Chapter 5: Army of Faith
“Come to me, oh, come to me.” Am I a sleep, or is someone commanding me to wake up? “Please go away. I am dead tired.” I fight to open my weary eyes just to find this deep sleep has glued them shut. My tiredness is being devoured by an invigorating sensation of light. “How long have I been asleep? I must have been really tired, because I now feel like a new man. Maybe I’ll sleep just a few more minutes.” In my dream I hear, “Joey, come here.” My spirit commands me to awake as it automatically replies, “Yes Lord, I’m here!”
I open my eyes and feel effortless in this fountain of pure light. I hurt with the overwhelming love sprinkling down over me, around me, and through my very spirit. I stretch out my arms to soak in these loving rays. I worship this outpouring and fall on my face, powerless to its glory. I taste it, I feel it, and I long for it. I feel like I am being tickled to the point of passing out. It’s like laughing uncontrollably to the point of exhaustion. I’m blinded by it, but it so, so good. I am overwhelmed with this unqualified love, realizing it’s meant just for me!
My mouth pours out words I’ve never heard before. “Joey, your spirit sings songs that long for me.” My heart yells, “Reverence!” to this all might voice, but my soul screams, “Abba; my dear daddy.” I just want to hug Him and squeeze Him, and be with Him forever. “I am proud of my brave son.” The joy of these words slams me to the floor. I am so weak under the weight of His appreciation. My spirit affirms the greatest words I could ever hear “My God is proud of me!” I weep profusely on this magnificent crystal floor. My tears puddle with rainbows of glistening diamonds.
His voice tenderly commands me, “Rise!” My physical weakness in this moment dissolves away. A refreshing wave pounds and washes over me with the strength of “Sampson.” I stand with conviction and dedicate my attention to Him.
“Yes Lord!” He stretches His arms as a great rumbling endlessly echoes throughout this great chamber. The continuous reverberating sound defines this great hall’s size. “You have stood for me. You have fought for me. You were brave for me.”
I quietly and humbly reply, “It’s my honor Lord.” “Your great faith pleases me. I require more bravery of you.”
I kneel using my right leg while bowing my head. “Yes Lord,” I solemnly answer. “Great tribulation is about to fall on mankind. The things that will happen will change hearts. The fear of these things will shake the world. The fear of some will cause them to die. A final chance at redemption will be given everyone not under the mark. This is the voice of truth.”
My mind fills with every prophetic passage I’ve ever read or heard. I have spontaneous complete understanding of every verse. My spirit speaks without words, “Lord, I know your words, of these things to come.”
His Holy Spirit speaks to me, “I will give you my power to overcome any evil, and to defeat any demonic attack. You will witness the ‘good news’ you’ve chosen to put in your heart.”
Again, He asks, “Will you stand for me? Will you be brave for me? Will you fight for me? Will you trust in me?” A great benevolence snatches me from behind. I am plunge back while screaming to the bright image in the fading light, “Yes, I will Lord!” I wake up screaming “Yes, I will!”
I find myself sitting in the echo of, “I will;” as these words slowly drift away. “Are you all right Joey?,” Randy asks.
It’s as if I awoke fully conscious replying, “I’m fine brother.” My soul desperately desires to divulge my revelation, but my spirit tells me to wait awhile. Calmly, I turn and ask Randy how he’s feeling. I peel the Velcro cover back on my watch to see the hands pointing to 7:30. I reseal the cover and notice Amanda remains sound asleep. I think how tired she must be. I bet this is the most sleep she’s gotten in some time. Randy’s wrapped blanket reminds me of his need for clothes. Quietly, I journey to the storage closet on the other side of the supply room.
This is where the pastor stored dry goods. I find a couple pair of mechanic’s suits that might fit both of them. “Here you go Randy. See if this fits you.”
I swap places with Randy and tell him, “You can use the closet with the sink to change and wash up.” Some rustling sounds coming from the chapel suggesting the brothers are awake.
Randy muffles between the wipes of his towel, “Thanks Joey, they seem to fit fine.” I grab a food ration and hand it to Randy as I ask, “Do you remember what led to your capture?” A grim look appears as his head slowly shakes side to side. “Don’t worry friend, you can tell me when you’re ready.”
I grab his shoulder and firmly squeeze saying, “It’s okay.” I motion with my hand for him to follow me, as I move quietly towards the door. We both leave Amanda to her peaceful sleep, while we go introduce Randy. I softly shut the supply room door behind us.
The Irreverent worship and prayers whisper in unison throughout the hall. Randy and I approach the chapel. “Good morning Scotty.” I ask him, “How did you sleep?” Scotty is standing at the chapel entrance trying to look over my shoulder at Randy. I stoop slightly and introduce them to each other. Randy and Scotty shake hands as Scotty wraps his free arm around Randy. He then ushers Randy into the chapel. Scotty quietly explains what the other brethren are doing and welcomes Randy to join in. His conversation is interrupted by the clicking and popping sound of the overhead chamber door. Scotty and I cautiously stare at the top of the stairs waiting for the descending legs to reveal our guest’s face. In a moment, and at the same time, we both recognize and welcome our dear friend with, “Its Pastor Paul.” Scott goes to greet Paul and help him secure the entrance. He informs Paul of our new guess, as Randy and I move into the chapel.
I fold open a couple metal chairs and invite Randy to sit beside me. I try explaining everything that is going on while filling him in the details surrounding “Project T.” His eyes are very attentive to my every word, as he absorbs the ambiance and comradeship going on all around us. Randy’s face is overwhelmed with emotion as he fights back tears forming in his glazed eyes. I guess all the compassion is more than he’s felt in quite a while. I wrap my right arm around his adjacent back and say, “Randy, welcome to our brotherhood and family.” These words break the dam holding his tears back. I do the only thing I can and give him a brotherly hug filled with compassion.
Pastor Paul pulls up a chair right after closing the chapel doors. He introduces himself to Randy, while he opens and clangs his metal chair against Randy’s chair. He bends his arm and stretches his hand open, suggesting to Randy his hand in friendship. “I hear your name is Randy; welcome. I’m regarded around here as Pastor Paul.” Randy slides his shirt sleeve over his eyes, wiping away his tears. Paul sneaks into Randy’s lap a rag that Paul carry’s as a makeshift hanky. Randy accepts his kindness and replaces his shirt sleeve with Paul’s token hanky. Randy gives Paul a slight nod of his head acknowledging his appreciation for Paul’s kind gesture. The other brothers gather near the altar and discuss the recent activity. I go to join them, and give Paul and Randy some more time to finish introducing each other.
I move in near the group while overhearing their discussion. It seems everyone’s concern is towards the LDs escalating violence. They want to know what is going to happen to us, and to “T.” Kenny suggests we form small groups carrying as much rations as we can, and then leave town. Some brothers want to start some sort of “guerilla warfare” against the LD. One brother states, “I’d rather die by taking a few of them out than by being captured and torture by them.” This is quickly reputed as crazy. Most all agree we just don’t have the manpower, skills, and resources to mount any real sustainable attack. The consensus is: we’d be slaughtered or caught and tortured anyways, because we’re not warriors. The group keeps brainstorming ideas to what may be the best solution. Scotty wants to know what we can do to find his partner Joshua; that’s if he’s still alive. Pastor Paul joins us by listening in. I know what I have to do, but this will be my cross to bear.
Paul exclaims, “B
rothers, I suggest we pray first. Let us worship our Lord and Savior, and trust in Him alone for our solution! Come brothers; let’s begin with the word of God.” Every brother finds a seat and eagerly waits for what Paul will say. “Please open your Bible’s to ‘Isaiah’ 50:10. ‘Who among you obeys the Lord and fears the voice of His servant? Let him who walks in darkness and has no light trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God’.” It’s as if Paul’s words are specifically meant for me. But, they seem to be a perfect fit for all of us. Paul says, “Let us worship Jesus.” He leads us in a song we all know by heart; as we sing “How Great Thou Art.”
“Today there is great fear among us. I know what’s going on. I’ve seen the carnage outside. I know the power of this evil to destroy, what we hold dear. But, I know something else brothers. I know my God is greater than this evil.” Every ear bends towards every word out of Pastor Paul’s mouth. “We must, I repeat, we must trust and rely on our God. For, ‘He will never leave nor forsake us.’ This is His promise. Let us pray together brothers.” These words of encouragement are the perfect food for our starving hearts’. I can feel His holy presence filling this chamber. Fear is fleeing as faith fills the void. My brothers speak their private prayers’ that sing in harmony. This chapel chanting and sounds of whispers might be what a choir of Angels might sing.
Randy stands and jostles his way past the praying brothers. The pastor notices him winding a path towards him. Randy’s face is filled with urgency as he approaches Pastor Paul. “Can I help you Randy?” Paul asks. Randy’s eyes are
bulging as his mouth quivers out, “Can you tell me about this god of yours? I’ve heard about him, but I don’t know anything about him.” The pastor grabs Randy and bear hugs him. “Dear brother, this is the first step in finding Him. It is your walk of faith to inquire about Him.” Randy just breaks down and falls on the floor crying. The brothers all come and pray over Randy. “I’m nobody,” he cries. “I’ve always refused to believe he existed. I’ve even cursed his name. I feel lost in this world. Can you please help me pastor? I’m so tired of being so scared.” Randy never lifts his head through his conversation. He repents his unworthiness to the floor the whole time. Paul comes down to Randy’s lowly station and whispers to Randy a message. “Yes Randy, God still loves you. He has always loved you; even when you didn’t love Him. And yes Randy, He will forgive you; if you let Him.” That’s all Randy needed to hear. His face turns the deepest shade of red as the whole of his body shakes violently. “Please, oh please God, please forgive me!” Randy rattles out. His request is answered as he’s in filled with the Holy Spirit. He starts yelling praises uncontrollably in the heavenly language that no man can understand.
Excitement takes over the chamber as my other brothers’ spirits also begin their conversing. Randy’s body flops like a fish on the floor as he asks, “What’s happening to me?” The pastor laughs, “It’s your spirit feeling the Holy Spirit as it speaks a lifetime of longing to God.” Randy is a little frightened by his supernatural occurrence. “You are receiving a special gift not all men are given Randy. This is a very special gift God gives to special people. It’s called ‘being in-filled with the baptism of the Holy Spirit’.” “Does this mean I’m, what you call, ‘saved’?” Paul responds, “No Randy; that happened the second you called out to Jesus.” The brothers begin rejoicing as Pastor Paul soundly laughs, “Yes Randy, yes you have become a Christ follower.” Randy weeps louder, releasing a whole life of pent-up emotions. A giant smile forms on his face as his uncontrollable shaking jars free his repeated gratitude’s of, “Thank you Lord.” Randy jumps to his feet, and then hops up and down. He laughs and claps, “I feel good!” We give him a round of applause, welcoming our new eternal brother. The pleasure of His power slowly dissipates among us as we return to the order of the day.
Amanda pokes her peeking head past the chapel entrance doors. I am the first to notice her. I walk backwards towards her as I announce, “Oh brothers, I didn’t get a chance to introduce our new sister. Her name is Amanda.” Her facial expression suggests her shyness. Her arms pull tight to her chest and fidget with her slightly fetal body. I grab her hand and pull her inside, as she wiggles her fingers with her free hand, “Hi, I’m Amanda.” I whisper to her as we walk towards the group, “Looks like your overalls fit fine.” She softly giggles, “Yeah, thanks Joey.” Pastor Paul returns to his pulpit and congratulates Amanda for joining us, and then offers her his salutation. Paul asks if several members might retrieve some MRE for our Sunday meal. Scotty answers his request as Kenny follows him to the supply room. We form a chair circle in the middle of the chapel and wait for diner to arrive.
Randy looks at Amanda as small tears hang in his eyes. He is wearing a smile a crowbar couldn’t pry loose. He tries holding back his joy, but it’s too strong for him to control. His residual giddiness causes him to unintentionally jump up and down in his seat. Amanda smiles and tilts her head, with a smile that questions Randy’s sanity. “I’ve been flying with Eagles,” is Randy’s answer to Amanda’s quirky expression. “You’ve got to try it sweetheart,” he laughs. She shakes her head side to side and smiles a big smile. She leans and hugs him, softly saying, “I’ve been there honey. Congratulations!” Randy looks back and forth while fighting his ability to control his laughter. Every brother falls to the power of Randy’s contagious joy as they all begin in the merriment. This manna is something we have not eaten in quite a while. It tastes wonderful. This is a momentary piece of Heaven that each one of us needs so desperately. But, we also know this peace will only be temporary.
Scotty and Ken return with our meals. “Who wants the meatloaf, or the ham & egg special?” Scotty asks. Ken and him pass out selected meals to everyone as a more serious nature manifest itself. “So, what are we going to do now?” Paul request. Most of the brothers speak their concerns about going back to their homes. As our conversation continues, the rest of the brothers begin showing up. I look at my watch and see it is now 11:05 am and think about Dave and Moses. He is probably worried to death about me. He and Moses are probably starving too. I am reminded of the need to get more rations. I need to get enough to last a week, and enough for Katie, her kids, and the rest of us. I also need overalls for Moses. I get up to go retrieve the supplies as more brothers arrive and fill the chapel.
I find everything I need in the supply room. I nearly fill my rucksack. I see a dusty bag of candies sitting on a shelf just in back of this stack of boxes. I think how much Katie’s kids might like this treat, as I pour a handful into my sack. I strap my rucksack on and return to the chapel. I’m back just in time to hear Randy explaining his ordeal leading to his capture.
“It is a miracle I am here. Thank God for Joey. Two days ago, the LD found me hiding in the abandon radio station in Brookhaven, near the former trash dump site.” Most of us know Brookhaven is the next town south of here. “I lived there over two years. No one ever came around the smelly place. There was no real reason for them to. Everyone knew it could not broadcast anymore. It was miles from town and very isolated. It was the perfect place to hide out. The station had a hidden basement below it. That’s where I actually lived. I found a shortwave radio about a year after hiding out there. I was surprised to find it still worked.” I figure the electronic components were protected from the EMP by being stored way below ground, and shielded by all the concrete. Randy explains how the radio had a built-in hand crank generator. He says, “I would listen only several minutes a day to see if there was any useful news from the outside world. I never tried to communicate with it. I was in the Army and know how the enemy can “triangulate” my position. I wasn’t taking any chances of trying to talk on it.” I think how we could use that radio here. “I knew things were escalating. One of the last transmissions I heard was the Fed’s commanding their ‘Trinity” troops to hold-off the Irreverent militia until reinforcements arrives. It was happening near Philadelphia.” I think, “This is amazing news.” It is mindboggling to
know other brothers have decided to fight the forces of “Trinity.” Randy continues with, “This was also happening outside Indianapolis. Reports suggested they actually over took a Fed military base and supply depot. The militia even stole and used, tanks and APC’s (armored personnel carriers) against the Fed’s. The next thing I heard were feet running down the station steps.”
All Randy’s previous joy now turns somber. “I still don’t know how they found me. They didn’t even check to see if I had their stupid brand. It was like they knew I wasn’t one of them before they found me. Five LD attacked me. I hit one with a machete before the hoard pounced on me. The blade just bent around his evil head. I felt like I was the rope in a ‘tug o war.’ One said, ‘He’s mine,’ and lifted me up with one arm- like I was butter.”
“They got me outside and beat me repeatedly. I thought I was going to die, but they stopped just short of it.” All the brothers just shake their heads as Randy continues. “The next thing I remember is hearing screams approaching. I turned my head from out of the dirt, which my face was buried in, to see two columns of bruised bloody bodies bound together being dragged along towards me. I turned my head back and saw the Devil! Yes, I saw what looked like the Devil wrapping razor wire around my lower legs. I was too tired to fight him off. I swear though, this guy didn’t look human. He was hideous. I never knew evil before, but I could feel he was evil. He pulled the wire so tight I screamed. He actually enjoyed me screaming, and laughed.” Randy grabs his forehead and leans over. “My blood jet out in streams as he began pulling me along to meet the lines of captives. That’s when I again saw the LD who carried me out of the station. But, this time it was like he was the leader. He ordered one of the columns of captives to stop next to me. The LD pulling that column said, ‘I see you invited one more to diner. A couple more and we’ll have a banquet.’ I guess they cut arteries in my legs, because it was squirting right into his face. He stuck his tongue out trying to lap it up.” Randy then cries and cries. He gasp for a breath, and then cries some more. He tries to tell us what happened next, but the excitement of remembering has taken the air out of him. We decide to give him a moment to compose himself.
Many of us stand and move to the hall area. A few stay to comfort their new brother. A debate proceeds as brother discusses with brother about what we should do next. Factions form taking different stances. One group thinks we should just keep doing what we have been. Everyone should remain separate to protect the brotherhood from being totally captured. Another sect still wants to split the remaining supplies, and take their own chance of surviving. One more group wants to form our own militia, or send reinforcements to help the existing militia currently battling “Trinity.” The last group wants to wait and recon for possible other Irreverent still in the area, and then join forces to form our own militia. Brother Gary comes out to give us some new information that Randy just told them. “Randy said there were 60 or 70 people tied to him. He said they only took about nine of them away to torture, before they chained and nailed them to telephone poles. The rest were brought to the abandon department store just outside town. The worst part is, they are mostly women and children. We all change our perspective with this new information. I know what the signs on the poles above Randy and Amanda really mean now! The LD intend on using our people as ransom to capture more Irreverent. I’ve seen this happen before. It usually works in war. Gary explains how Randy heard the LD leader promise his prisoners they’d take the brand and worship “Trinity,” or he’d cook and skin each of them alive; starting with the children first. Frenzy takes over the brothers. It seems many of them know some of the captives. And, none of us are willing to leave the fate of women and children in the hands of this evil Living Damned. This surely would be evil.
Pastor Paul notifies us that the answers we need will only be made known through prayer. We return to the chapel and join hands. Each of us quietly takes time to offer our individual request up to the Lord. After several minutes the pastor leads us in a corporate prayer. “Dear Father of all creation; grant us your knowledge and wisdom. Show us what you will have us do. Give us the power to discern and defeat the evil snares ahead of us. Please instill in us the strength to follow your every command. Remind us we do not walk alone. March with us oh Lord in our army of faith. Amen.”
The pastor’s words made me realize: it was my faith that allowed me to find Katie. It was my faith that gave us Moses. It was my faith that defeated the Demons. It is by my faith that I’m here today. I also recognize that a man without faith is the weakest of men. He can only try and do what he can imagine. But, a man with faith can do the unimaginable. For only God knows what that is. Faith is the only way we will defeat evil. And surely; faith is the only way we ever please God. For only a fool will say in his heart that faith is foolish. Yes, I will have faith!
Time is of the essence. Urgency tugs at me to act in faith. The things that will happen to those innocent captives cannot be allowed to happen. I need to hurry and drop these supplies off at home, and then, somehow, rescue those women and children. I overhear Paul tell the congregation, “Stay here at least till tomorrow. This will give us more time to understand what we should do. It will be safer for everyone understand what we should do. It will be safer for everyone too. The LD and Demons are running ramped. There is a good chance of them finding us on our way home, or by living in them after we return home.” The brothers all agree. I turn to walk up the steps as the pastor runs to me. “Where are you going?” he asks. “I got to drop supplies off at home, and go do something after. These things can’t wait.” I don’t dare tell him what the something after is. It’s too dangerous to ask any of the brothers to come along. “Joey, in my spirit I know you are going to do God’s work. Therefore, I’m going with you.” I try and think of a single reason he can’t come, but who am I to tell him he can’t do God’s work. Scotty overhears the conversation and tells us he’s going too. “Joshua could be with them. I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t try and help.” Amanda comes over and says, “I know what you’re up to. I’m going too. I know exactly where the accesses are into the store.” Randy is right by her side and says, “I’m not afraid anymore. I’m going to help whether you say yes or not.” I shake my head side to side and tell them, “What a motley crew. Do you all realize the cruel things these guys will do to you if you’re caught?” No one says a word. “I’m going to have to move fast, make quick decisions, and take chances. Do you think you can handle that?” Again, no one says anything. They just silently nod, “Yes.” I say, “Aren’t you a find bunch of soldier.” Scotty tells the pastor he knows where some supplies and equipment are stored that may help us. Paul tells Randy, Kenny, and Amanda to go help Scotty get it. They dash off while he calls another brother over and gives him instruction on what he should do if something happens to him. Then, Paul asks me if I know where the old “Gardener Floral Mill” is? I tell him, “Yes, it’s not far from the department store.” “Do you think you can meet us there in, say, one hour?” I check and sync my watch, and then reply, “That’s affirmative. One hour then.”
He follows me up the main entrance; then helps me tighten my rucksack. He pushes the light switch turning the chamber lights off, and then slides the entrance stone open. He pops his head out slowly as I move up in position. I see its dark out. I tell Paul, “Thanks.” I pop my head up for quick look around. I then whisper down the dark entrance way, “I’ll see you in one hour.” I rush out and hear him whisper back, “God watch over you brother,” as I dash to the tree line.
I hear the almost silent click and locking of the stone door while observing from in the bushes for signs of LD
activity. I say a silent prayer asking for divine protection and guidance for all of us this night. All seems clear, so I move out towards home as fast as I can. My haste forces me to remember along the way, that I have to rendezvous in less than an hour. I hear some distant activity banging and smashing. The sounds ring out through the damp cool n
ight air. It’s far enough away for it not to be of immediate concern. I maneuver along my normal route of alleyways and back streets as fast as I can. There is evidence the LD have been this way. They left a lot of trash and debris in the alleys, and in the backyards of abandoned homes. I wonder how many more souls they might have captured, and hope Dave and Moses are still safe.
I make it to my backyard fence and squat to see if I’ve been noticed or followed. Everything seems clear. Slowly and quietly, I remove my heavy sack and drop it over the fence. The slight thump of it hitting the ground is followed by the creaking of my backdoor. “Joey?” is whispered repeatedly as I jump the fence. “Yes buddy,” I whisper back to the dark figure peeking halfway out the rear door. Dave opens the door fully as I grab my sack and dash to porch, and then inside. He shut’s and secures the door as I sit against the inside wall trying to catch my breath.
“You won’t believe everything that’s happened,” is Dave’s news alert. This is quickly followed by, “Where have you been all this time?” I point my index finger up, suggesting to Dave, give me a second to finish catching my breath. “I’m glad you made it back okay. I was scared you got caught.” He continues explaining the reason for his excitement. “LD came here last night. It was like a living hell. I could hear them all around the house. The only thing I could do was pray and keep Moses quiet. I closed my eyes and prayed like never before; expecting them to come in.” Dave nervously recounts the occurrence as I attentively listen in. I empty my rucksack filled with supplies as Dave’s bulging eyes delight. He seems to want to comment about the goods, but his desire to finish his accounting won’t let him stop reporting the prior activity. “I knew we were ‘dead meat’. I put my arms up in surrender, and gave myself up to our Lord. That’s when the miracle happened.” Dave starts bawling his eyes out. “Thank you God,” he repeats several times, and then goes on. “There was this light flashing all through the house. It was the brightest and most wonderful light I’ve ever seen.” Dave stops and swallows hard through his excited restricted throat. “Every flash caused the LD to scream, like it was killing them. Then, they ran off. They all ran off. I peeked through the crack in the plywood over the window to see the flashing was coming from the direction you went. I started to pray real hard God would keep you safe. I was so worried about you buddy.” I realize at this moment how much Dave really cares for me, and how much I care for him. “You’ll never guess what happen next? It’s a miracle because Moses was healed-totally healed!” I look over to where he was, just to realize the lump on the floor is just a balled up blanket. “Yep, I believe it was those flashes of light that did it. They were holy lightning. Yep, it was holy lightning.” I shake my head in amazement towards heaven as my heart screams, “You’re surely wonderful God.” I also realize those flashes came during the war for the martyrs. “Where is Moses now?” I ask Dave. “He left around noon today. He said he had to go check on his babies, and his Katie. But, he said to tell you he owes you his life. And, he’d see you again soon.” A warm feeling fills my soul. I know I have received another true treasures waiting for me in Heaven. One is eternal friendship with Moses, and the other is with my buddy Dave. For, these are the only kinds of treasure we bring with us into eternity.
I rip back my watch cover and see I’m running behind my time schedule. “I got to go again,” I tell Dave. “Wait!” he exclaims. “I don’t even know what happened to you, or why you were gone so long.” I stand and strap on my empty rucksack as Dave commands, “I’m going too!” I freeze at the possibility of him even suggesting his wiliness to face danger.
I tell him “Where I’m going is evil. What I’m going to do will take a miracle. I’m sorry Dave, but you can’t come.” I’m worried Dave just doesn’t want to be alone tonight. I can’t blame him after all that’s happened. “I’m going with you!” demands Dave. “I don’t care anymore what happens to me. I want to help, and I’m going to help. If you leave me, I swear I’ll just follow you. Do you want that on your conscience?” I again shake my head side to side in amazement. I have this epiphany in my spirit. I know in my heart I got to take Dave along. I tell my buddy, “Okay, you can come. Just make sure you stay close to me and do exactly what I say.” Dave’s facial expression seems puzzled at my acceptance of his demand. “You mean you’re not going to argue about me coming?” I reply, “No.” “Why?” he asks. I tell him, “Because, it’s a God thing.” Dave grabs his jacket, and we’re out the back door.
After making it to the backyard fence Dave whispers, “Where’re we going?” I pop my head over for a look around, and then return saying, “The old ‘Gardener Floral Mill’ at the edge of town; and we got about 30 minutes to get there.” I pull myself over, jumping down to a squatting position. The area seems clear, so I stand and offer my hand of assistance over the top of the fence to Dave. I feel his right hand fingers join mine. I grab and pull his hand helping him climb over. We squat for a final look around before taking off. Dave speaks softly, “Can you tell me why we are going there?” I advise him, “It’s to free some Irreverent prisoners. Let’s move out.” Dave’s mouth forms an oval that’s ready to speak. But, I put my index finger to my mouth signifying a “shhh” sound.
We move along in 40 feet intervals towards our objective. We advance in turns, with one leading and the other observing. Neither advances unless the forward position gives the silent “okay, all clear” sign. I see Dave’s hand bend forward telling me, “It’s okay to advance.” We repeat this procedure for close to a mile and a half. We’re not far from the old floral mill as we hear the bushes ahead make a rustling and snapping sound. We freeze instantly and observe for what may be causing it. Dave looks back at me, waiting for my command on what to do next. I jerk my left hand towards Dave, and begin pushing air downward with it. This is the symbol for him to stay put, even if I move out. I advance and run past him moving closer to the bushes that the sound came from. About fifty feet away, I see a person stand and run out of it to another bush further away. I see another person repeat the same maneuver joining the first person in that same bush. I can sense these armatures are Irreverent. I have this feeling these are my brothers and sister.
I wave Dave to advance to my hiding spot. It’s taking time for him to catch up, as I am about three maneuvers ahead. I wave him on to my hiding location behind some trash cans. After Dave arrives I murmur, “I think it’s the group from ‘T’ that’s going to meet us.” We begin to move while staying just behind them-just in case I’m wrong. I see the old mill’s silhouette emerge above the tree tops. I know we’re real close now. I hear some commotion off in the distance. Again, I hear something. This time it is a bunch of sounds that seem like faint squeals. My heart cringes thinking it could be the sound of a child being tormented. I through all “caution to the wind” and wave Dave to move fast alongside me. I forgo the time consuming maneuvering procedure and start running to the rendezvous point. My spirit speaks, “Time is of the essence!”
I approach the back of the old floral mill and see the group ahead entering its back door. I know it’s my brothers as we maintain our rapid pace. We are about a minute behind the group as we close in. I can hear Dave just behind me panting between my huffing breaths. I’m praying that our stamping feet, gasping, and the swishing of my sack doesn’t alert a Demon.
We make it to the mill and run right in the dark open backdoor. I run into the darken figure I think is Randy, startling him, as he stops my forward progress. Randy analyzes my face in the dark. He double checks it to make sure it’s really me. My body wants to bend forward and just suck up all the air my lungs will hold, but Randy’s long grasping arms and body won’t let me. Five seconds later, Dave runs right into my back. This action pushes the bunch of us about three feet further ahead. A distant shadow speaks, “I brought some things that can possibly help us.” This voice sounds like Scotty’s, but the darkness hides his true identity. I’m too exhausted to inquire “who said that?” I just listen as Dave and I gasp. So
meone snaps something, as a green glow grows out of the dark. It reveals my comrades’ friendly faces. We form a huddle formation so we can discuss more quietly our plan of action. Pastor Paul leads the gallery of green floating faces and asks, “Did you hear the screams coming from the abandon department store?” I answer, “Dave and me heard it a few minutes ago.” Amanda whispers, “We need to hurry. I heard children screaming!” We are in a dilemma on what to do. Paul proposes we pray together for guidance and a solution. We bow our faces and firmly grasp hands as he directs us in prayer.
“Oh Lord of lords and God of all, please hear our prayer. We need your supernatural help this night. Please Jesus, show us what we need to do this night to defeat this evil enemy. Please lead us Lord along the path we must take. Dear God, please give us a revelation right now. Be with us this night and supernaturally protect us. We stand tonight on faith to our Most High and mighty God. Amen.” We lift our heads to see the glistening green glow that glitters in every teary eye. Each face is full of them.
A pounding sound approaches our position through the “old mill’s” doorway. We see one hefty shadow stampeding towards us as our hearts swell with anticipation. It looks like a torpedo bouncing in the night sea, while it constantly readjusts its aim. The thumping of its feet becomes fearfully deafening. We know we have no time to defend against its pursuit. The only thing we can do is just watch it “zero in” on our destruction. And, pray!
A deep loud voice precedes this fairly large man saying “Is there anyone in there?” We don’t dare respond to its question and give our presence and position away. “Moses; it’s me Moses,” this dark figure bellows. I recognize in an instant the owner of this voice. “Don’t fret fellows, it’s my friend Moses.” His huffing and puffing is leaving a contrail of small white misty clouds. He rushes through the doorway revealing his anxious face. We stretch out our arms to stop Moses from crashing through us. He runs right in to me knocking me back several feet. I hug him and hold him up as his body begins to buckle. He urgently tries to say something, but his exhausted body requires all the air it will take to talk. “Catch your breath buddy,” I say, while keeping him propped up. I advise the others that Moses is a recent friend and new Christian Brother. Great relief comes over them as they pat the large guy; corporately congratulating him in friendship. “Joshua and Jericho,” Moses spews. “I..., I..., I was told!” Moses pauses for his next breath, “...to tell you Joey, these words, ‘Joshua and Jericho’.” He pauses again as a majestic smile appears. “I had a vision or something,” Moses proclaims! New life comes over him as his breathing returns. “It was wonderful. It was from a big beautiful Angel.” Moses strongly warns us that he’s not crazy. “I just know it was real. The Angel told me to hurry and go tell Joey these words. He told me he would guide me to you. And, he did. He also told me to say, ‘Trust in the Lord’.” Moses turns his head looking at every face. It’s like he desperately desires for us to believe him, but he seems surprised that we accept his message without doubt. Suddenly, it hits me like a ton of bricks. I command the group, “These words are how we will win tonight.”
I know what those words mean now, and I know what we are supposed to do. “We’re going to do what Joshua did in the Bible.” I think back to my Sunday school days that my momma made me attend. I vividly remember the story of “Jericho.” God gives Joshua a game plan to conquer his enemy, but it will involve extreme faith. The plan requires Joshua and the Israelites to march once a day around the impenetrable fortified kingdom of Jericho. The victory comes on the seventh day. During the preceding six days they are ridiculed by Jericho’s soldiers. On the seventh day they shout and blow horns while the procession completes seven trips around the city. Finally, Jericho’s walls crumble and victory is theirs. I suddenly realize how they defeated their foes. They acted in great faith believing God would do the impossible.
“We will walk around Jericho and God will give us the victory,” I exclaim! My spirit authenticates my decision. It gives me a peace surpassing all understanding. I know this is the right choice as surely as I know God is with us tonight. “Here’s what we are going to do.”
I explain each of our tasks for this night. Our group files out the old “Gardener Mill,” as fear and doubt immediately attacks us. We move quietly and steadily toward the LD headquarter and prison. Pastor Paul begins praying mildly “Psalms” 23. This is the cadence we march to this night. It will be our battle cry throughout the rest of the fight.
Paul speaks parts of these verses while our feet keep to its rhythm. Each of our voices softly recants this section of the divine prayer. “Even though I walk,” our pastor sings. “Through the valley of,” we reply. “The shadow of death,” we resonate. “We will fear not.” This verse suffocates the fire of fear and kindles the flame of faith. There is order in our steps and unity in our hearts. “For, you are with me!” Paul loudly proclaims; and each soldier robustly confirms. We have forgone all our stealth as we arrive at the department store property. Proudly we sing our praises towards heaven. A
great rumble begins shaking this unholy ground as we proceed to step on it. The sand is soaked with martyr’s blood screaming to be sanctified. Their blood begs for vengeance with each reverent step we take. I can feel the martyred returning with each closer step. The war is about to begin as we file boldly onto the battlefield.
A fog begins forming from the field and fizzles up under the pressure of our holy feet. We feel the innocent blood boiling up from the sand that it was forced to swallow. It releases an eerie steam of screams. It floats mysteriously upward concealing our presence, while leaving only a faint impression of where the department store once stood. The building top reveals a rampart of red floating eyes. They know we’re here. The fog fears not as it slaps and flogs these foes with the haunting words, “Justice.” Their evil red eyes stand firm, but I know they tremble. I see red streaks vibrating in the dark just beyond the mist.
We stop and huddle, as I reach in my sack and remove the torches we’ll use in battle. I hand two sticks to each of my fellow comrades. We return to our file and stretch-out our ranks to the prescribed extended arm distance. Repeating snaps of the sticks give life to the night. Each soldier holds their green torches in each of their hands as we lift our arms and prayers. Amidst this glorious green glow we are assaulted by ridicule and evil laughter. Vulgar gestures are shot at us. But, this evil cannot penetrate the protection of this halo of jade. The majestic mist eats their malign assault while we stand fast in our praying. The fiends continue to fight the fog, but our friend just digests their toxic mess. It chews and swirls their vile swearing; then vomits and hurls it back at them. We slowly march into battle as the fog opens and frees a path before us.
The menace is confined to its fortress. We sense the demonic apprehension as the fog surrounds them. We extend our line further as we proceed closer. The enemy tries out maneuvering the fog by hurling doubt and catapulting fear over top it. “We’ll rip the flesh right off you pitiful puny people, and tear apart our prisoners.” We defend ourselves with the shield of faith, and deflect these mortal blows. We firmly and steadily advance towards our objective, slashing with our swords of truth. “We will fear-no evil, for you are with us,” we loudly proclaim! The cumulative reverberations of our prayers intensify, as they penetrate and stir the fog.
The steam of the innocent slain savors this sweet serenade. It swallows our slashing words and amplifies them. The fog blasts the building with our bombs of praise over and over. Each prayer of faith is a direct hit on each damned soul. Each of our prayer’s strikes a Demon with the words of truth; ripping it apart. The red eyes of the night bleed down the rampart, as horrid and ghastly screams beg mercy and relief from their tormentor. My heart says to me, “Never give mercy to evil, and none shall be given on this night.”
Each step I take closer to the building, builds one more block in our fortress of faith. I thrust my arms forward again, and again, as I rebuke this enemy. Each word I say,
and each jab of my arms, stabs these foes through. The green lights I hold burn my words into their dark souls. I watch as they fall from the wall into the murdering hands of the mist. I stare as my army destroys the Demons and vanquishes the LD. The evidence is their trails of screams retreating away. A remnant of the demonic enemy remains determine. But, it realizes its previous weapons are useless against our attack. We hold fast to our faith as we near the base of the building. This thickening holy fog climbs the stone, reaching up and choking the remaining foul cursing foe.
The desperate evil forces try a last ditch effort. We continue the war while we walk in our worship. Children appear through the mist on top of the building. Each one of them cries out for their momma to come help. Evil embraces these innocent, instead. Dozens of Demons lift high dozens of tiny bodies-like offerings to the dark night sky. They threaten certain death to these youngsters as they dangle them from the store’s roof. These possessed LD dare us to come closer, while they persecute the children with their evil snickering. We look to each other’s face questioning what the right thing to do is. But, we know in our spirit what we have to do. Our army of faith halts.
We stand firm in righteousness and shout as loud as we can. Each member repeats “Psalms” 23 over and over. This pains these devils as they juggle to restrain their captives. They buckle over in agony as we stick them with our daggers of words again, and again. The pain proves to be too much for them. Terrifyingly, they toss all the tots over the side as we watch in horror. Each precious body hurls to the ground as we stare hopelessly on. This action stops our prayers long enough to afford the Demons a last lingering laugh. Our hearts just melt in despair.
A voice suddenly proclaims “Time, stand still!” Instantly, everything freezes in this moment. There is no doubt to whom has given this command. There is only one with authority over time. Every creature, holy or not, produces a pose in this present painting. The fog floats away and reveals the invisible hands of God. Time resumes as He cradles and calms each innocent life, resting assure in His giant protecting hands. We marvel as each babe gently floats down to earth. The evil uses this opportunity to flee from the Almighty’s power, and His wrath. We rejoice at His works and feel great relief. “Holy is He who delivers us,” we shout!. “Victory is ours” we weep.
The stillness of the night returns as His holy presence departs. We see all the children nestled side by side in a somber sleep. Each of these little faces glows with a halo of glory from God’s given kiss. The mothers and fathers evacuate from inside the building. Each looks for their dear darling that their arms long to hold. Pastor Paul looks on in amazement while just shaking his head in awe. The rest of us huddle and hug for the victorious faith we displayed. A combination of joy and emotional exhaustion has weakened us to the point of collapsing. Yet, we apprehend the thought of what we still need to do. We have no place for all these bodies, but we have to do something soon. We realize it’s only a matter of time between our victory and the return of the Demons, and LD. We brothers’ and sister unite once again as prayer warriors, and ask for a sign from Heaven.
No sooner than the last “Amen,” then a beam of light shines down. In this light descends a pure white giant. Every one of us bows in reverence to this winged warrior. His wonderful warm spirit draws us, but his awesome destructive power overwhelms us. The sheathed sword he carries is twice my height. He lands but still soars at least twenty feet above me from head to feet. Cool clouds flow out his large mouth as he speaks his deep words: “I am a messenger of God. I’ve come to seal these elect until His kingdom returns. This place is now under the protection of the Most High. The greatest heroes of Heaven now circle and defend this holy ground. No evil will dare near it.” This magnificent being finishes his bequeath and ascends in the light it comes from. We all bow again in respect to his parting, and give glorious thanks to the maker of miracles.
Amanda asks, “Where are they? I don’t see them.” Pastor Paul tells her that Angel’s live in the invisible realm just beyond our ability to see them. He assures us they are here among us, and around us. I tell Amanda that I know this first hand from my recent encounter while rescuing her. I comfort her with my words, “Trust God.” Her face grows a smile, and her head gently shakes, “Yes,” and then replies, “Always.” This night made every witness believers in miracles. We assist the parents, children, women, and men back into the building. I tell Paul through all the commotion that I’ll look around inside and see what I can find in the way of bedding, food,
and supplies. He remarks, “At least we have electricity.” He notices the interior is lighted while he stares at the mess left behind. Randy, Scotty, and Ken try moving piles of debris away from the main area in order to make room for the approaching multitude. Moses helps a family organize a homely spot to settle in for the rest of the night. I can’t help feeling his concern for his family that’s still out there. I take one more moment to see all the faces of the parents as they smother and suffocate their babies with love. Even those adults without children indulge the stranger’s children with adoring affection. I feel like we’ve immediately become one large family. A warm feeling saying somehow everything will be alright comes over me. I take this feeling with me as I turn and proceed to investigate for the spoils of victory that this building may hold.
“What an amazing night” I think. I move towards the back of the building trying to find the area where supplies are normally kept. I kick some boxes blocking my path hoping to move them out of my way. My foot just bounces off them. They are filled with something too heavy to be kicked away. I pull my knife out and slice open both boxes. I open the first box and pull back the flaps to find it is filled with survival supplies. I reason the LD most likely confiscated this paraphernalia from the home of some poor Irreverent they captured, or killed. I shuffle through the box making a mental inventory of its relevant contents. I notice part of what looks like a radio at the bottom of the box. I lift out a cellophane wrapped bundle containing individual packs of assorted vegetables seeds. Next, I remove a treasure of knowledge. The titles of these two books suggest they are field manuals. One deal’s with survival and the other is titled “Quick, Simple, & Easy Medical Solution.” I know these will definitely come in handy. The final obstacle in my way is a box marked “Power Supply.” I pull the small box out and see the radio below it is a shortwave emergency band radio. I grab it and turn its charging handle knowing the electronic components are fried. But, I see the red power indicator light brighten as I continue to turn the cranking handle. I am amazed it survived in tack after the EMP blast. I flip the emergency band to short wave and tune it in hearing only the crackle of static. It may not be picking up outside signals yet, but I know at least it works. I move the radio with cautious hands placing it back in the box. I proceed to open the next box marked “Power Supply.” I think about the person these personal belongs came from. This person had knowledge of what would be important when all hell broke loose. I also realize this person must have been former military, or some sort of survivalist. I run my blade along the tape securing this box, and then flip the flaps up. I tell myself “It’s an optional solar and manual crank generator.” I realize it will only produce a small amount of electricity. But, it is handy for small appliances and charging other devices. I think, “If there were only any that worked, this would be handy.” I place it back in the bigger box next to the radio. I try and lift the box, but it weighs a ton. I run my blade over the thick cardboard covering along its side cutting a slice out. I tap it with my blade hearing the tingling sound of metal behind the cardboard. I smile knowing why the radio survived. I see this box has a thick lead lining. “This guy was definitely military” I proclaim! The lead lining proves he prophetically knew something was going to happen.
I am able to lift the other box with ease, but it’s still heavy. I open it and see canned goods inside. I decide to retrieve this box later. I continue looking for things we need immediately (e.g., blankets, sleeping m
aterial, food, and water). I move towards the back area of the building, which is sectioned off. I see six rooms. The first two are small offices, These are followed by a “Men’s” and “Lady’s” bathroom, and two doors marked with “Supplies,” and “Storage.” I mumble, “Jack pot!” This is my best bet of finding what we need. I see both doors have been kicked in. It looks like they’ve probably been looted already. I say a silent prayer some supplies may have been overlooked as I venture into the “Supplies” room first. This seems to be the most logical choice.
Out of curiosity I flip the light switch on. I am surprised as I exclaim, “’Son of a gun’, all the electricity in the entire building seems to work!” Technically, I know the electrical wiring should be ruined by the EMP blast, and I have no idea where the electricity might be coming from. I wonder if holy protection has anything to do with this. This is surely a night of miracles. One other thing I notice: there is no evil stench lingering, but rather a sweet smell. This fact comforts me.
All the shelves are empty in this room and their stands are tilted over, or lying on the floor. Several open boxes sit in the rear part of the room. Carefully, I hurdle the metal mess to explore the boxes. Dust clouds rise before my eyes as my feet stir-up the dirt. I see every box is empty, which is exactly what I expect. I turn around looking from a new perspective for anything I may have overlooked. “That’s weird,” I think. It’s not what I see that strikes me with suspicion, but what I don’t see. There are clean square areas on several of shelves noticeable only from this side of the stands lying over. I conclude there was something recently on these shelves before the stands were tipped over. I do not see any slide marks wiping the dust away. This suggests the boxes were removed from their stands before they were tipped. I figure the lack of dust where the square cleaner areas are means it happened recently. Next, I notice slightly dust covered footprints leading to the wall on my right. “That’s strange,” I think. “Why do they come and go towards that particular door less wall?” I follow the trail to the wall and tap it with my knuckles. It sounds like solid wood. I lean on the wall and push it. Nothing happens. I move to my left and repeat the process. The wall makes a clicking noise then pops out about two inches. I become excited, but scared at the same time. Maybe there are some supplies behind this hidden doorway, or maybe it’s a “booby trap” left by the LD. I see a hand hold exposed in the side of door. My senses tingle a warning to proceed with the utmost caution. There is also a blast of cold air seeping from around the crack in the opening. I stand to the side of the door and lean my back against the adjacent wall just to the side of this opening. Now out of the way of the door, I pry it open with my right arm. A freezing fog floats in the middle of this compartment. It quickly moves out of this hidden room directly towards me.
I shiver in the chill attacking me as the foggy crisp air clears from inside this room. I realize that this room is really a super large freezer. My eyes pop in astonishment to see pallets and pallets marked with “New CA Guard.” I figure this must be the LD supply depot. The plastic wrap around each sealed pallet suggests whatever is on them is still intact. I count seven visible pallets stacked on seven more, reaching up to the ceiling. It makes sense there is probably another row of pallets behind these ones. I determine this by the sheer size of the room and where these pallets sit. I pull my knife and slice a piece of frosted plastic wrap from the first pallet. I discover this pallet is loaded with boxes and boxes of MRE (Meals Ready to Eat). This evidence supports the idea this is LD supply headquarter. They only distribute these supplies to those wearing the brand and leave the rest of us to starve. I deduct they store the MRE in this freezer to protect and regulate it. After all, MRE don’t need refrigeration. I check the next pallet and find it is the same type of supply. I thank God for this abundant blessing.
I quickly inspect a couple more pallets and find even more goodies. One pallet is filled with can goods, and a several field stoves. I can’t believe my serendipity of finding the contents lying on this next pallet. It is filled with sleeping bags, cots, blankets, towels, toiletries, and even military clothing. This is beyond just good luck. I hear that little voice again in my heart. This time it answers, “This is how God abundantly provides for the faithful.” I nod my head affirming the small voice.
I venture beyond the corridor of pallets to what maybe behind them. I find there is another row stacked to the ceiling. I sum we have at least twenty eight pallets filled with blessings. Again, I thank God for all His love. I turn to leave and go get help with the supplies, but I notice something strange. There are a dozen stain spots just below a dozen hooks embedded near the ceiling on the far wall. I know in a second this was more than just a supply chamber. The brown bloody silhouettes scream this was also a torture chamber. I grab a towel from one pallet and try wiping their memory away. I pray heartfelt “last rites,” as I end-up just smearing these poor shadows past existence. I promise myself to keep this a secret-for now.
I return to the main hub of the building and see clumps of children nestled on the floor. Pastor Paul is quietly directing the men towards the needs of the masses, while Amanda attempts to “goodnight kiss” every sleeping child. I wave to the pastor and some of the brothers to come here. Paul’s gaze doesn’t seem to suggest he expects much from my excursion. I stand with my arms crossed smiling at him as he approaches my position. He confirms my smile with his own. He can tell my continuous smiling and steadfast position is saying more than I just found something interesting. He knows I’m not usually this emotional. His face fills with his growing smile of expectation. The other brothers arrive at the same time as Pastor Paul. Paul tilts his head and asks, “What?” I stare at him as I tell them all, “The Lord surely is good!” I see all the confused faces wonder what I am talking about. I place my hand with all my fingers pointing up, suggesting to them to “stop” their advancement. I proceed to twist my hand and bend my fingers over slowly, giving them the “follow me” sign. I see them glance at each other wondering just how big I scored.
We move orderly at a “quick time” to the “Supplies” room. I see their smiles turn to frowns as they enter the emptied supply room. I continue to motion to them to follow me as I venture into the hidden freezer compartment; which they failed to notice upon initial entry. Smiles return along with bulging eyes as they peer in. “Wow,” is the best I can do to explain their surprise. I give everyone the abridged tour along the way to the pallet containing the bedding. I hear Paul call out loudly and repeatedly, “Amen!” The brothers reply with a more solemn and astonished, “Amen,” as they slowly savor this most abundant blessing. We immediately form a “fire detail” and quickly begin passing cots, blankets, and sleeping bags down off this mountain of supplies into a stack on the floor. The rising pile on the floor becomes almost unmanageable. We stop and grab as much as each man can hold, and then carry the supplies back to the main area. Pastor Paul and Scotty remain in the main area and quietly distribute the bedding. Afterwards, they begin assisting each parent in setting up the cots they need. The rest of us make several return trips getting the rest of the necessities needed for tonight.
We enter the freezer one last time and grab several cases of “grub.” I notice the exhaustion of our slowing steps as we struggle back to the main area. Gently, we set the boxes down so we don’t disturb those already sleeping. I grab a cot and set it up near the separate area where the stacks of rations now rest. Scot and my buddy Dave decide to camp alongside me. I through a MRE diner on each of their cot’s as they finish unrolling their sleeping bags. “Bon appetite,” I whisper. I return and sit on my cot, and then tear open my MRE. Dave sarcastically states, “Goody, I got a ‘ham and egg’ bar.” He sits on his cot and crosses his legs, while forcing himself to gratuitously smile between each unsavory bite. I chuckle contently under my breath at him. His action kind of puts things back into perspective after all the unbelievable events. I know now his friendship is a true friendship. And, that he hates ham and egg b
ar’s.
Paul shows up and suggests we post a guard. “I think we should take turns keeping an eye on everything. You know, in case someone needs special assistance. We also need to guard against the possibility of a unforeseen fire breaking out.” We all agree each one of us will take one hour shifts the rest of the night. Paul decides to take the first shift. “No pastor, I will” I tell him. “I’m not that tired anyway; you
know-with all the excitement and all.” This is, of course, a lie. I am died tired, but Paul’s actions suggest he needs rest even more than me. “Plus Paul, we’re going to need you more in the morning. So, get a good night’s sleep.” He grabs a cot and sets it up as I start diming the main lights. I find a comfy spot to sit located on a lonely stack of MRE. I look over the silent multitude peacefully sleeping and wonder how my marvelous God will deliver us from the danger and chaos laying just ahead.