The Perfect Gift

The Perfect Gift

By

Tina Boltinghouse

The character and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

Copyright 2013 by Tina Boltinghouse

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without express written permission of the author.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Reader’s Version®, NIrV® Copyright © 1995, 1996, 1998 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The NIrV and New International Reader’s Version are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc. TM

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The Piano (A Christmas Novella)

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Acknowledgements

Publishing a book reminds me of having a baby. There are a lot of people involved in making it happen and a lot of work that goes into the process. I would like to thank some of those individuals here.

First I would like to thank my editor-in-chief, publisher and best friend, my husband Steve for putting up with me throughout this process. He gave me encouragement when I need-ed it, a swift kick when I needed that and was there for me every step of the way. I couldn't have done this without you.

A big thank you goes out to my daughter-in-law Lyndsay for the awesome work she did on the cover. She took my vision and ran with it and it came out much better than I ever imagined.

I would like to thank my sons Chris and Scott for their Is it done yet? and their Why not? when I would have to tell them no. Your faith in me was exactly what I needed.

Thanks also go out to my mother and my sister DeEtta for reading my early efforts and encouraging me to finish it. Your love, support and praise has been greatly appreciated.

Thanks also go out to my two writing groups who listened and critiqued and offered suggestions to my early drafts. This story is better than it could have been because of you.

I would also like to thank my beta readers, Judy, Nerys, and Becky. Your critiques and encouragement were a big help. You let me know I had a story worth telling.

And finally I would like to thank God the Father. I am so humbled that you chose me to tell this story.

To my sister DeEtta

Thank you for believing in me.

Table of Contents

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 15

CHAPTER 16

CHAPTER 17

CHAPTER 18

CHAPTER 19

EPILOGUE

Afterward

Angelology 101

For Further Reading

A Final Word

About the Author

CHAPTER 1

Then you will call upon me and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart"

Jeremiah 29:12-13

Pastor David Jacobs closed his Bible with an audible thud. That concludes tonight’s service. Don’t forget our special Christmas Eve service on Wednesday. May God bless you and keep you in His care. David gestured to his assistant pastor, Simon Benjamin, to give the closing prayer. As Simon started to pray, David slipped through the door behind the pulpit and heaved a sigh of relief. Fifteen minutes of shaking hands and small talk and he was through until Wednesday night. The Christmas Eve service hadn’t changed in over thirty years, so David had absolutely no preparation work for almost a full week. If he used a couple of the hundreds of sermons he already had prepared for next Sunday’s message, he would have almost two whole weeks before he had to face that empty feeling he got every time he opened his Bible lately. He quickly made his way around to the doors so he could pass out the obligatory God Bless You and Merry Christmas to his congregation as they left.

Fifteen minutes later David joined Carl Rogers, his head deacon and best friend, at the desk outside of David’s office. What were the numbers, Carl? David asked, shedding his sport coat and loosening his tie.

Seventy-four in Sunday School, two hundred twenty-three in morning service, and one hundred fifty-four tonight, Carl told him concentrating on his calculator.

And..? David fished, bending over Carl’s shoulder at the calculator.

$427.15. Carl raised his head. Sorry, boss.

Well, at least it will cover the bills, almost. David’s tie now joined his coat on the copy machine behind him.

It’s been a tough year, Carl apologized. With Tri-State Aluminum closing and all, a lot of people are out of work.

I know, David sighed. It’s just that Abby has her heart set on this new My Baby Perfect doll this year. You know the one; it comes complete with an adoption certificate

My Rebecca has that on her list as well, Carl nodded. Brenda’s mother picked one up for her last month. Dorothy and Jake will be here Christmas Eve.

It will be good to see them again, David said. Abby has been so good about all of the tests and doctor’s visits. We really wanted to make Christmas special this year since… David’s voice trailed off.

What do the doctor’s say? Carl asked.

David pounded his fist on the desk in frustration. They can tell us what it isn’t. They just can’t tell us what it is. You would think after six months, they would have some idea.

Carl rose from the desk and patted David's shoulder. I'm sure they'll have an answer for you soon. Brenda and I keep you and your family in prayer daily. He tucked the blue-green deposit bag under his left arm. Want me to lock up?

David shook his head. Ruth and Abby won’t be back until sometime tomorrow, so I think I’ll just sleep here tonight. Can’t stand the thought of going home to an empty house. David plopped down in the chair Carl had just vacated. He put his head in his hands. Maybe I should just pack it in.

Carl's eyebrows shot up in alarm. You aren’t seriously thinking of quitting are you?! David nodded slowly.

Why don’t you join Brenda and me in a late supper. We can talk more about this, then. Rebecca and Stephen are spending the night with friends, so it will just be the three of us, like old times Carl grinned, his blue-gray eyes twinkling. David smiled, recalling the many meals the three of them had shared back in their college days before he had fallen head over heels in love with the shy, young Bible student from Louisiana who sat behind him in Old Testament History. Their threesome had quickly become a foursome then and the group still tried to get together every few weeks for a night out.

David shook his head. Not tonight, Carl. Ruth is supposed to call after the doctor makes his rounds.

Call us if there’s any news, Carl replied. I’ll turn the lights off in the sanctuary then and leave you to lock up. David rose to his feet and followed his friend out of the office.

I’ll check the bathrooms and escort you out, David called. The two men made short work of their duties, and then met at the door.

Remember what you tell us almost every week, Carl started. David cocked his head and raised his eyebrows.

God won’t give us…

Anything more than we can handle. David finished, smiling.

With His help Carl added.

Glad to hear you’re paying attention in services. David told him.

Maybe you should listen to your own messages, Carl grinned, patting David on the shoulder once more. See you Christmas Eve! David chuckled and locked the door behind him.

*****

Carl slid behind the wheel of the apple green Cavalier and backed it out of his reserved spot near the church’s handicap entrance. Is David joining us? Brenda asked. Carl shook his head and exited the gravel parking lot, avoiding most of the major potholes. A look of concern came across Brenda's face. What's wrong?

Carl took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. David is talking about stepping down.

Brenda recoiled in horror. Give up the pulpit! You've got to be kidding!

Carl made his way down Cypress and turned onto Oak Street and pointed the car toward the yellow ranch-style house he called home at the end of the block. Carl shook his head. He's frustrated. The doctors still don't know what's wrong with Abby. Her hospital bills have to be high. Money is tight. He pulled into the driveway and turned off the car. He wanted to buy one of those new dolls that are all the rage this year for Abby, like the one your parents bought for Becca, but there isn't enough money. With the plant closing, the church is lucky to be able to pay the bills. There’s no money for extras. Carl sighed. I wish we could help.

Brenda gathered up their Bibles and made her way to the front door. We can pray.

Carl nodded in agreement as he unlocked the door.

Carl put away their coats and Bibles while Brenda busied herself in the kitchen fixing their evening hot cocoa. She joined her husband on their green and gold plaid sofa and handed him the warm mug. David loves his job. I can't imagine him giving it up willingly.

Carl took a sip of his hot chocolate. Neither can I

Brenda leaned back on the sofa and closed her eyes. Ruth loves being a pastor's wife. She opened her eyes and looked at her husband. Has he told Ruth yet?

Carl shook his head and sat his mug on the coffee table. I don't think so. I don't think he's made up his mind yet. He leaned back and sighed. I can’t believe the doctors still don't know what's wrong with Abby. It's been six months.

Brenda rubbed her hand across Carl's shoulders. It has to be frustrating, the not knowing. Do you think we could at least--, Carl stopped her.

We couldn't afford the doll Becca wanted, remember. That’s why your parents bought it for her. Since the city cut your job at the library, our budget is stretched to the limit. He leaned forward and took Brenda's hand in his. At least we can pray. Brenda nodded, leaned forward and bowed her head. Carl cleared his throat.

Father we come to You tonight with heavy hearts. Our friend and pastor is hurting. Abby is sick, and the doctors don't know what is wrong. But You as the Great Physician do. Guide the doctors and comfort our friends in this time of need. Be with Ruth and Abby while they wait for the answers. And renew our pastor’s spirit. In Jesus name--

Brenda interrupted. And please bring Abby the baby doll she wants for Christmas.

Carl patted her hand and smiled. In Jesus name. Amen.

*****

David returned to his office, still smiling over Carl’s parting comments. It wasn’t fair; using his own words against him. Carl was right though. With all that had happened lately, David’s prayer life had really diminished. The obligatory prayers in church, a hurried prayer at meals when he remembered and the pleas for his wife and daughter were about the extent of it. When was the last time he had had a real heart-to-heart with the Almighty? Maybe it was time. David knelt next to the small Army cot he used in his office for the occasional nap and more frequently for overnight stays while Abby and Ruth shuffled from one doctor to another. Father in Heaven, it’s me, David Jacobs. He began. I’m at the end of my rope. My daughter is ill and You don’t seem to be anywhere around. How could You let this happen to someone who loves You as much as my Abby does? Where are You? I try to pray and nothing happens. I try to preach and more of the same. I feel so empty. Here it is the season we celebrate Your Son’s birth and I’m miserable. You've promised us that You won’t give us any more than we can handle with Your help. Well I can’t handle this and You don’t seem to be anywhere around. Just let me know that You still care. David waited for that still, small voice, which he had followed for so many years. Nothing. Only the hollow, empty feeling with which he was becoming increasingly familiar. After a hurried In Jesus’ name, Amen he stood to his feet. So be it then. If God had turned His back on David Jacobs, then maybe it was time he went back to what he did best, selling cars. He would turn the church over to his assistant pastor. He gathered up his toothbrush, towel and the extra pair of pajamas he had been keeping in his office for the last couple of months and headed for the shower.

He had just stepped out of the shower when his cell phone rang. Hello?

David, it’s Ruth, where are you?

I’m still at the church David replied. I decided to sleep here tonight. The bed is too big without you in it. He heard Ruth chuckle on the other end.

You just don’t want to have to make it. The doctor was in earlier. He wants to run a few more tests so we’ll be staying a little longer. David muttered under his breath. What did you say? asked his wife.

Nothing. Will you be home for Christmas?

Ruth assured him that they would try. The doctor promised we could at least spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at home unless something changes.

David finished toweling his hair I’ll see you Christmas Eve, then. He chose his next words carefully. How would you feel about me giving up the church? David braced himself for what he was sure would be her answer. Silence. Honey, did you hear me?

I heard you, Ruth replied. Have you prayed about this David?

That’s just it. I have prayed and God seems to have abandoned me. I no longer feel like I am an effective minister. Maybe it’s time someone else steps in. David hung his damp towel on the shower rod and waited for his wife’s reply.

Ruth was silent for a moment, letting David’s shocking words sink in. I’ll go wherever you want me to go and do whatever you want me to do, Ruth finally replied. Just don’t make any rash decisions. Wait until the first of the year.

David gathered up his clothes and turned off the bathroom light I don’t think it will make any difference, but I’ll put off a final decision until after the holidays. They chatted a few minutes more, then David signed off with, Give Abby a hug and kiss from her daddy. I love you, sweetheart.

I love you, too Ruth replied. I’ll call tomorrow.

*****

Ruth planted a kiss on her daughter's forehead pushing aside the thin wisps of her strawberry blonde hair.

That's from your daddy. He said to tell you goodnight and that he loves you. Ruth tucked the bleached white sheets and blankets around her daughter's thin frame. She lifted the silver bed rails and locked them in place.

Is daddy coming tomorrow? Abby asked. Ruth shook her head. Can we go home then? Ruth shook her head once more.

I told you the doctor said we might be able to go home Christmas eve. Abby's lime green eyes filled with tears.

Then why can't daddy come here? Ruth placed the pink bunny her daughter had slept with since she was two years old next to her in the bed.

Daddy has to work. He has people to visit in the hospital. And he has to get the house ready for when we come home.

Abbey gave her bunny a hug. I miss him. Ruth tucked the bunny under the covers.

And he misses you. Ready for prayers?

Abby nodded and folded her tiny hands and bowed her head. God, this is Abby. Please bless my daddy and my mommy. Bless my friend Becca. Help the doctors find out what is wrong with me so I can go home. And God, can you please tell Santa to bring me a My Baby Perfect for Christmas? Amen.

Ruth grinned at her daughter’s childish request and echoed her Amen. She turned off the lights at the head of Abby's bed, leaned over and kissed her daughter's forehead once more. Goodnight, sweetheart. I love you.

Abby snuggled under the covers, holding tight to her threadbare rabbit. I love you, too, Mommy. ‘Night.

Ruth padded over to the recliner that had served as her bed too often in the last six months. Abby wasn’t the only one who missed David. Ruth thought back to the conversation they had shared on the phone earlier. Give up the ministry! She couldn't even fathom it. David had made a good living selling cars. He had been Ed Winters' top salesman three years in a row. But that was before. Before David had finally surrendered to what God had called him to do when he was young. Recently, Ruth had seen a change in David. He was more despondent and depressed. She didn't blame him really. She was frustrated as well. Ruth patted the blankets into place and reached for the pillow at the foot of Abby’s bed. If only the doctors could tell them what was wrong. But nobody seemed to know. Ruth lowered herself into the chair and leaned it back as far as it would go. She knew giving up the ministry wasn't the answer. But David needed to come to that decision on his own, without any help from her. Her job was to follow him. And pray. Ruth slipped to her knees beside the chair and bowed her head.

"Father. Thank You for Your continued guidance and comfort. My husband is frustrated tonight Lord, and so am I. He’s talking about quitting. I know that's not what You want. And I know it's not what David wants either, not really. Send someone to help him, Lord. Yet not my will, but Yours. Amen. Ruth crawled back into her chair and punched on her pillow. She had done what she could. It was in God's hands now.

*****

I'm here, Ariel. What's up? Gabriel said it was urgent, a tall figure dressed in white wearing a blue sash trimmed in gold said to the shorter companion at his side.

Ariel looked up from the white electronic notepad she was carrying. She was similarly dressed but her blue sash was trimmed in silver and a purple cord circled her neckline. We just received a request for intervention, priority one. You need to leave immediately, she told Michel.

Who's the recipient? Michel asked.

David Jacobs of White Oaks, Missouri. He's the pastor of--.

I know him! Michel exclaimed. His daughter, Abby, is one of my charges.

Which is why you were chosen. Pay attention. Time is of the essence. A chagrined look crossed Michel's face. David is considering giving up the ministry. Although that is not the Father's plan for his life, David will be given a choice.

Where do I come in?

You will remind him of the beginning and show him he is not as ineffective as he believes.

And the message?

Your work in this church is not yet finished. Michel prepared to leave.

Who placed the call?

Ariel smiled. That's the beauty of it. There were actually three calls made. The first from his friend, Carl for strength, comfort, and a renewed spirit, the second from his wife, Ruth, for wisdom, and the third from David himself. Michel raised his eyebrows. Ariel chuckled. David asked for God to show him that He still cared.

Michel chortled. This is going to be fun!

*****

You bellowed, Lucas? A skinny young creature dressed in black leather strode in next to another figure dressed in black and red. The second creature was seated at a small black desk bent over a black and red electronic clipboard. Lucas glared up at his arrogant young companion.

Careful, Darius. Remember what happened the last time.

Darius grimaced and rubbed in his ear. What's the problem?

Lucas rose to his feet and laid the clipboard on the desk in front of him. An opportunity has arisen, one of the Chosen.

Darius rubbed his hands in glee. My specialty. Who is it?

David Jacobs of Living Hope Community Church in--.

Darius spat on the floor.Him! He was responsible for my last demotion!

Lucas reached up to swat Darius as Darius stepped back out of reach. You were responsible for that demotion! If you hadn’t been so arrogant, and sloppy—

Darius stopped him. I would love a second chance at him. What's the assignment?

David is considering giving up the ministry. Your job is to see to it that he turns over his pulpit to his assistant pastor as soon as possible.

Piece of cake. Darius preened, polishing his six-inch nails on his jacket. Lucas shoved one his ten inch nails in Darius’s face.

Don’t get cocky! He has assigned Michel to the case. Darius shuddered momentarily.

That one. A challenge, but I’ll handle him, this time. Where do you want me to start?

Lucas smiled. I have the perfect place—

*****

David deposited his phone on his hand carved oak desk and dropped his clothes in the nearly full clothes basket in the corner. Sometime tomorrow he would have to make time to do some laundry. He double checked the doors once more, and made his way into the sanctuary. He clicked on the light and chuckled. Six-year-old Travis Riley had left his stuffed monkey behind in the pew--again. He picked it up and placed it on the table by the door reserved for forgotten items. The Rileys would be there Wednesday night for the Christmas Eve service. As he reached up and turned off the light, he noticed the soft glow on the cross behind his pulpit. He