalled Glen Eyrie Castle, and was very special to her. She knew precisely where it was, and

desperately wanted to see it again. As we made a turn towards the castle, I noticed a signwhich said “Navigator’s Headquarters.” I pointed the sign out to Kellie, explaining that it wasthe organization that my friend from high school was a missionary for. John, along with his wifeand family, are missionaries in Australia that we humbly support. This was very curious. Wedidn’t know that the Navigators owned Glen Eyrie. We were starting to wonder what Godmight be putting together for us on this little adventure, and we headed down the road to theCastle. When we arrived, we talked to a man at the gate that was very polite, but told us thatthey were closed for the day. We were both disappointed, and confused by the experience. By




the time the Castle opened again, we would be out of time and on our way back home toNebraska. God has many mysteries in our lives that we don’t find out about until later.

About seven months later I received a letter in the mail from the Navigators. It contained aninvitation for Kellie and me, to stay at Glen Eyrie Castle for three days. Later through an email, I

found out my friend John and his wife submitted our names to go to this conference. Theyknew how much Kellie and I loved Colorado! However, they didn’t know that on ourhoneymoon we were unable to make it past the gates just to see the castle. This was God’sLove and Sovereignty in action! It was truly amazing and a huge blessing! There were noexpenses to cover, which made it possible for us to go. Kellie and I simply had to make thedrive. So, we sent our RSVP, and made plans to go to the Castle…

…The windshield wipers were struggling to push aside the wet snow, as I pulled up to the GateHouse which was very well lit. A man dressed in a winter coat, hat, and scarf came out of thedoor to merrily great us.

“Hello and how can I be of service to you folks?” He said joyfully.

“My name is Tony Ellsworth, and this is my wife Kellie. We are here for the Navigator’sConference. We made early reservations letting them know that we would be arriving afterdark…”

The attendant kindly chimed in, “I received word regarding your arrival. We are glad you madeit here safely! Here are your keys, your room number is 206, and it is located on the secondlevel. Just take the balcony stairs up, and it will be off to your right.”

“If you stay on the road, and keep to the left, you’ll see the Castle where you can park up frontand let yourself in. Call us if you need any assistance at all.”

“Welcome to Glen Eyrie Castle!”

“Thank you! We are so glad to be here. We had quite an adventure on our way here.”

With that he smiled, waved, and went back to the Gate House, as we climbed back into our car.While we got in the gates opened, and we drove through. All the while, the soft clumpy snowstill coming down steadily…

The heavy snow that once seemed hazardous, now was adorning the trees and roadway. It hadtransformed it into a Winter Wonderland! It was breathtaking! Kellie and I both, werecareening our necks, and gaping at the incredible scenery. We were absolutely speechless! Thespeed of my driving had gradually come to a halt, so I just stopped altogether, and we got outof the car joyfully leaping like two children. We looked up into the dark night sky, and sawmillions and millions of sparkling snowflakes raining down. We let them land on our faces to




melt. It seemed that God was creating each one of them, especially for us, as we looked toheaven in elation.

Finally I spoke.

“Isn’t this the most amazing thing you have ever seen? I mean, look at everything!” Mystammering speech was not able to adequately describe the incredible scene we were taking in.

“It really is glorious…” Kellie replied and trailed off still in awe.

Then we looked just down the road a bit and saw a lamp post. It was piercing the darknessaround it and illuminating the evergreens.

We both were thinking the same thing.

“That looks like the lamp post in Narnia!” we said in unison.

We had forgotten about the cold, and just continued looking around in amazement, unable tofully capture all of the sensations packed into the moment. I did manage after a while, to pullout my camera trying to capture a memory. But, no image could do it justice.

Eventually, we did get back in the car and crept up the road looking around adventurously. Westopped again, when we first saw the castle at a distance. It was absolutely magnificent! Thesnow was embellishing the bailey of the structure, like an immaculate white robe made for aking!

Gradually, we made it up, and stopped in front of the illustrious structure. We were in awe,and it was hard to fully believe it was actually happening.

We were about to enter the Castle, as our time had finally come. No more waiting!!!

We hurriedly made our way up the walk, and we entered the open door…




Epilogue: Eternal Epilogue: Eternal Epilogue: Eternal Epilogue: Eternal Implications Implications Implications Implications

~

A few months after our marriage, Kellie began to notice her expensive wedding ring wasbeginning to tarnish. She called the jeweler describing what was happening to the band, andreceived an explanation that white gold requires frequent maintenance. They recommendedthat she bring it to them, where they would mail it off, and have a coating put on it to give it a“silvery-white” appearance. We decided to see them in person. After receiving an identicalresponse, Kellie told the man who sold us the ring, “It’s like my ring has a terminal disease – likecancer.”

After leaving, we prayed over the situation and I wrote a letter to the CEO of the company. Weasked for a replacement ring made of Platinum.

A few weeks passed and Kellie and I happened to check the mailbox simultaneously. There wasa letter responding to our request. We opened the envelope fully expecting some corporatelegal jargon, with an explanation about contracts. Instead, written on the page in front of uswas an unexpected and wonderful surprise. The CEO offered to custom make the same ring forher, in Platinum, at no cost to us. This meant a great deal to Kellie and I as the ring design wassimilar to her mother’s band (Kellie’s mother had passed away when she was nine years old). Itsurely was a miracle from God!

The monetary value of the ring Kellie received, was worth thousands more than what we had

paid. We never could have afforded it, and I’m not sure that even at our request, they wouldhave special made it. However, the monetary gain is nothing compared to the spiritualsignificance and the promise God clearly was bestowing on us.

Kellie and I were married with the white gold band. In our human nature we try our best. But,utilizing her words, “it’s like a fatal disease, cancer”. White gold is not a pure gold. It is goldmixed with nickel and zinc. Whereas, Platinum is a pure metal. It is “silvery-white” in itsnatural form, and the most enduring of all precious metals. And lastly, Platinum’s worth farexceeds the value of white gold.

Platinum is a precious metal picture of eternity, while white gold is a picture of man’s fallenstate, which is likened to a “fatal disease, like cancer.” Wedding rings are a reflection of theeternal commitment of marriage. A “white gold marriage,” can never live up to thatexpectation, while a “platinum marriage” can. Similar to my situation, where I could not affordsuch a precious, custom made, piece of jewelry, we cannot afford the steep price of Salvation!This is where we need God’s grace and love. We are in desperate need of a Savior. That Savioris Jesus Christ. That is what Christmas is all about!




About the Author About the Author About the Author About the Author

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My name is Tony Ellsworth and I’d like to give you an introduction of sorts relevant to this book.Admittedly, and unashamedly, in both religious and secular terms, I have no formal qualifications for awriting of this magnitude. What I have simply done, is express my heartfelt testimony which has led meto the profound purpose that God has given me. In context, I do include much experience regardingmyself, my wife, and family which will give you a firsthand look at my rather unconventional life.

For those curious, I have had quite a bit of experience in a variety of church settings. I was sprinkled as ababy Catholic, raised, and baptized as a Jehovah’s Witness, and at thirty-one fully submerged in a non-denominational evangelical church. I have an abundance of church leadership experience to draw from,including: teaching children and youth, leadership team, associate pastor, church planting, sermons,classes, published articles for Christian publications, director of planned giving at a local gospel rescuemission and I presently serve as vice chairman on a church board. However, I do not attend a churchcustomarily or have any denominational membership – “Just Jesus” is what I like to say. I am a regularposter on a website chat board www.fivedoves.com which is widely known by “rapture watchers,” andhave several of my own websites which I consider to be a prophetic ministry.

I have three children of my own: Austin, Alexah and Blayze. In the spring of 2004 God gave me a

specific verse which was an amazing promise from Proverbs 18:22 “he who finds a wife finds what isgood and receives favor from the Lord.” A few months later on a school fieldtrip, I met my wife Kellie onMay 3 rd . We spent many “dates” in the school park, letting our kids play with one another. What awonderful testimony God has blessed us with! As a little time passed, I proposed on a crimson blanketin the snow at the same school park, where we met and got to know one another. She said “yes” andwe were married on May 12 th 2007. Kellie has five children: Sadie, Sydnie, Madison, Lily and Gabriel.Together we have a blended family with a splendid, messy, miraculous and candid testimony to share!

I hope you enjoy the book!

Merry Christmas Maranatha,

Tony Ellsworth



The Christmas Rapture www.thechristmasrapture.com

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Once in a Blue Moon…

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