Christian Short Stories With Biblical Morals and Christian Morals
Christian short stories with Biblical Morals and Christian MoralsAcknowledgments:
My thanks and appreciation go to my wonderful husband who has inspired, enlightened and brightened many a day for me. This book is dedicated to Roy Star, for his love, patience and help in writing it. It is my hope that the words in this small book will bring joy, hope and entertainment to all who read it....
Toni Star
A Strange Twist to Bon Voyage
Sheila never knew the true meaning of bon voyage –have a good trip– until she shouted "bon voyage" to Steve that cold November day, 1971. Steve had been a close friend and there were rumors that she and Steve would be married around Christmas of that year. But, it was just not meant to be. At least that's what her grandmother told her one clear October day.
"Sheila, let me say it as plain as I can, Steve is not good enough for you and you know it!" Sheila recalled how her grandmother looked that day and how she felt when she heard those words.
The pain of those words echoed in her brain. Her long, lost love left that cold November day and she knew that she would never see him again. At least that's what she thought some thirty years ago.
Now, in the autumn of 2005, still single and now retired, she often thought of Steve and how he was doing. Last she heard he had two children and was happily married. A good friend told her years ago that he still lived in Germany and had a "cushy" job.
Sheila's life was about to change and the ringing of her phone would usher that change in.
In the kitchen, she was finishing up some dishes, when she heard the ringing. She lifted the receiver and replied, "Hello?"
"Hello? Is this Sheila?" The voice sounded muted but there was a distinctiveness about it that brought back some great memories.
"Hello! Yes this is Sheila...Who is this?"
"Sheila, this is Steve...Do you remember me?"
"Steve, of course I remember you! Where are you?"
"I'm right around the corner at our favorite spot. Do you remember, Dolan's Kitchen?"
"Of course I do."
"Can you meet me there in about an hour?"
"Well, yes. Of course I can. I'll be there around six?"
"Great! Can't wait to see you!"
Sheila finished up the dishes and then began to get ready. She freshened up, put on a new dress she bought several months ago, fixed her hair and makeup and then sat down to wait.
Imagine, seeing Steve again after all these years. What would he look like? Would he still find her attractive? So many questions were swimming through her mind. Soon, it was 10 till six. She went to the closet, put on her coat and walked out the door.
As she rounded the corner, her anticipation mounted. She opened the store door, walked in and immediately spotted Steve. He looked so handsome, with a turtleneck sweater and dark pants and his blond hair neatly combed. He always did look a little like Cary Grant she thought. He was still so attractive.
She walked up to his table and said, "Hi Steve!" He looked startled but very happy.
"Sit down, Sheila! So good to see you."
He seemed to be having a hard time focusing. She sat down and immediately knew something was wrong.
When he didn't look straight into her eyes, she knew that he couldn't see.
He asked, "Do you remember when you shouted Bon Voyage to me in 1971?
"Yes, of course...."
"Well, now we both can say it to anyone who knows us....That is if you say you will accompany me on a trip to Europe in December?" As they talked further, she found out that he was now divorced and his children were leading their own lives, somewhere in Germany.....
"Yes, I'll go with you–but separate rooms, of course. And, yes it will be wonderful to
say bon voyage to others but "hello again" to each other...How I've missed
you, Steve!" His being blind didn't matter at all to Sheila; for they were
saying "hello" instead of bon voyage.
Control
Sheila was losing control, fast! Why didn't she heed her neighbor's warning about the man who just moved into the neighborhood two weeks ago? Miranda mentioned in a conversation with her that she thought the new man on the block was acting "odd" at night. He would come out of his house and circle it for several times and then walk back in. Living across the street from him, Miranda had watched his "comings and goings" often, for she liked to keep tabs on new people.
"I'd look out for ‵that one." Miranda said to Sheila as she nibbled on diet bar, one bright autumn day. "Don't trust him for anything," as she finished the bar.
"Why, what's wrong with him? Sheila asked with a hesitant voice. What has he done to make you suspect him?"
"I can't put my finger on it but he just seems so controlled, so obsessive. Got an uncle like that and he can't leave anything alone! Why he even checks his car at night–takes him over an hour–making sure it's alright–that everything is in place. Gives me the "willies!"
Sheila laughed it off that day and thought her old friend was just being hyper. But now she thought, maybe she should have heeded the warning. Now, he was outside, she saw him––doing God knows what and she was all alone!
It was getting dark outside and hard to see what was going on. All she could see out of her living room window was her neighbor, circling her home and scanning all parts of her home while he was doing it...Round in circles he went, never stopping.
Finally he stopped right in front of her door! He waited and listened and was very quiet. Sheila waited behind the front curtains until she could stand the silence no more...
She hollered out loud–"Who are you and what do you want?"
No sound, just heavy breathing...
And then, just eight words, "I'm so lonely, can I talk to you?"
Stunned, she eld her breath and then replied, "Sure you can, if you would just stop your pacing and introduce yourself!"
And so it began...a beautiful and loving friendship that would later turn into marriage and all it took was courage and faith in someone different and a bit strange...But, aren't we all different and strange sometimes?
Elizabeth and the Need to Escape
Elizabeth had been a good woman all her life. She went to church regularly every Sunday, was a good wife to her husband, Harold and raised two children with love and kindness.
For most of her life she did what was right; but how did she end up in such a life–threatening condition and why was it this time there was no one to help? Harold, for most of his married life, had been there for her when she needed him but with his new job as Human Resource Director at Benning's Department Store, he was, well, he was never home!
She sat in a room that was created for protection–everyone in the family called it the "hide–away room," but to Elizabeth it had become the only place where she felt comfortable and safe, away from everyone and everything!
Her husband and children were away for the weekend and she was all alone; a decision she made weeks ago, saying to the family that she just needed some time alone to think and to pray.....She was quickly finding that that decision was made in haste....
It was the dead of winter and her job as secretary to the local newspaper had ended just two weeks ago. She didn't want to leave but she had to. A male employee was acting peculiar around her, so she marched into the editor's office weeks ago and resigned her post.
And, so she sat in that lonely room and waited for the inevitable. She knew deep down that soon "he" would be arriving. It was just a matter of time.
Why was it that most of her adult life she knew that something like this would eventually happen? Had she been too friendly with this man? She didn't think so; but then again, people acted so strange these days...Faintly, she heard the downstairs door open and later footsteps on the staircase.
He was in the house, and there was no escape!
She heard the doorknob to the hide–away room turn and soon he began pushing and knocking at the door.
"Let me in, Elizabeth! I just want to talk with you!
She said nothing; she just sat there shivering with fear, hoping for some kind of miracle....
And then, it happened! The miracle she had been praying for happened and the beautiful thing about it was that the miracle was right inside the room with her and had been there from the very beginning......She was no longer alone; in fact, she'd never been alone... The Good Shepherd made Himself known in spirit and stood at the door, with strength and fierce love; there to protect Elizabeth, one of his sheep.
Home and Tonia
Tonia loved going home after work; at least, she used to. So much had changed in America, especially when Comrade Hilton took charge in 2020. America was not the same and homes were not homes anymore–they were dwellings, used only to keep out the unwanted.
Tonia had an especially difficult day. New guidelines were being enforced at work, and that left little time for individual thinking and recreation. The government had their hand in everything and it seemed like it was just getting worse.
She hoped that she would not be greeted by officers of the "Protect the Home Front." That always meant a difficult evening. The worst part of all was that no one knew when they would show.
Pleasant Valley was only 10 minutes away from work. She would soon be home. Her children, Jan and Bill, ages 10 and 12 would have supper ready for her. At least, she hoped so, for she was "bone tired."
As she approached the driveway, her home on 7230 Pleasant Valley looked peaceful but everyone knew these days that looks could be deceiving. She didn't see any sign of her children but that was nothing to be concerned about. Often they were inside cleaning up the house or making dinner.
Pulling into the garage, something unusual caught her eye...It looked like another car or truck had been in the garage, for there was dirt and grim in the shape of worn tires. The children had access to a second garage door opener and sometimes Jeff, her neighbor, would pull in and check on the children for her...Hopefully, that's all it was....
She got out of the car, lifted her briefcase from the front seat and proceeded to the garage/home side door. What she saw as she opened the door, confirmed her greatest fear–––her children had been replaced with robots that looked just like them but she could tell from their eyes that they were not and she knew that soon she too, would be replaced; for it was 2020 and everything was replaceable....
Her last
thought before she passed out, "Home sweet home?"
You Don't Have to End Up Like Jacob Marley!
Excess luggage, we all have it, been held down by it–be it physical luggage––that of carrying too many items when going on vacation ––or spiritual luggage–heaving around excess emotional or mental baggage that we do not need or want. This excess baggage reminds me of that famous character, Jacob Marley from Scrooge, with his yards of emotional and spiritual chains. In his earthly and spiritual life he carried around heavy chains of greed, envy, worry, coveting, selfishness and self–importance. There are many other examples of spiritual chains but the good news is we can break those chains forever...
Other examples of excess spiritual luggage might be the fear of success, fear of failure, or the unnecessary fear of what others think of you or the fear of criticism.
Maybe for some, remembering hurtful events long ago such as a rejection from a loved one, losing someone to a slow death such as cancer, or losing a friend because of a far–away move, might be heavy chains of spiritual luggage.
What about the kind of spiritual luggage that makes one feel powerless to improve one's life, such as overeating, fear of the future or fear of the present? These are special kinds of spiritual baggage that can, over time, cause tremendous physical, mental and spiritual problems–the kind that "hang on" forever and bring serious mental and physical problems to the forefront.
Then there are other kinds of spiritual luggage that keep one in tight, addictive bondage to sin, such as gambling, adultery, backbiting, envying, or coveting what someone else possesses. These examples of spiritual baggage often lead to obsessive and compulsive behavior, that sometimes need professional, psychological help.
It seems that there are many ways one can succumb to lugging around spiritual chains and sadly, many of these chains become parasitic and drain one dry, right up to one's death. I think most would agree that such "luggage" is a waste of life and a burden on the talents that our Creator has given to us; talents He would like us to use and share.
What can be done to pitch such hurtful, spiritual luggage? Actually, it's quite simple...Grab your Bible, sit down in a favorite, quiet spot and read. Then, pray a prayer of understanding and guidance. You will be given an answer and you will be set free of anything that is holding you down, holding you back. And then, you will experience how light you feel without those heavy chains and you'll be able to see a more hopeful future. You will soon see and experience, possibilities you never dreamed of and success and happiness will be yours!
Christian Short Stories with Christian Morals
Rain, Beautiful Rain!
"Rain, please dear Lord, let it rain! Why did I do it? Why couldn't I just let it be? Please, dear Lord, don't let her find out what I've done, at least not until it's rained!
Sheila knew that what she did an hour ago would probably bring repercussions. She knew it in her heart but she went ahead and performed the dirty deed, hoping and praying that rain, that precious fluid, would wash away evidence or perhaps dull the victim's mind, once the deed was seen.
She could only hope...She could only pray...
What anxious thought or pinprick idea made her do it? Was it jealousy of what that other person had; perhaps an object she craved in her heart for such a long time? Or, was it just plain greed––wanting too much? Or, maybe it was just plain rotten what she did!.
She whispered once again..."Let it rain!"
Only an hour ago, around 10 at night she ventured over to her neighbor's back yard and took what wasn't hers, one of Delores' prized plants and replaced it with a plastic potted plant. The cover of darkness gave her the opportunity to perform the foul deed. That, and knowing that her neighbor, Delores Springmaiden, retired early on week nights. Delores was a highly respected florist in the small town of Wakefield, Virginia but Sheila thought she was a twerp...Yes, Sheila thought, the secret deed would work out alright, but rain would help it along.
She decided that being nervous and looking out the back window every hour would solve nothing, so she went to her bedroom and got ready for bed and maybe watch some ridiculous thing on TV. Her husband, John Wakefield was already in bed; he had had a long and gut–wrenching day and was happily snoring away.
After she put on her nightgown and robe, she settled in to watch some late night TV. Around one, she dropped off. Too bad she wouldn't see what was going on in her backyard; the very spot where she planted the stolen item. There was secret movement going on under the cover of darkness and with a drizzle of rain gently coming down....
Around six the next day Sheila woke up and for a few minutes forgot the foul deed she performed the night before...She made some coffee for herself and then it dawned on her what she did.
Carefully and slowly, she opened her back kitchen drapes and saw something frightening! It was Delores Springmaiden, holding the artificial plant that Shelia had placed in Delores' very own, special rose garden and she was not smiling! With a look that would kill, she threw the plant hard on Shelia's glass patio door and with a shout "You haven't seen the last of me, dear neighbor," she ran back to her home and when she returned, she would bring the "wrath of God" upon Shelia!...
Road Trip to Austria
I'm an Ohioan, born and bred, a woman who in her teens and early twenties didn't travel much further from her home than to the next county, and that took all of 20 minutes. That all changed when I met my husband in 1970. I year later we were married and with his military and civilian careers, we began traveling to many parts of the U.S and Europe.
Nothing prepared me for the trip we made to Salzburg, Germany in 1989. Having just arrived in the western part of Germany a week earlier, we were "shell shocked" to the new environment and doing our best to adjust. I thank God that my husband was born in Germany and understood most of the language and customs. We had barely unpacked our clothes and a few household items in a newly found hotel when Roy's commander told us that a business trip to southern Germany and Austria would be on the agenda.
We had about a day, if that, to prepare for the trip. All we owned stayed behind in that small hotel, where we had just begun to feel comfortable.
It was a cloudy but brisk day when we left. My husband and I pulled out of the hotel around 6:30 in the morning and as we drove up to the starting point, a local gas station, light snow began to fall. About six other cars with families inside greeted us. We all got out of our cars and talked about the trip. There was excitement and optimism in the air; all of us eager to make the trip. But, there was an ominous moment at the gas station that gave me a "heads up" on what was to follow.
The head man, the one in charge of the trip, was having trouble understanding the map. He turned it to the right, to the left, upside down, right side up–scratching his bald head as he grimaced his face in curious gyrations. Seconds later, he cried, "Of course, this is so simple...we'll simply stay on the autobahn until we reach Exit 42 and then drive straight into Salzburg." Everyone seemed accepting of this except my husband and me. (In my mind, there was something comical but foreboding about the words displayed on the hat he was wearing....The words read, "Don't ask, just go!")
The trip started off positive, with the leed car going at a fair pace but that soon changed. It wasn't long before the lead car began speeding at lightning pace, leaving the rest of us behind, eating his dust. Just as quickly, many of the cars followed his lead, trying to catch up with him. About an hour later the leed car and several others behind, sped off the autobahn and went in a direction that totally confounded my husband and me. My husband pulled over, got off of the autobahn and reached for the map. I've never seen him look so confused or mad.
We both looked at the map, and instantly knew that we were lost! Lost in a country we knew little about, with temperatures falling, night approaching and a destination, we knew not where.
After struggling with the map, we finally got on track. It was only by the grace of God we finally arrived at our destination, late by about two hours. Even though we were the last couple to arrive, I think we appreciated the beauty and the opportunity to be there, more. I believe it was the struggling that made our arrival so satisfying and beautiful. By the time we approached Salzburg, it was dark, snowing heavily and our stomachs were growling for food. As we rounded the road, approaching small town of Salzburg, all of the struggle and anger dissolved as we saw the most beautiful sight we had ever seen–––the mountains of Austria! Snow capped, they reached high into the sky, as if shouting, "Look at us, for we are close to Heaven!"
As we drove further into the town, our eyes were treated with small, cozy old–fashioned stores, people strolling along on the sidewalk, and a hotel that made our weary hearts, happy. If I live to be a 100, I will never forget how good it felt to see that hotel! It was tall, grand, and old but with grace and beauty that gave us both comfort and joy.
I Need More Space!
Living in Oklahoma, with so many wide, open spaces, you'd think that more space would be the last thing most women would want but not for Ann Kline. Ann often thought about all the years she lived in Oklahoma–she reckoned around 20. Still, the need for space was often on her mind.
Widowed at 55 and working as a writer, she kept busy most days writing articles for fictional magazines. Her small home provided little opportunity to grow and develop and most likely that's why she longed for space.
Thank goodness for Lady, her beautiful collie. Why, without Lady, loneliness and depression would swallow her up...
It was on a beautiful fall day that Ann went searching for a bigger place to live. She decided to travel down a lonely side rode, just five miles away. She remembered seeing a lovely "cottage" type home for sale several weeks ago. She remembered it because in Oklahoma, that kind of house was rare.
Just nine o'clock in the morning and she thought to herself as she drove along, that she'd never seen fall leaves as pretty as they were that day...
"Ah, she thought. There it is! Just as pretty as I remembered..." The house was blue in color, with white paint framing the doors and window panes...So peaceful looking and with more than enough space for her and Lady.
She pulled into the driveway and seconds later someone came out and walked toward her. It was an older man and he looked and walked as if he were happy to see her.
As she got out of the car he yelled, "Well, hi there, little lady. Can I help you with something?"
"Yes, I'm interested in your home. Looks like it's still for sale. Can I see it?"
"Why sure. Come on in."
As soon as she walked in, she knew it was for her. The beige paint on the walls, the way the living room edged into the dining room. Why, it was perfect!
It wasn't long before a deal was made and the closing of the house, completed..
About a month later she and lady moved in. For several weeks, everything was perfect and then something strange happened that changed everything...
Close to Thanksgiving, a moving van pulled into a home about 200 feet down the street. With only 10 homes on that lonely country rode, here was someone moving in, and so close to Thanksgiving!
For weeks she didn't see "hide nor hare" of anyone and then five days before Christmas, a stranger came to her door.
She opened the door and knew that her lonely days were over; for right before her was an older, good–looking man and standing right beside him wagging his tail happily, was a beautiful male collie!
Tending the Vines
Every morning he would tend his vines; it was something he did everyday. Some days he would find the vines growing peacefully, maturing the way they should. Other days, the vines would be jumbled up, some falling away from the main line or dry from not enough nourishment.
Today, the middle of July, he was once again checking out the vines. This morning he found some startling changes and he knew that something unusual had happened.
The first row of vines looked good, almost perfect. The second row looked well but a bit stressed. It was the third row of vines that caught and held his attention, for they were dry, withered and on the verge of dying. He had to do something soon or the vines in row three would be lost forever.
As he made his preparations of water, cords and careful handling, he recalled the day when he planted all the rows of vines. Each row started out the same, careful planting, careful watering and watching and a prayer for each one that it would grow healthy, strong and able to withstand all kinds of weather conditions.
Why is it, he thought, that some of the vines did well all of the time, while others needed constant attention and tending to? It was almost like people, he thought. Some people do well, no matter what, while others seemed to need constant attention, approval and help.
Maybe the troubled vines in row three were like that because they, like some people, "chose" to go their own way instead of relying on a help from a higher power?
He thought more about this and the more he mulled it over in his mind, he came to the conclusion that it wasn't his fault if some of the vines didn't work out well. Maybe it happened simply because of "time, chance and circumstance."
Still he cared for all of the vines. He decided to stay still for awhile and pray for those vines that were stubborn and wanted to go their own way.
He prayed,
"Dear Lord,
please help me to be patient with the vines that are often troubled and sick; for I know you want them to do well and to be healthy. Maybe they
just need a little more guidance. Help me to be more attentive to them and help them to know how much good you want for them. Thank you,
Father; for you always understand."
Christian Short Stories with Biblical Morals
Break
It was Christmas 2007 and everything in Janice's life was a mess. She and her husband of 10 years had just separated, her family lived 100 miles away, her job as dental assistant was going nowhere and even her golden retriever, "Ollie" seemed indifferent to cuddling and walks in the park. And, to top it off, she was getting nowhere with her diet–eating three grapefruits a day before meals! Who was the brain surgeon that thought that plan would work! How many diets did she stop and start, only to find out that they were nothing but a scam...
What was a woman like Janice to do with such a spiraling downside of a life and why was all of this happening to her? Janice sat at her dining room table, with hands on her face and elbows planted firmly on the table and moaned, "If only someone would help me, show me the way–how to make my life better! There has just got to be a way out of this!"
She sat there, hunched over and depressed for a good 10 minutes and then something unusual happened.
There was a knocking on her back kitchen door. Actually, it sounded like a gentle tapping. Her curiosity stirred, she opened the door. For a few seconds it was hard for her to comprehend who/what was there.
It was a little boy of about three or four and he moaned softly, "I'm so cold, can't find mommy, can you help me?"
"Of course, come in." The little tyke walked in, shivering and scarred. He had on a jumpsuit outfit, with only a light sweater to keep him warm.
"Who are you and how did you get here? Can you remember what happened, or who you were with?"
He replied, "Oh, I'm Henry and I was with mommy but she left me and went into a big store. What should I do? Can you help me find my mommy?"
The conversation went on for, what seemed a long time and then...
Suddenly, she blinked her eyes, shook her head, straightened up in her chair and found that it was all just a dream, a strange but wonderful dream. She went over to the kitchen door, looked out the window and saw nothing...except for a few small footprints in the snow, leading up to her back door.....Days later, more strange but wonderful things began to happen. Her job, for reasons she couldn't understand, became more enjoyable–her employer–– more helpful, her dog began wagging his tail wildly when she walked into a room, her husband came back two days later––they resolved their differences and months later she became pregnant with her first child.
You guessed it, nine months later to the day, she had a baby boy and she called him Henry –Henry number 2!
Emily's End
The end of Emily's life was coming and she didn't have a clue to what was heading her way. At 25, she had everything to live for; so there was no fear, no dwelling on death.
Emily had just started a new job as auditor of a law firm––Jacob & Jacob, Inc. She was hired practically before the Interview began. Both men–brothers–– thought that with her attractive appearance and comprehensive background, they need not look any further.
She loved her job and her new romance with Jack Nobles was looking like marriage more and more everyday.
So, there was no worry of death–only a life filled with joy and promise.
It was March 2008 and she had just finished a hard but fulfilling day of work at Jacob & Jacob. As she pulled out of the company garage and on to the main highway, she felt a sense of accomplishment and happiness. She was especially happy because she was meeting Jack for dinner at their favorite Eatery...."The Robin's Nest."
But, Emily wouldn't make it to The Robin's Nest, for someone was tracking and planning her death.
She was just five miles from The Robin's Nest when someone behind her pulled up close and pushed at her bumper. The force was so sudden and unexpected that Emily almost lost control of the car.
Then, another shove from behind, this one with much more force. It only took a couple of seconds and she sailed deep into a ravine, spinning out of control––until there was nothing but darkness.
Emily died instantly and the person in the other car smiled a Cheshire cat smile and sped away; without a bruise, without a conscience.
Emily's thoughts earlier that day were filled with hope and promise; but within seconds everything that she had hoped and prayed for, gone!
A jealous sister smiled that Cheshire smile all the way home and into the arms of Emily's unfaithful husband.
Janine's Package of Help
Janine needed help in the worst way but it would be a "cold day" before she'd ask for it. After all, whenever she needed or asked for help in the past, there was never anyone around.
Living in the outskirts of Texas where nothing can be seen except flat, dry ground and an occasional car or van driving by, could be downright tedious! And, the sad part was that those few and far between cars and vans were often the highlights in Janine's life and that could be mighty devastating to someone so alone, like Janine.
Well, like it not she needed help today and as far as she could tell, it was unlikely anyone would be coming along–including relatives, to help save the day.
Janine had just gone through the last stages of menopause, divorced her husband of twenty years and saw the last of her children leave, just two months ago. She was now alone, with just her computer and books to keep her company.
It was hard to ask for help but if she didn't get some kind of emotional assistance soon, she knew her life might soon be over.
She sat at her desk, surrounded by mounds of papers and folders, a large computer and through it all, looked out her small bedroom window and sighed, "When did this awful depression begin and why didn't I see it coming?" Of course she did see it coming with the divorce and children leaving; she was simply in denial.
She sat there looking out the window for about twenty minutes and then her cell phone rang...
Who could that be? She seldom received phone calls in the middle of the day. It probably was a salesman; after all, who else would call in the afternoon?
She picked up the receiver and a deep voice answered, "Did you get my message?"
"Who is this and what message are you talking about?"
" My email and you don't need to know my name. Well, gotta go. Check you out, later?"
Before she could reply, the caller hung up and she was left wondering what was going on.
Minutes later, she checked her email and sure enough there was a message from Steve.
She opened the message and it said, "Hi Janine! Hope you're alright. I'm sending you a package and it's something that will help you."
"What a strange email! I'm not even going to dignify it with a response. Just a quack, I'm sure."
The following day around eleven in the morning, a UPS man came to her door and knocked.
"Hi ma'am. Got a package for you."
She signed for it, closed the door and opened the package. It was big and it took time to open it. Underneath all of the layers of wrapping she finally found the object, small and at the very bottom...
"This is exactly what I need! But, how in the world did he know what I needed?"
Inside the package was something tiny, almost unnoticeable but it was exactly what Janine needed....Wrapped in a beautiful gold cloth, inside the small package laid a cross and inscribed on the back was written, "To Janine, with love from Jesus, via Steve, my disciple."
Stephanie's Special Lock
Stephanie had a "thing" about locks. She didn't trust them, know how to use them and had a bad experience once, when trying to exit a building.
But, that was then and this is now. A different Stephanie and a different outlook on life! Life was good for "Steph" as many often called her. Working in IT had elevated her status in the last year and she was thankful for the upgrade and thankful for her friendly co–workers.
She now received respect from her peers and excellent pay, to boot! Life was good, she thought. Nothing could go wrong!
That is until she came home that evening around eight and tried to unlock her front door. Because of a break–in last week when someone stole her jewelry and cash, she had new locks installed. So, she knew that evening there might be a delay getting in, opening the new lock. No problem, she thought. Locks were meant to protect and secure; she would simply be calm and take her time..
She placed the key inside the lock and slowly and carefully turned the key. Nothing happened and the key got stuck about half way. She tried again; still nothing. She would not be deterred or become impatient. These things just take time. So, she tried again. Once again...nothing.
She was losing her patience and the November air was beginning to chill her body. She had no choice; no relatives lived nearby and her friends were out "bar–hopping" so she was all alone.
She took a deep breath and then placed the key inside the lock and turned. Wonderfully, it worked! She gently pushed open the door and walked inside. It was dark so she reached for a table lamp and turned it on.
What she saw in the living room was beyond description! Standing by the fireplace was a beautiful, large cross. There was a note on top of the mantle next to it which read, "Know about the break–in, wanted you to have this." It was signed, "Your friend and Helper, Jesus."
She smiled and whispered, "You always know what I need, even before I do! Thank you!"
Strange Postcards
Tonya loved
receiving postcards from her friend Linda, who now lived in Austria. The
postcards were always colorful, upbeat and interesting. Linda moved
overseas just six months ago and had been sending postcards regularly to
her friend, Tonya.
It was in the
fall of 2004 when Tonya began noticing something strange about Linda's
postcards. The postcards weren't as cheerful as the usual ones she sent.
They now had a dark overtone to them, not just with the pictures but with
the message. Maybe she was just feeling out of sorts, Tonya thought.
Then towards
Thanksgiving the postcards slowed down and soon Tonya was receiving only a
couple a month. One particular postcard showed a castle with a cemetery in
the back. It was dreary looking and the castle had a familiar eerie tone
to it...like she had seen it before.
Christmas was
just five days away when she received the strangest postcard of all. It
was clearly handmade with a small insert of a picture on it. Linda's face
appeared on the postcard, along with the man she lived with. Tonya
remembered Jon, for he was at the airport that day, traveling with Tonya.
They were happy and excited with the future before them.
Then Tonya
remembered something else that was very disturbing. Jon had made eye
contact with her that day at the airport and it was not the normal kind of
well–wishing eye contact. There was a menacing look, the kind that
forebode bad things.
Then, right
before Christmas Tonya received the last postcard she would receive from
her friend. On it was a fuzzy picture of Jon outside their home in
Germany and he was digging a very deep hole. Tonya was puzzled and
frightened. Surely this strange and unnerving...
Then, for
several months nothing ...until one cold day in March. She heard a knock at
the door–actually it was more of a tapping, the kind of tapping an
insolent bird might make, wanting to get in. She walked slowly to the
door, opened it and saw a very happy looking, Jon. There was no sign of
her friend and Jon appeared eager to walk through the door.
Inside Jon's
briefcase was one last postcard–a postcard intended for Tonya–– and on it
was written, "To all my friends and family, have left for Europe with Jon"
...Won't be back.
Army Training Camp Turned Into A Super Retreat!
It was August
1984 and my husband had just learned from his Army commander that he would
be required to attend a military training camp and was also told that he
could bring along his wife. We lived in Ohio and the training camp was in
Michigan. It was a long drive–––about four or five hours and so we began
that journey, early, one warm August morning. We arrived late that morning
and were quickly assigned a small cottage, about 200 feet from Lake Erie.
When I say
that it was small, I mean small! We had about three rooms with just the
basic furniture and accessories but somehow it didn't matter because our
surroundings were so beautiful and peaceful.
Seagulls,
fresh air, warm waves rushing in and quiet greeted us that warm August
day. I think what impressed me the most was the calm and simplicity of
that area.
In the past
15 years my husband and I had gone through many turbulent military moves
and we looked forward to the respite awaiting us....Unfortunately the
respite would be for me. My husband had to perform military maneuvers and
meetings during the day. We did, however, meet for lunch and dinner each
day and he was able to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, too.
During the
day, while my husband was involved in training, I was left behind to enjoy
and discover the beauty and quiet of the camp and Lake Erie. Lake Erie
with its sandy beaches, seagulls, sandpipers and fish swimming by,
beckoned me everyday to come out and enjoy the beauty. There was a small
market about 100 feet from our cabin and most everyday I would walk in and
pick up some postcards or needed groceries. It was small, quaint and very
old–fashioned and it blended into the surrounding environment, like a
beautiful painting fits into a predetermined wall color scheme...
I think what
I liked most about the small camp was the peace and quiet, the opportunity
to get closer to God. Also, it was an opportunity to retreat and review my
life. I particularly loved the sounds of the waves rushing in at night.
It was a most comforting and calming feeling. So consistent, so
ever–present; the sound of those waves was almost like hearing the Creator
say, "Be still and know that I am the Lord thy God. This peace is for you,
for awhile. Later, I will bring changes that will make you happy but there
will be challenges, too. Enjoy this peace, for it will prepare you for
what is to come. But, no matter what, I will be with you, always."
Now, whenever
I experience that kind of peace I make the most of it because right after
that peaceful experience years ago, our lives changed drastically–we moved
to Oklahoma, followed by a stay in Germany, a stint in Virginia and then
back to our home state, Ohio. Most of these moves were good filled with
opportunities for growth and happiness but there were some that brought
challenges that tried our patience and faith.
It's still
not over for my husband and me; we are in our late 50's, live in
Pennsylvania and our lives continue to evolve and grow. My husband has a
good job and I am going for my master's in Business and doing some
freelance writing. We're in kind of a "holding point" right now; one might
say a kind of retreat. So, because of our past experience with retreats
and "lulls" I'm preparing myself for good things and possibly some
challenges. But, I'm not afraid, for I know no matter what–good or bad–our
Lord will be with us.
So, whenever
you experience or face a retreat, enjoy it, for it will give you a
peaceful respite before changes for the good, come your way. And remember,
all of life is a process–first the peace and reflection, then preparation
and then the "going through it." Be wise and follow the peace He gives to
you.
Sightseeing
I always
thought sightseeing was for vacations or new areas of interest. This all
changed when I came down with the flu several years ago. I was in bed for
almost a month and there were times when I thought I would die. As I lay
in bed, unable to do much of anything except feel sick and sorry for
myself, I put my mind in gear and went down memory lane and began
recalling all the beautiful and unforgettable sights my husband and I had
seen in our 34 years of marriage.
Being a
military spouse of 20 years, I found that I had many memories to draw
upon. Europe and Germany first came to mind. When I thought of Germany I
recalled the delicious food and the Guesthouses we went to, the small but
quaint stores we used to shop, and the narrow roads that took us to
villages so beautiful and lovely; words are inadequate to describe. The
beauty of the countryside was filled with the aroma of flowers, bushes and
trees. Closing my eyes and recalling Germany's beauty, I could see it all
again. I could visualize, too, the people in the villages dressed in
European garb, going about their errands, rushing to the different shops,
attending to the daily needs.
Then I
recalled a different memory when we lived in Oklahoma. It was sparse and
sometimes dull, but with a unique beauty that often caught one off–guard;
a hominess and charm that is hard to describe. I think sometimes the
simplicity and plainness of an area can gently take one back to another
time–one filled with goodness and decency; a journey that is refreshing
and wonderful...
Now, I think
of sightseeing as not just of visiting and vacations but one that is
filled with memories both sweet and bitter––a kind of time machine where
one can sight–see anytime, anywhere.....
Perhaps I can
now say that sightseeing is not just for the summer traveler but a kind of
"twilight–time–zone" where you can sightsee to your heart's content!
A Smidgen of Hope
Sarah was in
the fall of her life and experiencing one of the worst winters she had
ever seen! Being 62 was not easy, especially without her husband of 40
years, Ben. So many were ready and eager to take advantage of her
declining years and sizable bank account...
In the last
10 years of her life, Sarah developed a negative attitude about life. With
her husband gone and no relatives to turn to for comfort and support, she
grieved and was angered that she alone had to solve problems and confront
people she'd rather not look at, let alone deal with.
It was on
such a day that Sarah found spring–the kind of spring that lingers and
eventually finds a home in an aching and lonely heart. Funny, it didn't
come from inheriting a million dollars, though that would have been fine
with Sarah. No, it came in a tiny form...So tiny, she almost missed it that
cold, November morning.
The tiny
sparrow was resting all by itself on her window pane that cold morning and
began pecking at her window sill. So insistent was the bird that Sarah had
to go to the window to see what all the racket was about.
The sparrow
sat there, perched, looking through her window in quiet stillness staring
at Sarah. Sarah, in return, began to stare back. The sparrow looked at her
as if to say, "Hey, it's me! Remember me? Winter's almost over, Hon, and
spring is on its way!"
The bird kept
looking at Sarah and seemed to be growing a smile on that weather–torn
beak and even though the moment lasted only seconds, Sarah felt herself
straightening up, smiling and felt a smidgen of hope swelling up inside of
her. She was happy again, after many long years and all because of a
little bird she later referred to as spring!
Christian Short Stories with Christian Morals
Little Tiny Life Forms
The little
life form began its life–– happy, positive, full of life. So much hope was
in this "live" thing that it didn't sense anything bad happening to it;
just good things and a full life ahead...
For months,
only growth and happiness for the "little tyke" then something awful
happened. The little thing began to slow down in its growing. At first it
was small things that hindered its growth such as other creatures not
being there to encourage and help and offer nourishment. It was, as I say,
small at first.
Then, the
little thing was left all alone for long periods of time. That's when the
little thing began to shrink in size.
A glorious
day came for the little tyke when someone...someone caring began to bring
nourishment, love and caring to the "growing thing." More attention was
given to its needs, guidance was given on how to grow, life lessons were
offered on how to develop into a positive and caring thing and soon
changes began to happen..
Then, the
little thing noticed that it was growing taller, that it was changing from
an ugly, unkempt thing to a beautiful piece of nature. This made the
little growing thing happy and happiness made it grow even more...
It wasn't
long before the little thing was growing into a big, beautiful and
wondrous creature and its Creator was becoming happier and more
fulfilled!
Oh, there
would be stumbling blocks along the way–ignorance, indifference, some
discrimination but he would keep going, because that's what the Creator
wanted.
It seemed
that nothing would derail the Creator's plans...
Then, one
bright fall day the little thing no longer had to put up with abuse and
indifference from anyone, for it had become what the master planned–the
most gorgeous, beautiful spruce tree in the United States and it had just
been chosen to be uprooted and placed on the White House lawn, for all
Americans to enjoy...
The little
tree had finally arrived at its destination and it was proud and happy...Oh,
so happy! It seems that plants, like people, will turn out fine–with a
little help from the "creator."
Sheila's Winter of Life
Shelia was
facing the winter of her life. In her early 60's, she had seen much of the
world–Germany, Austria and many parts of the US. Alone now, her husband
dead of cancer just two years ago, she faced the winter of 2006 with dread
and anxiety. With no husband to help shield her from the reclusiveness of
winter and its challenges, she looked ahead to those long, cold months and
shivered deep inside.
Where did the
time go, she thought. Why it just seemed like yesterday when she and Ray,
were young, married and excited with life's offerings. What happened?
Where did it all go? Why did it have to go so fast? Growing old was no
picnic, she thought. Oh, how she longed to be at least 10–15 years
younger....
With no
children to console her, most of her family dead and gone, she pondered
what would she do with the rest of her life. She did have her writing and
of course, her trusted and loving collie, Lady. Lady was such a comfort,
always there and such a calming presence. But, she was just a dog...not a
real human being.
Living in a
small apartment helped because there weren't many responsibilities or
challenged to meet. And, having that small car of hers parked outside the
apartment building was another comfort; one her husband bought her on her
birthday, not long before he died.
"My, how slow
February goes!" she thought. And, how depressing that her husband wouldn't
be there with her to celebrate Valentine's Day. They always did something
special on that day...The aloneness began to fall upon her again. Sometimes
it felt like a blanket being put upon her; first her feet, then legs and
then her upper body. She felt so alone, so sad.
Not more than
five minutes later, her phone range. "Who could that be? she thought. It's
only nine in the morning; must be a wrong number."
She picked up
the phone and with trepidation asked, "Hello?"
Someone on
the other line answered, "Hello, is this....?"
"Yes, this is
she. Who's calling, please?"
"This is
Michael Poundstone. Do you remember me?"
She gasped,
tried to contain her feelings and answered, "Michael? The boy I dated from
Lincoln Senior High School?" Her mind was a maze of memories–strolling
hand in hand with Michael on warm summer days and cool fall nights. Such
passion they had for each other!
"That's the
one! I just heard about you and where you lived from George at work and he
gave me your phone number. I didn't know that you lived so close to where
I am. I just had to call you and see how you're doing. So, how are you?"
"I'm fine but
I'm stunned to hear from you. It's been over forty years and we didn't end
well, if you remember?" Indeed, they didn't end well. He chose another
girl, the last six months of senior high and she was left with a broken
heart that took a year to heal. He gave her no explanations, just left
her....It was not an easy thing to forgive.
Then he asked
the question she feared but yet longed to hear...."Can I see you sometime?
Would love to talk with you. Been such a long time....I know I did you wrong
and there's no excuse, except to say that Linda pushed all the right
buttons and well,...my hormones just went nuts...But you know what? Our
marriage lasted only five years and I'm still healing..."
She paused
for what felt like a lifetime and then replied in her old high school,
sarcastic way...."Well, let me check my calendar....I do have some space next
Thursday..."
Laughing out
loud, he replied..."Why shucks, ma'am, I do believe I can do that!"
What followed
in the ensuing months was the continuing love affair of Shelia and
Michael. Only this time there was a promise of a happy ending, or so they
thought. Isn't it good to know that Shelia and Michael, like all of us,
can't see the future?
Unbeknownst
to them both, inside Shelia a cancer was steadily growing....But those three
years they spent together would be the happiest of their lives.
Fragrance of Murder
It was the
first thing that hit her as she opened the door. That fragrance of his,
that awful pungent odor that was distinctly his! Aware that he had already
been there or might still be in the room, she opened the door slowly and
quietly.
It was dark
inside his apartment. Not a night light or small lamp anywhere! It was
good that she always carried a small flashlight inside her purse.
Carefully she reached into her purse to a small crevasse and pulled it
out. With her canvas shoes, shoulder bag, flashlight and dark clothing,
she ambled her way though the living room, and then into the small dining
room.
As she
approached the dining room she smelled a different odor, one that was more
repulsive than the first one. She began to feel an anxiety attack
beginning at the base of her neck, traveling quickly down her spine. Not
now, she thought. I don't need an anxiety attack now!
Sandy was too
trusting, especially with someone like Peter Linsburg. How many times had
she been warned of him? Too many, she thought.
Slowly, she
walked through the dining room and with her trusty flashlight reached the
bathroom. As she carefully aimed the flashlight on the bathroom floor, she
thought she heard the front door open.
Before she
could see the tragedy lying on the bathroom floor before her, someone was
breathing down her back...
Quickly, she
spun around just in time to see an unexpected face. Too bad she didn't
recall what Sandy said to her just two days ago about Margo and her
obsessive jealousy with Peter...
And Now, Something Special––Richard Harris and Camelot
Richard
Harris, star of Camelot and Harry Potter and now deceased, was and is
someone who affected my life in a very positive and uplifting way. In the
late 60's I first viewed the classic movie, "Camelot." Starring with him
as Queen Guinevere was Vanessa Redgrave. What impressed me the most about
him was his vulnerability, good looks, positive portrayal of a king, and
his inspirational dialogue. Harris, as King Arthur created the Round
Table, where all knights could come together in peace and where no one
would be at the head of the table because he created the "round" table.
King Arthur
was a doomed character basically because he didn't trust his instincts and
his conscience. He simply didn't want to believe the worst of anyone,
particularly Lancelot his friend and Guinevere. When Lancelot brought to
life a dying man, he won Guinevere's heart and loyalty. It was at this
critical junction in the movie when you knew there was no going back.
King Arthur lost his kingdom, his wife, his good friend Lancelot and his
dream of Camelot.
It is in the
final scene where King Arthur is preparing for his last battle. His wife
has been placed in a nunnery, Lance is gone and all looks bleak. Suddenly
from deep in the forest comes a young lad. He talks with the lad and the
boy starts talking about "knights of the round table," "might for right,"
"justice for all." King Arthur feels that with this boy, his dream of
Camelot and the round table can go on, even after his death. He is
delirious with joy that his dream might continue and shouts something to
his friend, Penny. His joy that Camelot and the round table might go on
are reflected in his voice when he shouts to his good friend, "Some of the
drops sparkle, Penny. Some do sparkle!" It was a beautiful moment.
When all
looks lost around me, I do what King Arthur did, searching for that
"sparkle." Seeking that "sparkle of life" has kept me going and helped me
pursue my goals in life. When my grandma died I looked for that sparkle
and found it when my new niece was born. I've seen that sparkle when
visiting the elderly at my local nursing home. The love from nurses to
the patients and the patients to nurses is brighter than any diamond I've
ever seen. The sparkle in my husband's eye when he found that there was
hope for his immune disorder, brought light to both of us. Finding
sparkle in a friend's forgiveness, can bring great peace. Nothing shines
brighter than hope, that expectation of something beautiful beyond the
storm.
King Arthur,
Camelot, you and me. "We're all but a drop in the deep blue ocean of
mankind." But, some of those drops sparkle, my friend. "Some do sparkle!"
Something in the Darkness
I froze,
crouched close to the wall; there was something out there–I had definitely
heard it move in the darkness. I was regretting our move to the country.
The log cabin we bought was beautiful and close to Lake Calm but remote
from everything and everyone else. Getting away from the city and
relatives was smart but perhaps living too far into the country was not
wise. Ray, my husband, was fast asleep, snoring. I swear, the man never
heard anything! In 32 years of marriage, it was always me who heard
noises in the night! I stood still, close to the wall, listening.
Nothing! I
didn't hear a sound! Must have been my imagination. Ray always said that
I should have been a writer. My obsessive thoughts always ran wild. Maybe
he was right. Besides, I did watch a scary movie, hours earlier.
Shouldn't have done it but I did. Well that's got to stop, I thought. No
more creepy movies!
I went back
to bed and started to relax. I was tired and needed sleep. I had just
calmed down, when I heard that noise again. This time it was louder, more
distinct. I rose up in bed, straining to hear. This time I heard a
clip...clop. Our bedroom was right behind our screened–in porch. From
our window, noises on the sidewalk and porch were louder, the echo clear
and strong. In the last few mornings I heard deer walk on the sidewalk,
looking for food. They had become accustomed to us because we often left
them food, by the garage. Had to be a deer, I thought. Just a harmless
deer!
I lay back
down. I began my deep breathing exercises, my nerves were acting up.
The day had been unusually hectic, with housework, impatient relatives and
searching for a job. I had put my application in for a teacher's assistant
position. It took over an hour, in a cramped, dusty room with an
indifferent, school secretary. Next week I would know if I had the job.
I was praying for it. Not having any children of my own, it would be a
work of love.
Ray continued
snoring. I strained to hear for sounds, his snoring was so loud!
I must have
nodded off when another noise woke me up! This time the sound was closer,
as if something or someone was trying to look inside. I raised my head
from my pillow.
Click, Clop... Click... Clop.... It sounded like deer hooves. Slow steady.... Click... Clops.
And yet, it
sounded a bit human. It sounded like shoes with clicks on them. Kids in
the 50's and 60's used to wear heel clicks to be "cool." My boyfriend in
high school wore them and you could always hear him coming. "Clip...Clop"....
I'd say to myself, here comes Steve! Sometimes I wore them too, just to
fit in. The fad, like all fads, lasted for a while and then was gone.
The more I
thought about the heel clicks the more I realized that's what it was! The
very thought of someone outside of our home in the dead of night, with
those clicks seemed ridiculous! The clicks would be a dead give–away that
someone was there––outside! And yet, nothing was impossible these days!
My mind
traveled back in time. Steve lived about four miles away, was married and
had several children. He was happy, so I was told years ago. There was a
time, when we were going together that he obsessed over me. Could it be
that he was here, tonight, longing to see me again? He used to be so
obsessed with my face. He was always comparing pictures of me to pictures
of women in newspapers and magazines. He thought I was so beautiful, that
no one came close to my beauty. I was glad he couldn't see my face now.
I was remembering, too, that Steve and my Dad didn't get along. One night
Dad almost put him through our living room window he was so mad at him.
Surely, Steve had forgiven and forgotten; it happened so long ago.
I continued
to listen. My imagination was running wild and my pulse raced. Then, I
thought, Steve had long forgotten me and was probably in bed
snoring away, just like Ray. I closed my eyes and took deep breaths.
That's when I
heard another–– Clip...Clop! This time there was no doubt in my mind. It
was those shoes, those damn shoes! Now, I was scared! Someone
with those clips on their shoes was outside, walking up and down the
sidewalk! But why? I couldn't move, I was frozen with terror. Steve,
it had to be Steve! But for what reason? Was he was seeking
revenge? What was worse, Ray still was snoring! I wanted to nudge him
awake but I couldn't. I was too scared! I was afraid that Ray would wake
up–––like he often did–nervous and talking out loud. I didn't need his
loud and nervous ways now. I just had to remain quiet and calm.
I don't know
why it took so long but I finally saw that the bathroom night–light was on
and giving off a lot of light, spilling into our bedroom. Whoever was out
there could probably see our shadow forms from the patio window. I walked
to the bathroom; almost tripped, and turned off the light.
That
insidious Clip Clop noise returned and then, all of a sudden, it stopped!
I heard the
outside patio door open. There was a creaking sound and then I heard
footsteps. I strained to hear that clip clop sound but I didn't. It
sounded like someone was tiptoeing. Then, I heard the knob to the front
door turn. I locked that door, didn't I? I usually did but sometimes I
forgot. Dear God, I did lock the door? I was sweating bullets and Ray
lay there snoring. What should I do?
Minutes
later, I walked toward the living room and peaked around the corner to the
kitchen. I saw the knob on the front door turn. I held my breath. There
was a heavy vase about five feet from where I stood, close to the
kitchen. I got a hold of it and waited.
Slowly, the
kitchen door opened. With no light in the kitchen I couldn't see who it
was. Someone walked in, oblivious to me standing there. He kept walking
and I held the vase closer to my body. I backed away about two feet,
reaching for the hall light.
Carefully, I
turned on the light. As I walked closer to the kitchen I saw a human
form, Steve! Startled, he looked at me. Dressed in black, like he used
to, he smiled that sinister "I got you now, Babe" look.
By that time,
Ray woke up and came out to the hallway and said, "What the hell is going
on?"
Ray was
groggy–half asleep and half awake. Steve inched closer and Ray yelled,
"Who are you and what are you doing in our house?
Steve smiled
and said, "You don't know me but your wife does, don't you, Tonia? I see
that you've changed, Tonia. You're no longer beautiful but I'm taking you
with me, anyway. If you don't give me any trouble, Tonia, I won't hurt
your husband."
"Get out of
here! Ray yelled. You're not doing anything with my wife, now or later!
Tonia, come closer!" I went to him and we held each other tight. The vase
in my hand was shaking but I held it tight.
Steve stepped
closer and I could feel Ray shaking. Ray was not a strong or brave man
but he was my "Babe" and he loved me no matter how I looked, scars and
all.
Steve
approached me and began caressing me with a black scarf. I pulled away
from him and Ray let go of me so I could hit Steve. I was the braver of
the two, like it or not and besides I had the vase! I lifted the
vase as high as I could and slammed it hard on Steve's head! This only
made him angry and vengeful. Bleeding, he grabbed me by the neck and
began choking me. Ray began pounding Steve hard with his fists. Ray hit
him so hard, it scared me. Steve backed off and ran for the door. He
couldn't leave fast enough, coward that he was. Before he left he yelled,
"You haven't seen the last of me, Tonia." I know where you live and I'll
be back for you! You think you're ugly now, you haven't seen anything!
You're going to pay for the way you and your father treated me! No one
treats me like that and gets away with it! No one!"
Not if I can
help it, I thought. "I'll find out where you live, I screamed, ‵and there
won't be a next time!" ‵That was 20 years ago, Steve. Get a life! And
Steve, I could care less about what you think of me! Ray loves me for who
I am, dirtball!" It felt good to say those words. Steve had been a jerk
from the first day I met him.
Ray and I
called his bluff and now he was gone! He was a nightmare and I was glad he
was out of our lives and out of our home!
Two months
later I saw something in the paper that frightened and made me sad. It
was an article in the newspaper about a stalker who was so obsessed with a
woman that he killed her. The policeman who found her said that "he'd
never seen anything like it in his 20 years on the force." She was
brutally murdered, as in a frenzy. I found out that the obsessed man was
Steve! He did to that poor woman what he tried to do to me that night.
Thank God for that heavy vase and my dear sweet Ray–––snoring and all!
The nightmare was finally over.
Abundance
Trudy had an
abundance of talent, happiness and purpose in her life. She was an
excellent writer, had two degrees she was proud of and a husband she
loved, dearly. With all of this abundance, you'd think that Trudy would be
happy, wouldn't you?
But, Trudy
was very unhappy. You see, she had an abundance of something that was
killing her–and there didn't seem to be anything that she could do to stop
it....You see, Trudy was vastly overweight...
Most of her
life she carried around about forty pounds too much. She had been made fun
of, had difficulty finding and keeping a job, her friends and family had
given up on her and so she consoled herself everyday with even more food,
staying inside most of the time, reading a lot and thinking of her past
successes of writing and school.
She still
wrote but often the depression was so bad, that she couldn't think of
anything positive and encouraging to write.
And then,
something wonderful happened that changed everything!
She found an
online Christian Group called Christians for Friendship and found some
great Christian people that she could share with. Many of the emails were
uplifting and encouraging and it wasn't long before some of the writers
were helping with her weight problem. A "buddy system" was developed where
several of the writers wrote to her daily and asked how she was doing. She
began keeping a journal of what she ate and took up walking on a daily
basis.
It wasn't
long before Trudy was finding the motivation to do some of the things she
hadn't done in years –such as going back to church, doing some volunteer
work at a local hospital, and visiting friends and family. She found to
her surprise that food was no longer a top priority.
Several
months later, around Halloween, she got on the scales as she usually did,
the first part of the week, and found to her great surprise, that had
reached her goal! Instead of weighing 190 pounds, she now weighed in at
145!
Needless to
say, she was abundantly happy, her husband was proud of her accomplishment
and life was just beginning.
Fulfillment
Janice
finally felt fulfilled when she received her doctorate degree from Capella
University in the fall of 2005.. She had finally arrived! What more could
she ask for–a beautiful home, grown children off on their own and
successful in Ohio, a husband who adored her and now at long last, her
doctor's degree?!
She should
feel happy, fulfilled and filled with joy but here she was in her very
private bedroom and sobbing her heart out...Life could be so cruel, she
thought. Why was this "thing" happening to her, why did she feel so
depressed and in despair when she should be feeling "on top of the world?"
Dr. McMillen
had given her the bad news yesterday, just a day after she received her
degree! What timing, she thought. A cancer, he said. A small cancer had
been slowly growing on the tip of her uterus. There was hope, but it was
small and fading, like a candle's glow, almost gone.
Her degree
would be useless, with the cancer. Was all she did, done in vain?
She lay on
the bed, worrying and wondering what kind of future–or maybe there
wouldn't be any kind of future for her, when she heard a voice
whispering....."Be not afraid, Janice I am here with you..."
This
"presence" filled her with a calmness she had never felt before and
somehow, some way, she knew that things would be alright.
She returned
to her Dr's office for a test result two days later and he gave her such a
look of puzzlement, that it stunned her right down to her bones!
He said,
‵Janice, I can't understand this; it's not logical, it's not how it
goes...but the cancer–all of it–is gone! You are free, clear and healthy.."
Janice
replied, "I know what has happened!...Christ has forgiven my sins and has
set me free of this illness. Praise God! Now, I can use my degree as nurse
to help others. Thank you, Jesus!"
She left a
puzzled but happy Dr., smiling and praising God, too, as she practically
skipped down the hospital hallway, free and ready to be God's champion!
Christian Short Stories with Biblical Morals
Inner Strength
If there ever
was a time in Elizabeth's life when she needed inner strength, it was now!
At the age of 45, she was facing an emotional crisis that would take every
once of strength and determination and she didn't feel a bit strong, only
weak.
Just a few
months ago, Elizabeth was doing great. Her move to Virginia proved
productive and her new job as Instructor for undergraduates at Virginia
Tech was going well. Her new boyfriend, Tod, wanted to marry her and she
loved him, more than life.
But now, she
was facing a dilemma that would force her to face an evil that she saw
coming, weeks ago.
Marsha was a
co–worker and had been working at Virginia Tech for 10 years. Their
relationship started out well; lunches and dinners were spent and ideas
for teaching shared, but something was not right with Marsha.
Marsha had
one quality that drove Elizabeth nuts–her obsessive nature, but
confronting her friend about it would be hard, for Marsha always dominated
and controlled the conversation.
Marsha had to
be faced because the relationship was on a dangerous curve and Elizabeth
didn't want to be on the receiving end of Marsha's uncontrolled wrath.
Elizabeth
mused, When did this uncomfortable feeling about Marsha begin? She took
time to think about it when something came to her....Yes! That's it! That's
when it all started...
It was on a
gray November day and Marsha and Elizabeth were having lunch at Marcie's,
when Marsha blurted out that her relationship with Skip, a manager at
Virginia Tech, was deteriorating and she was feeling angry and resentful.
She even went so far to say that, "If I could do something that would
shake him up–make him think about the harm he's caused me, why, maybe it
would scare him real bad...What do you think?"....
Elizabeth
remembered saying something like, "Well, I don't know; you don't want to
do anything that will hurt him..." At least, that's what she remembered....
December came
fast and with it Elizabeth's resolve to face Marsha. It was on a snowy,
Christmas like day that she decided she would confront her friend. She had
called Marsha earlier and asked to meet her after work at Martha's
Bookstore for some coffee and doughnuts.
Both arrived
at about the same time and the conversation began.
"Marsha, I
asked to see you today to talk with you about a matter that has been
bothering me for a long time. You see," She was about to finish her
sentence when Marsha blurted out, "Elizabeth, wait, I want to share
something with you about Skip. Remember Skip?
Well, I did
something last night that cooked his goose! I poured a tiny amount of
arsenic in his coffee and he's still on my couch! I guess I'll call the
coroner's office tonight and say that he just passed out and I thought he
was just dead asleep from his drinking...He did drink a lot last night. And
well, I guess he's just plain dead, now! Ha! Well, what do you think? Say,
you had something you wanted to talk to me about?"
Elizabeth sat
in stoned silence. It was too late to say anything; especially to a
murderer!
Life....
For longer
than she cared to admit, Annette had been suffering from mental illness
and receiving minimal help from a local guidance counselor. The illness
began when she found out that her grandmother was dying of bone cancer.
She just couldn't handle the stress and eventual loss of someone who had
loved and done so much for her–even saved her life, when she was just a
newborn baby. In return, when grandma was suffering and needed to find a
place to say, it was Annette who found her a lovely nursing home–a place
where she could feel safe and comfortable in her last days..
It was in the
fall of 2007 when grandma died and since then Annette simply couldn't
cope. Her husband had done everything he could to help her but it wasn't
enough. She was advised and finally went to, a mental health facility.
While there,
a kind and compassionate counselor after talking with her, brought in and
left a small packet of seeds. She was advised to water, and nurture the
seeds and be in charge of their life–process–their growing and developing.
At first
Annette didn't want to do it; she felt that trying to cope with her own
life, was more than enough. She didn't want the responsibility of caring
for some "small, insignificant seeds."
But, as the
days went by and she had little else to do, she thought about the seeds
and one day planted the seeds in the pre–potted soil given to her, watered
them and placed them on the old, gray window sill, for sunshine.
Then, she
watched and waited.
In about
seven days, little green seedlings began to appear. They were tiny, hardly
noticeable but they were rising up, out of the soil. She found it
strangely interesting and kept up with the nurturing. She liked the
pattern and routine of it; for it made her feel safe and calm.
In ten days,
the seedlings began sprouting higher and she was surprised with how she
felt watching them grow tall and strong. They were alive, growing big and
proud and something inside of her began to feel alive, and proud, too.
As they grew
and turned into beautiful green bean plants, she felt happy; for it was
she who helped bring them to life... But, the more she thought about
it....it wasn't she that gave life to the little seedlings, but God. And, it
was He that gave life to her. That acknowledgment, that recognition
of God and his power and beauty of life, restored her soul and in the
months to come, helped her to overcome the grief of her grandma's death
and it wasn't long before she found redemption and purpose in her life.
And, as luck
or divine providence would have it, her purpose in life became a
dedication to helping those in nursing homes who were sick and lonely.
You see, even
though some forms of life are very small, as the bean seed, once planted
turn into beautiful, tall, green beans. The same is true with humans; we
start out small and helpless but some of us turn into something much
bigger and wondrous, with the potential for greatness.
That's you
and me...We have the potential for greatness. Perhaps we can be what the
fictional character, King Arthur from Camelot once said about us humans:
"We're all but a drop in the deep ocean of mankind...But, some of those
drops sparkle...Some do sparkle!"
Love
Lucy loved
just about everything. She loved her parents, her two sisters and brother,
her husband Joe, delicious food, going to church–well I think you know
what I mean...
Lucy was
feeling especially great today, for it was her birthday and Joe was having
a birthday celebration for her.
But, there
was one thing that Lucy didn't love and that was her neighbor, Phyllis.
Actually, she loathed her and the loathing came from something so silly,
so ordinary that it would seem peculiar to many why she developed such a
distaste for the woman. But, there was no denying it; loathing Phyllis
took up much of Lucy's time..
While
preparing for the birthday party, Lucy began thinking back on when her
dark feelings for Phyllis began. She remembered an incident that happened
around Christmastime, two years ago. She and Phyllis always exchanged
gifts and Lucy once again looked forward to the exchange.
As always,
Lucy marched over to Phyllis's house two days before Christmas and gave
the treasured gift to her friend. But that year, Phyllis didn't give her a
gift and never said why..
That's when
the loathing began....Thereafter; the relationship was never the same. Oh,
there were outings and phone calls and such but the friendship was never
quite the same....
Then, she
remembered another time two months ago when they both decided on a trip to
a nearby mall. They were to meet at one o'clock in the main mall area.
Lucy waited and waited...Two o'clock came, then three–and still no Phyllis.
Once again, no explanation, no "I'm so sorry. Something came up."
Absolutely, nothing!
The
resentment inside of Lucy was strong but still she wanted and needed
Phyllis's friendship.
Well, Phyllis
had said earlier that she would be at the birthday party and Lucy was
hoping that this time her friend would keep her word. Whatever happened at
the party, she thought, would "tell the tale" for her friend. If Phyllis
didn't turn up, that would be it!
Everyone
showed at the party–friends, family and fellow co–workers...Everyone that
is, except for Phyllis.
Well, that
was the straw that broke the camel's back! Lucy made her excuses, left in
a huff and decided to do some serious "pay back."
It was dark
when she began hatching her plan. (Lucy knew of a contest Phyllis entered
months ago; and decided to use the contest as a way to get even with her
friend.)
She called
Phyllis on the phone, covering the "voice piece" with a cloth. She tried
this affect once before with a disgruntled neighbor and it worked. She
would use it again, tonight..
"Hello,
Phyllis? This is Wanda Windstrom from Prize Headquarters in Illinois. I
have some good news for you!"
Phyllis was
excited. Her breathing was excited and sporadic. "Yes? Oh please, what is
the news?"
"Phyllis, you
have just won "$2,000 dollars in our "Bake a Quick Meal Contest!"
"Wonderful!
When can I expect the check?"
"We will be
hand delivering your check tomorrow, around 11 in the morning. Is that
O.K. with you?"
"Perfect!
I'll be right here!"
Well,
tomorrow at 11 came and went and still no check, and no one from "Bake a
Quick Meal," came to her door. The only one who was at her doorstop
two hours late–around 1 that afternoon was Lucy, with a big smile on her
face and an envelope, filled with fake money from a friendly Monopoly
game.
It was
payback time and Lucy felt great!
Personal Peace
Corrine had
been working hard for over twenty–five years, counseling others as a
psychologist and mending some lost souls.. It had been fulfilling,
frustrating and always rewarding. Knowing that with words she was able to
help others find peace, she too wished and prayed for the often, elusive
peace. Peace was like a flittering butterfly–one minute it's there, the
next, it's gone.
Retiring
after all those years of listening and helping, Corrine decided that she
would be proactive and see if she could find some kind of inner personal
peace by hiking in the mountains.
Living in
California provided ample opportunities for this and with no patients to
see and care for, she set out one May day, with a back pack full of needed
supplies–food and water, protection tools, a small blanket, compass and a
few extra things to make sure the trip would be successful.
The morning
started out fine; she felt good and her hiking shoes fit her well for
comfort and speed. The weather was cool and fresh; it added to her
enjoyment of the day.
It was a
beautiful May day and optimism for a new beginning was growing throughout
her entire body. She was enjoying the flowers, trees and nature and
forgetting her past demands and concerns as a psychologist. Just she and
nature and that was more than enough.
Around four
in the afternoon, she decided that it was time to go home. She felt elated
and happy and a certain amount of peace gave her satisfaction.
She pulled
out her compass, made sure of the desired direction and began walking
back. Something must have gone wrong with the compass because an hour
later she returned to the same spot.
Night was
falling and fear began growing first in the pit of her stomach and then up
to her heart. What to do? She observed a kind of enclave–a clearing on the
side of a small hill. She took out her flashlight and checked the area.
Nothing creeping on the group, just moist soft earth; it looked like it
would do for the night. She felt comfortable knowing she had two strong
flashlights–with extra batteries and a small blanket and food. She would
be alright for the night.
As night drew
darker and cooler, she looked to the heavens and soon found the peace she
had been seeking for so long. How beautiful the stars looked, so bright
and lovely. She thought about how many years it took to form a star and
how each star had been in the heavens for thousands of years. How could
anyone not believe there was a God, when all the evidence was around
them–the stars in heaven, plants, flowers, animals, human beings....And,
everything made so perfect, so graciously. From the beauty up above, she
wondered why she ever worried about anything. God was always, he always
provided for her needs. What a waste of time, she thought.
The peace of
the quiet night soon engulfed her and put her safely to sleep. The blanket
cushioned her head comfortably on a lowly stone and her jacket lying
across her, gave comfort and warmth.
Morning came
quickly and she was soon startled by a whistle.....Another camper had
spotted her and was trying to get her attention with a very loud whistle...
"Say there,
are you alight?" It was a man–looked around forty, and he was alone,
except for a collie walking at his side.
Groggily she
replied, "Yes, I'm fine. I got lost yesterday but it looks like I now
have been found..."
It wasn't
long before they both were up and running.....so to speak, with his collie
in between the two. He was single like Corrine and it looked like the
beginning of a beautiful romance.
Sometimes, as
in this story, personal peace can come from a simple experience–a
commonality–and oh how lovely the peace can be!
Prosperity With a Twist
Bill and
Danielle once lived in a beautiful mansion in Rhode Island and to all who
knew them, their lives mirrored the rich and famous. But, underneath the
façade of prosperity I had the rare opportunity to see something
different.
I used to be
their friend, that is, up until a few months ago. I was having lunch with
Danielle when all of a sudden she blurted out, "I'm so tired of putting up
with snobs for neighbors, attending parties that only want the most
glamorous, the richest and whatever! Bill and I have been thinking about
doing something drastic to get away from this oppressive lifestyle! Maybe
we'll just up and do it!"
I didn't know
how to reply so I said, "I don't know what you mean. You always seem to be
so happy, both of you. Inheriting all of that money from your aunt, why
that's a blessing many don't get! And, I know you and Bill are in love.
I'm sorry; I just don't get it!"
She looked at
me funny and said, "You just don't understand, Tonia. You just don't know
how hard it's been for us! You don't know what we've gone through, having
all of this money. Maybe we should just stop being friends..."
Well, that's
the last time I saw or heard from Danielle. At least until last Tuesday
when I received an invitation from her in the mail to come to a
dinner/play at their mansion. It was to be a "who dunnit "with dinner an
hour before. The date was set for Halloween –just three weeks away––and we
were all to wear costumes.
Of course,
I've always wanted to go to a Halloween party for adults–but with the
addition of a dinner, plus play in a lovely mansion...Well, I think you know
what decision I made!
About a week
before the play, I saw Danielle at a fancy clothing shop, "The Classy
Boutique." I overheard a conversation between her and a much younger
looking man. Danielle said, "I can't wait until the play, then this crazy
lifestyle will be over and Bill and I will be able to do what we want!"
The man
replied, "Be careful Danielle, Bill may have other plans. Don't forget, I
knew him back in college and he seldom followed through on anything!"
"Nonsense! He
knows what we need to do and he's ready for the change! See you at the
party and don't be late!"
Passing
through the store without seeing me, she got into her limo outside and
left.
The night of
the party came and I walked in dressed like the Wicked Stepmother of Snow
White, found my assigned table and sat down...
It was dark
inside, except for a few candles and some dimly lit spotlights focusing on
the makeshift stage in the middle of a very large dinning room. There were
about 20 people all together and soon the host and hostess–Bill and
Danielle ––– entered–dressed as characters of the play, "Gaslight." They
sat down with the other guests and minutes later, dinner was served. About
an hour later, several people cleared the tables and then the stage was
set for the play.
About a half
hour later, the play began. Candles and a few stage lights, brightened the
made–up stage but gave an eerie but suspenseful glow to the atmosphere.
Gaslight has
always been a favorite of mine, so my interest was high and lasted up to
the last scene, when the murderer and torturer, played by Bill, was
arrested and taken away and when Danielle, who played the tortured woman,
was set free. It was thrilling to watch and at the end everyone was
clapping and yelling Encore!!...Encore!
Then, all of
a sudden, all of the candles and lights went out...It gave me a creepy
feeling; like maybe this wasn't the end of the story.
Tragically,
we all found out later that evening that Danielle's dead body was found,
hidden inside a cave on the outskirts of town and her husband, Bill gone,
never to be seen again.
All that was
left behind was an unsigned, handwritten note, lying on top of Danielle
which read, "I gave Danielle exactly what she wanted...a way out. Good bye
and good luck."
Purposefulness
Blair is one
of those people who has struggled most of her life–always a new job, lost
a husband to another woman, few friends, was unable to finish college
because there was no money–just one hardship after another...You get the
picture...
One of the
worst things that Blair was currently undergoing was a weight problem. The
weight piled up slowly at first and then year after year, a couple of more
pounds–and now she was almost up to 200 pounds. That was the proverbial
straw that broke the camels' back–so to speak!
Not a church
going person, Blair knew that something drastic had to be done. And, going
back to church would be drastic because church always made her nervous.
Everyone else always looked so confident, so well–dressed. She felt like
she was the only one who didn't dress in a proper way and the only one
with a weight problem. But, something had to be done...She was feeling
unhealthy, unloved and just down right down!
And so, it
was on a cloudy fall day when Blair took that leap of faith and went back
to church.
As she walked
in and found a place to sit, she felt peace flooding her entire body and a
smidgen of hope began forming in her brain, that maybe something good
would come of this...
Sitting about
10 feet away from her in the same pew, was a nice–looking man, around 60
and he looked so sad...He happened to look over at her the same time she was
looking in his direction and smiled a sheepish smile. She didn't know why
she did it, but she smiled back at him.
At the end of
the sermon, she congratulated the minister on a fine sermon. Seconds
later, the lonely–looking man walked over to her and said, "Good Morning,
I don't recall seeing you in church before. Are you new?"
She replied,
"No, I'm not new–just a woman who has stayed away much too long. I'm Blair
Caldwell."
"Nice to meet
you, Blair. I'm Todd Benson. I'm a retired auditor."
"Good to meet
you, Todd." She was thinking, how could he possibly be interested in me,
when I look like this!"
"Could I come
visit you, sometime Blair? Maybe we could go out for dinner? What about
next weekend?"
"Well.....I
.....ah....Yes! That would be nice...
And, so the
relationship continued for almost a year. Todd was so loving and caring
with Blair, that she became motivated to change and lost about 30 pounds.
She changed her diet and began walking. The stories Todd told her about
being an auditor and traveling to all parts of the world, led her to
writing and it wasn't long before she had a great mystery published. Her
life was changing and for the better.
Two years
later they were married and the most wonderful thing of all was that Blair
was no longer overweight, unhappy, with no ambition or purpose in her
life...She was a new woman...God was working with and through her. And, Todd
was no longer lonely, unhappy or unfulfilled. He had found a new job
working with the elderly and he loved it! No longer was he "pushing
papers" but helping those who were lonely and needed guidance.
Together,
they found love and a renewed purpose in their lives–serving and following
Christ. What could be better?
Christian Short Stories with Christian Morals
A Bird in the Hand
Shelly was
enjoying her new apartment of three months; for it was everything she
wanted in an apartment–clean, neat, a wonderful view of rolling hills and
at a good price. Everything was fine until she began having some friends
over for dinner and they became, according to her landlord, noisy and
intrusive.
At first, she
thought the landlord was just being picky. But then, she noticed that
whenever she had a problem with the bathroom or kitchen, he was slow in
responding to her needs and when he did respond, it was slow and
antagonistic.
It was
several days before Groundhog Day when she knew she would have to find
someone to help her with the landlord. She had three friends: Christopher
Bircher, who was going for his law degree and cared about her, Adrian
Croft, who was going for his master's in Business but always busy and
Jeremy Knight, who was a friend, but had little experience or interest in
the law.
Shelly had
two degrees but they were in Social Psychology–helpful with getting along
with others but not knowledgeable in dealing with landlords. So, she
needed to make a decision. Should she seek advice from Christopher, Adrian
or Jeremy? She liked and respected all three but Christopher not only knew
the law well but seemed to care about what happened to her.
So, it was
the day before Groundhog Day when she called Christopher and asked for his
help. She called around eight in the morning, knowing that he was an early
riser.
He answered
the phone with a cheerful, "Good morning! Christopher Bircher, here!"
"Hi Chris!
This is Shelly. As you know, I've been having some problems with my
landlord. He's been complaining that my dinner guests have been too loud
and that some of the residents in my building have been complaining. I
know that sometimes the conversations are heated, but I honestly don't
think it's been that bad. You've been to my apartment several times and
know the layout and such; do you think you can help me? I'm willing to
quiet down some the conversations...."
"No problem,
my friend. Give me his name and phone number and I'll have a talk with
him. Often such matters can be taken care of easily; once the landlord
knows that the resident in question wants to do better."
"Great! His
name is Mr. Blandish and his number is: 555–494–8124. And, thank you so
much Chris! I want to do what is right and I want to keep living there.
It's so nice and the view is great..."
"Happy to
help, and listen, if it doesn't work out, you can stay with me for
awhile...I've got an extra room in the back..."
"Thanks,
Chris! You're a life saver."
Well,
Groundhog Day arrived and that was when Shelly noticed something strange..
As she walked
from the bedroom to the living room, she spotted a sheet of paper that was
peeking out from under the front door. She picked it up and read, "Your
friend, the law student, has not impressed me! I want you out of here,
now!"
Frightened,
she decided not to stay but called Chris and by the end of the week, she
was gone.
It was a good
thing, too, because months later she found out that the police had put the
landlord in jail for hounding and following a young woman. It seemed that
he had been harassing her for a long time and was on the verge of
kidnapping her or maybe worse...
And, so it
seems that when decisions need to be made, it is often best to choose
wisely and with someone you can trust and depend on. Such was the case
with Shelly.
A Stitch in Time Saves Nine
Neighbors
come in three categories: good, bad and obnoxious. My new neighbor,
Jeremy, unfortunately, is obnoxious! He's a pain in the bazooka but let me
explain.
I moved into
my new apartment several months ago at Shady Lane Apartments and had plans
and expectations for a good and productive life. All was going well until
Jeremy moved above me and began his tirade of bad, loud and lousy music.
(If you were his captive audience, I fear you would say the same..)
Anyway, I digress..
I was
enjoying the peace and quiet of my new apartment until the morning of
January 10. I think it was around nine in the morning when he and his
"friends" helped him move in. About ten minutes after he moved in, the
stereo began to play. Immediately, I knew that the loudness was not a good
omen but I thought, "Maybe it's just ‵move–in' music. Maybe he just wants
to sound off a bit in his new apartment."
After an hour
of being a captive audience to the loudness, I knew I was in deep trouble.
The next question in my mind was, "What do I do now?"
Of course in
such a situation there are sensible alternatives such as going up to his
apartment and asking him gently and calmly to "turn it down" or go to the
Super and ask for help.
Then, there
are other, not so nice methods, of handling such a problem. You probably
know where I'm going, don't you?
Yes, I did
have another plan. I could go up there and Kick some b....t! But, knowing
that I could be the recipient of something much worse, I let that thought
go...
Then, I came
up with another plan. It was a plan, I thought, that might lessen the
noise and stress. It came to me as I was listening to his stereo blaring
out yet another horrible song.
I had at my
disposal an eight foot ladder and a small portable stereo. I began
thinking that maybe, just maybe I could give him back a bit of his own
medicine. But, the timing had to be right–that is, the music would have to
go off when he was resting or sleeping. I didn't want to do it but I had
to do something to stop the music. So, I pulled the ladder from my back
closet, placed it carefully beneath his bedroom, and arranged the stereo
on top of it; making sure it was secure and safe. This took some doing,
for I was not quite where his bed was situated.
After
listening several days to find out his bedtime routine, I found out
exactly when he went to bed. It seemed that the poor boy usually went to
bed around one in the morning. So, one it would be!
So, two days
later around one in the morning when all was quiet upstairs, knowing he
was in bed fast asleep, I carefully but anxiously, reached up to the top
of the ladder, turned on the stereo full blast and then stood back for
results.
It didn't
take long–about a minute–– and he was up out of bed and screaming–"Turn
that music off!"
I screamed
back, "Not unless you promise not to play your stereo so loud! Do you
promise?"
"Yes!
Alright! I'll turn it down. But, never, ever play that awful ‵elevator
music, loud again!"
Safe to say
he's never played his stereo loud again and I now have the peace I've been
seeking.....
Sometimes one
has to "fight fire with fire!"
Action Speaks Louder Than Words
Amy was
sixteen and every so often she was reminded by her Grandma Wilson that
words were good but putting words into motion, was always a much better
way to go. Amy loved her grandma but she could be quite a task–master,
especially when she wanted something done.
And so it
was, on a bright October day that Amy was walking to her grandma's to
help with some fall cleaning. Amy told her grandma on the phone the night
before that she would be there to help her the following day, around nine
in the morning.
It was
already nine–thirty and Amy was strolling down the street, just minutes
away from where her grandma lived. Amy was always promising to be
somewhere but seldom arriving on time..
At
nine–thirty six she arrived and began walking up the steps to her
grandma's house. Just before she reached the top step she turned around
and saw her boyfriend driving by. When he saw her, he honked the horn and
immediately she ran back down the stairs and to his car. They began
chatting and before long she totally forgot her grandma's needs for fall
clean–up.
After talking
with her boyfriend, Paul, she got into the car and they sped off down the
street. From her large bay window, Grandma Wilson saw her granddaughter
get into the car and leave. She murmured, "There she goes, again! I wish
she wouldn't do that! The family doesn't know that boy well and she could
be putting her life in danger! Guess I'd better call her mother."
She went to
the phone and dialed. "Helen. Your mother. Just saw Amy get into a car
with that Paul person. Do you know anything about him at all?"
"Mom, Paul is
O.K. Dan and I have met and talked with him several times. But, I don't
like the fact that she didn't do what she was supposed to do today–help
you out with your fall cleaning."
"It's alright
Helen. I can do the work myself but I am disturbed that she is so flighty
and unreliable. Will you call me when she gets home? I do worry about
her."
"Sure Mom.
Will do. And, I'll make sure that she helps you out–probably sometime next
week. And, I'll remind her that it's impolite and uncaring not to do
something that is promised."
"Thanks
Helen. Take care and I'll talk with you soon."
Well, Grandma
Wilson went ahead and did the work by herself but while working with some
curtains in a back bedroom, she lost her balance and fell hard on to the
floor. Luckily, she had on a medical device which quickly brought an
ambulance and was found to be alright, except for a few bruises.
Once Amy
found out what happened to her grandma, she vowed that she would be more
careful and caring in the future, especially when committing herself to
help another.
As with many
things in life, if one learns a lesson from any kind of failure or unkempt
promise, one matures and does better the next time. Looks like in this
case, Amy learned a valuable lesson on commitment and helping others...
At the Pulpit
On a cold and
cloudy December day, just days before Christmas, Reverend James Thorndike
sat at his cluttered, antique desk and began writing his Christmas sermon.
Oh, he could have used the one that he ordered months ago from the Sermon
Directory but it just wasn't what he was looking for. And, so he continued
to write but the words continued to be bland and boring!
"What should
I write? Everything for Christmas has already been written and it's the
same old stuff!" He hunched over his desk like Scrooge in "A Christmas
Carol" and scratching his head, struggling for an original and creative
thought.
Just then his
seven–year old son, Jason came in wanting help with his new electronic
game that Uncle George gave him on his birthday. "Daddy, can you help me
with this? It's not working!"
"Son, I'm
very busy right now. Maybe your Mom can help you. She's in the kitchen. Go
ask her. I'm just too busy getting my sermon ready for Sunday."
Jason gave
his father a puzzled and disappointed look and then dejectedly walked out
of the room, searching for mom.
James looked
to the ceiling and prayed, "Dear God, please help me to write a decent
Christmas sermon. Something original, something catchy. My congregation is
getting so small; soon they may not want me anymore and then what will
happen to my family? Please dear God, help me!"
Then,
suddenly there appeared a form in the corner of the room. He couldn't tell
what it was but the ‵being' just stood there–at least it looked like he or
she stood there–and it was almost as if the form was saying, "The answer
to your prayer was in this room seconds ago. Are you so blind, that you
didn't see it?"
"What do you
mean? Only my son was here in the room and I love him with all my heart?
Are you accusing me of not being a good father?"
He could hear
no reply but it was almost like the words were placed above the figure in
the room which read, "Be thankful for what God has given you–your son,
your wife, your life and the many blessings in your life. Wake up and
understand what God has given you and those in your congregation! From
this day forward, know that all things that are good, come from God and
even the bad things in life can be turned into good, if only you believe!"
"How stupid
and blind I have been! He shouted out loud. Now I know what I will write
and the words will be glorious!"
And so now
James began writing in a flurry and by the time he was finished he had
before him a sermon that was timeless and a classic. His title told it
all, "Believe As a Child, And You Will Live To Enjoy Many A Christmas
day!"
And, isn't it
true? When we come to Christ as a child and believe with all of our heart
what the Savior can do for us, aren't we rich and full and ready to meet
the challenges of life?
So, Merry
Christmas and blessings to all!
Aunts and Uncles
Most people
get nervous when they find out their relatives are coming for a visit.
Such was the case for Tina and her memories of what happened some twenty
years ago. Her mom was planning on a gathering at their home on Christmas
and Aunt Hilda and Uncle Joe on her mother's side and their children, Jon
and Ruth would be attending.
Of course
this meant that Tina would be helping her mother prepare the food and also
the clean–up the day before. Tasks she didn't mind because she always
learned something, working with her mom.
Tina didn't
mind Jon and Ruth but she feared and detested Uncle Joe. The last time
they all came to visit was around Christmas and that's when Uncle Joe
showed his true colors.
The
"obnoxious event" occurred after finishing the delicious Christmas meal
that she and her mom diligently prepared. The kids–all teenagers at the
time, were playing some inside games in a back bedroom, while the women
were working some crafts and the men were watching some football.
Tina had to
walk through the living room to get some games that were in the dining
room cupboard. As she walked through the living room, she had to pass in
front of the TV. She hesitated for a few seconds, looking at the beautiful
Christmas tree and the heard, "Move from the TV! I can't see anything!"
Uncle Joe's
face was red and he was angry. Tina quickly moved away from the TV and was
in the dining room when she heard the words, "Why did you do that? I
missed the play.."
Tina said
nothing and walked quickly back to the bedroom. She overheard him say to
her father, "What is it with kids, these days? They have no respect for
their parents."
She stopped
midway and heard her father reply, "I'm sure Tina didn't mean it. She's
just a little absent minded these days and she's been working hard,
getting everything ready for Christmas.. Probably thinking of her
boyfriend."
She could
tell from her father's voice that he was nervous and embarrassed. What
bothered her even more was that her father seldom stood up for her and
that made her feel so small, so insignificant.
Fast forward,
fifteen years later, she was preparing once again her own Christmas Day
dinner. Her only child, Elizabeth was helping her and soon the relatives
would be ringing the doorbell and the events would begin.
Uncle Joe and
Aunt Hilda would be there and with them, Ruth and her child, Linda. Linda.
Dinner went
well and soon the children would be playing games, the women working
quietly on their crafts and the men, as usual, watching football.
As events
would have it, Elizabeth had to walk through the living room, to get to
the kitchen and once again Uncle Joe cried, "Hey! You're blocking my view!
Get out of the way!"
Luckily, Tina
had shared her experience to Elizabeth about Uncle Joe; so Elizabeth was
ready with a reply, "Sorry Uncle Joe. But this is my home and
isn't Christmas about love and showing kindness to others?!"
Uncle Joe's
face went red with embarrassment and anger and said nothing but Tina's
father just smiled and nodded his head in agreement
It's kind of
nice, isn't it to see how one's seeds that were planted years ago, come to
fruition?
Elizabeth was
careful who she hung around with. From day one, her father always said,
"Liz, be careful who you associate with; it can be bad for you if your
friends are careless with how they act and what they say." So, from that
day on she made friends with those who were decent and upstanding. That's
not to say that there were times, as with anyone, that she made mistakes.
She was
beginning to wonder if Jeremy was a true friend or someone using her. At
twenty, she was beautiful, smart but sometimes naïve with the opposite
sex. Jeremy was five years older than her, attractive and with a promising
career at City National Bank. He had always been polite and caring with
her but lately she sensed that something had changed with him.
Months ago
when she first began dating him, he just wanted to be with her. But, in
the last couple of weeks she caught sight of him talking and laughing with
a group of people she never saw before. He would joke with them and
sometimes not even notice that she was close and that just seemed odd to
her. The people in the group looked familiar; she had seen them before at
City National and they were quite noisy and careless when opening and
closing doors.
Elizabeth's
work as secretary at Center City's professional building was going well
and she wanted to hold on to the job, for she worked hard holding fast to
her professional standing.
It was on a
blustery March day around noon when Jeremy walked in with two of the
friends she saw in the group two months ago. They walked in talking
loudly–pushing and shoving each other. As soon as Jeremy spotted Elizabeth
he cried, "Hey Liz, how ya doin?"
She was
shocked at his behavior, because he always was so quiet and respectful of
her job and work area. But today, he was acting so different.
He broke away
from the group and rushed over to her desk and said, "Liz, great to see
you! How about joining me and the group for some coffee and doughnuts.?"
"Jeremy, good
to see you too but you know that I can't right now. I'm in the middle of a
big report that needs to be done."
He looked
disappointed and a bit perturbed and replied, "Well, if that's the way you
feel, O.K.! Maybe another time..."
"Yes, maybe
another time.."
He rejoined
the group and left in a rush–talking loudly all the way out the door.
After that,
she seldom heard from him but saw him often with the "group." And,
whenever he saw her, he pretended not to see her and she could tell that
he was changing–that he was not the kind and considerate man he once was...
That's when
she remembered an old saying, "water seeks its own level."
Amy and I are
cousins but we are like night and day–so very different!
Amy loves the
early morning while I like the dark of night. Amy enjoys working at a bank
and coming home early; while I enjoy working for a downtown attorney and
happy with the night life.
In so many
ways my cousin and I are different but there is one area where we are just
alike–and that is, we want to make a difference in this world while we're
here and be successful at doing it.
All around us
we see soaring gas prices, higher costs for food, homes in distress and
just about everyone we know, going nuts and asking, "Why me?"
But, Amy and
I don't complain–well we did at first–and then we thought about it for
awhile and decided to take action.
Instead of
worrying and wondering about food and not being able to eat out, we've
decided to give monthly to a local food pantry. By giving what we can,
we're finding out that we have more than we originally thought and we're
having happy feelings, helping others out.
And, we're
car pooling with our co–workers and finding that it's taking away a lot of
stress with driving and saving us all a bunch of money. In addition, we're
getting to know our co–workers a lot better and finding out we have more
in common with them than the many differences we thought we had before.
Many of our
contemporaries think we are "squares" or "goodie–two–shoes" but you know
what? We don't care because we feel we're doing the right thing and making
a difference. And isn't that what life is all about? Making a difference,
doing the right thing and finding happiness?
Moral of this
story? If you can, make lemonade out of lemonade; sure makes the taste of
it go down better!
Christian Short Stories with Biblical Morals
Spilt Milk
Raven was always in a hurry and because she was always in a
rush, she often made mistakes or was forgetful. Unfortunately, today would
be no exception.
Her morning
started out fine–a nice breakfast of toast with jam, and some coffee.
Being single gave her more time in the morning and that suited her just
fine. Then, around seven she got dressed and began gathering up her
documents and briefcase. She had a meeting with some insurance agents on
proposals for more effective policies and saving of money; so making sure
she had the necessary documents, was a high on her list for the day. It
looked like she had everything she needed in the briefcase...
At eight, she
was out the door, ready to meet the day. She got into her 2007 Chevy
Malibu and began pulling away from the curb. It was then that she
remembered that she was supposed to be at the meeting at eight–fifteen.
The meeting was being held at a hotel, about thirty miles away, and
everyone was to bring an innovative insurance proposal that would help
save money for the company. So, she knew that she would be late and being
late for such a meeting was kicking in her nerves.
As she drove,
she turned on the stereo and dialed her favorite station–WMVO–Jazz and
began singing along to one of Tony Bennett's songs. The music and lyrics
began to calm her down and positive feelings began flooding her brain and
body.
Around
eight–thirty five she pulled into the hotel parking lot, turned off the
ignition and reached for her briefcase and purse. It was a cold March day
and she was glad that she wore her heavier coat.
Upon reaching
the entrance to the hotel, she walked to the elevator, pushed on the Up
Button and waited. It took less than a minute for the elevator to come to
the ground floor, and when it arrived, in she walked. She pressed the
Number Nine button and waited.
She arrived
on Floor nine and walked into the corridor. She saw Conference Room # 12
and proceeded to walk into the room.
Immediately
she knew that she had forgotten something important; for smack in the
middle of the room on a large table was a note that read: "All Insurance
Proposals Belong Here!"
Her heart
sunk into her stomach, she began perspiring and she felt that she would
faint. Minutes later, others walked into the room; each putting their
proposals on the large table, hanging the coats and then finding a place
to sit down.
Elizabeth was
too nervous to sit, so she hung up her coat and stood in the back on an
old reclining chair.
The
conference leader walked in with a man she knew–Brian Keepsake. As soon as
Brian saw her he could tell that she was in a bad way. He walked over to
her and said, "Elizabeth, glad you're here. I've got something to show
you."
He took out
his briefcase and presented her with a folder. Inside the folder was his
plan for the Insurance deal. But instead of one Insurance deal, he had
two.
When she saw
the two insurance deals, she said, "Why do you have two?"
He replied,
"I don't know why in the world I created two; but something told me that
you might need one! Was I wrong?"
Elizabeth
just smiled and said, "You couldn't be more right! Thank you! I left mine
home on my desk...Wouldn't you know?"
Don't Cut Off Your Nose, Despite Your Face
Julia's life
was a good one; most everything in her life went well. But, there was one
area where improvement was needed and that was her weight. Her work as a
psychologist at the Mount Carmel Mental Institution was satisfying but
often stressful; however, she loved the fact that she was helping many
with their problems.
Some of her
patients were overweight; often seeking her professional help but she was
beginning to feel ineffective because of her own weight problem. She was a
good–looking woman and at forty–eight, striking in her looks and demeanor.
The weight issue was just a small part of who she was but she had to admit
that being over weight, was affecting her health and possibly her
professional standing; even though no one ever made an issue of it.
So, after
thinking and praying about the matter, she decided to do something she
hadn't done in a very long time. On a Saturday morning, she opened her
desk drawer and reached for her old King James Bible. Before reading from
it, she paused to pray, "Lord, I need help and I come to you for guidance.
As you know, I'm over weight and it's affecting my health and work.
Forgive me for not coming to you first, as I should have. But, Lord,
please help me with this. I need to lose some weight not only for my
health but so that I can help others with the same problem. Lead me Lord
in scripture, so that I can overcome this one area in my life that is
holding back..."
After
praying, she went to the Old Testament where she found some insightful
words. She found the help she was looking for from Philippines 4:6: "But
in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your
requests be made known to God." Then she read Jeremiah 30:17 "For I will
restore health unto thee.."
And then she
read from Matthew 6: 33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his
righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." After
reading those words, calmness and a beautiful peace came over her like
never before...
Once finished
reading, she prayed, "Thank you, Lord Jesus, for revealing to me the exact
words I needed to read. Those words have always been there and I didn't
even know it. Help me to put those words into action, change my ways and
then lead others to those words of encouragement and help."
She placed
the book back on her desk and then went about her daily work. As she
worked and ran her errands, the words became like a seed; growing inside
of her. It wasn't long before she began acting on those words–for the seed
began maturing.
It didn't
happen overnight but several weeks later, she found herself feeling more
alive and healthier. Months later, she and those around her began seeing a
difference. Not only did she look thinner, but she had a glow about her
that couldn't be ignored. Her friends, family and her patients could see
that she had changed. She seemed more focused with her job and her
patients who suffered from being overweight, were getting real help from
her, not just empty words. She was sharing with them what she did to lose
weight and some were applying those ideas to their lives.
It wasn't
long before her changing health habits became part of her daily routine
and she became focused on the "whole" of life, rather than just a small
"slice" of life.
But the most
important thing of all was that she found a closer relationship with
Christ, which spilled over to those around her. Kind of like the ripples
of water, when a stone is skipping over it.
Helen was
eighthly–five years old, in fair shape for her age and lived alone. Living
alone didn't bother her but she still missed her husband, George, who died
ten years ago. She used to have a woman named Trudy help her out with
errands but Trudy up and moved away a year ago, so she now had to run her
errands by herself.
It was on a
cold February day when Helen decided that she needed some groceries. Her
poor, old refrigerator was almost empty so she combed her hair, put on
some lipstick and then put on her warmest coat. As she walked out the
door, an overwhelming sense of pride and self–awareness flooded her soul.
This was one of the first times she would be going out be herself–not with
her husband or Trudy but by herself. "Yes, she thought to herself, ‵I can
do this even though I've been so fearful in the past. I don't need any
practice runs like George used to say....I can just do this!"
Anxiety
attacks many and Helen was just one of many who had suffered for many
years. Even when her husband was alive, the attacks would strike at any
time. When Trudy came to help her with the errands and such, she did
better because Trudy didn't feed into the fear. She simply told her to
"buck up" and get going...Yes, Trudy was good for her.
Anyway, she
walked out the door confident to meet whatever would come her way. As she
walked down Madison Avenue she continued to feel positive. It wasn't until
she reached the corner of Monroe and Franklin that fear began to creep up
to her heart..
She tried to
shrug it off and for a few minutes it worked but then the fear returned.
As she approached Conner's Grocery the fear grew until she had to stop.
She simply couldn't get her legs to work...So, she stopped about 40 feet
from the store and just stayed there for what seemed eternity.
Then, she saw
someone she knew from church and the man began waving at her....
"Helen! Oh
Helen! How are you?"
At first she
was shocked, for she seldom ran into Ben. He was always busy with
volunteer work. But, the shock of seeing him was like a bolt of
lightening...
She replied
weakly, "Ben....why how nice to see you. Didn't know that was you."
"Helen.
Haven't seen you for weeks. How are you doing....That is, are the anxiety
attacks better?"
Encouragement
Jean was
discouraged. The last two years of her life had been unkind, hard and
challenging and she didn't see any light at the end of the tunnel. Her
husband had been ill for months, her own health had been precarious with
bouts of the flu and colds that never ended and her secretarial work at
Writing International, had been routine and monotonous for more days than
she could count.
One day while
shopping at her favorite retail store on a cold, November day, she was
looking for something bright and cheerful to wear. She was feeling good
because she finally found a nice pair of pants and a lovely blouse and was
now ready to pay for her items..
As her turn
at the cashier's drew near, she saw that the clerk was an older woman,
short in stature, with gray hair and a lovely and open smile. The clerk
began adding up her items and then asked, "Are you a senior?"
Stunned, Jean
looked at her for several seconds before replying and then said," Why, yes
I am. Is something wrong?"
"Oh no! just
wanted to ask because on Tuesdays we offer a 15% discount to seniors. I
wasn't sure if you were old enough to be a senior, but thought I would
ask."
"Oh, I see.
Jean's surprise turned into happiness, knowing that she would receive a
discount on what she bought and that the woman acted as if she couldn't
tell her age.
Then the
clerk replied, "Well, at least there are some benefits to getting older,
aren't there?"
Jean paused
again and then replied, "Yes, that's true; it does help."
Then the
clerk said something Jean would never forget...
"It's just
the cycle of life, isn't it? Getting older? Just our time to be a senior."
Time to be a
senior, Jean thought. "What a wonderful way of looking at life," she
thought. With added encouragement, Jean walked out of the store with a
lighter feeling in her heart and soul.
From that day
on she never felt the same about aging. Getting older wasn't so bad with
the many discounts available, good food that can be prepared, being with
someone you love or just enjoying God's wonderful creations.
For in truth,
when you think about it, life is a cycle of beginnings and
endings.....A wonderful, and often, surprising life cycle!
Evangelism
Ray looked
out his front door peephole and saw a man holding a Bible, displaying a
very determined and purposeful look. The man also looked bold and a bit
scary. Ray didn't want to open the door because he could tell he was just
another "evangelist." This was the third one in two months and it was
becoming tedious and monotonous. But, he decided to let him in; maybe this
one would be different.
"Good
morning, I'm Jay Baskerville and I'm from the Assembly of God on Main
Street and I would like to talk with you about God. May I come in?"
Ray felt
queasy about letting him but he replied, "Sure. Come on in."
"Please, have
a seat." He directed him to the couch in the living room. The sun was
pouring in and was making a cold November day, warmer and more inviting.
"Let me begin
by saying that ‵we're all sinners.' And that is the main reason I'm here.
No one can enter Heaven unless one repents with a true and honest heart."
Jay continued
his sermon and about half way through Ray began coughing, something he had
been doing a lot lately and would soon be seeing a doctor about it. He
noticed that the evangelist didn't seem to notice the coughing; but kept
on talking and gave no thought or advice to help the cough. Ray got up to
get some water but the evangelist just kept talking; oblivious to Ray's
troubles. Finally, Ray's cough subsided and he returned.
All Jay could
say was, "Oh, you're back. Now, let's get back to the sinful life....."
Ray
interjected by saying, "I think I've heard all I want to hear about the
sinful life and forgiveness. Your actions have spoken loudly as to what
kind of Christian you are....I think perhaps you are the one who at this
point, needs forgiveness! And, as I'm leading you back to the front door,
I will give sinning and forgiveness considerable thought...In the meantime,
try to think about what it means to be a true and caring Christian and how
you can be of help when someone is unwell and struggling.."
They both got
up and Jay looking dumbfounded replied, "Well, that was certainly a rude
comment! I don't understand you at all.... And, I won't be coming back here,
for sure!"
As Ray began
closing the door, he replied, "I hope that's a promise! And, keep in mind,
that Christianity is more about "actions than empty words."
Ray's Deadline
Ray Walters
had been working at home as an online Instructor for almost ten years and
was the kind of man many depended on. His job, instructing Beginning
Psychology was interesting, fun and a learning experience not only for his
students but for himself, too
At the
beginning of every class he told his students to make the most of their
learning experience and to not wait until the last moment to do so. Most
of the time he followed his own advice but as spring term approached, he
found that he was not ready.
Because he
worked online, he was accountable to only one person and that person was
Melinda Workman. She was the kind of woman who not only "demanded" quality
and quantity but also "timely" work.
And so it was
on a beautiful April day, just five days to spring quarter when Ray looked
at his schedule and work accomplished and saw to his horror that he had
only half of his work done for the quarter and many assignments and papers
to prepare. After loud curses and stomping around his study in nervous
anxiety and fear, he got down to brass tacks and began his research.
Around two in
the afternoon he received a phone call. He looked at his cell phone and
from his Called ID he saw that it was Melinda. Surely, she would want to
know how he was coming along with plans for spring and she was one who
required concrete and swift answers. With Melinda Workman it was "her way
or the highway."
He let the
phone ring, forcing himself to focus on his spring plans. After seven
rings, the noise stopped.
A wonderful
feeling of relief swept over him and he returned to his work with an even
greater focus.
In the
following hours he made great headway with his spring quarter plans and
was not interrupted, once.
Then around
six in the evening, the phone began ringing again. He looked once again at
his Called Id and saw that it was Melinda. This time he wasn't so fearful,
so he picked up the receiver and said, "Hello?"
"Well Mr.
Raymond Walters! I finally got a hold of you! Where have you been?!"
"Ms. Workman!
Good to hear from you! I've been right here getting my work done for
spring quarter. I was unable to answer the phone earlier because my
neighbor from across the hall was at the door and she needed some advice.
So, what's up? How can I help you?"
"You can help
me by telling me that you have everything ready for spring quarter! I must
have your lesson plans and assignments no later than tomorrow, so I can
get them posted and ready for your next class. You do have them, don't
you?"
"Yes, I am
working on the final assignment now. I will have them ready for you later
tomorrow."
"Good! That's
what I was hoping. But, don't forget, I will also need your outline plan
for summer, too. As I told you earlier, this needs to be turned in at the
same time."
A lump in
Ray's throat began and it just wouldn't go away. He had forgotten about
the outline for summer. In his fervor to finish spring's plans, he had
forgotten the outline for summer.
He replied in
a hesitant tone, "I'll do my best to have it done, too, Melinda.."
"That Ms.
Workman to you and you make sure it's finished and in good shape by two,
tomorrow!"
Ray just
learned an important lesson from Melinda, "always be prepared and plan
ahead!"
Christian Short Stories With Christian Morals
Julia and Happiness
How many of
us are like the following character, Julia? Read and see what you think...
Julia was
never happy and she never knew why. Why, right from the beginning at the
age of five, she remembered that the only time she felt happy was when her
sister, Eileen was "unhappy." But, in her mind that was alright because
Eileen was always happy and always getting approval and praise from her
parents...
So, in order
for her to be happy, Julia looked for those who were, in her opinion, too
happy...After all, people shouldn't be happy all of the time and didn't she
have a right to be happy? And, considering that she had put up with such
an obnoxious sister and parents who didn't seem to know what was going on,
why those were reasons enough to find a little bit of happiness....
And so it was
on a beautiful fall day that Julia would find out the definition of true
happiness.
She had been
attending a local college and as a requirement of her Social Work degree,
she was to attend a local nursing home and do some volunteer work with
some seniors who were lonely.
Her first
initial responses to this was, "Why me? Why do we have to do this? I don't
have time!"
Of course her
Instructor, Jane Thurman, replied, "And, why not you, Julia? After all,
this is part of your requirement for your degree, as it is for everyone in
this class! You will do this assignment, or you will not pass! And, you
might even enjoy it; why you might find that you will be happy!"
"Humph!" she
thought. "Happy, my foot," she said under her breath...
Her first day
at the home was frustrating and she found herself becoming impatient with
how slow they all were..
And then she
met Roy Poundstone, a small, lonely but nice looking older man and he
seemed to so happy when she talked with him that she soon found herself
feeling a twinge of happiness talking with him. He just seemed so needy,
so desiring someone's company. When she found out that he had no one–his
wife dead and family living over 1,000 miles away, why she began to feel
something for the old man...
On her third
visit with Roy, she found his room empty. She quickly went to the nurse's
station and found out that Roy had been taken to the hospital, deathly ill
with pneumonia.
An hour later
she arrived at the hospital and was directed to his room by a kind older
nurse. As she walked into the room, she saw him lying in the hospital bed,
with many tubes and machines monitoring his frail health.
She walked up
to his bed and saw that his eyes were closed. She decided to touch his
hand and when she did, he slowly opened his eyes and said, "Julia! You're
here!"
At that
moment she realized what true happiness was...
"Of course I
am. How are you feeling?" His response was weak but happy.
"Not the
best, but better now that you're here." He smiled but she could tell he
would not be alive much longer.
Seconds
later, his eyes blazed with fear and he cried out, "No, please not now!"
By the time the nurses arrived, he was gone..
Julia now
knew the true meaning of happiness and also the true meaning of
sadness...She would never be the same.....
In–Laws
Joyce loved
her husband dearly but her mother–in–law was something else! Why from the
very first meeting Jay's mom, Helene, looked at her with disdain and said,
"Crawford! What is a Crawford?! Let me find my book of names and I will
check and see who you are and where you come from!"
Joyce was
flabbergasted by such treatment but what made it worse was that Jay just
stood there and said nothing. Course, they had only been married for a
year and Jay's mother, Helene and father–in–law, Hank, had not attended
the wedding. Jay admitted right from the beginning that his mother was
difficult and demanding and didn't want to attend the wedding. So, that
first unpleasant memory was in her mind as she quietly planned a reunion
with his folks. Hank, was a quiet man, so she was not fearful of him. But,
Helene was another matter.
It was
getting close to Thanksgiving and Joyce thought it would be a good idea to
invite his folks over for dinner. Jay thought it was a good idea but was
afraid of how his mother would be, coming to their home for the first
time..
Jay was going
to do the inviting and so on Monday, two weeks before Thanksgiving, he
dialed their number...
Jay's father
answered the phone. "Hello?"
"Dad? It's
me, Jay. Can I talk with you a minute?"
"Sure, son.
You know you can call here anytime. What's up?"
"Dad, I know
it's been awhile since we've talked or visited and I apologize but Joyce
and I would love for you and Mom to come over for dinner on Thanksgiving.
I realize Mom got off on the wrong foot with Joyce and Joyce is somewhat
anxious being around her, but we both feel the need to give it another
try. Do you think Mom would come and make an effort of getting along with
my wife?"
"Well, I
think so. Let me talk with her and I'll get back with you later."
"Great!
Thanks Dad..."
Several days
later Jay's Dad called and said that they would be coming for dinner.
It was about
an hour before the big day and Joyce was finishing up in the kitchen.
Joyce had everything ready–the table was set, food was cooking and the
house was sparkling clean.
The doorbell
rang an hour later and Jay walked to the door and opened it.
"Mom and Dad!
So good to see you. Won't you come in?"
Both walked
in, Jay took their coats and everyone walked toward the living room.
Joyce walked
in and blurted out, "Mom....Dad...So, glad you could come. Dinner will be
ready soon."
Jay's mother
replied, "Nice home but kind of cluttered."
Joyce ignored
the remark, and went directly to the kitchen.
Jay left his
folks, walked to the kitchen and said, "Honey, I know you're upset but
let's see how it goes...."
Tears were
forming in Joyce's eyes but she decided right then and there to see it
through..
Just then,
Jay's Dad came in and said, "Please forgive Helen. She just found out
several days ago that she has cancer and she's very confused and angry."
Joyce said
nothing but a look of surprise and compassion filled her face and then Jay
said, "Oh Dad! We're so sorry. If there's anything we can do, please let
us know."
"Thanks Son
and thank you, Joyce, for inviting us." With that he left and went back to
the table...
As everyone
was seated and the food was served, Helene said, "Well, the food looks
good Joyce, but let's see what it tastes like." She smiled at her and with
a tears beginning to form in her eyes weakly said, "So sorry it took us so
long. Thank you for inviting us..."
It was a
Thanksgiving to remember; for two months later Helene died but before she
died she whispered to her husband, "Tell them I'm so sorry for the way
I've been, that I love them and ask them to please forgive me!" As she
spoke her last words, a peace came over her and a kind of glow enveloped
her entire body, as if a healing were taking place.
Moral of the
story–be happy and show your love to others whenever you can. Life is so
short and filled with such potential. Live it well and wisely!
Angry Angela
Angela was
angry and she would get even; oh she would get even! True, she was only a
freshman at Michigan State University and a novice at acting, but she gave
a good audition. Shoot, she gave a wonderful performance! Besides, the
Director, James Madison, said that she did well and yet he gave the
leading role to someone named, Cybil Blandish. Angela got a small part,
that of a receptionist but that just wasn't good enough; certainly not
what she was expecting!
Angela found
out later that the reason Cybil was given the lead role was because she
had money and lots of it! The play, "Her Cold Heart," was a murder
mystery and the lead character–Monica Mulligan–was a sociopath and
murderess and would be a great part for an aspiring actress. And, that's
what she was–an aspiring and talented actress.
The play was
to open around Thanksgiving and rehearsals were to begin the first of
October. "Well, she thought. I'll play my part but maybe there's a way I
can...." Before she could finish her thought, another idea began forming in
her brain.
The
rehearsals went as expected and it was the day before opening night.
Everyone in the play had an extra job or two and Angela's extra job was to
make sure all of the props were in place for all of the actors. She didn't
particularly enjoy the work but there was one aspect she did
enjoy...that of making sure that Cybil had everything she needed for her
upcoming scenes.
Opening night
finally arrived and it looked like everything was ready. Everyone in the
play was excited and the director was giving his "fired up" speech before
the play, "You have all done well and I expect that each and everyone of
you will give a great performance...especially Sybil, dear! Without you, we
just wouldn't have a play! Now, go out there everyone break a leg!"
Well, as the
curtain rose and Act One began, it was Sybil's cue to appear. Seconds went
by and no Sybil...The curtain went down and the director flew backstage to
find out what was wrong...
Angela gave a
worried look to everyone and shouted, "Sybil is nowhere! What shall we
do?"
All of a
sudden, Sybil showed up, her face in a swollen and blood–red rash. "Who
did this to me? Which of one of you jerks did this to me?!"
The director,
........replied, "Oh Sybil, how awful! Let's don't think that this was done
deliberately...Let's just get you to a Dr. right away! Sam, take her to Dr.
Seinfeld, immediately!"
After she
left he asked, "Is there anyone here that can take her part? Her
understudy called in last night, sick and the show must go on"
Angela
shouted, "I can! I memorized her lines just in case anything awful
happened...I can do it! And, you won't be sorry!"
Well, Angela
took over and did a great job; however, she didn't know that Cybil
performed some skullduggery herself. The day before opening night, Cybil
went through one of Angela's props and took away the fake knife and
replaced it with a real one...
And, oh the
anguish it brought to the receiver of that knife!
Carol was
brought up in a Christian home, where "turning the cheek" was not just
following of the gospel but a way of life. She had just turned 35 and had
been working at a local bank, where she had found many opportunities to
look the other way at rude behavior and for the most part, it had been an
affective way of handling people. At least, for Carol.
That was all
about to change on a cloudy September day, two days before Labor Day. The
day started out normal and easy–going for Carol. Just 10 customers and
they all had been cordial and in a holiday kind of mood..
It was the
eleventh customer–Jake Halloway–who would prove to be different in every
way...
He approached
her window and in a gruff voice said, "Humph! I would like to make a
withdrawal!" He was loud and negative and she could tell by his demeanor
that he meant business. He continued, "I want the withdrawal of $20,000 in
20s and I don't want to have to wait for it! Do you understand?!"
With fear
rising to her throat she replied, "Yes Sir. But, I will need some
identification and I will have to see my manager first before giving the
money to you. It's standard procedure, sir.
"My name is
Jake Halloway and I've been coming to this bank for over 20 years and I
don't want any hassles...Do you understand?"
"Yes, Mr.
Halloway. It will only take a few minutes and I'll be right back."
"Humph! Same
old bank..." He whispered to himself.
Carol quickly
made her way to Ben Olan–the bank president of Hanover City Bank–and saw
that he was on the phone...Gesturing with his left hand, he conveyed to her
that he would be right with her.
Carol waited.
Finally he got off the phone and asked her what she needed.
"Sir, a man
by the name of Jake Halloway wants to withdraw $20,000 and sir, I've
never dealt with Jake Halloway before but I have heard his name. Sheila
Johnson has mentioned him from time to time...Have you ever dealt with this
man; do know what he looks like?"
"Yes, I know
Jake. Talked with him about a year ago. He was thinking of moving out of
state and needed some information on real estate. Let me take care of an
item and I'll be right there."
"Thanks. I'll
go back and look over his identification and keep him busy until you
arrive."
Before Carol
arrived back at her station, she noticed that Jake had a strange look on
his face–a look that chilled her to the bone.
And, he had
in front of him a gun, and he was pointed the gun at her and the other
five tellers behind t he counter. He shouted, "Money! Everyone empty their
drawers now! Put all the money in this sack.
He laid the
huge sack in front of Carol's work station and she began hurriedly
putting money into it. She then passed it down to the others and they
began doing the same..
All the time,
Jake kept waving his gun at everyone behind the work station and telling
the other five customers in the bank to lie down flat on the floor.
Everyone complied, for they could tell from his demeanor that he would
kill in an instant.
Carol began
feeling something strange; something she hadn't felt in a long time–maybe
never...Her fear was being replaced by anger and a boldness so strong that
she felt almost like a lion, a powerful and strong lion!
Seconds
later, one of the five on the floor, a six year old girl began crying.
"Get the
child to shut up!" He shouted at the mother and for a split second Carol
took advantage of the distraction, grabbed her heavy person that was lying
underneath the counter and with great force slammed it hard into his face.
The surprise hit caused him to back away, dropping the gun to the floor.
It landed inches away from one of the men on the floor, who quickly picked
it up and aimed the gun at Jake.
The man with
gun cried, "What guts you have, lady! I guess you showed him who's in
charge!"
The last
thing Carol remembered before landing straight and hard on the cold Bank
floor was, "I did it! I really did it!"
Fear of the Dark
Ray had
always been afraid of the dark. It all started when a relative frightened
him while staying with the family one cold, December day. The weather was
so bad that Uncle Joe had to stay overnight. A blizzard was in the making,
so good old Uncle Joe stayed in the extra bedroom, upstairs next to Ray.
Ray was only ten years old and was unaware of Uncle Joe's strange ways.
Everyone was
in bed that night, except for Uncle Joe. Unbeknownst to Ray, the strange
uncle liked to scare children. Ray's family made a note of not doing that
to Ray because Ray was a very sensitive child and was frightened easily.
Well, Uncle
Ray had a habit of not listening to anyone, so that night he tiptoed
toward Ray's bedroom, slowly opened the door and made some ghostly sounds.
Ray was a light sleeper and practically jumped out of bed when he heard
the strange noise.
Later, the
next morning Uncle Ray was severely criticized and told not to come back
for a very long time...
And so it was
on another December night after coming home from a hard day's work at the
bank, that those long ago fears began to return...
He had just
finished his microwave meal, cleaned up the kitchen a bit, when he heard
someone knocking at the front door.
Being a
bachelor, he seldom had anyone over so the knocking on the door gave him a
jolt.
Cautiously,
he went to the door, looked through the small peep hole and saw nothing.
He could see no one standing there, so he looked a second time.
This time he
saw to the right he thought he saw something on the floor, about ten feet
away–a box placed in the middle of the floor.
"Could be for
my neighbor," he thought out loud. "Yes, probably for John Milestone. He
always gets packages."
So, he went
back to the kitchen and began getting things ready for the next day.
That's when he heard another knock on the door.
He quickly
returned to the door and once again looked through the peep hole. Again,
he could see nothing except for a beautiful red scarf and it was lying on
top of the package.
Thinking that
the scarf and the package were meant for his neighbor, he sighed and went
to the living room and put on the TV.
Before he
could sit down, he heard a third knock. His nerves were becoming unhinged
and fears began flooding his brain. "What if it's a maniac, someone who
wants to hurt me?"
Cautiously he
went once again to the door and as soon as he saw the figure before him,
his fears subsided and his frown of fear turned to a face of joy. It was
Gloria from the bank–a woman he had been training for several months.
As soon as he
opened the door he knew why she was there. "Hi Ray! Would you like some
company? Got some snacks from Joe's Deli..."
Family Pet
The Johnson's
family pet–although only experienced through the eyes of ten year old
Julia–– epitomized the word "joy" from the very first day she arrived.
There was something about her liveliness and peace that made little Julia,
happy and fulfilled.
Julia was
remembering the first time she met the friendly creature, for she was the
first and only member of the family to enjoy such an acquaintance. It was
on a beautiful Memorial Day years ago when the strange but wonderful event
occurred.
"That was a
moment!" Julia whispered out loud. How glorious a being she was and Julia
surmised that she was about her age at the time–around ten years old. On
that day Julia found out so much about the lovely creature––her likes,
dislikes, her goals and ambitions but most of all she found out about a
"secret" that the young girl wanted to share with her.
It was around
one in the afternoon that day when Julia met the lovely stranger. It was a
busy time with cleaning up after the picnic when Julia walked over to one
of her favorite sites at the park, choosing a spot under a lovely elm
tree. Without knowing how the little girl appeared or where she came from,
Julia decided to speak first...
"Well, my new
friend, tell me about yourself and why you're talking to me first, rather
than to everyone in my family."
The friendly
creature began, "I wanted to talk with you first because you seemed to be
the friendliest. Don't get me wrong but the rest of your family seems nice
enough; I think maybe I sensed that you needed me the most. Perhaps I was
wrong?"
Julia was
surprised but answered, "Well, maybe you're right about that....I do need
help but I don't know what to say to my folks and besides they're always
so busy."
"Well then,
tell me what's on your mind. I'm a good listener, or so I've been told.
Julia was at
first hesitant but she saw how the friendly this person was so she began..
"Well, as you
can tell, my teeth stick out awfully and I don't have any friends except
my grandma. Almost everyone I know doesn't believe in God or Jesus and
they think I'm just plain odd!"
The friendly
one observed that Julia was about to cry, so she waited a few minutes and
then said...
"Oh Julia, if
you could only see yourself the way I do! You are such a beautiful
person–inside and out and have such a wonderful future ahead of you..."
Julia perked
up and replied, "Thank you for such kind words but how do you know about
my future? No one I know, knows what the future brings. How is it you know
this?"
The little
being just smiled and said, "Dear Julia, I can't tell you how or why I
know this. I just know. I must be going soon, but always remember what I
told you..."
About that
time, Julia's mom appeared and said, "Who were you talking to just now?
There is no one here!"
Hearing her
mom's words startled her and found to her shock that her friend was now
gone.
Years later,
after struggling through college, a marriage that ended in divorce but
doing well as an elementary teacher–encouraging others to great
heights––she remembered once again what the friendly creature once said
about having a wonderful future. She didn't know then, but knew now, that
she was in the presence of a lovely and kind angel.
Angels come
in many forms–sometimes in earthly forms–and oh the difference they can
make!
Tonia, Why Are You So Fearful?
Tonia had her
head buried in her hands, her long brown hair falling gently on her neck
and table, as she cried with lost abandonment.
Her friend,
Sheila asked, "Tonia, I've never seen you like this. Why are you so
afraid?"
Tonia
couldn't stop crying and kept her face cradled in her hands. She could
tell no one her secret. Not even Shelia, her best friend.
"Tonia. Talk
to me! What has happened?" She gently but firmly put her hands on top of
her friends and pulled. Slowly Tonia released her grip and placed her
hands on the kitchen table.
Her crying
slowed but the expression on her face was so sorrowful that it took
everything inside of Sheila to hold back tears for her friend.
Slowly, Tonia
began to speak. "I can't tell you anything! It is just too despicable to
even discuss! You wouldn't understand, Sheila. You just wouldn't
understand and there is nothing you can do to help me! Nothing!"
Now Sheila
was really worried. She had never heard or seen her friend so depressed.
Tonia was always so outgoing, achievement–oriented and ready to help
anyone, anytime.
"Please tell
me what is going on with you! I'm your friend and I'm not leaving this
room until you tell me why you feel so fearful!
Tonia began
sobbing again, got up from her chair and began pacing the kitchen floor.
"Alright! If
you want to know the reason, I'll tell you but you've got to understand
that if you stay and hear what I have to say, you may not like what you
hear and you, too, could be in danger!"
Friendship
was everything to Sheila but she began wondering if maybe this friendship
had reached its limits. She replied, "Tonia, talk to me! I'm prepared for
the consequences. With God on our side and the police not far away, we can
handle it! Shoot!"
She began
slowly but with earnest: "It all began two weeks ago when I took out the
trash on Tuesday morning. I always take out the trash at six in the
morning on Tuesday, so it's ready when the trash men come for pick up. But
something odd happened that morning. Remember me telling you that I got
new neighbors about a month ago? Well, I found out from talking with the
woman that they've been married for about two years."
Sheila nodded
her head in agreement.
"Well, I saw
something in their bedroom window as I was walking back after dropping off
the trash. I've seen them ‵horse' around before–laughing and running
around.. But, this time he had his hands around her neck and he was
squeezing hard. Then I saw that he backed off laughing but then seconds
later he was at it again and squeezing harder. When he was finished, I saw
that she dropped to the floor and didn't get up. Then he looked out the
window and saw me! He smiled and gave me a ‵thumbs up.' Scared me to
death! Now, do you see why I'm so scared?"
Shelia just
stood there for awhile without saying a word and then replied, "Tonia, you
must go to the police and tell them exactly what you told me. I'll come
with you."
"No! I can't!
If I do, I know he'll come for me and if he finds out about you, you, too,
could be in danger!"
"Tonia, I'm
not leaving here until you agree that we both will go to the police. I
will back up everything you've told me."
"Alright. I
know that's probably what we need to do. And, going together will make it
easier, not so scary."
"Good. Now
let's get ready. It's only two in the afternoon; it won't take long to get
there. And, I'll drive."
They both got
ready to go but as they approached the door to leave, someone rang the
doorbell. It was a tall man, wearing jeans and a plaid shirt and he was
carrying a cake but an ordinary cake–a cake that was laced with sweet but
deadly poisoning....
You just
wouldn't understand and there is nothing you can do to help me! Nothing!"
Christian Short Stories with Biblical Morals
Fulfillment
Janice
finally felt fulfilled when she received her doctorate degree from Capella
University in the fall of 2005.. She had finally arrived! What more could
she ask for–a beautiful home, grown children off on their own and
successful in Ohio, a husband who adored her and now at long last, her
doctor's degree?!
She should
feel happy, fulfilled and filled with joy but here she was in her very
private bedroom and sobbing her heart out...Life could be so cruel, she
thought. Why was this "thing" happening to her, why did she feel so
depressed and in despair when she should be feeling "on top of the world?"
Dr. McMillen
had given her the bad news yesterday, just a day after she received her
degree! What timing, she thought. A cancer, he said. A small cancer had
been slowly growing on the tip of her uterus. There was hope, but it was
small and fading, like a candle's glow, almost gone.
Her degree
would be useless, with the cancer. Was all she did, done in vain?
She lay on
the bed, worrying and wondering what kind of future–or maybe there
wouldn't be any kind of future for her, when she heard a voice
whispering....."Be not afraid, Janice I am here with you..."
This
"presence" filled her with a calmness she had never felt before and
somehow, some way, she knew that things would be alright.
She returned
to her Dr's office for a test result two days later and he gave her such a
look of puzzlement, that it stunned her right down to her bones!
He said,
‵Janice, I can't understand this; it's not logical, it's not how it
goes...but the cancer–all of it–is gone! You are free, clear and healthy.."
Janice
replied, "I know what has happened!...Christ has forgiven my sins and has
set me free of this illness. Praise God! Now, I can use my degree as nurse
to help others. Thank you, Jesus!"
She left a
puzzled but happy Dr., smiling and praising God, too, as she practically
skipped down the hospital hallway, free and ready to be God's champion!
Gifts of the Spirit
Having just
graduated from high school, Christie had no idea what she would do with
her life. If her mother had anything to do with it, she would become a
genius and solve the ills of the world. But, that was mother!
In reality,
it was known in her class that she was the girl "most likely not to
succeed." But, no one ever took the time to get to know the real Christie;
for deep inside she had attributes that were wonderful, and pure.
Of course,
Christie kept her attributes and ambitions to herself and in truth, wasn't
sure if those feelings would ever come true. Often, she thought her
ambitious dreams were just that–––dreams that floated away, once the dream
was over.
But then one
day something happened and Christie was able to shine like never before.
It was on a cold December day, a day when most people wanted to stay
inside and keep warm. It was on such a day when Christie was walking to
her dental assisting job when she came upon a poor boy, shivering in the
cold. Christie thought he looked about seven. He had on nothing but a
small, light jacket, and shoes that were old and torn.
As she
approached him, he tried hiding his face and then began walking faster,
almost like he was afraid or embarrassed for anyone to see him.
"Hello there,
little boy. How are you this cold December day?"
He didn't
respond but kept walking; this time a little bit faster.
She decided
to let it go; for these days if an adult acted too friendly with a small
child, there could be disastrous consequences.
All day at
work she kept thinking of the boy and how sad and lonely he looked.
After work,
she finished up her chores, said goodbye to everyone, proceeded out the
door and began her 20 minute walk back home.
About 10
minutes into the walk she saw the same boy walking her way. He looked much
sadder than before, so she decided to speak to him once again.
"Hi there,
little one. Take good care, be safe and keep warm!"
He stopped in
his tracks, looked up at her and with tears in his eyes replied, "Thank
you for saying that. No one has ever said such words to me! I will always
remember you; how you looked at me and that you cared, even though you
don't know me."
And with
that, he walked away; his steps much lighter than before.
Years later,
Christie was going to college and working part–time as a teacher's aide,
with middle school students. She loved working with the children and was
hoping that her encouragement and teaching skills were helping the
struggling students.
As she
approached a boy who was new to the class, he suddenly looked up from his
work, recognized that it was the woman he saw that cold December day years
ago and said, "I know you! You're the lady who said hello to me and wished
me well."
He asked her
to come closer, for he wanted to tell her something in private.
"Lady, what
you said to me that day I never forgot. I come from a broken home and that
day my mother left my dad and I thought that there was nothing to live
for. I was even thinking of running away or causing harm to myself and
then I remembered your kind words.......I want you to know that my name is
Jeremy and that I'm doing much better now."
Christie just
smiled and with tears in her eyes said, "Precious Jeremy! My name is
Christie Knowles and you've made me happy, too. I was feeling low that
day, too until I saw your face...You certainly helped me, too!"
So from that
day on, Christie knew that one of her "gifts of the spirit" was
encouragement. As the years went by she learned that by encouraging
others, she too was encouraged! And, the best part of all, she became
closer to Christ.
And, isn't
that what being a Christian is all about?
Fading Memory
"Now where
did I put my keys?" Janice was once again looking for her car keys and
wanted to get going for her doctor's appointment. It was ten–thirty and
she was supposed to be there at ten.
It seemed to
Janice that her memory was not as good as it used to be. She was only
sixty and had always had a sharp, quick mind but something was happening;
she was forgetting way too often. That's why she was seeing the doctor on
a cold, November day.
The keys were
in a desk drawer in the living room; a place where she often put them. She
also kept her keys inside her purse, in the center divider and on a table
next to the front door.
"I've found
you, once again!"
Hurrying to
the front door, she opened and then quickly closed it. Her husband, Jim,
had once again thoughtfully placed her car in front of the house, always
wanting to make things easy for her.
She sighed,
"Thanks, Jim. You are still my Babe!" His thoughtfulness always amazed and
surprised her; for he had been that way almost from the first time she met
him.
"Now to the
doctor's!"
Driving to
the medical building usually took ten minutes but today the traffic was
bad and it took her almost a half hour to get there.
The minute
she opened the door to her doctor's, she heard, "Janice Goodwin?"
She could
hardly catch her breath before replying, "I'm here!
She followed
the nurse in and went through the normal ritual of having her blood
pressure and pulse taken and other sundry questions.
About five
minutes later Dr. Sue Long entered.
"Good
morning, Janice Goodwin! How are "we" today?"
"Pretty good,
I guess. Sorry I'm late..."
"No problem.
Now, let's see how you're doing..."
After going
through the usual routine, Dr. Long put down Janice's folder and said,
"Janice, I don't want to alarm you, but last week's test and what I found
this morning, give me concern."
"What do you
mean, doctor? What have you found?"
"First the
good news. You are in reasonably good physical health–all of your tests
came back good but the bad news is that you appear to be in the first
stages of Alzheimer's. Now, there is no need for alarm yet because there
are some new medications that have recently come out that will help quite
a bit. But, we must get you started immediately on these meds and also I
want you to see a nurse practitioner, who will show you some
exercises–mind exercises–that will also help."
"I appreciate
your honesty and good information, Dr., but I haven't seen anything in my
mind or behavior that suggests Alzemhimer's. I mean I forget once in
awhile, but doesn't everyone?"
"Yes, we all
forget once in awhile but your tests have shown that sometimes you forget
how a normal process goes...." That's one of the signs. Of course, there are
others but that gives us doctors a "red flag." I will make out some
prescriptions for you and I want you to fill them today.."
After the
doctor visit was over, Janice went to her car and began driving home. As
she drove she thought out loud, "I don't have Alzheimer's! She doesn't
know what she's talking about! Surely, she's exaggerating..."
Before going
home, she went to the local convenient store and bought some groceries for
dinner.
She got back
into the car and began driving home. About half way there, she became
confused. Something was wrong. All of a sudden, she didn't know how to get
back home. She pulled over and tried to calm down. She looked around but
everything looked different; out of place.
She
remembered her cell phone and began to dial....What was the number? Wasn't
it 545–5982? No, maybe it was 556–5928?
Surely it was
God who came to the rescue, for her husband was driving down the same
street, saw her, pulled over and gave her help....
It had to be
God intervening because Jim always worked late but that day he felt a kind
of "nudging," a kind of push, to go home and be with his wife.
Memory is a
tricky and precious thing; something to treasure, always!
A Lonely County Road
It was about
four months ago, late March, when I was on the way back from a trip to my
parent's house, when I became stranded on a lonely country road in Ohio.
Being the
oldest, I often make quarterly trips to my parent's home; making sure that
they're alright––that they have what they need. They are in their eighties
and have many medical concerns. They seldom ask for anything but my
conscience pushes me to visit with them and I always feel better after the
trip.
As I was
saying, it was late March and I was on the way home from seeing them, when
I heard a loud popping noise and I just knew that I had a flat tire.
I got out of
the car and looked inside the trunk. I had a spare tire but not the jack.
I sadly remembered that I loaned it to our neighbor the month before and
he didn't return it.
So, I went
back to the car and lifted the hood, hoping that a patrol car would come
by and give me assistance.
I waited and
waited but no one drove by and so, anxiety began to build. I tried called
on my cell to get some road side assistance but the call just wouldn't go
through. About two hours later and older and dilapidated car approached
and as the car drove closer, I could see who was inside.
It looked
like two men in their twenties and I could tell that they had been
drinking. One on the passenger side rolled down his window and asked,
"Need some help, lady? Notice you have a flat tire..."
I replied,
"I'm fine, thanks. My brother will be by very soon. I just called him on
the cell phone." (Was a lie, but I didn't want them to think that I would
be alone much longer.)
It seemed to
work because he replied, "O.K. lady. Take care!"
I don't know
why, but I didn't believe him. I got back inside, locked the doors and
began feverishly dialing again...
This time I
dialed 911. The receptionist answered and took my information. She sounded
groggy and indifferent; wasn't sure if she got the information or what she
would do with it.
I stayed
inside and as I casually looked into my rear view mirror, I saw the same
old car with the two young men slowly approach. They were going very slow,
as if they were a snake, creeping up on me––hoping that I wouldn't notice.
They were
about thirty feet away from me when I saw a car come from the opposite
direction, driving much faster. Soon, I could tell that it was a patrol
car. I can't tell you how relieved I felt! As soon as the older car saw
what was happening, they continued to drive; this time much faster. The
patrol man got out of his car and a few minutes later, I was back on the
road.
It felt
wonderful being back on the road and going home. I was feeling great until
I saw that old, dilapidated car in my rear view mirror. They must have
followed me and now seemed very determined to reconnect with me.
I won't tell
you how this story ended; only that those two are now in jail and will be
for a very long time!
Christian Short Stories with Christian Morals
Sarah's Sad State
Sarah was a
happy girl; in fact, she had been happy most of her life. Why, when she
was born everyone who looked at her, said, "What a happy looking baby!" As
she grew older, many gave her the nickname of "Happy Girl."
When she was
a teenager and going to Valley View High, many of her friends upon seeing
her would cry, "Hey Happy Girl, where are ya going to?" She would just
laugh and reply, "Hey, I'm happy alright, how about you?"
And so, it
was on a cool October day when Sarah found out something that made her
very sad. Her good friend and next–door neighbor, Suzie Cumberland's
family was being transferred to Colorado, taking with her a friendship
that began when they both were only six. What made it even sadder was
Suzie and her family would be leaving a little before Thanksgiving.
It seemed as
the days flew by that Sarah was not only becoming very sad but also
sorrowful. Being an only child was highlighting her sadness; what would
she do when Suzie was gone?
Moving day
for Suzie and her family came fast and Sarah looked from her upstairs
bedroom window and watched the moving brigade. She had never seen so much
expensive furniture in her life. She knew they had nice furniture but she
was always busy talking with Suzie to really take a look at what they had.
"So many chairs and huge beds," she thought. Sure made their stuff look
old and worn out..
As the moving
out dwindled down, Suzie came over to say good–bye. She was crying and
didn't want to leave–especially her good friend, Sarah.
"I don't want
to leave you, Sarah! I mean I want to be with my family because I love
them but I love you, too!" She stood crying, while her pony–tail bobbed in
the wind.
Sarah was
crying too and said, "I know, Suzie. I wish you didn't have to go, too!
But, I know you have to. You'll write won't you?"
"Sure, I'll
write...Will you write me back?"
"You bet I
will..."
Soon, Suzie's
parents came out, made their last checks of the house, asked Suzie to come
in the car and they all left...Suzie in the back waving frantically out the
window...
Sarah felt so
very sad; she thought she would never be "happy" again..
Several days
later, Sarah was looking out her bedroom window at her friend's home and
saw something interesting but quite out of place.
Inside of a
Maple tree standing free and tall in front of Suzie's home, on a bottom
limb she saw what looked like a medium–sized green bottle. It kind of
looked like a soda bottle and she could tell that there was something
inside of it.
She hurried
downstairs, went outside and ran to the tree. She reached high for the
bottle, struggling to reach it with her left hand, while balancing herself
with her right hand. She finally got a hold of it and then pulled it to
her.
The bottle
was tapped with a cork; so she pulled on the cork and out it popped!
Inside was a piece of white paper. She carefully pulled on it and
gradually it came through.
Inside were
written the words, "I will never forget you Sarah. You will always be my
friend and I will write to you whenever I can..."
Those were
the last words she would read from Suzie and she would never know why
until five months later.
You see, five
months later they were all found deep in the Colorado Mountains, dead and
decaying. The police speculated that they were killed for no apparent
reason, except to steal their car.
So, that note
from Suzie was extra special to Sarah and brought no only sadness in
losing her friend but joy that she something left of the friendship.
Suspicion
Elizabeth
loved her sister, Erin but lately a coolness was developing between the
two. When they were younger they had the most fun together–building
snowmen in the winter and riding their bikes and swimming in the spring
and summer. In their late teens, Elizabeth was suspecting that Erin was
taking money from her purse. Money that she earned at a local fast–food
joint. And, that wasn't all; she noticed that some of her jewelry was
missing. And, this was expensive jewelry that was given to her from her
Aunt Julia. Erin had some expensive jewelry, too so there shouldn't be any
need to steal but, Erin was acting different.
It was on a
lovely fall day, about a month after school began when the "incident"
occurred.
It was four
o'clock on a Tuesday and Elizabeth was sleeping. She was in a deep sleep
but woke up when she heard a noise close by. She thought it was just
thunder and turned over but the noise continued. Half asleep and half
awake, she turned around and opened her eyes and saw her sister pilfering
through her top drawer. She had her hands on one of Elizabeth's expensive
rings and was trying it on. She didn't notice that her sister was now
awake and continued with her search.
Seconds
later, Elizabeth cried, "Erin, what are you doing?! Those are my things
and I don't appreciate you going through them!"
"What do you
mean? I'm only going through this because I thought I mislaid my own
jewelry yesterday.
Still groggy,
Elizabeth replied, "You think you mislaid your jewelry in my drawer? That
sounds kind of stupid, Erin! And by the way, take off that ring! That is
mine..."
"So what! I
just didn't want to lose it for you...Here, see, I'm putting it back."
"Thank you!
Now, go back to bed. It's only four in the morning and we've still got two
more hours before we get up. And, don't let me catch you doing that again,
O.K.?"
"Yes, big
sister! Will do as you say..."
Both returned
to their beds and all was quiet until the alarm went off at six that
morning.
At breakfast,
no one spoke. School went as usual for both and at the end of the day,
after dinner, Elizabeth decided to have a talk with Erin.
Upstairs,
Elizabeth broke the ice, "Erin. We need to talk. This incident that
happened this morning, that's not like you. We've always gotten along and
I want you to tell me why you did this!"
Erin dropped
her eyes to the floor and said, "I'm sorry. I don't know why I did that.
It was so wrong of me. I guess I'm jealous of you, Elizabeth. You have it
all–brains, beauty–all the guys at school that you want...I don't seem to be
going anywhere."
Elizabeth
looked sad because she loved her sister and noticed for some time that
Erin didn't have an interest in her studies or her appearance. So she
replied, "Erin, I don't have it all. Yes, I do well with my studies but
only because I study hard. And as far as my looks, I'm no prettier than
you but I take care of myself–try to wear clothes that make me look good
and fix my hair. Believe me, I don't have many boyfriends and I've seen
many of them looking at you! So, sister dear, you have more than you think
and could have even more, if only you work a little harder. I love you and
let's work this out!"
Erin said
very little, walked toward her sister, hugged her and said, "Love you
Lizabeth. Thank you for your wise words."
Who would
have guessed that years later they would become the best of friends–each
with a good life, knowing that they could count on each other for advice
and love.
Soul
Jerry had
been living "high on the hog," for a long time and it seemed that there
was no end to his desire for the pleasures of life. Thirty–five years old,
married and the father of two little boys and a good provider, he felt
that he was doing everything right. Yes, time and money were on his side.
But, what
most people didn't know about Jerry, including his wife, was that he was
having an affair with a married woman and working some underhanded
business deals–both of which, unfortunately would come to a sad end.
Most of all,
the really sad thing about all of this, was that Jerry had no clue of what
was coming down the road.
He had plans
to meet with Mary, his lover, tomorrow evening and the day after, a
business deal appointment that would, he hoped, make him a very wealthy
man.
The day to
meet his lover started off as usual, breakfast with the family, then some
quality work at his firm until six and then the ride to Emeldo's, the
restaurant on the west side of town where he would meet and dine with
Mary.
It was on the
ride to Emeldo's–that's when everything changed. The drive began calm and
routine but soon he noticed that someone was following him and way too
close. He sped up, hoping that he could leave the somewhat obnoxious and
"pushy" driver behind but found that that only made the driver even more
hostile.
Soon, the
driver behind got close enough to jab his back bumper. Seconds later, he
did it again...
The third
time he slammed into Jerry's bumper was forceful enough to shove Jerry
into a deep ditch; his head hitting the dashboard and soon blood began
flying everywhere.
Then, with
blurry eyes he looked up and out the car window and saw a refection of
himself looking back at him with a look of great sadness and doom. There
were two angels on each side of his reflection but there was no radiance
or goodness in either of them. Right then, Jerry knew that it was too
late. His soul was on its way to darkness. He had waited too long.
The driver
who pushed Jerry into the ditch laughed all the way home. Now, Mary was
all his!
Thanks Sweetie!
I was in a
local grocery store the other day and was paying for my groceries when the
cashier replied in a surly tone, "Thanks and have a nice day, Honey!" It
irked me but I tried to push it out of my mind.
I'm sixty
years old and those callous remarks made me feel much older. I'm not a
vengeful person but I decided to try something, should that kind of
incident happen again.
It was a week
later and I was at the same grocery store and dealing with the same woman
I had before. As she packed up the last item, she smiled and once again
said, "Have a nice day, Honey!" She smirked the same smirk as before but
this time I was ready...
I replied,
"Thank you. Hope you have a nice day, too, Precious!" I was not surly but
I smiled a very broad smile.
It was the
look on her face that made my day! She looked stunned, embarrassed and a
bit perturbed.
But, do you
know what? I've been back to that store and have gone out her aisle
several times and she has never once called me "Honey" again!
And, I don't
think our dear Lord would mind you or me replying in this manner because
He, too, had moments when He was bold and upfront. Remember how he acted
with the moneychangers in front of the temple?
As Christians
we don't always have to take rude or negative behavior. We can respond in
an intelligent way, without being violent or obnoxious. Sometimes humor
can diffuse or change behavior and that, my friend, is a good thing!
The Church's One Foundation
Sheila stood
hunched over, singing listlessly to the song, "The Church's One Foundation
is Jesus Christ Our Lord." She couldn't hold back the tears because her
husband, Ted, died six months ago from leukemia and beautiful memories of
their relationship were flooding her brain.
Church ended
and she began her one mile walk home. In her mind, the song began playing
once again. "What was it about the song that got to her so?" As she
continued her walk, the lyrics played once again....
"The church's
one foundation is Jesus Christ her Lord.
She is his
new creation; by water and the Word.
From Heaven
He came and sought her to be His holy bride,
And with His
blood He bought her
And for her
life He died.."
"His blood He
bought her..." Yes, it was those five words that stirred her soul and
brought on those tears. That's what Ted died from, cancer of the blood.
And right before their fortieth anniversary! She just couldn't get over
the fact that God took him before he had a chance to enjoy retirement and
their anniversary.
Ted worked
for twenty years at First National and was just beginning to enjoy
retirement; but four months into retirement, he got the awful news of
cancer during a routine checkup. Childless, they were closer than most
married couples and with him gone, she had no idea how to live.
St. Anthony's
was always a place of peace and respite from the world but now it had
become a bittersweet memory of all the times they worshiped together.
Then she
began thinking of Ted and what his last words were to her, "Honey, I want
you to go on and be happy and if you find someone to love and be loved, go
for it! I don't want you ‵mooning' over me when I'm gone. I'll be in
Heaven getting things ready for you and I've already made a request to God
that we be together with whatever projects He wants us to do...So, be happy,
and know that I will be, too."
Those words
haunted her but they were beginning to give her some comfort, for she knew
he was in Heaven and with his persuasive ways, had already set up a nice
place for both of them.
All through
the following week the song took on new meaning and she began singing it
with a lighter heart...
The next
Sunday she sat down in the same pew she and Ted always sat in and waited
for the sermon to begin. A few minutes later she decided to knell down and
give her Sunday morning prayer. She prayed, "Dear Lord I miss and love Ted
so much but I just know that he's in your loving arms, happy and making a
place for me. Take good care of him and please Lord help me to
start living again; for I know that you and Ted want that for me. Thank
you and praise you! Amen."
The service
began and soon Father Flanders was giving his sermon. About half way
through a man walked in, saw that a space was empty next to her and
whispered, "Would you mind if I sit here?"
At first she
was stunned at his presence because she was thinking of Ted and how she
missed him but replied, "I guess so...Sure, that's fine."
After the
service, she saw him again outside the church, standing by himself,
looking lost and alone. She decided to approach him...
"Good
morning, I'm Sheila Cunningham. I've never seen you before; may I ask your
name?"
He replied,
"No problem. I'm Ted Burnstein and I'm new to this area. My wife just
died from cancer two months ago and I wanted to be in church to pray. Nice
to meet you..."
The Family Home
Sandra and
Bill finally had the home of their dreams. It had taken them fifteen years
to save enough money to buy the home but today was move–in day and they
were joyful! Their very own home and a day they would never forget.
It seemed so
long ago the memories of where they used to live–a Children's Home on the
east side of town. They were so young then–Sandra ten and Bill, only
eight. Both had been abandoned by their parents and at that time, was the
only place that would take them in.
It was the
early 70s and many in America were in turmoil over high gas prices, the
war in Viet Nam and what was then considered, high food prices. The
divorce rate was high and living together was becoming more acceptable.
Foster's Children's Home was one of the very few places where a child like
Sandra and Bill could live, except of course, for the many foster care
programs springing up almost everywhere.
It wasn't
long after Sandra and Bill met, when they became fast friends and were
seldom lonely like so many others at the Home. As they aged, they became
close and found that they had a lot in common. Both enjoyed collecting
rocks and kept a diary of daily events. After high school they married and
worked hard so that one day they would have a home of their own, a home of
privacy and beauty.
That day had
finally come and the three–bedroom, two baths, with many accessories had
become a wonderful reality for two who had so little in their young lives,
with longings that festered in the quiet of their souls.
As Sandra
viewed the home now filled with many boxes and furniture, she was in awe
with how much room they had. With their children Millie and Tod now grown
and out in the world, it would be a home just for the two of them.
As she gazed
into the kitchen, filled with modern appliances and everything gleaming,
she recalled an incident that occurred many years ago in the kitchen of
the Children's Home. She happened one day to walk into that old,
decapitated kitchen in the middle of the day and saw the cook preparing
the day's dinner.
She asked for
a snack and the cook, a middle–aged woman named Connie replied, "Now
Sandy, we just had lunch. You couldn't possibly be hungry now! I'm busy
preparing for dinner and I just don't have time to fix you anything and
besides, John Crawmer, the man who runs this place absolutely forbids me
from doing anything like that! Now, go skedaddle!"
Sandra must
have looked so very sad and hungry that shortly after Connie spoke those
words she whispered, "Look, I'm going to do something I shouldn't do and I
might get in trouble if I'm caught but I've been where you're at now and
I'll make this one exception. Go to the frig and bring out the cheese.
It's wrapped in aluminum on the second shelf. I'll slice you a piece."
Sandra
brought out the cheese and Connie went to one of the kitchen's drawers and
brought out a clean, sharp knife. Carefully, she cut a nice–sized piece
for the hungry girl.
She handed
her the cheese and Sandra stepped back a few steps, stood at the end of
the long table and with deep appreciation showing in her blue eyes, smiled
and said, "Thank you, Connie!"
Years later
after leaving the Home, Sandra heard similar tales from others about
Connie, the cook. She never forgot the woman's kindness and as she looked
one again at her new kitchen, she knew that whoever came to this kitchen
would never leave hungry or leave without knowing the story of Connie, the
lovely and caring cook of The Home.
A Day in the Country...
A week off!
After almost two years of steady work, helping out my parents and making
sure that Jimmy, my five year old son was healthy and well, I finally got
my boss to give me a whole week's vacation!
I love
working as a computer analyst at Corp International, but enough is enough
and besides, the weather was wonderful and I wanted to take Jimmy to a
beautiful park, just five miles away from where we live.
After getting
some work done inside our home, I grabbed our cooler with some delicious
sandwiches inside, made sure Jimmy was ready and then we were off!
As we pulled
out of the drive way we saw our neighbor, James Whitfield, an elderly
man who lived by himself in the neighborhood, and a very fast chipmunk
making its way toward Mr. Whitfield's huge elm tree. Both Mr.
Whitfield and the chipmunk looked like they were on a mission–a
mission to enjoy the day.
We continued
our drive and soon found ourselves at the park. There were many cars and
people there and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves–laughing and
relaxing.
The
sandbox was empty, except for a little girl, who seemed to be having
a wonderful time, filling up her pail with sand and making small mounds
out of the sand and laughing each time she made one.
Jimmy almost
ran to the sandbox and behind him, I quickly followed.
It was a
glorious day and everyone seemed so happy. I sat close by as Jimmy played
with the sand and I noticed that he and the little girl quickly began
making small mounds of sand and laughing all the way...
About an hour
later an older boy arrived with his father and from the very beginning, I
could tell he was going to be a problem. He walked over to Jimmy and the
little girl, pointed at them and began laughing. It wasn't a friendly
laugh, but a sarcastic and rude laugh.
The strange
and mean acting little boy's father left, once he saw that someone
older–me–was there.
The boy
continued to be rude and was began pushing Jimmy and the little girl.
Well, I
wasn't about to stand for that, so I thought of what to do. I'm not
normally a vengeful person, so I asked politely at first, "Please stop
that! You could hurt them!
He looked at
me, smiled sarcastically and began pushing the two children again.
I remembered
that I had a rubber band inside my purse, so I took it out and
positioned it like I used to when I was in elementary school, pulled back
part of t he rubber band, aimed it at the boy's lower left leg and fired!
He yelled,
looked around, trying to find out who did it, but could see no one. I, of
course, was standing close by and looking totally innocent and said,
"Problem? Is there a problem?
He began to
cry and yelled, "Daddy! Daddy! Someone hit me!
That was the
last I saw of the little tyke and once again Jimmy and the little girl had
peace and resumed their beautiful piles of sand.....
Short stories with Biblical Morals
All rights reserved to: Copyrighted 2008 to Toni Star
Note: All writings in this book were published in
Faithwriter's except for the last three.
All rights are now reverted to the writer, Toni Star
Copyright © 2000-2023 All Rights Reserved.
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