The Sinner and the Showboat - Chapter 8 Storming the Gates of Heaven
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Prologue
We are so thankful you have joined us and encourage you to add your thoughts and insights - did God touch you through the story? Is there something you can add to enrich the readers? Take a moment to share, It will benefit and perhaps stretch us all. We trust you enjoy, learn, grow and share as a result of reading this Inspirational Christian story.
If you landed on this page, you will need to go back to the beginning:
First Chapter. To get there Click Here: The Sinner and the Showboat
The Previous Chapter The Sinner and the Showboat - Chapter 7
I invite you to join with me as we go back to peek in as Pastor Watermelon and the Deacon board storm Heaven's Gates.
Storming Heaven's Gates
Pastor Watermelon had just finished talking to the Deacon's regarding Tom's blow-up in the study. He now called the men to prayer knowing this battle was not merely physical ... not of flesh and blood but it was a spiritual assault ... an attack from the enemy of all mankind.
Pastor led in prayer. "Father God, we implore you to meet with us as we seek your wisdom and your power. We acknowledge that we are but flesh and blood and in our humanness we want justice .... and we want it now! ... in fact, to be honest God, we each want a piece of Tom. That's why I'm coming to you now God. Father search out hearts ... shine your holy spotlight on each of us gathered in this room. Reveal the sin hiding within ... please cleanse us from all unrighteousness. The men began posturing themselves ... groaning and urgent pleas rose up from that room "yes Lord .. .. yes Lord Jesus" was echoed by men being humbled to their faces as they sought God. Pastor's voice broke as he cried out "We come to surrender ourselves and ask for your filling ... fill us up Lord with the Holy Spirit. In Galatians Father, you say "if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted." We want to be those spiritual men whose only motive is to restore Tom. Tom is lost right now Father and we know that you gave your life to seek and to save that which was lost. Equip us for what lies ahead. We want to be clean vessels that you can use. Give us the mind of Christ that we might carry out your will.
One by one, as the deacons knelt before God, they inwardly surrendered their individual wills so that God's will could be accomplished. When they were finished praying, a Holy Hush fell over the room, each man examining his heart.
The evening service was set to begin in about 30 minutes. Deacon Jeffrey Maynard spoke; Men we need get ready for tonight's service. At that the men, all but Pastor, got up to carry out the necessary work needed before the service. Pastor stayed back in the office and continued in prayer. He labored before the throne and continued to seek God's favor and wisdom. He prayed a hedge of protection about the Church as people were gathering for service. When he felt the peace of God wash over him he was released to go and carry on.
Jennifer's Story
After the men left the Pastor's Office, Jill and Jennifer found a cozy spot in the outer office of the study. Jill studied the young girl sitting beside her and wondered how she would respond to a question she was about to pose. "Jennifer," Jill began, "I know that God used John's story to speak to your heart and I am so thankful for that. Even though I know that God used the story, I'd really like to know how he applied it to your heart. Would you mind sharing with me?" Jennifer smiled softly at Jill, gathered her thoughts and then began, "Well Jill, let me give you a little history about me. I grew up in this Church. My Mom and Dad have been bringing me to Sunday School and Church since I was very little. When I was a just a young girl I had a big belief in God and eventually I asked Jesus to forgive me for my sins and to be my Lord and Savior. That prayer was from my heart and It was real. I so love God and Jesus. I spent many a Sunday morning in Sunday School learning the stories of the Bible. I was mentored and loved by my Sunday School teachers. They taught me to hide God's word in my heart.. and because of them, I have many verses tucked away up here" she said as she pointed to her head.
"Then, when I was in high school I became very active in the youth group here at the Church. I was growing in my faith and I learned how to share it with others. I was taken a step deeper in my faith walk when one day one of our youth directors heard me singing in the hallway. Rick stopped me and said, "Jennifer, your voice is heavenly; truly beautiful." "I, of course, was embarrassed but manged to thank him." But he didn't stop there. He continued "Jennifer do you know who gave you that voice?" Her face crinkled into a smile and she chuckled as she said "Well, of course I knew, I grew up in the Church right? But Rick was dead serious" He continued, "I want you to know that when God gives you a gift He has given it to you to bless others and to honor Him, think and pray about that Jennifer, okay?" "I agreed and as he walked off I meditated on that thought .... It was the first time I understood that God had touched my life in a special way. That was a powerful concept for a 15 year old girl to digest."
"Today Jill, as I listened to John's story, If felt like another layer of my understanding about God was being peeled back. John's story was so bleak, and as you talked about how God sent brother Ken to give him a Bible and then described how the pages of the Bible turned on their own .. I was awakened to the idea that God is not limited to Heaven and He isn't limited to the holy words of scripture either. He is a God of miracles who is at work in today's world. It's miraculous how He sent His servant to give John the gift of His word. It was God who supernaturally turned those pages to the verse He wanted John to see. Then it hit me like a ton of bricks. I had just experienced a miracle too. God never took His eyes off me as I went to get a drink at the water fountain. God knew Tom was coming and He guided John to be exactly in a place he could see Tom approach me. God sent John just as surely as if He came out of Heaven Himself to defend and protect me."
Jill looked at Jennifer's angelic face and thought of all the tender care she had received all of her lifetime, so unlike her own. It had taken today's situation to open Jennifer's eyes to an act of God's work on earth ... and to think God used John's story. Jill reached for Jennifer's hand as she said, "Thank you so much for sharing with me, it really helps me to see how important it is to tell what God is doing in our lives. I never would have imagined John's story would have such an impact." Jill's heart was filled with wonder and amazement. Then she turned to Jennifer and said, "I think we need to move on out to Church Jennifer, sounds like a crowd is gathering out there."
The Evening Service
As the ladies moved through the office door they could see people streaming into the sanctuary. "What's going on here,' said Jill. Jennifer looked around bewildered, "I don't know" she answered.
They followed the crowd into the sanctuary and found it already packed full. "Let's just stand in the back for now OK Jennifer?" "Sure, good idea," she nodded. John spotted his wife and Jennifer on the other side of the sanctuary and found his way over to them. He reached for Jill's hand and felt her squeeze it tightly. He looked deep into Jill's eyes and found them dancing with love and light. "hm-mm, what's this about?" he wondered. Then his eyes filled with concern as he turned to Jennifer. She returned his gaze with a smile and a look of peace and serenity. "What happened while I was away?" thought John.
As he was considering the question he looked up to see Deacon Jeffrey Maynard behind the pulpit. Just then Jeff Mapes came up behind John and greeted him with a smile and a handshake, "How ya doin' John?" John looked at Jeff with marked heaviness creasing his forehead and replied ... "Trusting Jesus Jeff ... just waitin' on the Master." John looked around for Pastor but he was no where in sight. He bent down to whisper to his wife, "Do you know where Pastor Watermelon is?" "He was in the study praying when Jennifer and I left the outer office for the service." Jill answered. "He must be lost in prayer," thought John.
The Holy Spirit Speaks
Just as Deacon Maynard stepped up to the pulpit Pastor Watermelon came up behind John and placed his hand on his shoulder. John noted the warmth and kindness of his touch. Relief swept over him.
Deacon Maynard began to speak. At first John was confused, Pastor wasn't moving but stood firmly planted behind John. He'd never heard Jeffrey Maynard speak before. Deacon Maynard addressed the congregation boldly knowing that Satan was out to create chaos and disorder in the body of Christ. He spoke with great authority as he commanded Satan to LEAVE in the name of Jesus. His message from James 2 was so powerful that John found himself hastening to join many others already at the alter.
As he bowed to pray he asked God to search his heart and see if there be any sin within. He pleaded for wisdom to know what he should do. Should he go after Tom or let Tom and God handle this for now? Suddenly he felt a 'knowing' in his spirit. It was becoming a familiar happening for John, just a nudge. When he felt it he stood at attention and listened carefully. Pastor had taught him that the Holy Spirit speaks in a still small voice and if you aren't listening you could miss his message. John stood up quickly scanning the sanctuary. Pastor Watermelon was beside him, once again placing his hand on John's shoulder. John turned and asked Pastor if he knew where Tom was... Pastor scanned the sanctuary too. "I don't see him anywhere brother." "Tom's in trouble Pastor" John replied.
Jill and Jennifer were watching the sudden alarm on both Pastor's and John's face. Now what? thought Jill, What more can happen today? Next thing you know John was hustling for the door and Pastor was darting toward his office. Jennifer looked at Jill with big eyes as she said, Do ya think we need to pray? ....
THE STORY CONTINUES
After a long break .. and God's release of Unchained Grace's time to invest in the story .. Chapter Nine is now completed. Are you curious to know what is happening on that dangerous street Tom raced down while in the ravages of his own fury?
This story is NOT for the casual reader .. it is not to be skimmed through as it is NOT a light read. This story packed with hidden lessons and spiritual enlightenment. I suggest that before and as you read, you pray and ask God to reveal the hidden nuggets concealed to most but revealed to those whom have eyes to see.
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UNCHAINED GRACE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!
FORGET PASTOR CATALOUPE...UNCHAINED GRACE IS BACK!!!!!
:0) :0) :0) :0) :0) :0) :0) :0) :0) Can you tell I am happy to see you brother Unchained Grace? :0) :0) :0) :0) :0) :0) :0) :0)
Micky, unfortunately, Pastor Cantaloupe had a problem. He got caught up in Jack Lalanne's new juicer and now he is but a spiritual puddle. Let us now have a moment of silence for poor Pastor Cantaloupe.
Oh Ghosty, you're too too funny! I can just see it now .. I hope MickyDee doesn't catch you as you pierce his tire with your nail .. run girlfriend run........
Mickydee I could poke a nail in your tire of your bike--After reading your comment awhile ago...I went back through all the hubs wondering why I don't remember pastor Cantaloupe! GRrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr! he he he.
MickyDee, I know you was funning ... and you are really good at it. You always make me smile .. really ya do!
I was just funning. There ain't no Cantaloupes in this movie. I'm enjoying it all-I just don't really have anything to say. Just marking territory. I wanted to say hi. This is how a macaroon says hi. Hi!
GW - Only beautiful words can be uttered to such a beautiful person ... inside and out. Love YOU!
Brother Dave, though this is 'just a story' as you say, It is being driven by God and the author's are seeking Holy Spirit Wisdom as they write.
There are parables, warnings and many many truths within and between the lines of these hubs for those who are willing to dig into them. Unchained Grace has challenged me to go back and read my own hubs to uncover them... and to my amazement ... I'm learning some very deep truths by reading the words I typed. I told ya I am just a bystander watching the story unfold.
I appreciate your transparent and very thought provoking comments dear brother - So glad God brought you to share in the story!
Wow Mekenzie! The Holy Spirit is such a magnificent teacher and author.
When this saga started, 8 chapters ago, I wanted to excuse me, "Beat the crap" out of Sanctimonious Thom and not just for his actions against Jennifer, but for his errogance to think that his good deeds meant anything, when he turned his nose up to those less fortunate, that visited the parish.
But then The Holy Spirit reminded me that I too am a sinner, so who am I to stand in Judgement, and then He reminded me that "Vengence is mine. Saith the Lord" So I begged Jesus forgiveness for getting out of line, even though this is only a story and not real.
Christ created the church, (not a building), as some think, but as a gathering of like-minded worshipers,to gather together for spiritual healings, but also as a sanctuary, a haven for those in need.
At that point it seemed like common sense and powerful Holy Spirit conviction, immediate,would fall on deaf ears with Tom.
When we saw him flea the church, and John saw the direction he left in, and knew he could be running into danger, I was thinking God is delivering his justice.
Wrong again. "For my thoughts are higher than your thoughts, my ways are higher than your ways", thus says My God. How true it is.
The strange part about what has transpired thus far is that we don't really know how much of what is or has transpired in this church community, is the congregation aware of, and what might be the thoughts of these people, what sort of spiritual complexities might arrive from some of the parishoners, if any.
Jennifer is not an orphan either so what sort of justice are her parents going to be looking for when they learn about what has happened to her?
Satan has opened up so many cans of worms with this one incident, it is frightening spiritually as to what could transpire in following chapters. My mind is racing, with so many off shoot scenerios, you wouldn't believe.
Sister Mekenzie and Brother James, I know you are both God Loving people, and I know that in the end, this will probably through your love for God, come to a peace-loving ending somewhere down the road.
My spirit needs calming right now even though I know that this is only a novel.So many fears are running through my heart and mind at this point.
Sincerely,
Brother Dave.
Thank you for a beautiful return message Mekenzi--so helpful--your words--here and on the phone today--thank you for giving me peace and love and your time today! Thank you!
MickyDee, who knows what's happening to Pastor Cantaloupe? I do know he's a Vietnam Vet ... equipped ... and he has the Holy Spirit of God with him ... equipped. It will be interesting ... I have no clue and am hoping Unchained Grace is going to tell us all.
GW, my sweet and kindred spirit friend. Oh honey-girl I need to give you an eye-opener for sure. You my dear child have a true gift of discernment. As I have grown to know you I see that you are razor sharp in distinguishing what is of God and what is of Satan. You have a greater understanding than most Christians. It is a GIFT believe me, a much needed gift in the world where satan roams about seeking whom he may devour.
As I read your hubs I see that people's eyes are being opened to the whiles of the enemy. Because God uses this gift He gave YOU honey. Your gift is carried with you everywhere you go and you use it on a daily basis. You also have such a trusting and loving heart and are so in tune with the Holy Spirit that you took off one night and picked up a GREAT Big man who had a felony for domestic abuse and brought him into your home. Now who does that??? Nobody but my Ghosty. May sound foolish to some reading .. but if you knew Ghosty, like I know Ghosty .. you would know that God directed her steps because her heart is so in tune with God and when the Holy Spirit taps on her heart .. she listens and obeys. Now that GREAT big man has his own hubpages to tell you the miraculous work God has done in his life. His name is Twistyy.
Don't let satan tell you that you have no gifts. In my opinion your gift is HUGE and rare. Thank God for it ... as He is opening up your future you are going to see how He will use it in many ways and in many lives.
I thank God for the day I met you. You have impacted my life in a multitude of ways. I love you Ghosty! Or should I say Jillifer terminator for God ... look how creative you are.. that's a lil' gift from the creator God too .. it's how he made you think and it blesses others..
Coffeesnob, want to know a secret? I didn't like this Tom guy either in the beginning .. I wanted a piece of him too. So Glad that Pastor Watermelon, led by the Spirit, directed the men to examine their own hearts and to remember that they needed to focus on restoration not mutilation. It will be interesting what transpires between John and Tom .. I assure you .. at this point I have no clue. Your closing words are right on .. Holy Spirit Time!
Is no one concerned about what happened to Reverend Cantaloupe?
I apologize for writing a hub-but I can't shorten this--please forgive me!
As I read this today I got caught up early in the first few paragraphs-with something different than all the other chapters. I was reading about Jennifer's voice and the young man saying 'her voice was a gift from God.' I stopped abruptly feeling sad and asked God..."Why do I not have a special gift?" I started to get upset-because I have none. I suppose I have always felt that way--always stick out like a sore thumb-people think I am weird-a loner mostly-isolated always-spiritually and mentally from people for a very long time-and no true physical gift from God.
The conversation with Jill and Jennifer was spiritually strong to me!Jennifer has been sheltered seemingly-her whole life-only knowing God never meeting satan. And I look at Jill and she has not been-been there-done that-has a dirty tee-shirt to prove it. Yes she 'thinks'she knows God but she definetely KNOWS she has met satan in her life. I feel God put them together alone in this room for spiritual lessons for both. God is instilling strong faith in both-with one incident.
Jennifer is naive to the 'ways of this world' which often will allow satan a way in due to her innocence of heart. She has seen with her eyes-how quickly satan can jump in and cause destruction. Jill on the other hand knows all about satan's destruction but has never truly viewed God in 'action.' She asks Jennifer about what has happened inside her heart for a reason! She wants to view God through another person-She's almost a doubting Thomas-without realizing it-it will seal the deal with her about God's full control and existence -after she hears Jennifers story of God's intervention and restoration.
I believe that is why she smiles lovingly at her husband John later--because God whispered to her heart and told her that not only does God exist but that her husband has the Holy Spirit in him. It has not only filled her with happiness for her own hearts restoration but also her marriage with John. If that makes any sense.
I feel like long-long ago--I was a little girl with a heart like Jennifer-my innocence and naivety-my love for God and Jesus and always thinking of Jesus as a little girl and then through tragic experiences in early youth and on--I began to meet Satan as Jill did. I know both sides. I guess you could call me..ummmm errrrr "Jillifer"...hahahaha..hey it's better than Twig right? I have lived both sides of both of these women.
The question I ask myself as I close from this hub.."Why did God not come down way long ago and send me a "John?" to save me. My spirit says that God wanted me to be "Jillifer" so that I would become the woman he designed me today. I have the heart of a playful child-trust-love-of God-strong faith of God...and because he has allowed Satan to show himself to me-through others and also so many demonic attacks--he has built me to be...? Ready for this one?
The Jillifer Terminator for God! :)
Loved the hub!!!
Mekenzie
What now? will we see John and tom become friends even. I really didn't like this Tom guy in the beginning - in fact I wanted a piece of him (Ha) Now I hoping for a miacle of change. Holy Spirit time!
Ulrike Grace, you are such a sweet woman who has obviously been through alot in this lifetime. I agree with you that wisdom must be used when sharing deeply out of our lives. Not everyone can handle it or even be trusted with knowing. God will lead you when opportunities arise and the STUFF can be used to heal and help others.
Thanks for your comments and feel free to share what you think and tell us the ideas developing in your mind. It's fun to hear what other's think. You, dear lady, actually helped me to see Tom clearer through your compassionate eyes.
I love how you ended, Stay in close to Him.
Thank YOU! Bless YOU!!
"This leads to another interesting issue. Did Jesus allow Jennfier to become the unwitting victim of Satan in order to expose to Tom the deceitfulness Satan had built within him? Jesus knew Jennifer would never come to any real harm and in the end, we see a large number of people whom have learned from this event. It has touched everyone."
Let us see what answers come of this. I'm going to hang back on commenting on this Hub from this point forward to see what transpires. You have provided multiple lessons and symbolistic imagery here in areas some may not see. Let me not influence any one's thinking.
Ah MeKenzie...what a statement you made to UG...Jill is also getting her eyes opened to the importance of opening up ... no more shame or secrets ... God uses our STUFF!...we get so scared of our own stuff...and feel, at least I do, that no one else wants to, needs to, or should hear it. But if I truly believe that God has been behind EVERYTHING that has happened to me in my life then I need to follow through on opportunities to share when they arise. I still believe I need to seek God before sharing...I don't want to lay something on someone they may not be ready for...
AS well, I must say "hearing" UG and yourself talk through your thoughts like this is very interesting...I myself get ideas about where this "may" be leading and wait with expectation as to where Holy Spirit will actually take it.
Be blessed and stay in close to Him
UlrikeGrace
Unchained Grace, yes Jill has been sheltered and nurtured through her family and loving Church. It is easy for kids growing up in the Church to be blind to the miraculous works of God. Their thoughts about God can be so meshed in that they think of it simply as a way of life ... she's known no other way of life.
The good thing about growing up in a Christian home and all the hours she's spent at the Church is that she has been grounded in God's Word ... and the BEST time to memorize is when you are young and your mind absorbs quickly ... the verses she is memorizing will help her all through her life. The dangers .. indifference, hypocrocy or pride.
I see God drawing her into a real relationship with Him. She is beginning to understand that God created her for a purpose and He is the one who gave her a voice ... why? To be used here on Earth to bless others and Praise Him.
Her eyes are being opened to the way God works directly with his children. She seems to have missed this growing up in the Church and thought God was in her Bible and at the Church ... not walking, in a very personal way, beside her. Her world is opening, along with her heart as she catches just a glimpse of the power of God.
Jill is ecstatic that God used John's story in such a miraculous way... all the pain, all the injustice, all the BAD treatment .. God is using it ... He really does bring beauty out of ashes. Jill is also getting her eyes opened to the importance of opening up ... no more shame or secrets ... God uses our STUFF!
The question about Jesus allowing Jennifer to become a victim ... I'd like to hear what our readers have to say.
Mekenzie, this was a great introspective into Jennifer and Jill. A quiet time for both to learn to understand one another. Clearly, Jill has experienced a less than peaceful past while Jennifer appears to have been protected from such things. Hence, unfortunately, this left her with the inability to recognize the deceitful nature of those around her. The beginning of the unveiling of this deceitful nature of the enemy was made evident to her. So, now, what shall she do with this new revelation brought to her?
Since James 2 deal predominantly with the faith/works issue it seems apparent Deacon Jeffrey Maynard was focused on the deceitfulness Satan had exercised with Tom. Tom clearly believed and felt his good works made him a good Christian and potential leader in the church. Satan fortified this feeling which left Tom believing he was fine the way he was.
Satan knows we come to be celebrated and not just tolerated. He also knows we want to believe we're doing the right thing. As long as he fortifies that train of thought, the need we might've recognized to delve deeper into ourselves is neglected. Satan wins. We've essentially surrendered the mind of Christ in exchange for our own sense of accomplishment and the superficial opinions of those around us.
This leads to another interesting issue. Did Jesus allow Jennfier to become the unwitting victim of Satan in order to expose to Tom the deceitfulness Satan had built within him? Jesus knew Jennifer would never come to any real harm and in the end, we see a large number of people whom have learned from this event. It has touched everyone.
Now, how will this learning be manifested through 'works' of a different type?
Unchained Grace Level 1 Commenter 24 months ago
For quite some time, many were of the opinion I'd gone underground. Not so. As the Lord guides this ministry, everything must be done in decency and in order according to His Vision.
Recently, the Lord provided three possible avenues (scenarios) for Chapter 9. Therein lies the challenge. Which shall I choose and why? Though it may appear straightforward, the reality is that this is a test for me as it applies to where I'm at personally and spirtually.
So, please bear with me as the Lord has also placed a number of new things in front of me.
Prioritize.
Wisdom.
Discernment.
Among His many gifts, the above three shall in many ways indicate the outcome as to what God really needs to show and say here. As Mekenzie put it so well, we are both really just 'bystanders' on this journey.
So, get yourself a ticket and join us for a trip. The trip taken by rail on the train Satan has tried to wreck from the beginning. Who does God say you are? You may just get your answer in Chapter 9.