Touched
By Shawn P. Hainley
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Hidden in the edge of the forest, I waited for my prey. In the stern fashion of a man, I sought my God's approval. The disease of the world bore heavily on my shoulders. I asked my God of the future of my sons; what would this world take from them? What of the valiant martyrs who suffered worse than I did, in worlds far removed from mine; how much longer could they go on? What of my wife, whom I love with all my heart, how long must she bear the burdens brought on her by my walk in faith? In faith I must go on for I do not understand the ways of God, but I know Him to be just and righteous and He is always on time. |
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Though the sun had not yet fully set, a bright star shone in the sky. The full moon was rising, its brightness holding the shadows at bay. A gentle breeze blew from the east, rustling the drying fall leaves that would soon carpet the forest floor. A tender touch brushed my soul and whispered to me, "Roll over on your belly and play the lion hunting in the tall grass". My mind raged, "I'm too old to play children's games" and my pride roared, "I'm too dignified, what if someone were to see!". My God giggled and touched me with sweet innocence of a time long forgotten. The feeling was pure, untarnished and held no malice. Oh, how long ago it was that I knew this as reality! All the dreams and sweet desires had been crushed by men throughout the years. I reveled in the thought of playing in the cane with my long lost friend. |
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Woefully, I admitted to God it could not be so now. I am a husband to my wife and I love her. I am a father to my sons and I love them also. I must be who I am to survive in this world; I must survive in this world to see my family through. Thank you Lord, for Your touch, but I must go on as I am. I am only what you have created me to be. |
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And God said to me, "This is My promise for you and your family, this is My promise for those who seek to do My will. Your time here is short, but you are pressed by the world around you. Hold fast to My promise, hold tightly to My touch and innocence shall again be yours. That is My promise, that is My Word." |
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