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Chapter 1
For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and
sinneth not.
Ecclesiastes 7:20

A rising pastor has fallen. Pastor Kirby Rollins of Ninth

Street Baptist Church has been placed in police
custody for allegedly having sex with a minor and for
embezzling funds from the church to use as hush
money. Please stay with us for further updates.
Jonathan, Monica, and their parents listened to the
disheartening report of the rise and fall of Kirby Rollins, senior pastor
of Ninth Street Baptist Church where Jonathan served as associate
pastor. I just cannot believe it, Jonathan thought over and over
shaking his head as he pondered the fate and possible demise of the
growing ministry the Lord had been using his old college friend to
build. After talking things over with Pastor Richardson, his father, and
Brother Montague, he had Monica to try to reach Kristy Rollins on her
cell phone. There was still no answer. They finally got in touch with
Carmen, the churchs secretary, after several attempts.

I tell you, Brother Jonathan, I started not to answer. The

church members have been calling the church phone and my cell
phone all evening long. I had no idea so many people knew my cell
number. Some people I did not even recognize by name. It got so
bad I started telling them not to call me on my cell to discuss church
business, Carmen said. I had planned on spending a quiet evening
at the church after services to get caught up on some work, but the

constantly ringing phone just drove me home.

Jonathan chuckled. It was hard for him to picture Carmen being
abrupt with anyone. She was normally as sweet as could be.

You just hang in there, Jonathan said. My wife and I will be

cutting our Thanksgiving vacation short. If nothing happens I should
be in the office early tomorrow.

Are you sure you want to return? Carmen said with a

chuckle. The local TV station and someone from the newspaper
office are waiting in the church parking lot. At least they were when I
was leaving.

Exactly what happened, Carmen? Jonathan asked. I hope

you didnt tell anyone about the confrontation between Kirby and
Cam.

Oh, no, Brother Jonathan. My lips have been sealed. I have

not said a word to anyone.

I didnt think you did, Jonathan said. Did the police arrest
him at the church? How did it all go down?

Pastor Kirby called me around ten on last night and said hed
be in the pulpit this morning. He told me to meet him there by sixthirty to put together a new worship service program. I showed up
and waited for over two hours. About twenty minutes till eleven,
Deacon Travis told me that he would be delivering the message and
not Pastor Kirby, Carmen said. He told me Pastor Kirby called him
around four in the morning informing him that he had been arrested
and asked him to fill in for him.

Do you have any idea how the news media found out about
his arrest? Its all across the nation by now, Jonathan said. I saw it
on TV down here. You dont think Deacon Travis said anything, do

you?

Oh, no, he would never do that, Carmen assured him.

Pastor Kirby is like a son to him. My guess is someone from the
police department leaked the information, or whoever knows about
his relations with the under-aged girl got tired of keeping quiet and
decided to tell it all for whatever reason.

Okay, Carmen. Thanks for everything. Well talk more when I

get there. Go ahead and turn your phone off and get some rest. By
the way, have you heard from Kristy?

I have not heard from her, Carmen said.

Jonathan called Deacon Travis after saying goodbye to
Carmen. Deacon Travis was in his late sixties, and had seen the
Ninth Street Baptist Church grow from the ground up. His brown eyes
shone with godly wisdom, and whenever he looked at someone it
was as though he was looking into the depth of their soul. Pastor
Kirby often called on him for advice and Jonathan knew how valuable
he was to the ministry. Even though he was about twenty years older
than Jonathan and Kirby, he showed them the utmost respect
whenever he interacted with them.

Yes, Brother Jonathan. I dont know how Pastor Kirbys arrest

leaked out to the media. I drove by the church this evening about two
hours after worship services and saw TV-One parked by the church
office. I guess they thought we were having evening services.
Anyway, when I pulled into the parking lot, they were trying to get info
out of Carmen. I overheard Carmen telling them if they did not leave
her alone, shed be calling the police and suing them for harassment.
I stepped in and told them to leave her alone. The cameraman kept
filming away. Dont be surprised if you see that on the news.

The media will stop at nothing to get some negative news,

Jonathan sighed.

You got that right. Anyway, Pastor Kirby called me around four
this morning saying the police came to his house, arrested him, and
charged him with having sex with a minor. He asked me to fill in for
him, Deacon Travis said. Now you know I dont believe that. Hes
got a lovely wife. Why would he start fooling around with some child
and risk ruining his reputation? Anyway, Ill be going down there early
in the morning to pay his bond.
Jonathan remained silent before asking, Did he say anything
about his wife?

No, he sure didnt. Ill get my wife to call over at the house and
tell her well be getting him out Hold on, Brother Jonathan
another update on the news.

I knew it, Deacon Travis said when he returned to the phone.

Theres a picture of me and Carmen in the church parking lot with
the news reporter, Jessica Simmons. She was telling the listeners
that they have received no further updates but was wondering why
Carmen would threaten to call the police or sue them if the allegation
leading to Pastor Kirbys arrest was not true. She ended with, We
aim to get to the bottom of this because its terrible to hear about
whats happening at this church. How ironic.

Chapter 2
Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though
your sins be as scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though
they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Isaiah 1:18

It was almost eleven when Jonathan and Monica pulled out of

the Montagues driveway to head back to Oklahoma. They prayed
several times in the six hours it took to reach their destination.

I dont know whats going to meet us once we get to the

church in the morning, so be prepared for anything, Jonathan told
Monica.

________________
After Fridays incident with Cam and Kirby in Kirbys office,
Jonathan had encouraged Kirby to go home and tell Kristy everything
that had ever taken place between him and Sandy.

Or any other woman, Jonathan said looking him in the eyes.

Is she the only one?
Kirby nodded. His face winced as the pain vibrated through his
head. Leaning his head against the back of his chair he closed his
eyes.

Are you sure? Jonathan asked.

Kirby shifted the ice pack down to his cheek.

Kirby, Ill stand with you as long as you come clean and
confess not just to your wife, but to the entire church. Youve kept this
a secret for too long; you have got to come clean before the entire

church. If I were you, Id do it before Cam blows it all up. And believe
me I do not put that past him. I saw a desire for revenge in his eyes.
After about an hour they parted ways. Kirby drove home slowly
with much trepidation. Kristy greeted him at the door as he fumbled
with the lock.

What happened to you? she asked reaching out to help him

into the house.

Put the kids in their room then meet me in the bedroom, Kirby
said trudging past her.
By the time Kristy got to the bedroom Kirby was reclining on
the bed with his legs crossed at the ankles. His eyes were closed. An
open aspirin bottle lay next to him. Kristy offered him the glass of
apple juice she brought up for him.

Thanks. Just set it on the table.

Without opening his eyes he continued speaking slowly and
deliberately.

Your speculations about me and another woman are true.

Whoever left the message on the answering machine about Sandy
was telling the truth. I have had an on-going relationship with Sandy
for over a year now. I did see her the weekend of the ladies
conference. Anyway, we got involved with each other more than a
year ago, and she gave birth to a baby boy, my son, Solomon. Only
Cam knows about it. Thats the reason Cam took his family and left
the church.

Wait a minute, Kristy said. I do not understand the words got

involved with each other. I understand had sex with each other
better. Is that what you are trying to tell me?
Kirby nodded.

I see, Kristy said bitterly.

Let me finish, Kirby said with his eyes still closed. I have
been paying Cam to keep quiet. As far as I know, Mitzie knows
nothing about it.

Where have you been getting the money from to pay Cam? I
have not noticed a dip in our bank account.
Kirby pursed his lips together. I have asked the deacons in
private for more money to be placed in our special projects fund
under the pretense that since our ministries are growing, we need
more funds. They also gave me a raise, which I never told you about

Whwhat?
and I also opened up a separate bank account which the
extra money from the raise goes into by direct deposit so you would
know nothing about it.

I see. Now how does that explain that mess on your face? I
mean, who did this to you?

Cam. He had told me to leave Sandy alonenever to come

near her at all and that if I did, I would pay severely. I thought the
money would keep him quiet, so I kept on seeing Sandy. Last
Christmas when I told you I had a meeting in Texas, I did not have a
meeting; I spent a couple days with Sandy. Anyway, Cam found out I
was still seeing Sandy and he paid me a visit

Seems like he paid you more than a visit, Kristy smirked.

Kristy stared at him for a full minute. How could you, Kirby? What is
it in our marriage that is so bad you could not keep our bed
undefiled? Open your eyes and look at me, Kirby.
When Kirby opened his eyes, Kristy was standing over him.

Her arms were folded across her chest.

Why couldnt you have just stayed in your own bed, Kirby?
Kristy asked. As distasteful as this marriage has been over the past
few years, I have not hopped into someone elses bed. So why could
you not do the same?
The corner of Kirbys mouth twitched.

I knew something was going on. I could not say with who. The
sad thing about this is I dont believe Sandy instigated it; I believe you
initiated this whole mess. Now look at your face. Wheres your
dignity? Wheres your self-esteem? What kind of man of God are
you?
Kristy let out a dry chuckle.

What makes this whole thing worse is how you get in the
pulpit and preach against adultery, preach against husbands and
wives not getting along, preach on how we ought to stay true to our
marital vows, and you preach with such fervency against these
things, and yet, you have succumbed to every one of those things
you were preaching against. Did you try preaching to yourself before
preaching to the people?
Kirby opened his mouth to respond.

Shut up, Kristy said. Im preaching now. How could you do

this to me? To the church? To our children? Youve been living a lie all
along. Why did you have to drag your behind out there and mess with
a minor? Dont tell me I am already too old for you.
Kristys angry frank words surprised him.

Your age has nothing to do with it, Kristy, he said lamely.

Then what is it? Ten years is not enough time for you to settle

down in the marriage? I never thought I would live to see the day
youd tell me you had sex with another womanno, not another
womana little girl.
Kristy continued, careful not to let her voice rise so that the
children wouldnt overhear.

I tried to be a good wife. I sacrificed so you could get this

church going. I put up with a lot of disrespect from jealous women in
the church. But you threw all that back in my face.

Dont talk like that, Kristy.

Then how am I supposed to talk? I did not want this for my
children. I did not want this scar on my marriage. Kristy shouted.
Now you want to drag your pitiful looking self in here and tell me
dont talk like that.

It was time for you to know, Kirby said sitting up on the bed.
No, Kirby. Its past time for me to know. It should have never
happened. Just remember, Im no fool, Kristy said taking a couple
steps back. I. Am. No. Fool. You think its time for me to know
because you got busted. You are being forced to tell me before I hear
from someone else. Cam was right to beat you up. The only thing is, I
wish he had beaten you to within an inch of your life.
Kristy walked out the door and began to cry.

Chapter 3
But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses
are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities,
like the wind, have taken us away.
Isaiah 64:6

It was two in the morning when Kirby dragged himself out of

the bed. He trudged into the kitchen to get something to drink and
something to eat. The hunger pangs hurt almost as badly as his
head. He fixed a bowl of the chicken, broccoli, and rice Kristy had
prepared the previous day. After placing it in the microwave, he took
the glass of grape juice he had poured himself and walked into the
living room. He was surprised to see his wife curled up on one corner
of the couch with the remote control in her hand. The television was
on mute. Kirby cautiously sat down on the other end of the couch.
The beeping from the microwave broke the silence.

Kristy, we can handle this we can make it we can talk

and
Kristy did not take her eyes off the television as she forcefully
punched the buttons on the remote control. Oh, so now it is we?
Where was we when you were so-called counseling that underage
girl? Where was we when you didnt spend Christmas with your own
children, and instead spent Christmas with her? Where was we
when you were in bed with her?
Kirby tried to respond.

I do not want to hear it, Kirby, Kristy said. We should have

been in our bed when you got the urge. But no-o you had to go rob

the cradle. Tell me, is she that much better than me?

No, Kristy. Shes just a temptation the devil threw my

way. Its my weakness as Ive already shared with you. The devil
knows that and well, he just threw it at me again and again, and

The devil, my foot! We give the devil too much credit for our
own foolishness. Thats an excuse. Be a man and take responsibility
for all of it. Now, you had better get out of my sight before I blow my
top, Kristy said.

I thought your top was already blown, Kirby said.

On second thought, she said rising from the couch, no, Im
not going to blow my top. You spend the night on the couch. Im not
going to let you put me out of my bed. Or is it our bed?
Kristy tossed the remote control on the couch and strode
towards the door.

You know, she said pausing at the door, the strange thing
about this confession is, you never once said, Im sorry. You never
once tried to ask for my forgiveness. But thats all right.
She hurried on to the bedroom leaving her husband
speechless.
The following morning when Kirby awakened, Kristy and the
children were gone. Its not even nine oclock yet, he thought as he
glanced around the undisturbed kitchen. How did they leave without
my hearing them?
He placed a call to Carlita, their baby-sitter, to see if Kristy may
have left the children with her wanting to spend some time to herself.
But the children werent there. He checked the closets in the Master
bedroom as well as those in the childrens rooms. Well, at least I

know she hasnt left for good, he sighed after seeing the suitcases in
place and the clothes undisturbed.
As he stood before the mirror over the bathroom sink he took a
good look at himself. His face was still swollen and tender.

You blew it, he said to himself. You really blew it. Why
couldnt you have left well enough alone? Why couldnt you have just
left Sandy alone? You can hide the evil youve done from people, but
you cant hide it from God. You of all people ought to know that;
youve preached it from the pulpit multiple times: your sins will find
you out. Your sin has surely found you out.
As he splashed cold water on his face his cell phone rang.
Thinking it was his wife, he hurried to answer it. Kristy, where are
you?

Its Jonathan, Kirby. You dont know where Kristy is?

Hey, Jonathan. No, I dont know where she is. I told her
everything last night. When I got up this morning she and the kids
were gone. By any chance, has your wife heard from her?

No, Jonathan said. You have no idea where she might be?
I know shes in town because she did not take any clothes or
anything else with her, Kirby said.

She may not want to face you this morning, Jonathan said.
Give her until this evening to get over the initial shock. So how are
you feeling otherwise?

Not good physically, nor spiritually, Kirby sighed. I dont know

where to go from here. Im confused.

Look, Kirby, as your friend, Im not going to spare you,

Jonathan said. what you did was just plain stupid. I never thought

you would do such a thing. I knew you were a womanizer in college,

but this is just incomprehensible. Sex with someone your age
maybe; but a minor? No. What is most disturbing is your covering it
up. When did you plan on coming clean about it? Dont bother to
answer that. You need to be prepared to tell on yourself on this
Sunday, or the Sunday after Thanksgiving seeing the offices will be
closed on Wednesday. If I were you, Id do it quickly before someone
else does it. And I mean someone like Cam.

Yeah, I know I ought to, Kirby said.

Do you want Monica to keep the children while you and Kristy
take a few days off, go to a hotel somewhere away from here and talk
things over, pray and if need be get some counseling? Wed be more
than happy to do that for you.

Thanks, Jonathan. That would be a big help. Im sure Kristy

would love that. I tried calling her on her cell, but I keep getting her
voice mail. I dont know if shes ignoring my call or what. Maybe
Monica would have better success at reaching her, and talking to her
about that arrangement. That would really help at this time.

Ill ask Monica to call her right away. Well be praying for you
and your family. There is nothing that God cannot fix. In fact, let me
pray with you before I go.
Kirby was unsuccessful in reaching his wife by phone
throughout the day. She could not have gone to her mother or even
to my mother. It was almost five when Kristy returned home with
three exhausted children. She shuffled them up the stairs to their
bedrooms past him as they exchanged greetings with their father.
Get ready to take your showers, children. I have something
important to talk with your father about.

I was worried about you and the children. Why didnt you

answer the phone? Kirby said once she returned downstairs.

Did you really think I wanted to talk with you? Kristy said.
Anyway, I spoke with Monica, and, no, she will not be keeping the
children for us. Yes, we will take a vacation which will end with
Thanksgiving at my parents. I have already called them and they are
looking forward to having us and seeing their grandchildren. Im sure
you wont mind driving us up there, will you? Im doing this for the
childrennot for us. By the way, I went ahead and called the hotels.
We have to pull out by five in the morning, so I am going to give the
children their baths and put them to bed. Good night, Kirby. Sleeping
arrangements remain the same as last night. Ill let you know the first
hotel well be going to in the morning. By the way, she said stopping
at the top of the stairs, you may want to spend the rest of the night
holding an ice pack on your face, or think of a lie you may want to tell
my parents about your bruises. Youre good at lying.
Kirby stood aghast as she shut the bedroom door.

Chapter 4
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.
Romans 3:23
With the exception of the children talking, the eight hour drive
from Oklahoma to Arkansas to spend Thanksgiving with Kristys
parents was a quiet one.
Shortly after they pulled out of their driveway, Kristy told her
husband, Im only going because I need time away from Oklahoma,
time away from the church, and from the house. The children also
need some time away. Dont expect much conversation from me. You
just spend time thinking because Im sure you have a lot to think
about.
Thanksgiving at her parents home was pleasant and
uneventful. Neither of Kristys parents knew of Kirbys unfaithfulness.
On Friday after they retired for bed, Kristy said to Kirby, Thanks for
bringing us here, but I want to let you know that the children and I will
be staying here.

What do you mean, you and the children will be staying

here? Dont I have a say in that?

Ha, Kristy said dryly. You lost your say when you slept with
an underage girl. You will be returning to Oklahoma by yourself for
several reasons: One, you have to preach on Sunday, dont you? You
dont expect Jonathan to come off his break with his family to preach
for you, do you?

Ill be there, and youll be in your position by my side. Kirby

tried to sound firm though his voice faltered.

You werent so adamant about me being in my position by

your side when you were having sex with that girl. Now were you?
Kristys words pierced Kirby like a dagger.

Look, Im already sorry for what I did, he said. Ive tried

talking to you to get it fixed. I let you plan this vacation without
interfering. Is this how I get treated for confessing? Kirby knew his
attitude was wrong, but refused to drop his whining.
Kristy rolled her eyes. As I was saying: Two, I do not want to
be around when the police pick you up. You do know you are at risk
of getting arrested, dont you? And, three, I want to save you the
embarrassment when I tell my parents. Good night, Kirby. By the way,
your suitcase is already packed and waiting by the door.
Kristy turned away from her husband. Also, since youre so
concerned about what others think about you, Ive already told Mom
and Dad youll be returning to Oklahoma by yourself. I have not told
them why, but rest assured, I will let them know the real reason once
you get on the road. Good night.
As Kirby rode back to Oklahoma he thought, I may call
Carmen and have her email the church family informing them that
services will be canceled for Sunday. More guilt immediately hit him.
No. I have to face up to my stupidity, he quietly reprimanded
himself. And I call myself a man of God.
Kirby tried to pray, but the words would not come. What will I
tell the church? What will my deacons think? Will I lose everything
Ive worked so hard for? He pulled off the highway at one of the exits
to put gas in his car. His heart sank when he saw a familyfather,
mother, a boy, and a girlexit the convenience store. That could
have been my family, he thought. Kristy had not answered the two
phone calls he had placed to her earlier.

Maybe we do need some time apart, he thought. Their time

together in the hotel and at his in-laws house had not helped ease
the tension between them. He made one final call to his wife as he
watched the family enter their van and drive out of the gas station. He
left a message on her voicemail: Kristy, Im very sorry for what I did.
Im asking you to please forgive me. I know you dont want any
advice from me, but I suggest we fast and pray during this
separation. I have no plans on leaving you for Sandy or for any other
woman. Youre the one I pledged to stay married to for life; I want to
stay married to you. Youre a good woman. Give my love to the
children.
It was around ten at night when Kirby arrived home. After
calling Carmen to assure her hed be in the pulpit on Sunday, he
stumbled into bed, physically, mentally, and spiritually worn out from
the weight of guilt and time spent praying to God for mercy. The
ringing of the doorbell along with firm knocks on the door awakened
him a few hours later.

Who is it? he asked once he got to the door.

Open up! Its the police.
Oh, no, he said. Taking a deep breath, he did as he was
commanded.

Yes, Officer?
We have a warrant for the arrest of Kirby Rollins. Are you
Kirby Rollins?

Yes. I am. If you dont mind, may I please make one phone
call? Kirby asked the officers who followed him into the living room.
He picked up the receiver and quickly dialed a number.

Deacon Travis, he said, this is Pastor Kirby.

Chapter 5
As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one.
Romans 3:10
Brother Cam, his wife, Mitzie, and his niece, Sandy, with her
baby Solomon, were relaxing in their living room enjoying the
afterglow of the Thanksgiving Sunday services earlier that day.
Conversation was light as they listened intermittently to the news.

Youd expect the news to be more encouraging considering

its Thanksgiving weekend, Mitzie said with a sigh. Cant we turn to
Hallmark?

We could, but Ive had enough of that feel-good

Thanksgiving stuff at church. I want to see whats happening in the
real world. Cam switched from the national news to the local station.
Theres my girl, he said pointing the remote control towards the
screen. Jessica Simmons was giving a report.
Sandy rose to go to her room when Jessicas words stopped
her in her tracks. There has been an unconfirmed report that the
pastor of Ninth Street Baptist Church was arrested late last night. We
are awaiting confirmation from the police. Stay tuned for updates.
Sandy sat back down staring at the television screen. Mitzie
looked at her husband. Cam returned her look with a smug smile.
This is why I told you to leave him alone, he said turning to Sandy.
Fifteen minutes later, Jessica was back on the screen with
another update: It has been confirmed by the police department that
Pastor Kirby Rollins of the Ninth Street Baptist Church was arrested
around one oclock this morning for allegedly having sex with a

minor. We will not release her name due to her age when the alleged
offense occurred. The arrest would have been made earlier in the
week, but Pastor Rollins and his family were away for the holiday. As
always, well be sure to keep you posted.

Im going to bed, Sandy said leaving the room.

Did you have anything to do with this? Mitzie asked her
husband after she heard Sandys bedroom door close.

What if I did? He had it coming, Cam said.

How could you do such a thing! Mitzie said. Isnt it enough
he was paying you to keep quiet? And what about Sandy? Her
names going to be scandalized too. The whole familys going to end
up in the news.

You dont need to worry about that. I got it all under control.
Cam flipped to another news channel and listened for a while. Kirby
brought all this mess on himself.

May God help us, Mitzie said staring at her husband. I

believe you have lost your mind. Cam, I beg you, please leave the
matter alone. Sandys hurting enough. And think of Kristy and their
little children. Theyre gonna need their father. I mean, how long will
they hold him in jail? And what about the church?

Yes, may God help us, Cam said. Dont worry about a
thing. Kristy and the children will survive this. As for the church Ive
got plans for it. Remember, I used to be the assistant pastor. A whole
lot of people still look up to me at the church.

Exactly what are you saying? Mitzie asked. Youre not

planning on taking over the church, are you?
Cam laughed. How can I? I love Brother Jonathan. Hes a
good young man but then I said the same about Kirby. These

young pastors of today cannot handle notoriety. Lets say Ill just
offer my pastoral expertise to young Jonathan.

Chapter 6
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and
murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters,
and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with
fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
Revelation 21:8
Jonathans adrenaline was working overtime as he
anticipated what lay ahead. He drove the seven hours home without
stopping. After catching a nap, he drove out to the church to find the
doors leading to the main office locked and Carmen at her wits end
trying to keep up with the influx of phone calls.

Thank God youre here, Brother Jonathan. Its only a little

after nine and church members, non-church members, the press, the
local television station basically all of Oklahoma City have been
calling to find out if its true what they heard about their beloved
pastor, Carmen said. When I came in at eight, TV crews were
already parked outside. They tried to talk me into letting them inside
to get a report. Listen to this. She pressed the play button on the
answering machine. Jonathan listened.

I dont believe that mess. Pastor Kirby is a true man of God.

All I know is, the higher they climb the harder they fall.
Thats not true about our beloved pastor. Someone is trying
to bring him down. Someone is jealous of his success.

Mmm. I dont know. Never trust a young, handsome, fiery

minister around your daughters.

What do you expect? Hes young and hot-blooded.

As soon as I delete one message it seems like theres two
more to replace it, Carmen said. Have you heard from Pastor
Kirby?

No. My wife has been trying to get in touch with Kristy but
nothing so far.

Well, the churchs email box is full. You can read the
messages if you want. I dont want to read anymore. Ive already
wasted an hour doing nothing but getting more and more
discouraged.

Have you heard from Deacon Travis? Jonathan asked. See

if you can get him on the phone.
Jonathan and Deacon Travis were talking within seconds.

Yes, I made it in safely, Jonathan said. Were you able to

get Pastor Kirby out of jail?

Yes, I went down this morning and paid for his bond. I told
him to look me in my eyes and tell me the truth. He told me it was all
true Hes like a son to me, Deacon Travis said. I was one of his
first members. I helped him build this church. I was thrilled when he
asked me to head the deacon board. When he and I are by
ourselves, he calls me Pops.
Jonathan heard a sigh from the other end of the phone.

I did not spare my words with him. I told him how

disappointed I was; but I also told him, Ill stand with him if he
confesses before the church this Sunday, and that he cannot afford to
wait any longer.

How was his spirit? Jonathan asked.

Hes seems broken, Jonathan. I asked about Kristy and the

children. He says they are at her parents house where they spent
Thanksgiving. He did not want to go into any details and says just to
pray for their marriage. I also stopped by his house. Please stop by
and encourage him. He needs it, Deacon Travis said.
After Jonathan said goodbye to Deacon Travis, he placed a
call to Kirby. Conversation was light. The free spirit that normally
existed between them took on a more serious tone.

Me and the deacons will be at your house each evening this

week except Wednesday to pray with you. My advice to you is to stay
home and not open the door for anyoneat least not until after
Sunday. The media is searching for answers; they want you to clarify
things. I read some of the emails that came in and some of them are
threats.
After leaving the church office for home, Jonathan was
stopped in the parking lot by reporter Jessica Simmons wanting an
update on Pastor Kirbys whereabouts.

All is well. We are looking into the matter, Jonathan said as

he walked towards his car. No more comments, and please do not
harass the church members, and , Jonathan added as he got in
his car, dont follow me. Im headed to my own house to have lunch
with my wife and children. Have a blessed day.
By the time Jonathan got home, his short exchange with
Jessica was already airing.

These people will go through any means for a piece of juicy

news, Monica said as they sat down for lunch. By the way, I got in
touch with Kristy. Things are not looking good for their marriage and
Im afraid I was not much of an encouragement to her.

Dont worry. Theres not much encouragement you can give

in this early stage, Jonathan said. Lets just continue to pray for
them.

Chapter 7
That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have
everlasting life. John 3:15
Wednesday night prayer services brought the largest crowd
that Jonathan could recall at Ninth Street. A spirit of curiosity settled
over the parishioners as he took the podium. You must keep the
main thing the main thing, Pastor Richardson had told him over the
phone earlier that day. Dont let the peoples desire for gossip cause
you to lose focus, then you spend an entire hour or two discussing
Pastor Kirbys situation and everyone comes away from the church
service not any more spiritually encouraged than when they first got
there. Taking Pastor Richardsons advice, Jonathan proceeded with
the prayer service as scheduled.
Jonathan closed out the prayer time with the following
statement: Lets continue to pray for Pastor Kirby and his family that
Gods will would be done. Im sure youve heard the news reports so
theres no need to waste time talking about it. I ask you to pray for
him and his family as this is a very difficult time for them.

Where is he now? someone shouted as whispers floated

across the auditorium.

Will he be back by Sunday? another asked.

I cant give you anything definite, Jonathan said. He looked
over the crowd. Brother Cam was sitting close to the middle aisle
glancing around with a pleased look on his face. Their eyes met. A
look of distrust passed between them. I dont doubt that you incited
some of the people to ask questions,Jonathan thought looking away.

As I said, lets just continue to pray for the Rollins family. I

wont answer any more questions about that situation until I find out
more about the matter. Good night, everyone. He left the podium
and walked to his office where Monica, Deacon Travis, and two other
deaconsDeacon Shaw and Deacon Yancymet with him. A knock
on his office door interrupted their conversation. Jonathan opened the
door. It was Cam.

Wheres Kirby?
What do you mean, wheres Kirby? I thought he was in jail.
You havent heard the news? Jonathan said.

Yeah. I heard it, Cam said. But I also heard someone paid
his bond. I called down to the jail myself to check to see if he was still
down there; thats when they told me someone paid his bond. I
stopped by his house, but no one answered the door.

I guess he has contacts we dont know about, Jonathan

said.

Are you sure you had nothing to do with him getting

out?Cam asked.

Let me put it this way, Jonathan said. I didnt pay his bond.
Well, it aint over till I say its over, Cam said walking away.
Jonathan looked at Deacon Travis and the other deacons. I
sense nothing but trouble from him, he told them.

You know he used to be assistant pastor here, Deacon

Shaw said.

Yes, I found that out in an unusual way, Jonathan replied as

he told them about the fight he had to break up between Kirby and
Cam.
There was another knock on his office door. Brother

Jonathan, its me, Carmen, she said with urgency in her voice.

Come in, Carmen, Jonathan said. Whats the matter?

You may want to come out to the auditorium right away.
Jessica Simmons from the television station is out there talking to
church members about Pastor Kirby. She was talking to Cam who
told her Pastor Kirby was no longer in jail, and that someone paid for
him to get out. Hes telling her Pastor Kirby needs to do the time
since he committed the crime.

Thank you, Carmen, Jonathan said. Travis, you come with

me.
Once in the auditorium, the men approached Jessica who
was still talking with Cam. Members were buzzing around them.

Excuse me, Ms. Simmons, Jonathan said, but you cannot

interview people inside the church building or on church property
without permission. You know that. Im kindly asking you to leave.
Pointing the mic at Jonathan, Jessica said in one breath, Hi,
Pastor Jonathan. We met on Monday. Mr. Cam gave us permission
as former assistant pastor. Just one more question which Ill direct to
you as the current pastor: It seems like Pastor Kirby is in hiding. Do
you know where he is?

Ms. Simmons, I am asking you to leave the building before I

call the police and have you and your cameraman thrown out. Stop
taping, Jonathan said firmly.

Will do. Do you have that, Mike? Jessica said to her

cameraman. Okay, thats a wrap. Well finish outside.

Outside and off the church property, Jonathan called after

them.

Chapter 8
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son
that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have
everlasting life. John 3:16

How long do you plan on hiding Kirby? Monica asked her

husband on the way home.

Im not hiding him. Hes at his house. Hes free to come and
go as he pleases. Im just not saying anything to the press or to
anyone for that matter. I want him in one piece when he apologizes to
the church family. He wants to do it only by email, but I told him that
was not going to have the same effect; he needs to do it in person.

Cam is sure out to get him, Monica said. I may be wrong,

but I think Cams out to get the church as well. That would be his
ultimate payback.
Jonathan looked across at his wife. Do you really think so?

Yep, she replied. I believe hes been planning this all along.
For him, getting hush money is not enough especially when Kirby
refused to stop seeing Sandy. I also believe someone at the church is
in communication with him, so you be careful who you talk to.

How did you come up with all that?

Just intuition, Monica said. Remember my speculations
about Kirbys character and about his and Kristys marriage turned
out to be true.

Later that evening, after helping to put the children to bed,

Jonathan gave Kirby a call.

Cam found out youve been released from jail, and hes not
too pleased about it. He tried to get me to tell who paid your bond,
Jonathan informed him.

Hes got a lot of bitterness in his heart toward me, Kirby

said. Someones been calling here all day on my cell as well as on
the house phone. Even the news people stopped by earlier.

Now I dont know whats going to happen to you after

Sunday, but as a minister of God youre going to have to face up to
the consequences, Jonathan said.

I know, Kirby sighed. And I want to thank you for standing

by me. Youve been a true friend. And Im sorry for doing this to you.
Again, please forgive me. And if this is where our friendship ends, Ill
understand.

Stop talking nonsense, Jonathan said. I cant throw away

our friendship because you made this stupid mistake. You need a
friend now more than ever.

Thanks a lot. By the way, has your wife heard from my

wife? Kirby asked. She has not been answering my calls.
Jonathan sighed. They spoke on Monday and Kristys not
talking like I know you want her to talk, but give her some time. The
wounds still fresh. Just pray it through and be willing to accept
whatever God has in store for you.

Thats all I can do, Kirby said. Hold on a minute, let me turn
the television up. Jessica Simmons is on Is that Cam with her?
Looks like theyre in the churchs parking lot.

Let me tune in, Jonathan said hurrying to the den.

He listened grimly.

This is Jessica Simmons giving you an update on Pastor

Kirby Rollins. Church members are still in shock. Some are
disappointed and others are doubtful as to the truth of the
accusations against their pastor. Assistant pastor, Jonathan
Reynolds, declined to comment further on the situation. At their
Wednesday night services, prayers were offered for Pastor Rollins
and his family. The former assistant pastor, Cameron, whos standing
next to me here in the churchs parking lot informed us that Pastor
Rollins has been released from jail. He believes the deacons and
assistant pastor know where he is, but are remaining silent. Any more
comments?
She placed the mic in front of Brother Cam. He shouldnt be
out of jail, Cam said. He committed the crime; its only fair that he
does the time.

Chapter 9
He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that
believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not
believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
John 3:18
Mitzie was listening to the news when her husband walked
through the door.

Cam, Mitzie said, why cant you leave well-enough alone?

Why did you have to go over there and stir up trouble? Havent you
swindled enough money out of Pastor Kirby and the church already?

Swindled?
Yes. And if swindled is not the word, then extort might be a
better word because thats what you were doing, Mitzie said.

He was just paying me my due. You know I helped him build

up that church; plus, I told him to stop seeing Sandy, Cam said
throwing his hat on the couch while loosening his tie. He turned his
attention to the television.

Cam, we joined the church almost one year after Kirby

started it. He hired you on as assistant pastor because you had some
business acumen and he needed someone to handle the money, and
also because you filled in as pastor when our former church lost its
pastor. So you came with a little pastoral experience, Mitzie said.
And might I add, he paid you more than enough. We did not even
miss the money when you left the church. You were making enough
working with Aetna.

Mitzie, he has to learn he cannot take advantage of my

niece or anyone else and get away with it. He has to pay.

Well, youre not God, Mitzie said. Now you have Sandy all
nervous. Shes scared people will find out shes the person he fooled
around with.

She doesnt have to worry about that. Kirby wont tell and
because she was under-age when it happened, her name will not be
released to the public. And Im sure you wont tell either, Cam said
keeping his eyes on the television as Jessica signed off. A sly smile
crossed his face.

Thats nothing to smile about, Mitzie said. Have you

forgotten the verse that says do not rejoice when your enemy falls?
If I were you, Id leave Kirby alone, Id leave Ninth Street Baptist
Church alone, and I wouldnt mess with Brother Jonathan either

Im not messing with them. Im just bringing things to the

light and to help the world see you cant do wrong, hide it, and expect
to get away with it. Im going to watch the news a bit longer. You go
on to bed.
On her way to her bedroom, Mitzie saw light under Sandys
bedroom door. She knocked on the door.

Its open, Sandy said.

Im just checking on you before I turn in for the night, Mitzie
said as she entered the room.
Sandy took her ear plugs out her ears. She looked at her
aunt, her face displaying grief and guilt.

Aunt Mitzie, Im sorry I lied to you. I was never raped. Pastor

Kirby did not force himself on me. I consented. I knew what I was
doing. I knew it was wrong having sex with him. I I wanted to do it
at the time.
Mitzie stood by the door in shock. Why did you lie to me?

she asked. Why didnt you just tell me the truth? Things could have
worked out better, I think.

Uncle Cam told me to keep quiet about it. He told me not to

tell you. He said that you couldnt handle it, Sandy said. She reached
over and stroked Solomons back as he slept on the bed beside her.
Mitzie sat down slowly on the bed. Sandy, you cannot hide
sin, especially if you are a Christian. Even if people around you never
find out the truth, God will always know the truth and will constantly
convict you about it until you get it right. You may be feeling bad right
now, but deep down, dont you feel good that the truth is outthat
you no longer have to hide it?

I guess youre right, Auntie, Sandy sighed. She shrugged.

Maybe Ill feel better soon. Ive just been miserable since the day I
started lying about it. Now, Pastor Kirbys in trouble and Im getting
away free. I need to apologize to him and to Kristy for letting this
happen. Kristy treated me like a daughter and I did this to her.
Mitzie reached over to hug her niece. Just pray for God to
work it out, and in the meantime, you learn what you need to learn
from all this.
____________
Anise Caverly kicked off her black stilettos while waiting for
Leanne Rider to answer the phone. Thank God Melvins not
home, she sighed. The less I see of him the better. I can talk without
interruption.Come on, answer the phone, she said out loud.

Hello?
About time, Anise said. What took you so long to answer?
I had three bags of groceries in my arms, struggling to open
the door when I heard the phone ringing. I thought I told you I was

going to the grocery store, Leanne said.

I forgot, Anise said. Anyway, I hung around for a while

longer at the church, and, lady, you should have been there. This
mess about Pastor Kirby is going to get bigger.

What are you waiting on? Get to talking, Leanne said.

The television people were there interviewing the members
about the allegations that put Kirby in jail and all that. I had to say my
piece, Anise said with a chuckle.

What did you say?

Oh, the truth. I told that news lady, Jessica Simmons, that I
believe there may be some truth to it, and that he flirted with me and
made sexual advances towards me too; but I caught on to what he
was doing and left him cold. I might be on television tonight. You
better tune in.

Anise, how could you say such a thing about Pastor Kirby?
And even if that were the truth, you should have kept your mouth
shut. Are you trying to defame his name too? Anise was surprised at
Leannes response.
Without waiting for an answer, Leanne continued. You know
the world does not love pastors like Pastor Kirby who preach hard
against their sin and evil. They will do anything to drag his name
through the mud.

Maybe he should have preached more against his own sin

and evil then, Anise replied.

Look, Anise, we cant let one sin nullify all the good hes
done through the church over the past seven years, now can we?
Look how many people have been saved and given new life because
of him. I know my life has been changed and so has yours. You even

said so yourself!

But we cant have a pastor preaching against sin and hes

sinning himself. Thats hypocrisy, Anise said quietly.

Neither can we have women calling themselves Christians

throwing themselves at pastors who are trying to live right, Leanne
said, That is hypocrisy too.

Who are you talking about now? Anise said cautiously.

Anise, stop this game playing. You told me a few weeks
back, how that Pastor Kirby was trying to flirt with you in his office,
and you just told me you mentioned to the TV people

Right. So?
S-o-o, that man was not trying to flirt with you, and if he did,
you started it all. I see how you eye the men of the church. I see how
youre always up in Pastor Kirbys face after every service while his
poor wife is back in the nursery with their little children, and with the
other little children whose parents dont want to be bothered with
them during services.

Now, Leanne
Now Leanne, nothing! Leanne said. You remember Brother
Cam; he used to be assistant pastor at Ninth Street. Well, I still stay
in touch with him and his wife. Cam told me he stopped by Pastor
Kirbys office one day, unexpectedly, and you were sitting on Pastor
Kirbys lap. The door was slightly open so he saw everything. So as
not to embarrass you, he said he called out Pastor Kirbys name real
loud. When he called out, you jumped up and buttoned your blouse,
smoothed your clothes down, and acted as though you were just
leaving. Now, do you deny that?
Anise swallowed hard.

You cant, can you? Leanne said. So I dont want to hear

you say one more negative thing, whether it is true or not, about
Pastor Kirby.

Brother Cam may have gotten me mixed up with someone

else, Anise said quietly.

Nope. He described you to a T; even down to the very

blouse you were wearing, which, by the way, happens to be the same
blouse you were wearing in church tonight.
After not receiving a response from Anise, Leanne hung up
the phone.

Chapter 10
He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he
that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God
abideth on him.
--John 3:36

It was early Sunday morning when Jonathan received a call

from Kirby asking him to meet him at the church. They both pulled
into the churchs parking lot at the same time and parked in their
normal places toward the back of the building by the church offices.
As they got out of their cars, a silver Lexus with tinted windows drove
up behind them, slowed down, then sped off.

Do you recognize that car? Jonathan asked Kirby as he

unlocked the church door.

No, Kirby said.

Jonathan locked the door once they were inside. I dont want
any surprise visits, he said.
Once they settled down in Jonathans office, Kirby said, I sent
the email this morning to the church family apologizing for what I did.
I think Friday would have been too early. Anyway, I think I need to
apologize to Sandy and to her aunt. What do you think?

I believe Sandy already knows youre sorry, and I do not think

now is a good time to do that, Jonathan said. Cam is upset as it is. If
you would like, my wife can speak to them and pass on your
apology.

Monica returned Jonathans phone call with an answer to his

request.

I spoke with Mitzie; she accepts his apology and says to let
you know shell be praying for Pastor Kirby. She says not to worry
about Sandy; she wants him to accept her apology also. She kind of
hinted that you both should just avoid Cam for now.

Thank you, Monica, Jonathan said. If you dont mind, could

you please call Kristys mother and see if you can talk to Kristy? I
love you, darling.

Are you sure the email apology wont be enough? Kirby

asked Jonathan after he got off the phone.

Absolutely not. It may have worked had this happened a week

or two ago before the news leaked, Jonathan said as he picked up
the phone. He dialed Pastor Richardsons number. I want you to talk
with Pastor Richardson of my former church in Texas. I dont know if
you remember him. He officiated at our wedding. He already knows
about the situation and hes been in the ministry for over forty years
now so nothing surprises him. Just be honest with him.

Once on the line, Pastor Richardson told Kirby, Theres this

verse in Philippians which says, Being confident of this very thing,
that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the
day of Jesus Christ. God saved you to use you to do a great work at
Ninth Street Baptist Church. From what Jonathan has been sharing
with us, souls are being saved each week and Christians are being
encouraged. I listen to you at times over the radio. Brother, you cant
give up. You may feel like this is the end of the road for you, but dont

give up. There is no telling what God will do with a man who truly
repents.
Kirby nodded as Pastor Richardson continued.

Confess your sin and come before God with a truly broken
and contrite heart, and God will bring you through this. And you never
know, He may use you to do even greater things for His glory in the
future. Remember, a righteous man falleth seven times but he rises
up again. David sinned greatly, but once he confessed his sin and
accepted his chastisement, God continued to bless him. Peter denied
Christ, but once he repented, God used him to help turn the world
upside down. Now, let me just say this to you, I do not believe you
ought to continue plowing forward. I do believe you need to step
down for two to three years and get your heart right with the Lord
before you try to continue in the ministry. I know you dont want to
hear that, but thats my advice to you.

Yes sir, thats tough advice to take, but to be honest with you,
Pastor Richardson, Kirby said, I dont believe Im as sorry as I
should be. Even as were talking Im still trying to figure out how I can
avoid having to make a confession before the whole church in
person.

Well, tell that to God. Ask Him to give you a truly repentant
heart. Ask Him to break you. And ask Him to help you accept
whatever chastisement He brings upon you and take a sabbatical,
Pastor Richardson said. Whatever the case, remain faithful to God,
and remember, we are praying for you down here at New Mt. Zion.

Chapter 11
So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself,
and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him
first cast a stone at her.
--John 8:7
A few minutes before Sunday services began, the deacons
gathered in Jonathans office where they prayed for the services and
especially for Pastor Kirby.

This is the plan, Jonathan said. Ill preach a short sermon,

then as soon as I give the final Amen, you will all escort Pastor Kirby
to the podium. Ive decided that rather than leave him on the podium
by himself, well stand with him to support and encourage him, and
protect him from any haters in the crowd. Its a tough time for him. Are
you all with me on that?
The deacons nodded their heads.
Both the auditorium and overflow rooms were packed.
Jonathan preached from John 8:3-11 focusing on the words: He that
is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her and neither
do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. He said, Jesus Christ, the
perfect Son of God, had every right to condemn the woman taken in
adultery, but He, being a merciful Savior, forgave her of her sin
setting an example for us, Jonathan said. Before we point a
condemning finger at the sins of others, let us examine ourselves. Let
us first point that condemning finger at ourselves and plead for Gods
mercy. We should all join the Psalmist David and cry out to God:
Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my
thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in
the way everlasting.

Many of us as Christians have a wrong view of ourselves. We

think we dont have any sin. It is always the other persons sin that is
so vile, so repugnantbut not our sin. But we must begin to see
ourselves as God sees us as people with wicked hearts. The Bible
says there is nothing good within us. All our righteousness are as
filthy rags in Gods sight.

I challenge you to search your own heart, to examine your

own heart, and fall on your knees before our holy and merciful Father
confessing your sins, and seeking His forgiveness so we can be in
right standing with Him. The altar is open for prayer.
___________________

That was nice of Monica to check up on Sandy, Cam said as

they made their way to the Wharton Hills Baptist Church where they
had been attending.

Yes. Shes as sweet as can be, Mitzie said.

Cam pulled up before the main entrance leading into the
auditorium.

Arent you going to park? Mitzie asked.

No need to. You two go on ahead. Ill be visiting Ninth Street
Baptist this morning.

Cam, please stay away from there. You know this is a tough
time for them. Why cant you be content just praying for Pastor Kirby
and the church? Mitzie pleaded.

I like to complete things, Cam said.

Mitzie and Sandy watched him drive off the property. I just
hope he does not do anything hell regret, Mitzie said.

Chapter 12
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit
before a fall.
--Proverbs 16:18
After the invitation, Jonathan asked everyone to remain in their
seats before leaving the podium. The deacons joined him as he
hurried down the hallway to his office where Kirby was waiting.

Kirby, everyones waiting, he said.

Kirby seemed to have aged in the past few weeks. The men
strode into the auditorium. Their entrance was met with hushed
whispers. They took their places on the podium with Jonathan and
Kirby in the front surrounded by the deacons.

Ladies and gentlemen, I know you all have had some

questions over the news about our pastor. Well, Pastor Kirby is here
to give a statement, Jonathan announced.
Kirby stepped before the microphone. He was visibly trembling.
As he looked across the auditorium at the group of people he
had come to love, and who had come to love him, a cold shiver ran
through his body as looks of disappointment, sadness, emptiness,
and anticipation met him. Some threw angry glares at him. As his
eyes locked with some of the congregants, the realization of how
much he had disappointed them hit him. They had trusted him and he
had broken their trust. Attempts to clear the lump in his throat failed.

Brothers and sisters, I come before you with heaviness of

heart because I have failed you as a pastor and as a Christian. I have
been living a lie before you for almost two years now. Yes, Kirby
said, the news reports are true I did have sex with a minor.

Jonathan who had been observing the congregants looked

towards the double doors at the back of the auditorium as they
opened. Oh, boy, he thought as Cam marched in with Jessica
Simmons and a cameraman who immediately directed his camera
towards them and started filming the confession.
Jonathan shook his head. He thought of asking them to leave,
but changed his mind as phones began popping up into the air.
Members were already snapping pictures and tweeting and
texting. Its going to get out anyway, he sighed. He joined the
deacons in silent prayer.

There is no excuse for my sin, Kirby continued. Thats what

it isa grave sin before God and before you all. Kirbys voice
cracked. Please forgive me for breaking your trust.
Deacon Travis reached out and grabbed Kirby by the arm as
Kirbys knees buckled under him. Regaining his stance, Kirbys
shoulders started to tremble as he repeated his apology. Im sorry for
breaking your trust. Please forgive me. Tears trickled down his
cheeks.

I hear youve been paying someone to keep it quiet, Cam

said out loud as he made his way up closer to the front. Have you
been stealing money from the offering plate?
Jonathan wanted so badly to punch Cam in the face.

There goes the crib snatcher! one lady muttered walking out
in a huff.

Leave him alone! one man shouted. Hes been a great

pastor to us.
Jonathan motioned to the deacons to escort Kirby to his office
as he sensed possible pandemonium.

Quiet! Order, please! Jonathan said into the microphone.

Pastor Kirby will not answer any questions and neither will I. I would
appreciate it if you all would head home and go do what Jesus would
do, and that is to forgive Pastor Kirby and pray for him and his family.
Have a great day.

What will happen to Pastor Kirby now? someone shouted as

Jonathan made his way off the podium. Hes still my pastor, another
said.
Jonathan took Monicas hand and they left the auditorium.

How do you feel? Jonathan asked Kirby once they got to his
office.

I feel somewhat relieved, Kirby answered. Thanks for

standing by me. Thanks to all of you, he said glancing around at
each of the deacons.

What are your plans going forward? Deacon Travis asked

Kirby.

I plan on returning to Kristy and the children, getting some

counseling, staying out of the pulpit for I dont know, he sighed. I
need to get my marriage back together. Thats all that matters to me
now. Please pray for us.

We will, Deacon Travis said. Keep me abreast of everything

son.
Kirby did all he could to keep from crying. He knew he had hurt
Deacon Travishis father in the faithdeeply. The other deacons
solemnly shook his hand.

Ill keep things going just as though you were here, Jonathan
said.

Gentlemen, youre dismissed, Jonathan said to his deacons.

He placed his arm around his wife and the two of them walked slowly
out the back door behind the others. There were a few members still
milling around. They all waited for Kirby to pull out of the parking lot.

Before shutting his car door, Kirby looked around at all God
had blessed him to build up. Ive destroyed it all. Ive destroyed it all.

As Jonathan drove off the lot, he noticed the silver Lexus

parked close to the main exit; Cam was leaning against it with a sly
grin on his face.
Jonathan and Monica listened quietly to the evening news after
putting the children to bed for the night. Jessica appeared on the
screen after Pastor Kirbys confession was broadcasted in full:

Why would a pastor do such a thing knowing the

consequences he would face? That will be our focus for this segment,
and no doubt, we will revisit this issue in the next few weeks. To help
us answer this question we have with us Mr. Cameron, former
assistant pastor of Ninth Street Baptist Church where Pastor Kirby
Rollins once served as its pastor.
Jessica pointed the microphone towards Cam. I believe its a
combination of things, Cam said, including pride, ego, a feeling of
invincibility. Some begin to think that because of their status they can
get away with their sin. But the Bible says, Pride goeth before
destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. It also says you can
be sure your sins will find you out.

What do you think will happen to the Ninth Street Church

family now? Jessica asked.

Im sure you saw many of the members walking out. However,

they have a very capable leader in Jonathan Reynolds who Im
hoping will do a very good job in picking up where Pastor Kirby left
off. Of course, Ill offer him my services and my advice and help him
bring the church past this difficult time.

Thanks, Mr. Cameron. Tune in at six each evening for updates

on this story. Thank you and have a great evening.

Chapter 13
It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with
a brawling woman in a wide house. --Proverbs 21:9
Anise walked into the living room from the kitchen where she
was preparing a light meal for her and her husband, Melvin. He was
home for a couple of days before he had to take off again to make
deliveries. He was employed as a truck driver for Walmart. Melvin
was often gone weeks at a time making deliveries in various states.
You don't need to listen to that, Anise almost shouted at her
husband as he turned the volume up to listen to the news of the fall of
Pastor Kirby.
Why are you so testy? he said. I know. He's one handsome
pastor, if I do say so myself. No wonder you're always running out to
the church. Im just wondering, how much counseling have you gone
to him for?
Melvin, be quiet with that mess, Anise said. Why couldn't you
have just stayed on the road? she thought to herself.
People's reactions often tell what's in their hearts, her
husband said. Your pastor's situation couldn't have gotten you this
upset but then again, you're always mad.
I told you to be quiet, Anise said.
Touch, touch, touch, Melvin said.
This is no business of yours, Anise said. You never wanted to
go to church anyway.
Can you blame me? Look at how you're acting? Mad and

angry for no reason. This is what I have to put up with for the short
time that I am home. You can at least be pleasant the few days I'm
here. And don't tell me you cannot do it, because I've seen you act all
nice and lovey-dovey when you step into the church building. You
want to know why I have not quit my trucking job to stay home more?
Because of this, Melvin said. Because of your mean spirit and your
nasty attitude. I may not go to church with you, but I grew up in the
church and my Bible says women like you cause husbands to run to
the corner of their housetop. Well, my corner of the housetop is my
rigI just hop in it and drive away to get as far away from you as I
possibly can.
Anise rolled her eyes.
By the way, Melvin said, when I'm driving my rig, whatever
city I end up in on a Sunday morning, I visit a church in that city.
Whenever Im driving, I listen to preachers on the radio. I even listen
to your beloved Pastor Kirby. He's good. I like his preaching. So there
you have it. Now please go finish fixing me my dinner so I can watch
this in peace.
Anise stomped back into the kitchen. How dare he talk to me
like that? He does not even know all that has taken place at Ninth
Street. She snatched up a plate with Melvins two ham and cheese
sandwiches and his bowl of pasta salad and placed them on his
eating tray.
You don't have to do it in such an angry way. Step aside. 60
Minutes is about ready to come on. As Anise turned to leave, Melvin
said, Hey, you forgot my napkin and my drink, if you don't mind
Get it
Be a true help-meet now. Pastor Kirby would love to hear how

you're practicing that at home, Melvin said turning the volume up

without taking his eyes off the television.
Anise clenched her fists, tightened her lips, turned abruptly and
stomped off into the kitchen to meet his request. Anything else? she
said after she set the things on his tray.
Thats all. You can get whatever you're going to eat and join
me if you want to, Melvin said. He bowed his head and thanked God
for the food.
As if I want to join you, Anise thought as she entered the
bedroom. I've just lost my appetite. She threw herself on the bed. I
want to call Leanne so badly, but she's acting just as nutty as Melvin.
How could she say what she said? What kind of friend is she?

Chapter 14
Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all
generations. --Psalm 90:1
Monica called Kristy to inform her about Kirbys public
confession that Sunday.
Thanks for letting me know, Kristy said. I wish you and
Jonathan all the best as he takes over the church. I hope Kirby did
not leave too much of a mess for you all to clean up.
Kirby's truly sorry, Monica said. Do you want me to have
Jonathan give him a message?
Umm. Just let him know that the children are doing well. And I
do thank you for calling, Kristy said.
How do you feel being the new First Lady of Ninth Street
Baptist? Jonathan asked Monica as he kissed her goodbye before
leaving for the church on the Monday after she spoke with Kristy.
Please, no 'First Lady.' I'm just plain Monicanothing more,
Monica said returning his kiss. It's sad how some people in the
church get all huffy if they don't have a title before their name.
Yes. That is something, Jonathan said. Lord willing, I'll be
back to take you and the children out for lunch around one before
calling it a day. Bye, Mitch, Jerrilyn, Caleb, and Diana Joi, he said
giving each of the children a hug. Love you all. Be good while I am
gone.
We love you, Daddy! the children shouted.

As Monica turned her attention to her children, the phone rang.

I'll get it, Mitch said springing out of his chair. Mommy, it's
Auntie Stacy.
Who's she? Caleb asked.
Your Auntie, Jerrilyn answered as she stuffed the last
spoonful of her cereal into her mouth.
I just had to give you a call, Stacy said. I saw the news about
Pastor Kirby online. Tell me there's no truth to it.
I wish I could, but it's all true, Monica said
The friends chatted for a while. Neither Stacy nor her husband
had any new information about their missing daughter, Trelawny.
We're still praying for her safe return, Monica assured her. In
my heart, I believe she's safe.
Thank you, Monica. I can always count on you to keep my
hopes up, Stacy said.
As soon as Jonathan got to the church, he called Pastor
Richardson. It was a tough Sunday, but God brought us through.
What advice do you have for me going forward?
My first advice is to pray and do as you feel the Lord is leading
you; and I mean really pray. You are now senior pastor, whether you
are ready for that role or not, and the people will be looking to you to
guide them in a Godly manner. I'm curious, what was the attendance
like?
We had a full house both Wednesday and yesterday. Both our
overflow rooms were filled to capacity. To my surprise, not too many

walked out. I guess they all wanted to see the outcome; but we'll see
how it is going forward, Jonathan said.
Don't be too quick to get an outsider to fill in as assistant;
make use of the deacons who have stood with Pastor Kirby and
yourself, Pastor Richardson said. Let them step in as much as
possible to help relieve you of some of the church responsibilities. I
believe the devil has a special task force aimed at Ninth Street
because of all the soul-winning and straightforward Bible teaching
that you do. So you stay in the Word, pray without ceasing, and be
obedient to what God wants you to do. And no matter what takes
place, never stop telling folks about the Good News.
I wont, Jonathan said.
Now, your weakness may not be other women, but whatever it
is, you can rest assured that the devil knows about it, and he knows
when and how to exploit that weakness, Pastor Richardson said.
So remain sober at all times, and be encouraged: we here at New
Mt. Zion are praying for you, your family, and the church.
Thank you, Pastor Richardson. How have you and Mrs.
Richardson been doing health-wise?
I tell you, Jonathan. I never thought I would get old, Pastor
Richardson said with a laugh. But these old bones are starting to tell
on me. I can't run like I used to. Some days I feel like I'm touching
Heaven's portals. But I say with Paul, 'I've fought a good fight; I have
finished my course; I have kept the faith.' I am looking for my Lord
and Savior, Jesus Christ, to return any day now. My only reason to
live now is to preach the Gospel to any who will listen and to let them
know all they have to do is to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and
they shall be saved. Hallelujah! I feel like having a shouting fit right

now!
Jonathan laughed. After a few more exchanges they both
prayed and then said good bye.

Chapter 15
Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen
me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and
yet have believed. --John 20:29
Jonathan walked into Carmen's office after making a few more
phone calls.
The phone calls and emails are still coming in, Carmen
informed him.
I know this is not a pleasant job at this time, Jonathan said.
We have to put all that behind us and move forward. I'll be leaving at
twelve, and you are more than welcome to leave earlier if you wish.
You deserve it for hanging in there and holding the fort down during
this tough time for the church.
Thank you, Pastor Jonathan. I'll hang around until twelve in
case you need anything.
A few minutes before twelve as Jonathan was putting on his
jacket, the phone rang.
Cam, what do you want? Jonathan asked.
Brother Jonathan, it was such a busy day yesterday at Ninth
Street, I felt for sure you'd take today off. I wasn't expecting to get
you; but I decided to try anyway.
Well, you barely caught me. I was just about to leave.
Well, let me be quick then, Cam said. I waited around after
you all left the podium yesterday and many people were expressing

their anger about the whole situation. Some even spoke with me
about it. Many were saying that would be their last Sunday at Ninth
Street. Others were saying they don't know if they could trust another
young pastor. I guess they were referring to you. I had some come to
me in private asking me if I would fill in as senior pastor since I used
to be assistant pastor there at Ninth Street.
Cam, what are you getting at?
I just wanted to let you know that I'll be taking those who are
disgruntled about this whole situation as well as those who do not
want you to be the senior pastor with me and Ill be starting another
church with them. There's no need to let them just hang out there like
lost sheep. So if you begin to lose members, they are probably
worshiping with me.
Jonathan laughed. Well, I do thank you for your honesty.
Anything else?
Or, Cam said, I could come on board and help you through
this tough time. Kirby and I had some great plans for this church.
Well, look at the devil rearing up hisugly head, Jonathan
thought with a slight smile.
Are you still there? Cam asked.
Yes, I'm still here. I'll think about it, Jonathan said. Anything
else you want to inform me of, Cam?
No. Just think about my offer, and Carmen has my number.
Give me a call real soon. Time is of the essence, Cam said.
I'm sure it is, Jonathan thought as he hung up the phone.
What do you think? Jonathan asked Carmen as soon as he

got off the phone.

I overheard him and Pastor Kirby arguing a few times when he
used to serve here. Seems like he wanted to preach more times than
Pastor Kirby was allowing him to. I'm sure there's more to it, Carmen
said. I'd be careful in dealing with him.
Thanks, Carmen. Come on. Time for you to head on home. I
won't leave you here alone, because if you're like my wife, you'll find
a hundred other things to do.
Theres a snake for you, sure enough, Monica said after
Jonathan told her about Cam's phone call. He did not even have the
decency to wait for things to die down.
I guess he thought our losing members was going to cause
me to jump and take him on board, Jonathan said.
I wonder what else he has up his sleeve? Monica said.

Chapter 16
And now, Lord, what wait I for? My hope is in thee. --Psalm
39:7

After meeting with his staff and offering up prayers for Jonathan
and the Ninth Street Church family, and returning a few phone calls,
including solidifying his date for preaching at the upcoming preacher's
conference, Pastor Richardson left for home.
It's only 11:07. What brings you home so early? his wife said
as she greeted him at the front door.
Hey, Wanda. I don't feel well. I think I need some rest. I did get
up early this morning, Pastor Richardson said.
You get up early every morning, his wife said as she took his
briefcase and helped him remove his jacket. You've really been
pushing it hard this past year and preaching like a machine.
Like I told Jonathan when I spoke with him yesterday, keep the
Gospel as the center of his preaching, and I'm doing the same.
People are living such messed up lives, we have to preach like crazy
the urgency of salvation and Jesus' soon return. Only Jesus can
deliver them out of their messed up situations and give them that
peace that we all desire in this chaotic world.
Pastor Richardson suddenly reached up and grabbed his
chest. He tried to keep an upright posture but was unsuccessful. The
grimace on his face caused his wife to shout out, Are you alright?

She jumped to his side and quickly loosened his tie, placed her
arms around his waist, and helped him to the couch.
It's probably just heartburn. I checked in with Dr. Gonzalez the
end of last week; he did a thorough exam but couldn't find anything
wrong, Pastor Richardson said.
Fine time to tell me, his wife said adjusting the cushions
under his head.
Pastor Richardson waved his hand. Oh, it's nothing to worry
about. People get heartburn all the time, plus, coupled with the stress
of the ministry, and --
And people die of heart attacks all the time thinking it is
heartburn, his wife interjected. Come on. Get up. Off to bed you go.
Samuel and I would love to have you spend some more years with us
and I am sure the church family would too.
Like I told you, heartburn is nothing to worry about. It will soon
go away as it always does, Pastor Richardson said.
Wanda helped him to the bedroom.
Youll have to try harder to convince me that it's heartburn, his
wife said pulling the sheet back as she helped him to sit down on
their bed. Look at you, huffing and puffing from just taking the few
steps from the living room to the bedroom.
She pulled his shoes and socks off and helped him take his
shirt off.
Like I've been telling you, we're not getting any younger. She
helped him lift his legs up onto the bed and pulled the sheet over him.
Did Dr. Gonzalez give you anything for the pain?

He gave me some pills. They should be around here

somewhere, Pastor Richardson said adjusting his pillows behind his
head. I probably left it at the office.
Just like yousick and won't say a word. Don't even pay
attention to where you put things.
Why pay attention when I have such a good helpmeet?
This is no time for jokes, Wanda said pushing things around
in the bedside table drawer. No medication here. There is nothing
masculine about clamming up when you're in pain. That's just plain
stupidity. She poked around in the top dresser drawer where her
husband kept his keys, watch, and other knick-knacks he emptied out
of his pockets each evening. Doctor gives you medication and you
don't know where you put it. I assume you have not taken it since he
gave it to you. Don't even bother to answer, she said.
Wanda stood still for a minute wondering where her husband
could have put his medication.
What are you chuckling about? I don't see anything funny
here, she said looking at her husband.
You, her husband said breaking out in laughter. You should
see yourself. You're acting like a mother hen fussing over her
chickens.
Wanda smiled. I can't help it. You're one rooster worth fussing
over.
Come sit beside me, her husband said.
Wanda cuddled up to her husband who wrapped his arms
around her. You don't have to worry about losing me. God will
provide for you and Samuel. He's given us many blessed years

together.
Yes, He certainly has. And, yes, I don't want to lose you any
time soon. You've been talking about death so much lately, I can't
help but to wonder is God getting ready to take you on home.
Pastor Richardson hugged his wife tighter.
After a few minutes of silence, she released herself from his
arms. You stay right here in the bed. I'm going to bring you some
cranberry juice, then I'm going to head on out to the church to search
your office, she said straightening the sheet and comforter over him.
Sister Richardson did a thorough search of her husband's car
before she drove out to the church to search his office. She did not
find the medication. She swung by the school after deciding to pick
her son, Samuel, up a little earlier than usual. Samuel was now ten
years old. He was looking more and more like his father. My miracle
baby, Sister Richardson thought as she gave him a hug.
Your dad's going to be relaxing for the rest of the day, Samuel,
so after you say hello to him try not to disturb him for the rest of the
day. Okay?
Yes, ma'am, Samuel said.
They both searched his home office once they got in, but that
proved futile as well. Sister Richardson almost tripped over her
husband's briefcase which was still in the living room where she had
dropped it earlier. Now why didn't I think of that, she chided herself as
she retrieved the medication from the briefcase. It was here all the
time.
After giving him the correct dosage, she searched the internet
to read some more about the medication. For heart complications; to

relax blood vessels and to stop chest pains.

Lord, I'll make sure he takes it, she prayed. But as far as the
workload at the church, that's in Your hands. You'll have to slow him
down because He is not going to listen to me, or Dr. Gonzalez, or
anyone else. And, Lord, please give me and Samuel many more
years with him. Amen.

Chapter 17
Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O Lord: let
thy lovingkindness and thy truth continually preserve me. -Psalm 40:11
Jonathan and Monica settled into their new role as senior
pastor and first lady of Ninth Street Baptist Church. Wednesday's
Prayer Meeting immediately after Pastor Kirby's confession the
previous Sunday produced a full house, however, there were a few
empty seats the following Sunday and even more empty seats the
following two Sundays.
This just goes to show you where some people's hearts are,
Monica said. They came expecting to have an update on Pastor
Kirby's situation.
Anise sat a few seats towards the back glancing every now and
then over towards the middle where Leanne sat most Sundays. She
wanted to talk with Leanne so badly, but was still angry with her for
what she said about her and Pastor Kirby. Cam probably didnt even
tell her anything. How can she even fix her mouth to accuse me of
fooling around with Pastor Kirby? Who can trust Cam anyway? He
was probably mad because he was no longer assistant pastor. Just
look at her grinning. Probably gossiping with now who in the world
is she talking to? I have never seen her here before.
Anise stretched her neck until it hurt trying to get a good look at
the lady Leanne was talking with during the Fellowship & Welcoming
time. She kept an eye on them during the services.
Hi, I'm Anise Caverly. Anise said to the young lady who
introduced herself as Karol Reels, immediately after the worship

services. Is this your first time here?

Yes, Karol replied shaking Anise's extended hand.
Oh, yes, Leanne said walking up to them. She had stepped
away to greet some of the other congregants.
Now why did you have to turn up? Anise thought still holding
her smile although she wanted badly to frown.
I met her in the parking lot. We got to talking, so she officially
became my guest, Leanne said.
Well, it was nice meeting you, Karol. I hope to see you again.
Anise turned to leave without looking at Leanne.
Give me a call, Leanne said with a smile.
Anise pretended not to hear. She glanced back when she got
to the exit. I just hope she hasn't been spreading those rumors about
me and Kirby, she thought as she saw Leanne and Karol laughing
with each other.
When Anise returned home her husband, Melvin, was not
there. Goodbye to the trucker, Anise thought as she tossed her purse
on the bed. I hope you'll enjoy your two weeks in the corner of your
house, she smirked. After fixing herself something to eat, she
mustered up the courage to give Leanne a callmore out of curiosity
to find out what she and Karol had been talking about and to find out
whether or not she had said anything to anyone about what Cam told
her.
Hello, Leanne. Um this is Anise. I figured since we hadn't
talked for a while, I'd give you a call.
I'm sure you did, Leanne thought of saying, but she instead

said, Hey, there! For some strange reason I figured you'd give me a
call this evening.
Yeah right, Anise thought. That was nice of you to invite Karol
to sit with you. I saw you both laughing a lot. I take it she enjoyed the
services.
She sure did. In fact, she says she will be coming again on
next Sunday, and that she may make this her church home.
She looks pretty young. How old is she? Is she married?
Anise asked.
Oh, she's about your age. I never asked her was she married.
Whatever you all were talking about must have been good
stuff, Anise said quietly.
Don't worry. We weren't talking about you, Leanne said with a
laugh. No need to feel insecure. And if you're still mad at me for
what I said about you and Pastor Kirby as reported to me by Brother
Cam, you don't need to worry about that either; I have not mentioned
it to anyone.
Leanne chuckled as she heard Anise let out a deep sigh of
relief.
We're Christians, so we don't need to lower ourselves to
gossiping about each other, especially if we are friends. Friends tell
each other the truth even when it hurts.
Anise pretended to cough.
So how are things going between you and your husband? Did
he make it home this weekend? Leanne asked.
Yes, he did, but things are the same. He was gone by the time

I got in from church. Just continue to pray for us.

Will do, Leanne said. She strongly believed Anise was more
at fault in their marriage, but greatly restrained herself from saying so.
Hold on. Somebody's trying to get me on the other line. That was
Karol. She wants to talk more about the church and about Pastor
Reynolds and his vision for the church.
Tell her I say hello, Anise said before hanging up the phone. I
wonder what they are really going to be talking about, she wondered
as she picked up her romance novel.
****
Good morning, Carmen, Jonathan said as he entered the
secretary's office for another week's work. I trust the rush of phone
calls and emails have died down and that things are back to normal,
he chuckled.
Yes, Pastor. Two weeks of church drama is enough for me. It
still amazes me how fast news travels. Even a pastor from all the way
up in Canada called to inquire, Carmen said. Any way, only four
phone calls came in this morning: Brother Cam, a woman named
Karol Reels, and a man named Joshua Kessler who says he is a
Public Relations personnel and would like for you to return his call
ASAP. I left their numbers on your desk.
Thanks, Carmen. Who's the fourth one, and did Cam say what
he wanted?
That was Anise. She's a member here. I don't know if you
remember her. Anyway she said Pastor Kirby was giving her some
marital counseling before he left, but that she would give you a call
later. Brother Cam just said to give him a call whenever you can.

Chapter 18
The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his
glory to pass over a transgression. --Proverbs 19:11

Jonathan dialed Karol Reel's number but got her voicemail. He

hung up. He then dialed Joshua Kessler's number.
Yes, Pastor Jonathan, thank you for returning my call. I'm a
certified Public Relations personnel, and I heard what happened to
the former pastor there at Ninth Street. I visited your church these
past two Sundays and noticed that there were quite a number of
empty seats. I was there when Pastor Kirby made his confession. It's
sad what happened. He sought my advice when he first started Ninth
Street.
Yes, Jonathan said. And we believe God will replace those
who have left.
That's where I'd like to offer my services, Joshua said. I have
some proven strategies that if you implement will be sure to begin
increasing your numbers again. I guess what I'm saying is, I'd like to
join your staff there to help out. You can always release me once the
job is doneand you decide when it's done.
Why don't you send me your rsum, Jonathan said.
I sure will. Ive been visiting churches for several years now
and have helped many of them increase their attendance. Ive also
helped many pastors build their personal ministry branding and
expand their speaking platform. I believe I can help build back up
your membership and improve your image to the community after this

scandal.
You sound very excited about your work, Jonathan said.
Seems like you've had a lot of successes.
God has blessed me to be successful. My motto is: 'I bring
them in; you give them the Gospel', Joshua said.
Jonathan and Joshua talked a bit longer. Jonathan seemed
pleased with the information he gathered about Joshua.
What do you men think? Jonathan asked his deacons after
having a meeting with them upon receiving Joshua's resume.
Seems legit to me, Deacon Buchanan said after reading
aloud the two letters of recommendation and glancing over Joshua's
resume.
We can give him a try, Deacon Yancey said.
Deacon Youngblood nodded in agreement.
Deacon Travis read the statement documenting Joshua's
salvation testimony. He sounds real; but you get in touch with his
references and let's pray about it. We don't want anyone to prey on
our church. I'll go along with whatever decision you make.
Jonathan made another attempt at returning Karol Reels'
phone call. Her voice mail kicked in. He was about to leave a
message when Carmen stopped him.
I wouldn't leave a message, Pastor Jonathan. Neither of us
knows who she is. She's not listed as a church member. And
considering what we just went through, I do not want anyone
scandalizing your name. So just let her keep calling until she gets
you.

Thanks for looking out for me, Jonathan said.

She's definitely looking out for you, Monica said after

Jonathan shared with her Carmen's advice. As for Anise, you can
counsel her with the door wide open and with Carmen sitting at her
desk looking in. If I hear otherwise, I'll --
I sense jealousy, Jonathan said with a laugh. You're not
afraid of her, are you?
I wouldn't use the word 'afraid.' You can't blame me for being
jealous, can you? Especially not when I have such a handsome
husband, Monica said tilting her head. But I can show you how
jealous I'd be later.
I'll be ready, Jonathan said with a grin. This is some woman I
married, he thought as he cut into his roast.
Cam called the office throughout the week but Jonathan
refused to accept his call asking Carmen to take a message each
time. I need to find out more about him, Jonathan told her.
_________
Late Friday evening, Leanne stopped by the church's office to
speak with Jonathan.
Pastor Jonathan, I don't know exactly what's going on, but I
received a call from Brother Cam. He used to be our assistant pastor
before you came. Anyway, he asked me did I want to join up with him
at the new church he's started. He said all those who left here are
worshiping with him. He even asked me to be his secretary.
Now why would he do a thing like that? Jonathan said.

It seems to me like he's disgruntled over something, Leanne

said. Of course, I told him, no, and that I was quite happy right here
at Ninth Street.
Do you know if he's called anyone else?
Not that I know of. I thought you might want to know. He's
thinking of calling his church Ninth Street-North Baptist Church,
Leanne said. He started to say some negative things about you, but I
cut him off before he got started good.
When Leanne got up to leave, a phone call came in.
Hello, Brother Cam. I've been getting your messages, but you
know how it is overseeing a church. By the way, how is Ninth StreetNorth coming along? I want to thank you for looking out for those who
have left here. As I think about it, the best thing you did was to
provide them an immediate place of worship.
So does that mean we can partner? Cam said. I'm sure you
need an assistant pastor, or if you feel more comfortable in your
former position, I would count it an honor to take senior pastor
position. Like I shared with you before, I helped Kirby build Ninth
Street so I know its heartbeat.
I appreciate the offer, but you do your thing there at Ninth
Street-North, and I'll do my thing here at the original Ninth Street,
Jonathan said. Is there anything else you wanted to talk about?
No. Just expect to lose more members. They are calling me
wanting to join with me. In fact, they are the reason I started Ninth
Street-North. They begged me to start a church. Well, have a great
weekend.
I smell nothing but trouble, Carmen and Leanne said.

He's nothing but a snake in disguise, Monica said. You'd

better discuss this with the deacons. I'm sure they could shed some
more light on Cam's character.

Chapter 19
"The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that
hearkeneth unto counsel is wise." Proverbs 12:15
Jonathan's monthly visits to the jail to visit Kirby provided him
with the information he needed to wisely move forward in handling
Cam.
"I believe the real reason he left was not because of what took
place between me and Sandy. He wanted more recognition in the
church. He really wanted to take over as senior pastor because he
saw how fast it was growing," Kirby told him. "He kept asking me to
let him preach more and wanted to preach along with me at
preachers' conferences. He's not as interested in the spirituality of the
church as he is in its finances."
Kirby seemed pleased when Jonathan mentioned Joshua
Kessler.
"Yes, you take Joshua Kessler on board. He'll be a great help
to you. He was fresh out of college when he offered me his services,"
Kirby said. "I decided to give him a chance and I was pleased with his
work. He kind of left suddenly though, stating he had some personal
matters to take care of. I never found out why. Have you heard from
Kristy?"
"Monica spoke with her. She's still upset, but Monica is trying to
talk her out of filing for divorce."
Kirby was silent for some seconds. "Could you or your wife kind
of check in on Sandy and make sure my son is doing well?"

"I'll have Monica or Carmen to talk with her if Cam will allow
them to."

*****
"Cam is a fraud," Deacon Travis told Jonathan when Jonathan
sought his and the other deacons' advice on moving forward with
Cam. "I was so glad when he left the church. Every now and then he
and Kirby would have it out."
"He called me and asked me to come over and help him get his
new church going and that I was free to come back here to Ninth
Street once things got up and running," Deacon Youngblood said. "I
declined his offer."
"He knows better than to call me," Deacon Travis said. "Don't
trust him."

*****
Cam made a beeline to his computer after eating his dinner.
With telephone in hand, he pulled up a list of names with email
addresses, telephone numbers, and physical addresses.
Have I got something for you, Jonathan, he thought as he
dialed the first number. I helped to build Ninth Street so I have a
stake in it.
"Hello, Gary. This is Brother Cam. How are you, my brother?
I'm calling to invite you to come join me as I build my new church
the sister church to Ninth Street Baptist. I have already spoken with
your new pastor, so he knows about our new church. He fears with
the scandal surrounding Pastor Kirby that Ninth Street is probably

going to go down; we're in a sense slowly but surely transferring the

members over without making it public. You've probably noticed some
empty seats already. So consider joining me now before you're left
without a church home."
Mitzie and Sandy, who were cleaning up the kitchen, listened
intently. They both glanced at each other as Cam dialed the second
number. Running the faucet water as quietly as they could, they
listened as Cam made his presentation to John Childress.
"Brother John, it's been awhile since we spoke, but I am
calling"
Mitzie walked over to where Cam was seated and peered over
his shoulders at the computer screen. The file read Membership at
Ninth Street.'
"I don't believe this," she muttered. As soon as Cam said
goodbye to John Childress, Mitzie tapped him on his shoulder. "You
can't do that, Cam!"
"I can and I am," Cam replied.
"How in the world did you get the phone numbers?"
"Remember, I used to be assistant pastor there. I could have
been pastor if Kirby had just listened."
"That's no longer your church; it's Jonathan's. Whatever you're
still disgruntled about, don't take it out on Jonathan," Mitzie said
balling up the dish towel in her hand.
"Who says I'm disgruntled," Cam said. "I warned Kirby over and
over but he would not listen; now he's paying in more ways than one."
Sandy stood aghast as she listened.

"Isn't it enough you told on him? Isn't it enough you brought the
media in on it to help drag his name through the mud?"
"Correction. He dragged his own name in the mud. I only made
the mud thicker. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have about eighteen more
calls to make. I think twenty a day is good enough. Don't you?" Cam
dialed the next number. "Don't interrupt me," he said to his wife who
stood glaring at him. "Finish off in the kitchen and yes, Lanie, how
are you this evening?"
Sandy rushed off to her room. Mitzie followed her. After some
silence, Sandy said to her aunt, "I've made my decision. I'm returning
to Texaspermanently. Please don't tell Uncle Cam who I'll be
staying with," Sandy said after sharing with her aunt the conversation
she had with Monica. "I just can't stay here anymore."
"Uncle Cam," Sandy said shortly after he got off the phone, "I
can't stay here any longer. I can't go through this. I appreciate you
keeping my name anonymous, but what you're doing to the Ninth
Street Church family is not right. You're the one who's trying to
destroy that church."

Chapter 20
"He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false
witness deceit." Proverbs 12:15
The Montagues welcomed Sandy and Solomon into their
home. Sandy picked up where she left off in her attendance at New
Mt. Zion and in college at TCU. She said nothing to them about her
uncle's schemes against Ninth Street.
On her first Sunday back at New Mt. Zion, Pastor Richardson
announced that he and some of the men would be at a PreacherLeadership Conference in Oregon state for that entire week.
"Are you sure you're up to it," Sister Richardson asked,
"especially with your health as it is?"
"They've had me scheduled to preach for about a year now; I
can't cancel at the last minute," Pastor Richardson said.
Pastor Richardson, accompanied by a few of the men of New
Mt. Zion, made it safely to the four-day meeting. They were richly
blessed and encouraged to keep on serving God. When Jonathan
was introduced as one of the speakers and as he took his place
before the microphone, the men from New Mt. Zion were not only
surprised, but elated.
"We're surprised to meet up with you here," Jonathan's father
said to him after Jonathan finished preaching his message entitled,
"What to Do When You Don't Know What to Do."
"A timely message," Pastor Richardson said. "The only thing
you can do when you don't know what to do is pray. I didn't know you

were scheduled to preach."

"I didn't know either until a month ago. Kirby was on the roster
to preach. A letter came in the mail reminding him of the meeting. I
called Pastor Necee and explained everything to him and he asked
me to fill in."
"I'm so glad he did," Pastor Richardson said. "How is the family
and church family doing?"
"Monica and the children are doing great," Jonathan said. "By
the way, this is Joshua Kessler. He specializes in doing PR work with
churches. I hired him on staff to help us. You know we lost about a
quarter of our members."
"That's what your dad told me. But that's expected when a
church undergoes something as serious as Ninth Street did. But you
just hang in there and don't hesitate to call us if we can be of help to
you," Pastor Richardson said.
"In fact, I need your advice on something," Jonathan said. He
shared with them Cam's underhanded work.
"Talk about fleecing the flock," Mr. Montague said. "That's the
devil for you."
"Just do what you preached tonightjust pray," Jonathan's
father, Brother Reynolds, advised him. "You stick to the Word and
God will make even your enemies to be at peace with you."
"I would tell the congregation what he's up to and tell those
who want to join him to go ahead and leave and not make a scene
out of it, and those who wish to remain to keep on coming," Pastor
Richardson said. "There is nothing more frustrating than trying to
minister to a group of people who sit in the pewsjust waiting

waiting to see which direction the wind is going to blow. If it blows

east they run to the east; if it blows west, they run to the west. Like
Jesus, I hate these straddle-the-fence' Christians. Either jump on the
bandwagon and stay on, or jump off and give me a lighter load to
carry."
The men all agreed.
They had a tremendous time of fellowship encouraging each
other throughout the conference. On the way home, Pastor
Richardson shared with Brother Montague and Brother Reynolds,
"As you know I've been praying for the person the Lord would have
to replace me at New Mt. Zion as I believe I'll be checking out of here
soon. Jonathan keeps coming to my mind. After how I heard him
preach the other night, I'm believing more and more he's the man.
Since Brother Reynolds insists on remaining as assistant pastor, then
I have to look somewhere else. Are you sure you don't want that
position?" he asked Brother Reynolds.
"No, no. I'm right where God wants me until I die. Plus, I just
don't feel worthy enough to fill your shoes."
"No, brother. Only by the grace of God, have I accomplished
what I have accomplished," Pastor Richardson said. He then turned
to Brother Montague.
"Don't look at me," Brother Montague chuckled. "I am quite at
peace being the IT man of the church, and helping every now and
then in Wednesday Prayer Meeting. I am staying in my calling."
"Well, just pray about it with me," Pastor Richardson said. "As I
shared with my wife, I am ready to go; but I am willing to hang around
a while longer to bring more people to Jesus."

Chapter 21
"And now, Lord, what wait I for? My hope is in thee."
Psalm 39:7
On the plane ride back to Oklahoma, Joshua shared with
Jonathan some of his plans for the growth of the church.
"The first thing is to get you to preach at as many conferences
and churches as you can; I'm talking about mega-churches. I have
contacts. We have to get your church's web page updated. We also
have to get you on major television stations. This means you will
have to be away from your pulpit on some Sundays and away from
home more often." Joshua peered at Jonathan over the rim of his
designer glasses for a few seconds. "Do you think your wife can
handle that?" he asked.
"Woah! Handle what?" Jonathan asked. "I'm the pastor, not
her."
"Not that. I'm talking about you being away from home more,"
Joshua said.
"I'm sure she will."
"Now one of the things you want to implement right away,"
Joshua said, "is to tone down your messages. People don't want to
hear messages about sin every Sunday. They cannot take it that
often. But I'll be speaking with you about message content later."
"Well, if I don't preach on sin what else can I preach on?"
Jonathan said. "They are going to hell if they don't repent."
"Yes, but you don't want to scare them away before they get a

solid footing in the church," Joshua said pushing his glasses up on

his nose. "Church folk already know if they don't live right they are not
going to be blessed. But after being beaten up on all week long by
bosses, spouses, and others, they want you as their pastor on
Sunday mornings to comfort them, to put a band-aid on their bruises,
to patch them up, to help them get their shout back. They do not want
you adding salt to their wounds. You always mention hell whenever
you preach; you have to cut that out; it's just too much."
"Well, that's what is going to matter in the long run: Heaven or
hell," Jonathan said.
"I know, but you want their ride to Heaven to be as smooth as
possible."
"What about their ride to hell?" Jonathan asked.
Ignoring his question, Joshua continued speaking. "What I am
saying is to water it down. You're going to scare the people off if you
beat them over the head with the Bible every Sunday. You won't get
any TV deals or many invitations to speak with that message. People
cannot take that"
Jonathan chuckled. "Any other suggestions?"
"Throughout the week, randomly call up some members and
just say hello, I'm thinking about you.' They love that"
"But that's why I have a welcoming committee to do that kind of
thing. I'm busy studying and preparing a dynamic sermon for them,"
Jonathan said.
"You know that and I know that, but that's what the members
want you to do; they love for you as their pastor to do that."
"Can't my wife do that? Wouldn't it produce the same effect?"

"I think you know the answer to that," Joshua said.

The plane touched down in Oklahoma on Friday evening.
Jonathan swung by the church to touch base with Carmen.
"Pastor Jonathan, I know you have to go home and get rested
up for Sunday, but if you can at least get a phone call in to Anise.
She's been calling here everyday for you all week long. I kept telling
her you won't be back until Sunday. She even stopped by here twice.
I guess she thought I was lying," Carmen said.
"I might call her," Jonathan said with a sigh. "I told her more
than once I was not counseling her by herself and that her husband
must come with her. If he won't come, at least some other trusted
woman needs to accompany her. I do not want her beating up on her
husband without him being here to defend himself."
Monica gave him the same message when he got home. "She
keeps calling my cell phone asking for you, saying something about
you coming over tonight and her husband coming home and a
bunch of babbling after that."
"You sound frustrated," Jonathan said stretching out on the bed
beside her.
"With her calling," Monica said. "She's called my number
everyday, sometimes twice a day and just keeps rambling on and on
not even a hello or anything made me want to change my
number. Then she insisted on having your cell number. When I
wouldn't give it to her, she suggested stopping by as that would save
you a trip to her house as her husband refuses to come to the church
for counseling, and so on and so on. So how was your trip?"

Chapter 22
Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the
multitude of counsellors they are established.
Proverbs 15:22
Anise returned home to find her husband, Melvin, sound asleep
on the couch.
What in the world is he doing here? I was not expecting him for
another week. Now Im going to have to cook for sure. She moved
around as quietly as she could to prepare the meal. When the meal
was done, she sat on the loveseat with a romance novel in her hand
but kept fanning the pages as she stared at her husband. Why is he
home a whole week early?? And he did not even call to let me know.

The smell of the food must be tickling your nose, Anise said
to her husband as he awoke.

Hey, Anise. Have I been asleep that long? he said, glancing

at his watch. He stood up and asked, How about, Im surprised to
see you home almost a week early, Melvin?

I am surprised to see you home almost a week early, Melvin,

Anise said flatly. Why?
Melvin walked into the kitchen and took a plate out of the cabinet. I
put in for a new schedule you know, something closer to home so I
wont be gone for more than two or three days at a time. Well, I got
my new schedule starting on next Monday. Melvin heaped two
pieces of steaming broiled chicken on his plate. Being away from
each other for two to three weeks at a time is not helping our
marriage. I pull out in the morning to make my last long delivery. Then
Ill be home more often and for longer periods.

Melvin scooped up a spoonful of Spanish rice. Just as I like it,

he said inhaling deeply. So how do you like my new schedule?
Anise swallowed. I love it, she said quietly.

Your expression and tone of voice belie your words, Melvin

said. I thought you wanted me to stay home more so we could at
least go to church together. Im eager to meet your new pastor.
This man has messed up my plans, Anise thought. Then a halfsmile came across her lips. Well, maybe not.
By morning when she said a cheery goodbye to her husband,
Anise had everything mapped out.Numerous phone calls to the
church and to Pastor Jonathans wife should signal desperation, she
thought as she dialed the church number on her way to her job.
*****
Cam stopped by Ninth Street to have a word with Jonathan
seeing that Jonathan had not returned his calls.

Hes at the Leadership Conference in Oregon, Carmen

informed him.

Seems like hes been avoiding me, but you tell him Ill stop by
next week when he returns, Cam said.
Cam tuned in to the live stream of the conference. I need to
get to some of those meetings and make my face known, he said to
his wife as he made his evening calls recruiting Ninth Street members
to start attending his church. Why dont you make some of these
calls for me during the day time? It will help take up some of your
time, especially since you dont have Solomon to babysit anymore.
Mitzie gave him a look that, if it could, would have pierced
through him. You might feel comfortable being a pastor who steals

members; but I refuse to be first lady of that mess, Mitzie said. You
should be ashamed of yourself.

Look, Mitzie, its only a matter of time before Jonathan

succumbs to some womanas handsome as he is. See, hes over
there trying to run the church by himself. Ive offered him my help as
assistant pastor, or even as pastor should he want to remain in the
assistant pastor position, but hes refused. When the stress sets in
and some hot-trotting mama comes along, hell be seeking my help
then. Cam chuckled.

Well, Im sure the deacons are helping him, Mitzie said.

There was a special update on the evening news. It went off a few
minutes before you came in. It was Jessica Simmons giving an
update on her series: What causes a rising pastor to risk everything
and engage in that one sin he knows can pull him down? She says
Pastor Jonathan seems to be pulling the church back together and is
moving forward. One member, Anise, said that you can help a church
recover by staying put and supporting whoever is left in charge.
Anise. That name sounds familiar, Cam thought as he scrolled
down the Ninth Street membership list.

Chapter 23
Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding
they kinswoman: That they may keep thee from the strange
woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.
Proverbs 7:4-5
The Reynolds family had settled down for an early night after
Jonathan returned home that Friday when Monicas cell phone rang.

Anise Caverly, she said glancing at the screen. Do you want

me to answer it?

No. Let the voice mail pick it up, Jonathan said.

After a few minutes, Monica played the message from Anise:
Monica, Im on the verge of going insane. Is Pastor in? I need to talk
with him. Isnt the conference over with yet? My husband has driven
me to my limit. Next time you hear about me, Ill be in Heaven. I have
no more reason to live.
Jonathan looked across to his wife. What do you think?

I think shes faking and she has something up her sleeve; but,
for your peace of mind, you should probably go see her and Ill go
with you, Monica said swinging her legs over the edge of the bed.
Its only 9:43. Im sure Doris wont mind keeping an eye on the
children for about an hour.
After securing directions to Anises house and saying goodbye
to Mitch who was still awake, Jonathan and Monica left.

I appreciate your coming, Jonathan said once they were on

their way.

Youre welcome. I would have stayed in with the children, but I

remember something Sister Richardson shared with me shortly after
you took over the church. She said, I dont know what it is about a
preacher, but women are going to throw themselves at your husband.
As soon as one leaves here comes another one. Make sure you have
a tight relationship with your husband, and do not be buddy-buddy
with the women of the church, especially those in your age group.
Love them and encourage them, but maintain a respectful distance
with them. Make your husband your best friend. Turn here at the
light, Monica said pointing to the right. She said something about
speaking into an intercom at the front door and then waiting for a
buzzer.

Sounds like you dont trust Anise, Jonathan said.

Nope. I do not trust her, Monica said.

Jonathan slowed down before a modest two-bedroom house.

He turned the headlights off just before turning into the driveway.

How strange, Monica said. All the house lights, including the
outside porch light, are off except for that one in the room upstairs. Id
think youd light the house up if youre expecting company.

Dont slam the door, Jonathan said. Ill do all the talking; you
just listen.

You got it.

They walked quietly to the front door. Jonathan rang the
doorbell a couple times. Monica was almost sure she saw the curtain
move in the upper window to the far right. What are we in for?, she
thought as Anises voice came over the intercom outside the door.

Who is it? Anise asked.

Its Pastor Reynolds.

The doors unlocked; just come in when you hear the chimes
and lock it behind you. Im in the last room upstairs to the right.
Monica and Jonathan looked at each other.

Sister Anise, Im coming up, Jonathan said upon entering

through the front door. How are you feeling?

Not so good. Come on up, Pastor Jonathan, Anise said.

Jonathan signaled for his wife to stay hidden by the bedroom
door. Seems like you need some light on in this hallway, Sister
Anise, Jonathan said as he knocked on the door.

Come on in, Anise said spilling out a series of dry coughs.

You can close the door behind you. I think I feel a draft coming in.
Jonathan was surprised but at the same time not too surprised
at what he saw. Anise was laying in the bed with a thin sheet pulled
up just a little over her breasts. Her shoulders were bare. The
silhouette of her body was clearly visible under the sheet. It was clear
she was naked. Oh, boy! Jonathan thought as he pushed the door
up. Dont you think you need a thicker blanket to ward off that cold
draft?

You can sit down, Pastor Jonathan, Anise said ignoring his
question.
Jonathan took a quick glance around the room. There wasnt a
chair, stool, or bench to sit on. He smiled. Taking a couple steps into
the room, he said louder than normal, Youre sounding much better
than you did on the phone, sister.

Yes. Im just glad you sacrificed and came over because I

could use some comforting and a listening ear. Signaling once again

for him to sit, she said, Were no strangers; you dont have to stand.
You can sit on the edge of the bed, that way I wont have to strain my
voice when I talk. She coughed a dry cough then cleared her throat.

Whats on your mind? Have you heard from your husband?

Jonathan asked still standing.

Oh, I dont think I will hear from him any time soon, if at all.
Hes not like you, Pastor, Anise said softly.

What do you mean?

Oh, youre caring. Anise lowered her voice to a whisper. Like
tonight: even though youre tired, you came to see me any way.
Clearing her throat again, Anise continued. You know, Pastor
Jonathan, as I sit listening to you preach Sunday after Sunday, even
before this tragedy struck the church, I admit, my mind wanders and
all I can think of is how I would love to lie in my bed with you, and
how much pleasure we would have between my silk sheets.
Jonathan remained standing and expressionless as Anise
continued talking.

All evening Ive been thinking how we could bring it to pass

right here, right now as I cant seem to get it out of my mind.
Monica leaned her head closer to the slightly opened door so
as not to miss a word.

I know the only way I can get this out of my mind is to make it
a reality. Close the door all the way, Pastor Jonathan. I still feel a draft
coming in, Anise said going through another of her fake coughing
spells.

You need to take care of that cough before it gets worse,

Jonathan said.

Ignoring Jonathans words, Anise continued, No one will ever

know. I can really show you much better than I can tell you my
feelings for you. You know you want me just as much as I want you. I
can see it in your eyes. Anise started to lift the sheet up. Theres
something under here for you. Come on and join me.

Wait a minute! Jonathan said quickly. I think Ill take you up

on your offer. Leave the sheet on for a minute and let me do the
honors. Let me close the door first. I better lock it. Reaching his hand
out the door, he signaled for his wife to come into the room. Im sure
you remember my wife, Monica. Her being a woman, Im sure she
can comfort you much better than I can.

Hello, Anise, Monica said not knowing whether to cry, laugh,

or get angry.
Anises eyes flew wide open. Her face turned red. I thought
you told mewha
Putting his arm around his wife, Jonathan said, You seem to
be doing well, so well take our leave. No need to show us out the
door. Well make sure we lock the door on our way out. I would love
to meet your husband. Extend an invitation to him from me to visit the
church when hes back in town. You have a great night.

Good night, Anise, Monica said. I hope to see you in church

on Sunday. Hopefully youll be over that cough by then.
Jonathan and Monica had a laughing fit on their way home.
Shell think twice before pulling that stunt again, Jonathan said.

You would think these women would leave the man of God
alone and try to help him live a pure life, Monica said. But thats not
so. I know a large part of it is the devil trying to bring preachers down;
but the other part is our wicked sinful flesh. All these women see is

the spiritual side of the preacher and they want to see if he has an
evil side. We just need to make sure we stay prayed up and keep our
relationship tight.

Chapter 24
But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to
come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 19:14
Jonathans sister, Janice, who chose to remain single, was now
director of a school for children with special needs where she had
been teaching since she obtained her doctoral degree in Special
Education. His brother, James, now married, was still involved in
missionary work overseas. Good things were happening at New Mt.
Zion as well. New members were continually being added to the
church, especially with the expansion of the school.
Matt and Trisha Gurber started attending New Mt. Zion
Missionary Evangelical Church shortly after settling down in Texas.
On their second Sunday, along with other visitors, they accepted the
invitation for membership into the church based upon their profession
of faith in Jesus Christ. They were placed in the care of Grace
Wilmington.

Thank you so much for choosing to join New Mt. Zion, Sister
Wilmington said as she handed them their welcome package. Heres
my phone number and my email address should you have any
questions. Let me give you a quick tour of the building. It will only
take a few minutes. Turning to the little girl holding on to Trisha
Gurbers hand, Sister Wilmington asked, Is this your daughter?

Yes, the Gurbers answered. Her name is Shania.

Shania. Thats a beautiful name for a beautiful little girl, Sister
Wilmington said. How old are you?

Im five years old, Shania said.

Do you mind if I hold your hand as we walk through the
building?
Shania took Sister Wilmingtons hand as she led them on a tour
of the church building. I dont know if you are aware of this or not,
but we do have an elementary and a high school. If youre looking for
a school for Shania we have openings in our K-5 class if youd be
interested.

Yes, I did see the sign earlier this week, Trisha said. In fact, I
stopped by the school on my way home from the job last Wednesday,
but everyone had left for the day.

We close early on Wednesdays to allow our staff time to get

some rest in preparation for our mid-week prayer services. We have
no after-school activities on that day. But the rest of the week were
like a bee hive up until six oclock, or later if we have a game or some
special function. We even have something going on on Saturdays.
Im not trying to get into your business or anything, but where do you
both work? Sister Wilmington asked.

I work as a nurse; my husband works as an engineer, Trisha

said.

Wonderful. Apart from the work I do here helping out at the

church, I work as the school counselor, Sister Wilmington said. If
you all are not in a hurry, I can give you a tour of the school as well.
Theres an application for the school in your welcome package.

Wed love that, Trisha said.

If youre interested in enrolling Shania into our program, you
can come by and speak with Debbie Campbell. Shes our school
director. Or you can ask for Sister Richardson, Pastor Richardsons

wife, or you can ask for Sister Reynolds, our assistant pastors wife.
Theyll see that you are well taken care of.
After they finished the tour, Matt and Trisha expressed how
impressed they were with the facilities.

How would you like to go to school here? Trisha asked

Shania.

I would love to. I miss going to school, she said.

Where did she go to school? Sister Wilmington asked.
Oh, we just relocated here about a month ago. We felt we
needed a change of pace and a change of scenery, Trisha said.

Well, I hope you enjoy living here in Texas. If you need

anything or have any questions at all, do not hesitate to give me a
call.

We sure will, Trisha said. If youll excuse us, I dont mean to

hurry off, but I have to be at work later this evening.

Dont let me hold you up. And welcome to New Mt. Zion,
Sister Wilmington said as she gave Trisha and Shania a hug and
shook Matts hand.

Chapter 25
Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full
with travail and vexation of spirit. Ecclesiastes 4:6

Anise felt a churning in her stomach all weekend, but she also felt
a churning in her conscience as she dragged herself around the
house all day on Saturday. To make matters worse, Leanne called
her on the phone early Sunday morning before she could pull herself
out of bed.

Hey, Anise! Just calling to make sure youre going to be in

church this morning.

I dont know if Ill be there. I went to bed not feeling well, and I
still dont feel well this morning, Anise said.

Why dont you go ahead and come on out. Sometimes a good

dose of church will help you get to feeling better, Leanne said. In
fact, you might be amazed at how much better you feel after
worshipping God and hearing all of that great singing and preaching.

Not this time. But I do thank you for calling. Just pray for me.
Okay, I will. Want me to ask Pastor Jonathan to stop by?
Oh no, no, that will not be necessary. Im sure Ill be feeling
better by tomorrow.

Alright then, Leanne said. Im going to call Karol and

encourage her to come on out.

You do that, Anise said. Thank God she didnt ask too many
questions. Anise crawled out of bed and trudged to the bathroom.

After the morning worship services, which sent the congregants

home with their spirits uplifted and a song in their hearts, Leanne
walked with Karol to Jonathans office.

Ive been needing some advice on family matters, Karol told

Leanne.

Come on in, Jonathan said as Karol knocked on the slightly

open door.
Once she got home, Leanne gave Anise a call. You missed an
uplifting service. People were just shouting and clapping and
stomping their feet. I thought I was in a Pentecostal church. I wish
you could have been there.

I wish I could have been there, too, Anise said.

Youre sounding better, Leanne said.
Yeah, a little. Anise feigned weakness in her voice.
Im glad.
How did Karol enjoy the services? Anise asked.
She enjoyed it tremendously. I walked her to Pastor Jonathans
office after services. She said she needed some advice on family
matters.
Mmm. Advice in his office, Anise thought. I thought he did not
counsel people on Sundays, she said. At least thats what he told
me when I tried to get some counseling after church one Sunday.

That may be his policy; but he was waiting for her in his office
when we got there, Leanne said.

Was there anyone in the office with them? Anise asked.

Leanne sighed. Anise, whats that to us?

Well, when I tried to talk with him alone about me and Melvin, he
was quite firm in telling me he only counseled females by themselves
with the door open and with the secretary at her desk. He would only
close the door if Melvin was with me or if his wife or another lady from
the church was in the room.

Theres nothing wrong with his policy. However, I left, so maybe

his wife was on her way there, Leanne said.

Well, you cant trust people nowadays to keep your business

private, Anise said.

You could have had me in there with you, Leanne said. Dont
you trust me?
Ignoring Leannes question, Anise continued. You said she went
into his office and closed the door?

I said nothing about him closing the door, but if thats so

important to you, yes, he told her to close the door behind her. What
are you so tied up in knots about, Anise? Who dont you trust? Pastor
Jonathan, Karol, or yourself? After not receiving a response from
Anise, Leanne hung up the phone.
Anise sat with a blank expression on her face. So thats why hes
been ignoring me. Thats why he didnt want to counsel me in his
office with the door closed. He has something going on with Ms.
High-Butt Karol Reels. I mean, who does she think she is just coming
into the church and having the audacity to hit on my pastor. I will see
how long she plans on running him down because Ill stop her in her
tracks.
To add to her woes, Anise received a disturbing phone call later
that evening.

Who are you again? she asked after the caller identified

himself.

I used to be assistant pastor at Ninth Street with Pastor Kirby.

Yes. I believe you left when I was just coming into the church.
Your name sounds familiar, Anise said. Now, how did you get my
number? I dont recall giving it to you.

Oh, I have my means, Cam said laughing. Ill quickly state my

business. Im calling to invite you to move your membership from
Ninth Street to the new Ninth Street North. All those who have left
Ninth Street are over here with me. I know for a fact that Pastor
Jonathan is going to end up like Pastor Kirby. I also know for a fact
that one lady is already making a move on him.
Anises mind immediately went to Karol. Well, he wouldnt know
that. Karol just started coming to the church.

Cam, I dont know what you are up to, but I am not interested in
leaving Ninth Street, Anise said.

What if I make you a proposition?

Go on.
Do you remember the evening you were in Kirbys office with
your blue blouse unbuttoned, and . . .
Anise held her breath and closed her eyes. She felt lightheaded
as Cams words bombarded every cell in her brain.

. . . you dont want me to tell your husband, do you? Or worse,

yet, you dont want it all over the six oclock news, do you? Or worse,
still: what if it gets worldwide coverage via the internet?

Exactly what do you want, Cam? Anises voice was quiet.

What I want is simple: just move your membership to my church.
Heres the address. I look forward to seeing you this Sunday.

Searching for a way out, Anise asked, What about my husband?

What if he refuses to come with me? You know were supposed to be
one.

Im sure youll figure something out, Cam said. Ill see you next
Sunday. Have a great evening.

Chapter 26
I will remember the works of the Lord: surely I will
remember thy wonders of old. Psalm 77:11

Joshua Kessler and Jonathan met regularly to discuss more

strategies for growing the church.

Pastor Jonathan, you might want to focus most of your attention

on reaching the younger age groupseighteen to forty. People that
age, with their knowledge of technology, will help stabilize and move
the church forward, Joshua said. I went inside the bank the other
daythe first time in a long time as I normally go through the drivethru, and I would say ninety-five percent of its employees were
probably under forty-five, including those sitting in the offices. Even
youre young.
Jonathan chuckled.

You implement new strategies to attract the younger crowd then

youll always have people to preach to instead of worrying about
whether or not youll be preaching to the pews the next Sunday. You
dont want a church filled with old folks with one foot on the earth and
the other foot in the grave.

You have a point there, Jonathan said. So what do you

suggest I do to keep the crowd we have?

To keep the crowd and to add to the crowd. I think we should get
a Christian band or a Christian hip-hop artist and have them put on a
concert heremaybe twice a yearone at the beginning of summer
and another at the end of summer. You could call it a Youth Summer

Fest. Well blanket the city with flyers, and make use of the internet
and word of mouth. I have contacts in the music industry. I just need
for you to give me the okay and Ill set Ninth Street up big time.

Let me let you run this by the Deacon Board. Im sure theyll
approve it, Jonathan said. Theyre all for bringing new people into
the church.

Are you telling me our young folks dont like the old hymns
anymore? Deacon Yancy said. Its enough that we have the praise
team getting us all worked up. Now you want hip-hop?

Brother Yancy, thirty-five year old Deacon Youngblood said,

you have to go with the flow sometimes. The hymns have served
their purpose. We are generations away from hymn singing. About
two-thirds of our congregation is under forty-five. We want to keep
them all and not run them off.

I can accept change, Deacon Yancy said.

As long as the words glorify God, Im okay with it, Deacon
Travis said.
*****
Anise had a rough week as she had a difficult time keeping her
mind focused. I wonder if Pastor Jonathan and his wife have said
anything to anyone? And Cam? Does he have cameras on me? She
was startled to see Melvin asleep on the couch when she came in
from work on Wednesday evening.Goodness, I forgot he was going
to be home more. How am I going to explain why Im not going to
Bible study tonight?
When Melvin awakened, Anise was asleep in bed.

Anise, Anise, he said gently shaking her. Its Wednesday and

its 6:30. Arent you going to Bible study?

Anise opened her eyes slightly. Melvin was dressed in a new

black suit with a red silk tie. I dont feel too good. Im going to stay in
tonight.

Man! I was looking forward to going to church with you and

meeting your new pastor, Melvin said. Well, I guess I have to go by
myself then.

Cant you please stay home with me? Anise said.

Youll be alright, Melvin said after placing a hand on her
forehead and then on her neck. You dont have a fever. I stepped out
and picked us up something to eat. Do you feel like eating?

No. Maybe some soup or something, Anise said.

Youre probably just tired. But dont you worry. Im home now so
that should relieve you of some of the household burdens. One bowl
of hot Campbells vegetable soup coming right up, Melvin said.
Anise felt a little guilty when her husband placed the bowl of soup
on the nightstand along with her Bible and her Christian romance
novel. He kissed her, then hurried out the door. As he drove to the
church, he prayed, Lord, thank You for changing my schedule. My
being on the road so often and for such lengths of time is not helping
the marriage any. I pray that You would help me and my wife to have
the marriage You desire for us to have. Amen.

That was an inspiring prayer time, Melvin said to Jonathan after

the services. By the way, my name is Melvin Caverly. My wife, Anise,
is a regular member here. She was not feeling well, so she stayed in
tonight. Ill be in the services more often now because of my new
work schedule.

I am pleased to meet you, Jonathan said shaking Melvins

hand. This is my wife, Monica. Tell your wife we said hello and that
well be praying for her healing.

A likely story, Monica said trying not to laugh as she and

Jonathan walked down the hallway. There is nothing wrong with
Anise. Shes just embarrassed because she made a fool of herself on
Friday night and shes ashamed to face us. Plus, she does not know
whether or not weve told anyone. Can you imagine having that
hanging over your head?

She may not be feeling well, Jonathan said.

Yeah, she may not be feeling well in spirit because her
conscience is bothering her and because her husband is back home,
Monica said. From just meeting him tonight, I dont believe he is as
evil as Anise is portraying him to be. Lets see how much counseling
shell be needing now.
They both chuckled as they walked out of the church building.

Chapter 27
And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making
many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of
the flesh. Ecclesiastes 12:12

Pastor Jonathan, my team and I scheduled a book signing for a

famous author who hired my services two Saturdays from today at
the Barnes and Noble Bookstore. He knows of you and strongly
requests your presence, Joshua said to Jonathan one afternoon.

Who is the author? Jonathan asked.

Oh, you know him quite well, but he wants it to be a surprise. In
fact, he wants you to sit next to him with your family as you sign
Joshua said.

As I sign? Jonathan asked.

Oops! Slip of the tongue, Joshua said with a grin. Anyway,
dont forget: two Saturdays from today. Ive already set it up with
Carmen. And the following Sunday, after services, the same author
will be signing books right here in our auditorium. Well take care of
everything; you just focus on what you do best and that is greeting
people and making them feel at home.

Youre the PR man, Jonathan said. Everything youve put your

hands on has worked thus far.
After Joshua left, Jonathan tried to squeeze more information out
of Carmen but she refused to give him any more details.

Later that week, the mailman delivered a package to the

Reynolds residence. Monica eagerly opened the box. She called
Carmen to report the delivery. Its here. The mailman just dropped
them off.

Go ahead and mail them to your family members and close

friends. Dont forget to tell them what weve discussed about it,
Carmen said.

Dont worry. I wont, Monica said.

*****
When Jonathan and his family walked into Barnes & Noble, there
were people milling all around the store.

Come right this way, Pastor Jonathan, Joshua said greeting

them. He directed them to a long table covered with a white cloth.
Books were piled on one end. Customers were already waiting in line
whispering and nudging each other as Jonathan and his family
walked by them. Jonathan did not recognize many who greeted him.

The way these people are greeting me, youd think I was the
famous author. Where is this famous writer anyway? Jonathan asked
glancing at the one empty chair after he and his family were seated.
Joshua took one of the books and handed it to Jonathan with a
pen. Begin signing, was all he said as he sat in the empty seat.
Monica, you just sit there and look pretty. Debbie, who works with
me, will bring the children some coloring books and crayons and a
few childrens books to occupy their time. And when they get a little
antsy, shell take them to McDonalds for you.

Begin signing? Jonathan said with surprise as he flipped the

book over to read the authors bio. Hey, thats me, he said to Monica
as he pointed to the picture on the back cover.

Surprise! Monica said. Dont keep the people waiting.

Armed in the Power of God, by Jonathan E. Reynolds,
Jonathan read. I didnt write

Yes, you did, Jonathan, Monica whispered to him. Well, you

preached it anyway. Speak to Joshua after everythings over with.
Right now, you just need to greet the people and sign your fingers
off.

Listen to her, Joshua said handing Jonathan another book as

he greeted a customer. How are you doing today, maam? Yes, thats
him: Pastor Jonathan Reynolds of the Ninth Street Baptist Church
and his lovely wife and children. Wed like to invite you to visit his
church on tomorrow or at your earliest convenience.

It feels so-o-o good to be married to a well-known pastor and

author, Monica said as she climbed into bed next to her husband
later that night.

I cant believe everybody, even our family and friends, knew

about this except me, Jonathan said. I had never even thought
about publishing my sermons in a book.

Joshua and his team have placed that book in hundreds of

bookstores across the nation. I guess I can tell you this part: they are
also going to get it translated and make it available in other
languages. Soon youll be known around the world. Monica pulled
the covers up over them. They have also taken over your personal
blog on the churchs website because you have neglected it. You may
preach well, but you cant write to save your life.

Is that so, Jonathan said, rolling over to face his wife. I may not
have been a great English scholar, but there are some things I can do
quite well as I am about to show you. Get on over here.

Jon, stop, Monica said laughing.

*****

The book signing at the church was just as much a success as

the one at the bookstore. We have other book signings scheduled for
the next few weeks, Joshua said to Jonathan the next day. Our next
promotional effort will be a Gospel album. I have some well known
Christian artists lined up to come and sing with the church choir. Ill
just do my job, you do yours, and together well bring glory to God.

Chapter 28
And I find more bitter than death the woman, whose heart is
snares and nets, and her hands as bands: whoso pleaseth God
shall escape from her; but the sinner shall be taken by her.
Ecclesiastes 7:26

The rest of the week was not an upbeat one for Anise. To add
to her already depressed spirit, Leanne delivered a message to her
on Saturday that only added to her sorrows.

Karol told me she had a couple more meetings with Pastor

Jonathan, Leanne said. She says she has never met a young man
with so much wisdom. She is just excited about worshiping here.

Im sure she is, Anise said.

Anise, whats wrong with you? Are you still mad from the last
time we talked? I thought youd be over that by now, Leanne said.

I just have so much going onon the job and

With Melvin home now, that will help stabilize you, Leanne
said.

Good bye, Leanne. Ill see you tomorrowmaybe, Anise

said hanging up the phone. I do not want to hear any more about
Karol. And how am I going to avoid going to Ninth Street with Melvin
here? Darn it. If its not one thing its another. Ms. Karol, Ive got a
plan for you.

Anise awakened early Sunday morning to the smell of bacon

sizzling and coffee brewing.

Breakfast in bed, Melvin said, walking in with two plates of

food. Enjoy this, because I only do it once a year. Pulling the sheets
back, he sat on the bed next to his wife. Remember we used to do
this when we first got married?
Anise bit into her French toast. She did not want those kinds
of memories right now.

I used to take a bite out of your toast, Melvin said, reaching

for a slice of his wifes toast.

Thats when we were young and too silly to know any

better, Anise said, putting her plate on the nightstand. Tossing the
sheets aside and swinging her legs over the side of the bed, she
said, I got to go get showered and get on out to the church.

You have time to finish your food, Melvin said, licking syrup
off his fingers.

Not this morning.

He thoughtfully watched his wife hurry to the restroom. He
finished his and his wifes breakfast and then got dressed.

Okay, lets go, he said after Anise got dressed. Ninth

Street, its good to be back. Anise picked up her car keys. You wont
need your keys. Ill be driving, Melvin said.

Not today, Melvin. I forgot to tell you, a friend invited me to

her church today. I promised Id be there.

Well, we can go together.

You go on ahead to Ninth Street since you havent been
there for a while, and Ill drop by my friends church, then well
exchange notes afterward, Anise suggested.
Melvin looked at his wife for a minute. You have not been

acting yourself since Ive been back. Are you okay? he said.

Yes, Im fine. I just have to get used to having you around

twenty-four, seven.

Okay, then. Ill let you go visit with your friend and Ill go
ahead on to Ninth Streetand well compare notes.

Whew! Glad I got out of that. Now what am I going to tell him
next week? Anise thought tooting her car horn as she turned left and
her husband turned right. Ill think about that later. Right now, I have
other things to take care of.
Anise greeted Cam when she got to Ninth Street North.

I sure was looking forward to meeting your husband, Cam

said.

Hopefully next week. Hes a trucker and he works weird

hours, Anise said. If you dont mind, Ill have to leave early as I have
some personal business to take care of.

Sure, Cam said. Ill see you next week. I hope you enjoy
the services.
Leaving Ninth Street North after the services, Anise headed to
Ninth Street Baptist. I hope Melvin does not see me, she thought as
she waited by a side door that led to the auditorium. Thank God,
people tend to sit in the same place each Sunday. She headed to the
middle of the auditorium after the benediction was given and the
crowd had begun to disperse. She tapped Karol on the shoulder and
asked her to meet her in the ladies lounge.

Hi, Anise. Its been a long time since Ive spoken with you.
What have you been up to? Karol asked once they got to the lounge.

What have you been up to? Anise said.

Karol took a step back, surprised at Anises sharp tone.

You know what Im talking about so dont look at me like

that, Anise said. Oh, you dont know? Well, let me tell you. How
come youre getting so much counseling from Pastor Jonathan and
you just started coming here? I cant get him to see me at all, Anise
said.
Karol shrugged her shoulders.

Dont just stand there looking like a dummy. You know

exactly what Im talking about. You got some kind of special thing
going on with my pastor? Anise said, pointing her finger into Karols
face.

Excuse me? Karol said. Youd better take your finger out of
my face before I break it, especially since I do not know what you are
talking about.

Oh, so you still want to act as though you dont know, huh?
Anise pushed Karol in the chest. I want you to leave my pastor
alone. No more private counseling with him.

Girl, Im not going to stand here and let you shove me

around over trumped up lies, Karol said shoving Anise back. You
jealous or something? No, thats not it. Youre feeling insecure.
Anise shoved her more forcefully. You are not special. Youre
just getting on board, so you just sit back and keep quiet. Youre
trying to get him interested in you, arent you?

I told you to leave me alone, Karol said as she regained her

balance.

No, you leave Pastor Jonathan alone. You hear me! Anise

gave Karol a push that sent her sprawling on the couch behind her.
Anise jumped on Karol and slapped her face, dragging her
nails down Karols cheeks. Karol kicked up her legs causing Anise to
pitch forward. Grabbing Anises hair, Karol yanked Anises head back
with one hand while digging the manicured nails of her other hand
into Anises back.

Ouch! Anise yelled.

If a fight is what you want, a fight is what youll get, Karol
said. She flipped over causing both her and Anise to roll on to the
floor. I may look meek and quiet on the outside, but dont let that fool
you.
Anise grabbed wildly at Karols blouse at the neck and twisted
it, nearly choking her. But Karol did not let that stop her as she
pushed down on Anises neck.
Hearing the commotion, the few ladies who had gathered in
the restroom after services, cautiously pushed the door to the ladies
lounge open.

Chapter 29
Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth
in the bosom of fools.
Ecclesiastes 7:9

My Lord! Stop it, you two! Leanne yelled. She reached

down to pull Karol off of Anise but jumped back as Anises flailing legs
kicked out at her. Let me get some help before I get hurt myself.
Move the table and chairs out of the way before they hurt themselves
more, she said to two of the ladies who had followed her into the
lounge.
Hurrying down the hallway, she ran into Deacon Travis and
Deacon Buchanan. Come quick! she said to them.

You look like you just saw a ghost, Deacon Buchanan said.
I saw more than a ghost. I saw one devil fighting another
devil. I need you to pull them apart, Leanne said.
When they pushed the door open they were met with a brawl
not becoming of Christian women.

Get off me, you dumb butt!

You started this mess, and Im going to help you finish it!
Karol grabbed Anises hair and yanked her head to the side.

Break it up! Thats enough! Deacon Travis shouted as he

and Deacon Buchanan reached down to separate the two women.

You other ladies can go. This drama is over with, Leanne
told the ladies who had gathered around. Leave now! Turning to

Anise and Karol she almost screamed at them. What is wrong with
you two?

Let me at her. I aint through with her yet, Karol said

struggling to get out of Deacon Travis grasp.

Come on. I still got a lot of fighting left in me, Anise said.
Let me go, Deacon, so I can finish her off.

We are going to stay right here until we get to the bottom of

this, Leanne said. So you both can stop trying to get at each other.
The deacons tried not to laugh.
In the middle of verbal confession (along with much flaring
nostrils, deep breathing, and rolling of the eyes), Monica,
accompanied by two other ladies, entered the room. Whats going on
in here? she asked.

After everything was aired out, Deacon Travis walked Anise to

her car while Deacon Buchanan walked Karol to her car. They
watched as they both drove off the property. Both men returned to
Jonathans office where his wife and Leanne were relating the whole
scenario.

I knew Anise had her eyes on you, Pastor Jonathan, and I

tried to keep her at bay; but I had no idea it was this bad, Leanne
said.
They all had a hearty laugh before going their separate ways.

Just dont fall into the same trap that so many pastors are
falling into, Deacon Travis said to Jonathan as they walked out the
door.

*****
Anise pulled up into the Walmart parking lot. She fixed her
hair and adjusted her clothes as best she could. I showed her, she
thought as she checked to see whether or not there were any
messages on her phone. There was one: Melvin. Just checking on
you; youre taking a mighty long time to get home.
How am I going to explain my torn blouse to him? Anise
thought.
When she got to the house she closed the car door and the
front door to the house as quietly as she could and made a beeline to
the bathroom.

Hey, baby. I thought youd never come, Melvin shouted from

the living room where he was watching the game.

When you have to go, you have to go, Anise shouted back
without looking in his direction.

I guess when you have to go you just have to go, Melvin

said as she joined him in the living room. She had her house dress
on and her hair in rollers.

*****
Cam and Mitzie had just finished their evening meal and were
relaxing. Mitzie was reading a Good Housekeeping magazine; Cam
was flipping through U.S. News & World Report when his phone rang
and he answered.

Yes, Karol. Whats up? Cam said, walking out of the room.
He entered the kitchen and started running the water in the sink. Im
private; you can talk.

Cam, I cant go through with this anymore. Its going to take

a lot more than my trying to entice Pastor Jonathan to start a scandal
on his name. Hes got too much character. He would not counsel me
without his wife sitting in the office off in the corner of the room. At the
first meeting, I started to protest and he said he wouldnt counsel me
at all. I caught him one day after lunch; his wife was not around, but
he left his office door wide open so his secretary could not only look
in but could overhear us talking. That man is protecting himself. Of
course, I played along.

Just keep working on him. Invite him out to lunch. Have him
to stop by your job. Find out where he lives and just pop up. Would
an extra $500 help you be more innovative? Cam asked.

Cam, after what I went through today, no amount of money

would let me continue this. I got a three-inch-long scratch on my face
thats going to take days to go away. No amount of make-up will
cover it. Ive had a headache since Sunday. Have you ever had
someone try to pull your hair out of your head? Karol said.

How about $900? Cam asked.

No, Cam. I cant risk getting killed. I just cant go on with it
any more. Sorry.

Im curious, who put that three inch scratch on your face?

Cam asked.

A lady named Anise. Anise Caverly.

Chapter 30
Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands
full with travail and vexation of spirit.
Ecclesiastes 4:6

As the days flew by, Monica began noticing some subtle

changes in Jonathan that disturbed her. He was no longer coming
home for lunch whenever he was in towna commitment he had
made when they moved to Oklahoma. Although she had no problem
with him preaching out at various meetings, she felt he was taking on
too many outside engagements for a pastor. On top of that, he was
becoming curt with her more often.

You know, one of the complaints Kristy had about Kirby was
that he stopped spending as much time with their children; he was
always locked up in his office at the house, or constantly at the
church, or off to some meeting, Monica said one evening.

So? Jonathan said.

So, I kind of see some of that behavior in you.
This is a growing church; the people need me to be available
for them, Jonathan said. And I cant help it if pastors are calling on
me to preach at their meetings or in their churches.

I believe your children mind. Their names are Mitch, Jerrilyn,

Caleb, and Diana Joi, lest you have forgotten.
Jonathan smiled. So now were getting sarcastic? he said.

Take it however you want, but I am not going to sit by quietly

and watch you neglect these children, Monica said. Too many

pastors children have gone astray because the pastor was too busy
building a church and ignored his children in the process. Do you
want me to begin naming names?

Youve become a bit of a complainer, Jonathan said.

Nope. Not a complainer; just trying to practice preventative
medicine than trying to patch things up later, Monica said.

Youre just over-reacting, Jonathan said. I think the stress

of the ministry is getting to you. You might need to take a vacation.

I am not over-reacting, Monica said. Right is right and

wrong is wrong. Just because youre being called upon to preach at
all these meetings, and just because youre being called upon to
address community issues, and just because youre all over the
internet, and youre now becoming somewhat of a household name,
that does not mean you forget where youre coming from.

Exactly what is eating you up now?

As I was saying, just because you hit a home-run in putting
on the biggest Christian concert this town has ever seen and have
reaped more young people coming to the church now on a regular
basis; and just because Ive noticed youre now seen as a bestselling
author, and just because your church choir has a hot selling album,
youd better be careful because Ive noticed that it seems like youve
had your nose up in the air.

Oh, boy. Are you jealous because youre home with the
children all day and Im out and about? Jonathan said.

No, Jonathan. That does not bother me at all; Im glad to see

you succeed. But it does bother me when Mitch complains to me how
he hated it that you missed several of his practices and you also
missed his Little League big play off because you suddenly had to

counsel Karol Reels during the lunch hour when Mitch was scheduled
to play.

So thats it; youre jealous over Karol Reels,

Monica laughed. Please, if you really think I am jealous over
her, youre sadly mistaken. She would be small potatoes for me to
handle. My main concern is the childrenour children. Remember,
you asked me to quit my job so I could stay home with them. I know
they are growing up, but that does not mean they dont need you to
be around just as much.
An uneasy silence fell between them for the rest of the
evening.

Later that night, Jonathan reached over to kiss Monica good

night.

Go kiss your books, she said tossing her head to the side.
She reached over and cut the bedside lamp off then slid under the
covers.
The next morning when Jonathan awakened, Monica was
already up and had breakfast cooking in the kitchen.

Good morning, Monica. How was your night?

Go tell the children good morning, she said as she flipped
the pancakes on the griddle. Mitch and Caleb are already up and are
doing their devotions. It would be nice of you to join them. After all,
youve missed some mornings praying with them. Jerrilyns doing
hers as well. Diana Joi should still be asleep. It would be nice if youd
pray with them without me.

Youre burning those pancakes, Jonathan said.

I know.
I guess youre not through with letting me have it, huh?
You said it, Monica said reaching over the stove to
scramble the eggs.
Jonathan walked off to check on the children. The past few
months, he had been hurrying out the door to go to some meeting or
just to go out to the office early, but their conversation the previous
night slowed him down this morning.
Monica went upstairs to call the children down for breakfast
after setting the table. She opened the door to the boys room. Her
heart softened when she saw Jonathan kneeling with his arms
around Mitch and Caleb. He was praying with them.
When she entered the girls room, Jerrilyn was helping Diana
Joi get dressed. Mommy, she wont hold still.
Monica smiled. Ill finish that. Thanks for helping your little
sister.

Daddy picked my dress out for me, Jerrilyn said.

He did? He chose a pretty one, Monica said. Lets go. We
dont want the boys to eat up all the pancakes.

Since your father is here this morning, Im sure he wont

mind saying the blessing, Monica said once they were all seated at
the table. She continued, After that, he has something very important
to say to you children.

Daddy, your pancakes are burnt, Caleb said.

Very observant, my son, Jonathan said with a smile while
not taking his eyes off Monica who held a straight face.

The children are waiting, she said.

Clearing his throat, Jonathan apologized to the children for

not being around more often, and he apologized to Mitch for missing
his games; he also apologized to Monica and asked everyone for
their forgiveness.

Yes, Daddy, we forgive you, the children said.

Can we eat now? Caleb asked picking up his fork after they
had said grace.
Monica excused herself. When she returned, she had a plate
in her hand stacked with five hot pancakes smothered with butter just
as Jonathan liked them. She placed them before her husband and
squeezed him on the shoulder as she removed the burnt ones.

Children, I have a fun-filled day planned for you, Monica

said as she took her seat. Daddy has volunteered to teach you all
day. That includes cleaning up the kitchen after breakfast, fixing your
lunch, unless you can succeed in talking him into taking you out for
hamburgers and fries or whatever you please. You can go to the park
after lunch and then to the library. Theyre showing the Prince of
Egypt at the theater at exactly 3:00. Im sure hell be glad to take you
to see it. But you must put in four hours of solid school work before
you can do these fun things.

Yeah! the children shouted.

Are you coming with us, Mommy? Jerrilyn asked.
No, Jerri. While you all are having fun with Daddy, Monica
said, looking back at her husband who still held his fork in mid-air with
a piece of pancake about to fall off its tip, Ill be having me some
Mommy time.

Whats Mommy time? Jerrilyn asked.

Thats when I take a long-needed bubble bath; then I take

the car and go shopping at different stores; I get my nails done; then I
get my hair done; then I get something delicious to eat. I may call up
a couple of the ladies of the church and have lunch with them. And
while I am doing that, I will be talking with Auntie Stacy and Grandma
and Grandpa.
Jonathan could not resist a smile.

Chapter 31
For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but
the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them
that have it.
Ecclesiastes 7:12
Joshua Kessler reminded Jonathan each week to tone his
messages down.

People cannot take that hard preaching every week. They

dont want you preaching on their sins every Sunday. After being beat
up on throughout the week, they want you to rub them down with the
balm of Gilead; they want you to soothe their cuts and bruisesnot
rub the scabs off.
Jonathan chuckled.

You bring in a visiting preacheronce, maybe twice

throughout the year and let him preach on their sins. That they can
take. Your job is to comfort them, Joshua continued.

Alright. I got you, Jonathan said.

I spoke with the manager at the television station and hes
looking for new participants to begin the next season of their reality
TV show called Young Preacha Club. I told him about you and hes
interested in filming you, your family, and the church family in action.
Joshua reached into his briefcase and pulled out some papers. I
took advantage of it and went ahead and signed all the paperwork,
and

I just know you didnt, Jonathan said taking the signed

contract from him.

Im your PR man; dont you trust me anymore? Everything

Ive led you to do so far has worked out. Youve been having a full
house over the past months; even your overflow rooms are beginning
to fill up again. Youd better begin looking into getting a bigger
building, Joshua said as Jonathan read over the contract. Think
numbers, Joshua said.
Monica was not too thrilled when Jonathan shared Joshuas
next PR strategy with her. Dont you see how idiotic other preachers
have made themselves look on that show? That show is a jokethe
biggest joke the secular world has played on preachers. Even you
and I have laughed at them saying how foolish and unreal they make
themselves look. The pastors on that show have been an
embarrassment to the name of Christ.

For us it will be different, Jonathan said.

How different?
Well be doing it to get people to come to the churchnot
just for entertainment. See, well present the Gospel at the end of
each program. That is something I have not seen the pastors on the
previous programs do. Plus, I believe well paint a great picture of a
Christian family, Jonathan said. And we will be working with another
preacher and his family.

Oh, no. Not me. You can make yourself look like an idiot if
you want to, but I will not subject myself nor the children to such
frivolity. And why do we have to work with another family? We will be
a double laughing stock around here, Monica said.
*****

No, Pastor Jonathan, we cant present the Gospel during or

after the show. We can flash the church address across the screen at
the end, then when they visit the church thats when you present the

Gospel, Joshua said as they discussed the Young Preacha Club in

more detail.

Next Sunday, Jonathan announced to his congregation the

plan for him and his family, and, of course, the church, to become the
next participants on the Young Preacha Club Network. So dont be
surprised if you turn around and find youre on candid camera. There
was a unanimous raising of hands when asked for those in
agreement with that decision. This will be a great way to advertise
the physical church and our internet church as well, and once the
people visit the church, well be able to share the Gospel with them.
From this exposure we should be able to open up a few more
campuses across the United States. This would also justify our desire
to either purchase a bigger building or to have one built.

At Joshuas suggestion, Bishop Pyke, a well-known

pentecostal preacher who was known for preaching half his sermons
in tongues, was their guest speaker one Sunday. During their
fellowship over dinner at the Reynolds house, Bishop Pyke somehow
got Jonathan to thinking that one could not get saved unless one
spoke in tongues. On the day of Pentecost, they all spoke in tongues
and over 3000 souls got saved, Bishop Pyke told Jonathan.
Speaking in tongues seals your salvation.
Monica listened with much reservation as the men spoke.
Jonathan traveled for a little over a month on this new road he
was taking the church on before Deacon Travis and some of the
other deacons expressed their concern.

Pastor Jonathan, I respect you as pastor here, but weve

noticed some things that we are not pleased with, and Im going to
point those things out to you, Deacon Travis said to Jonathan one
evening after morning services. Your sermons just dont have the
power they used to have. Youre pulling the people in, but nobodys
getting saved. Were starting to get a lot of shouting, but it seems so
empty.

And, Deacon Yancey said, cant nobody understand some

of the words you be throwing into your sermons lately. I know I
dont.

Thats tongues, Deacon Yancey, Jonathan said.

Well, my Bible says not to bother preaching in tongues
unless you have an interpreter. I know I needed an interpreter, but
there was none. Your sermons have not been the same since you
had Bishop Pyke to preach. Hes left you all twisted up in the mind.
What led you to have him preach for us any way? You must have
been drunk when you scheduled him.

Son, go back to the basics, Deacon Travis said. Forget

about trying something new and trying to impress others. When you
begin to lose focus, just go back to the basics.

Chapter 32
The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride and arrogancy,
and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.
Proverbs 8:13
Monica was getting more and more disillusioned with
Jonathans behavior. Hes cocky and he doesnt even see how selfcentered hes becoming. Its not about the church growing, its
about him, she told Stacy one day over the phone.

Ill just keep praying for him. Do you think he needs a

vacation, you know, to get away from it all for a while? Stacy said.

He needs something, Monica said. Thanks for trying to

encourage me, but I smell the devil in all of this PR stuff. And guess
what? Now hes speaking in tongues.

Say what!
I told him I dont know which heaven hes gone to, but he
needs to float on back down to earth real soon because hes going to
begin losing the people. Two of his deacons have already threatened
to leave. I can sense the discontent among the older members,
Monica said.

He may want to get rid of this PR man, Stacy said. But

then again, it may turn out for the greater good. Maybe he has pride
in him and God is showing it up so he can get rid of it and God can
use him for a greater work.

I never thought about that, Monica said. While you pray for
him, pray for patience for me as well.

You know what the Bible says about praying for patience:
Tribulation bringeth patience. So expect some tribulation, Stacy said.

You keep praying for me too, we still havent found Trelawny and
have no idea where she could be.

I will, Monica promised.

Jonathan was scheduled to preach at the annual North East

Preachers Conference to be held at the Northeast Temple in Maine.
There was a packed house as many people wanted to hear him
preach. The conference was being streamed live on the Internet.

Somethings wrong here, Pastor Richardson said to his wife

as they watched his son in the Lord deliver a message titled
Preaching the Whole Counsel of God. I dont sense much power in
his preaching like I used to. And almost every other sentence is
strapped with I; I did this or I did that.
Even though Pastor Richardson wanted to make that
meeting, at the advice of his doctor, he remained home due to
recurring health issues.

Maybe pastoring Ninth Street is beginning to be too much for

him. I dont think theyve found an assistant pastor yet, his wife said.

That could be a part of it, Pastor Richardson said.

However, I think its more of a spiritual thing, though. Youve heard
me pray about him possibly taking over as pastor here at New Mt.
Zion . . . but I dont know now.

Hes still young and still has a lot to learning, his wife said.
Give him more time.

I hope he does not disappoint me, Pastor Richardson said.

*****
Leanne gave Anise a call after Anise missed another

Wednesday night Prayer service. Anise was surprised.

What has been going on with you, Anise? Do you think you
can just miss Prayer meeting because Melvins back? Leanne said.

Hey, Leanne. Theres just so much going on with me right

now, Anise said.

Dont worry. Im not going to mention anything about Karol.

But girl, you missed . . . what? Two, no three Sundays. A lot has been
happening at the church. Pastor Jonathan is into the tongues thing.
Now that always scared me. It is so spooky. And, girl, hes doing the
Reality TV thing under Young Preacha Club Network. Hes joining up
with that big time pastor, Pastor Malone who comes on television and
on the radio; the one who has the biggest choir. We big time now.

Yeah, Anise said.

Girl, whats wrong with you? Your husbands back home, but
you sound like you lost a million dollars. Not coming to church will
leave you depressed. If this is any comfort to you, Karol told me shes
going back to her old church, so you wont have to worry about her.

Yeah, well, I got bigger problems than her, Anise said.

Anise, your voice is shaking and I can hardly hear you.
Come on; its me, Leanne. You can tell me.

Well, I got this call from Cam telling me to join his new
church. He said if I did not come join him, he would spill the beans on
me.

Spill the beans?

Remember what he told you about me and Kirby. Its all true.
I know I denied it, but its all true, Anise said. On top of that, he told
me on Sunday evening to try to entice Pastor Jonathan to have a

relationship with me and that if I dont hell tell all on me.

Is that why you and Karol had that fight? Leanne asked.
No . . . thats something else, Anise said. What happened
between Karol and myself is on me stemming from my own jealousy.

You finally admitted it! I tell you, that old devil is really
working, Leanne said. You need to tell your husband before he
starts getting suspicious; then you need to speak to Pastor Jonathan
and his wife

I cant do that. I cant let my husband know Ive been fooling

around while hes been gone. That would ruin our marriage, Anise
said.
I thought you wanted to get out of your marriage, Leanne
thought. Instead, she said, Well, how do you plan on getting out of
this? You cant church hop because Melvin will definitely begin asking
questions soon. And dont let Cam jerk you around like a puppet
while he schemes against Pastor Jonathan. He wants to take over
Ninth Street. Hes calling his church Ninth Street North. Hes trying to
bring Pastor Jonathan down just as he did Pastor Kirby with the intent
to take over. He tried to get me to join up with him over there at his
new church, but I just told him no. This just makes me so mad!
Anise remained silent.

I wonder did Karol fall into Cams trap? She came, sought a
lot of counseling, then disappeared after you took care of her,
Leanne said more to herself.

Beats me, Anise said. But thats not gonna help me out of
my situation.

You have to tell, Leanne said. I mean, Ill come with you if
you want me to. And if youre that scared, talk with Monica first; shes

just as sweet and understanding as one can be. In the meantime, Ill
be praying for you.
If you only knew why I cant face Monica or Pastor
Jonathan, Anise thought as they said goodbye. Im being burnt from
both ends. What a tangled web Ive weaved!

Chapter 33
Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of
understanding. Proverbs 9:6

Im telling you, Jonathan, I want no parts of this, Monica

said to him after returning home from the grocery store one evening
to find an AIRtv truck parked close to their home. I do not like being
watched like that.

The church office was inundated with phone calls from

members and non-members after the introductory airing of the Young
Preacha Club expressing how good Pastor Jonathan, his wife, and
the church looked. Joshua received a call from the station manager
asking him to have Jonathan and his wife team up with Pastor
Malone for future airing. This news only boosted Jonathans ego.

Carmen, youve been quiet about our new venture. What do

you think about it? Jonathan asked after listening to several of the
messages left by the callers and returning some of the calls.

Pastor Jonathan, I really dont think you should get

entangled in all that worldly mess, Carmen said.
That evenings airing left Monica upset. It showed a
beautifully dressed young lady pulling up into the church parking lot
on the office side of the building, entering Carmens office, and then
Jonathans office. Carmen was seated at her desk. For about five
minutes the camera kept pointing to Jonathans open door. The
reporter, Jessica Simmons, reported:
Here we are again in our series using the Ninth Street Baptist

Church to answer our question: What causes a rising pastor to fall

into that one sin that he knows can pull him down and nullifies all the
great work he has done? Pastor Jonathan not only has the church
on the right track, but he showed us that there are still some pastors
with integrity. He has an open-door counseling policy and that is to
counsel females with his office door wide open. Well, we took a
chance and sent one of our employees to see if Pastor Jonathan
would stay true to his policy. He did. Pastor Jonathan, hats off to you.
You passed the test.
Jonathan looked across at his wife with a grin. She returned
his look with a blank stare, but did not spare her words.

You can just wipe that self-important grin off your face. Cant
you see they were trying to set you up for a fall? What if you had
closed your door?? Your name, the churchs name, Christs name, my
name would be dragged through the dirt. Theyre not going to stop
there. You just watch and see. Ive been telling you to let this go, but
you wont listen.

Calm down. Youre getting all worked up over nothing. Im

doing this for Gods glory.

No. Youre doing it for your glory, Monica said rising from
her seat. Anything goes from this point if you continue with this.

And whats that supposed to mean? Jonathan asked.

Oh, youll see.
Unknown to Monica, Jonathan had already arranged for AIRtv
to visit their home. He was not home when they arrived so she turned
them away. She watched that evenings airing out of curiosity. The
show showed video reels of Jonathan and Monica entering and
leaving the house, various pictures of them interacting with the

church members, and pictures of Monica and the children at the

playground as well as at other places.

Did you commission them to follow me around without my

knowledge? Monica asked Jonathan.

Thats part of the show. Impromptu filming. Theres nothing

wrong with that if youre not doing anything evil. By the way, for
television purposes, I will be using the title Reverend, and you will be
using the title First Lady Elect.

Over my dead body. That smacks of pride and you know it.
Why cant I be plain old Monica or Mrs. Reynolds? Jonathan, youre
advertising my life before the whole world.

As pastor and husband I make whatever decision I deem

best for the church, Jonathan said. I dont think I have to consult
with you.

Youre right. You dont. But guess what, Mr. High and Mighty,
I do not have to consult with you either to protect me and the children
from what could possibly lower our reputation, especially if you make
a wrong move.

Since Im the head of this family, you have to.

Not when I see you possibly making a mockery of Jesus
name and His church and this Christian family. I really dont think you
know what you are getting yourself into.

Just calm down and fall in place, Jonathan said.

Monica watched her husband stand and stretch before
walking towards his office. Im letting you know that if I see them
filming me and the children youll be continuing without me by your
side, she said.

Chapter 34
Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the
reproach of the foolish.
Psalm 39:8
Melvin could not understand why Anise had been acting so
strangely ever since he had been back: one moment she was jittery
and nervous; the next moment she was all loving and cuddly.

I dont understand why you dont want to go to Ninth Street

Baptist anymore. Something must have taken place there, Melvin
said.

I just need a change, and I want to be a part of the building

up of its daughter churchNinth Street North. It took a lot for Brother
Cam to take on the disgruntled members after all that has taken
place, Anise said.

I guess Ill visit this new church with you then, her husband
said.

Anises voice shook as she introduced her husband to Cam.

So glad you could join us, Cam said. I hope you enjoy the
services. By the way, Anise, did you take care of that little business
yet?

I havent been able to, Anise said throwing a sideways

glance at her husband hoping Cam would get the message.

Okay. Just let me know on tomorrow, Cam said.

What was that all about? Melvin asked as they took their
seats.

Oh, nothing. He wanted someone to pick up something from

the other church. I offered to do it. I guess Ill do it tomorrow, Anise
said.
As the services proceeded, Karol hurried in and slipped into
the empty space in the pew in front of Melvin and Anise.

Are you alright? Melvin asked his wife as she let out a gasp
and almost dropped the songbook.
Anise nodded her head.
What in the world is she doing here? Anise thought.

Now, turn and greet the person sitting beside you, in front of
you, and behind you, Cam said from the pulpit after the singing
ended.
Anise swung around to greet those sitting in the pew behind
her. Melvin, after shaking Karols hand and introducing himself,
tapped Anise on the shoulder. Turn around and shake Ms. Reels
hand. Anise turned like a robot. Ms. Reels, this is my wife, Anise.
Karols hand and smile froze as did Anises as their eyes met.
Pleased to meet you, they said simultaneously dropping their hands
to their sides. Karol grabbed her purse and went to sit on the other
side of the auditorium.
Good riddance to you, Anise thought with a sigh.

What was that all about between you and Ms. Reels?
Melvin asked as they walked to their car after the services.

Whos Ms. Reels? Anise asked.

You know, the lady I introduced you to during the fellowship
time. She was sitting in front of us, but left after you two shook

hands.

Theres nothing between us, Anise said.

Dont play games with me, Anise. I know what I saw, and
what I saw did not look right to me, her husband said.

Dont worry about it. Youre always reading into things.

Well, Im not satisfied with your answer and you know what
that means. That means I am going to keep asking questions until I
get a satisfactory answer. In fact, well be going back to that church
next week; we may even go there for our mid-week service so you
can greet Ms. Reels in a more Christian way.
Why did you have to come off the road? Anise silently
moaned.

A phone call from Leanne later that evening only added to her
stress.

Karol told me you and your husband came to her church

today. That was mighty nice of you. What church was that by the
way?

Cams church, Anise said.

What? I thought she went to another church. Cam is
certainly at work. I wonder if he stole her from her other church,
Leanne said. Dont tell me you decided to start going to Cams
church.
Anise swallowed. I have to. I already told you what hes
going to do if I dont go.

So I guess you havent said anything to Melvin, Leanne

said.

No, not yet.

Listen, Anise, youd better tell your husband whats going on
before Cam tightens his grip on you. I dont trust him as far as I can
throw him. You cant let him use you for his dirty work. If I were you,
Id call Pastor Jonathan and make an appointment to talk with him
and his wife and have Melvin to come with you. Do you want me to
call him for you?

Ill take care of it, Anise said.

To make matters worse, Cam called Anise that very evening.
You can start working on Pastor Jonathan this very week, he told
her.

You must not have seen this past episode of The Preachers
Club, Anise said. Women do not move him.

Six hundred dollars should move you though. Youre a

woman, and women like you are innovative when it comes to certain
things. Tell your husband I said hello.

Chapter 35
Remove thy stroke away from me: I am consumed by
the blow of thine hand. Psalm 39:10

Mother Montague gave Monica a call to remind her of Leahs

wedding.

Well be there, Mom . . . at least the children and I for sure.

Whats going on? Wont Jonathan be coming? Mother
Montague asked.
Monica sighed.

Are you two having problems?

Mom, if he does not get his act together we will be having
more than problems. His rising fame is going to his head. He is
starting to get full of pride so much so he does not even want to listen
to the advice the deacons are giving him. I dont remember if I told
you this, but he had a pentecostal preacher to come preach for us
some time back, now that preacher has him believing one cannot be
fully saved unless one speaks in tongues.

Say what? Mother Montague said. Is he speaking in

tongues now?

Hes throwing in some kind of monkey talk, Monica said.

And I dont say that to be funny either. Ive overheard some of the
ladies saying he does not have the fire anymore.

Thats not good at all, Mother Montague said.

The sad thing is: hes so excited about these new changes.
Mom, hes going to tear the church apart if he does not get off the
road hes on, Monica said. But heres whats taking the cake for me:
hes signed us up for that reality TV show, the Preachers Club.

My soul. Now I stopped looking at that show after I saw how

the preachers made not only themselves look like idiots before the
world, but they brought shame to the Name of Christ.

Thats what I told him, and I also told him I wanted no part of
it, and neither was I going to subject the children to that, Monica
said. I mean, people are snapping pictures of me and the children
and I do not even know about it until I see it on the show. I told him
they are invading my privacy and that anything goes.

Meaning?
Meaning, I will go through a separation if
Monica, you dont really mean that.
I do. I am not going to be the laughing stock of the nation.
They are setting him up.
Monica told her mother of his open-door counseling policy
and how the media tested him to see if he was for real.

Well, thank God he passed that test, Mother Montague

said.

I told him if he does not watch it, his pride is going to bring
him down, Monica said.

Ill talk with your father and see if hell talk with Jonathan. In
the meantime, you stay prayed up and dont do anything rash. We
love you.

The day before they were scheduled to leave for Leahs

wedding, Anise made an appointment for her and her husband to talk
with Jonathan and Monica. It took a lot out of her, but through tears
and fighting through her pride, Anise humbly told her husband of her
past relationship with Pastor Kirby, and of the fight she had with Karol
because she was jealous at the seemingly close relationship Karol
was developing with Pastor Jonathan.

And now, Cam is blackmailing me. He wants me to get

Pastor Jonathan involved with me so he can bring him down and I
guess he plans on taking over Ninth Street Baptist, Anise said.
Melvin, I apologize for carrying myself in a promiscuous way while
youve been away. Please forgive me, and Ill try to have a better
attitude towards you.

I forgive you, Melvin said. But answer me this question: Did

you have sex with Pastor Kirby, or any other man for that matter?
Because if you did we need to air it out right now before Pastor
Jonathan and his wife while were at it.
Anise took a deep breath as she glanced from Monica to
Jonathan back to her husband. No, Melvin . . . and thanks to Pastor
Jonathan for that not happening.

Do you have anything else to tell me? Melvin asked.

Yes, Anise said meekly. But Id rather tell you in private. Ill
tell you everything and if you still have questions, you can ask Pastor
Jonathan and his wife.
Monica gave Anise a hug as they stood to leave. Dont worry.
We havent said anything to anyone, Monica whispered in Anises
ear. We love you.
When Melvin saw that Anise poured out her heart to him,

risking a violent response from him and, even worse, their marriage
breaking up, he embraced her. What else can I do? You could have
continued keeping it quiet. For Pastor Jonathan to resist you says I
can trust him because youre a good looking woman.
When he released Anise to go get ready for bed, Melvin gave
Jonathan a call. Pastor Jonathan, forgive me for calling so late, but I
thought you might want to know alls well between me and my wife.
Thank you for being a man of integrity. If nothing happens, well be in
church for prayer meeting on Wednesday night.

On their way home from prayer meeting, Melvin stopped by

Ninth Street North.

Stay put while I talk with Cam, he told Anise.

When Melvin returned to the car, he was massaging his right
wrist and fist. Anise noticed his slightly swollen bottom lip.

He wont be bothering you anymore.

Chapter 36
Surely every man walketh in a vain show: surely they
are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth not
who shall gather them. And now, Lord, what wait I for? My hope
is in thee.
Psalm 39:6-7

Jonathan, Monica, and the children pulled out after

Wednesday night prayer meeting heading for Texas for Leah and
Anthonys wedding. They spent all day Thursday and Friday visiting
friends and rehearsing for the wedding. Monica was her sisters maidof-honor.
While they were rehearsing on Thursday afternoon,
Jonathans father had a serious talk with him.

Son, you are going off course. Now you know that nowhere
in the Bible does it teach that you have to speak in tongues to be
saved, or even as evidence of your salvation. Did you speak in
tongues when you asked Jesus to save you?

No, sir, Jonathan said.

It is set plainly in the Bible: Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ
and thou shalt be saved. For by grace are ye saved, through faith.

Dad, Im not saying you have to speak in tongues to get

saved; Im saying after you get saved you ought to speak in tongues.

Thats a bunch of bull, and you know that, Brother Reynolds

said. Do you have Bible to back that statement up? I have never

spoken in tongues and I have no desire to speak in tongues, and

guess what? Im saved and on my way to Heaven. You believe youre
going to Heaven, dont you?

Yes, Dad.
I dont know if you know this, but Pastor Richardsons health
is failing and hell be leaving us soon. Anyway, he shared with us
more than once that he believes the Lord is leading him to have you
take over the work here at New Mt. Zion. But after hearing about the
direction you are taking Ninth Street in, hes expressed some
concern. Hes been listening to you online and hes been keeping
abreast of your engagements as best he can. Henone of us for that
matterlike how things are going. It seems to us that youre leaving
the old landmarks and losing your vision.

I have a PR person who offered to help me keep the church

going after that incident with Pastor Kirby and weve seen a great
increase in attendance, Jonathan said.

A great increase in attendance, but how about a great

increase in spiritual maturity? Its okay to have the shouting and
rejoicing and hand clapping and dancing, but you dont want to have
a full church talking the talk but not walking the walk.

Thanks for the advice, Dad, Jonathan said.

Im sure Pastor Richardson will be talking with you before
you leave, his father said.
*****

You know, Jonathan, Pastor Richardson said to Jonathan,

sometimes God just blesses us and blesses us and blesses us and
we begin to expect Him to keep blessing us; we begin to presume
upon God and the spirit of pride begins to seep in and we think God

owes us. Then we begin to try to do things in our own strength. Pride
and the Holy Spirit cannot live together.
Jonathan nodded.

I listened to you preach at the Northeast Pastors

Conference in New York and it lacked the power Im used to hearing
you preach with. There was some power, but not at the degree Im
used to hearing you preach. You might want to listen to the tape. Too
many Is. Go back to the basics. Regain sight of the vision you once
had.

Pastor Richardson, I have not lost sight of that vision,

Jonathan said.

But youre starting to make it a numbers game and not a

souls game.
*****
The wedding went beautifully and Jonathan and his family
headed home late Saturday evening.

Monica, I do not appreciate your going behind my back and

discussing our business with your family and my family. Ill let them
know what I want them to know, Jonathan said.

What are you talking about? Monica asked.

You went and blabbed your mouth to your parents about
how Im leading the church and how unhappy you are with it and
refusing to cooperate with this great opportunity for greater publicity
on television for the church. Lest you havent figured it out yet, I am
going to lead the church in the direction I feel the Lord is leading me,
and

Youd better make sure the Lord is the one whos leading

you and not you leading you, Monica said. I may not be able to put
my finger on exactly what the problem is, but Im rarely wrong when
my antennae goes up.

Your antennae is all twisted up and has been twisted for

some months now, so keep your speculations to yourself, and I do
not want you to discuss our family or church matters with either of our
families.

There you go not wanting to even receive advice from your

own family who has nothing but your best interest at heart. I know
youre beginning to think youre important and the world wont be able
to continue on without you; but, if youre not careful, youre going to
find out the world and your church can do quite well without you.
Monica pushed her seat back to a semi-reclining position. If you
dont mind, I am tired and I would like some quiet so I can take a nap.
Besides, we dont need to be arguing in front of the children.
After about forty-five minutes of driving in silence, they
received a phone call from Monicas father.

Sure, Dad. Hes right here, Monica said handing her cell
phone to Jonathan.

Hello, Brother Montague. Hows everything going?

Jonathan asked.

Quite well, Jonathan. I tell you, nothing keeps you busy than
preparing to give your daughter away in marriage. I wanted to talk
with you before you all left but I couldnt break away. I am calling
because I am concerned about you and Monica and whats
happening up there at Ninth Street. Whatever is taking place, dont let
it drive a wedge between you and Monica. One thing is a must in the
ministry and that is a husband and his wife must have a tight
relationship. Otherwise, the devil will take advantage.

I dont see Monica and myself distancing ourselves from

each other over the changes being made at the church, but I do
thank you for your concern, Jonathan said.

Learn from the fall of other pastors, his father-in-law said.

We love you both and youre in our prayers. Remember a weakness
for women and a love of money are not the only things Satan uses to
bring a pastor down.

Thank you, Brother Montague. Ill keep that in mind.

Chapter 37
Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is
fit in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against
them. Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is wellpleasing
unto the Lord. Colossians 3:18-20

I tell you some in-laws are just nosy, Jonathan said handing
the phone to his wife.

Are you talking about my father? Monica asked.

Who else?
Dont you ever say anything negative about my parents
whenever you and I dont see eye-to-eye, Monica said.

Well, he is nosy. You go blab to your mother, my in-law; she

blabs to your father, my in-law; he calls a world-wide conference with
Pastor Richardson and my father, your in-law; and they all come
together trying to rain down the last verdict on me. I tell you the truth,
Jonathan said.

Do you know what your problem has been lately? And Ill say
this as nicely as I can, Monica said. But you have become a selfcentered egotistical, proud . . . I cant even think of the right name.

Do you have a problem with what I have become? Jonathan

asked.

Yes and no. You might want to read about King Rehoboam
in I Kings chapters twelve and fourteen, and also in 2 Chronicles
chapter ten. He only heeded the advice of the unwise, young,
inexperienced men and turned a deaf ear to the advice of the older,

experienced, wise men. And that is what you are doing. Youre
forsaking the counsel of the old wise men God has placed in your life,
and you are gravitating to the words of the young bucks.

So now youre preaching at me. Why dont you just go on to

sleep and lets have some peace, Jonathan said.

I am for peace, Monica said. But while were at it, if you

plan on continuing with this Young Preacher Club show, even after
you have been advised against it, you risk losing your family.

Oh please, youre not going anywhere, Jonathan said with a

chuckled. So you can just toss that idle threat aside.

Thats not an idle threat because you are woefully deceived

if you think I cant do without you. But I think I will take your advice
and go on to sleep. Monica pushed her seat back further and closed
her eyes. By the way, you may want to check out your PR man. I
believe he has good intentions, but his latest strategies arent working
too well for the soul-winning, Bible-believing, preaching-the-wholecounsel-of-God-without-compromise church that youve been called
to build.

Just go on to sleep, Jonathan said.

The family was able to snatch a few hours sleep once they
got home before leaving for church. Jonathan went to his office to
prepare the message. Curiosity led him to turn to I Kings chapters
twelve and fourteen and to 2 Chronicles chapter ten. A few verses
stood out to him:
But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had
given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up
with him, and which stood before him.

and king Rehoboam forsook the counsel of the old men.

Jonathan thought on the advice from Deacons Travis and
Yancy, his father, his father-in-law, Pastor Richardson, and a few of
the older church members who expressed opposition when he had
the Christian hip-hop group to perform at the church, and also when
he announced doing the reality TV show:

Go back to the basics.

Recapture the vision.
This is not a numbers game; it is a spiritual war for souls.
Pride goeth before a fall.
The advice of the young men brought about King
Rehoboams fall so much so that he had to find a place of refuge.
Jonathan read I Kings 12:15:
Wherefore the king hearkened not unto the people; for the
cause was from the Lord, that he might perform his saying
Jonathan used that verse to justify his decisions and
actions. This church is of the Lord, its growth is of the Lord, and God
has placed me here for such a time as this: to bring them through this
mess Kirby left behind and to take them to greater heights. With
those thoughts, he picked up the telephone and called Joshua.

Yes, Joshua, Im very pleased with how things have been

going. We have become a household name. Whats our next step?

The home.
The home?
Yes. The home. The family. See, I observe the faces of the
people as you preach and I take note of the spiritual temperature in
the auditorium before you preach, while you preach, and after you

preach, and that series you just finished on the home . . . it did not go
over too well, Joshua said.

How so? Jonathan asked. I have received nothing but

positive comments from the people.

Many of the women, including the single women, are mad.

They do not want to hear about this submission stuff. They know its
in the Bible, but they do not want you to preach on it. Theyll read it
for themselves when they get ready.

Wait a minute, now, Jonathan said. Youre telling me to

preach from the pulpit that wives are not to submit themselves to their
husbands? That would directly oppose what the Bible says. You know
the same Bible says if any man adds to or takes away from the Word
of God, Gods wrath will be upon him.

No, no, Pastor Jonathan, Joshua said. I believe you should

preach the whole counsel of God, but theres a way to do it without
offending the people. Youre not going to please all the people, but
you can please most of the people. You get the women on your side
and keep them on your side, youll sure nuff have a supporting
team.
Jonathan chuckled.

Chapter 38
Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest
in the sight of all men. Romans 12:17

Cam sat before his computer. He stared at the screen. He

was clicking through the pages of the Ninth Street Baptist Church
website and randomly listening to videos of Jonathans sermons; he
even listened to a few of Kirbys sermons that were in the church
archive.
You think you are unstoppable, Pastor Jonathan; but Ninth
Street belongs to me more than it belongs to you. I was its first
assistant pastor. I helped in its growth. Lets see if theres anyone
new on staff, he thought as he clicked the Meet Our Staff button.

Carmens still there; some of the teachers are new; deacons

are still the same except for one.

Whats got your attention so much you have to talk to

yourself? Mitzie asked peering over her husbands shoulder. Cam,
are you still trying to interfere in whats going on at that church? Our
church will soon grow in numbers if you do it the right way.

Now, who is this? Cam asked pointing the cursor on the

picture of Joshua Kessler. Public Relations personnel; church events
program planner; helps pastor with outside preaching engagements,
he read. Turning to his wife, he asked, Do we know him? He looks
familiar.

Kessler. Kessler. If I recall accurately, he used to work with

Pastor Kirby, but I believe he left. He helped get the church up and

running. At least I believe thats him.

Yeah, thats him. He and I never got along, Cam said after a
few minutes in thought.

You hardly get along with anyone, Mitzie muttered.

It says here that hes on staff full-time, Cam read. I wonder
what hes been doing since he left Ninth Street. I could use his help
over here.

You just said you and him never got along, so why are you
going to bother him? Mitzie said before leaving his side.
*****

Pastor Jonathan, you might want to listen to this message

that Cam left on the answering machine last night, Carmen said
when Jonathan came in later that morning.

What do you think? Jonathan asked Carmen after listening

to the message.

I think its best if you spoke with Joshua about it, Carmen
said. I believe hes in his office.

Yes, Joshua, Jonathan said after Joshua got on the phone,

Cam left a message on the churchs answering machine saying you
were nothing but a scam artist and that it would be a matter of time
before you begin stealing money from the church. He said you were
only bringing people in to build up the church funds so that you can
start stealing it. He also mentioned something about you being
hooked up with some people in Africa who were running a scam ring
and that some time back you swindled $40,000 from the church to
send over to them for safe keeping. What is that all about? Jonathan
asked.

When did he leave that message? Joshua asked.

Last night. Why dont you meet me in Carmens office and
well play it so you can hear it for yourself, Jonathan said.
Joshua smiled as the recording played. That Cam never
stops.
When they were seated in Jonathans office, Joshua
continued speaking. I never told you this as I saw it for what it was,
but Cam called me a couple days back and wanted me to come over
to his church and help him build it up. At first, he acted like we had
never met, but when he saw that I was not taking his bait, he
suddenly remembered we used to work together under Kirby. He
even offered to double what you were paying me.

Hows he going to do that? His church is not that big,

Jonathan said.

Oh, he has his own business, and he informed me that it

was doing quite well, Joshua said. But I declined and told him I was
very comfortable where I was. Pastor Jonathan, if you dont have any
enemies, youd better see him as your enemy.

Why do you say that?

Joshua smiled. Cams right and wrong at the same time, he
said. Have you ever received an email from someone over in Africa
inviting you to invest in the diamond mines over there with the
promise of you becoming a millionnaire? I got an email like that and
like a dummy I believed it. I mean, they put forth a convincing
argument. Anyway, I had joined Ninth Street to offer my services
since it was a fairly new churchless than ten years oldand so I
shared the email with Kirby since he was thinking of renovating the
church to twice its size. He had a wonderful vision for this church as

you well know. Cam was the financial advisor and he held the bag so
to speak. He was against it. Kirby over-rode him and okayed the
signing of the check. We lost the money.

How much money did you lose?

Over $40,000, Joshua said. Cam was mad. He and Kirby
never had a good relationship but it got worse. Cam hated my guts. I
kind of disappeared after that because he kept threatening to have
me thrown in jail for embezzling money from the church. Kirby saw it
for what it was and he forgave me. In fact, he told me not to pay
anything back as he was just as guilty. Anyway, I paid back all the
money and Cam knows that. He left the church shortly after that.

I believe you, Jonathan said. What does Cam hope to get

from bringing this up?

Hes after the church. Like I told you, he called me and

asked me to quit working for you and come and join him. He brought
up this same thing and called himself using it to threaten me to try to
do as he asked.

Thats a snake for you, always conniving, Jonathan said.

Dont you become friends with him, Joshua said. And dont
you worry about Cam. Ill take care of him.
*****

You dont have to worry about Cam anymore, Joshua said

to Jonathan a week later.

What did you do to him?

Lets just say hes in trouble with the IRS. Kirby, Cam, and
myself went out to lunch one day. Cam was telling us about his
business and he kept bragging about how he did not pay taxes and

he was not going to pay taxes. He said Uncle Sam owed him every
penny he made and more. Thats when Kirby started questioning
whether or not he could trust him with the church funds. We couldnt
find any fraudulent activities with the church funds. Anyway, I put the
IRS on him for not paying his taxes, and hell probably be in jail for a
whilea long while.

Chapter 39
If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with
all men. Romans 12:18

Monica answered a knock on their front door around 10:00 on

Thursday morning. It was Rhea Montgomery with the cameraman,
Mike, from the reality TV network.

We have an appointment to come by and film how you and

the children spend your days for the Young Preacher Club show,
Rhea said.

Im sorry. My husbands out so you cannot come in. Besides,

I did not know anything about your appointment, Monica said.

Your husband does not have to be here. This filming is on

how you as the pastors wife spend your day, Rhea said.

Please turn the camera off, Monica said to Mike who had
begun to run the film. You both have a great day, she said closing
the door.

Jonathan, you really messed up this time, Monica said

when she got her husband on the phone. Why didnt you tell me the
reality show people would be coming by here this morning to air to
the whole world a typical day in the life of First Lady Monica Reynolds
and her picture perfect children? Monica said to Jonathan over the
phone after turning away Rhea and Mike.

Oh, man. I completely forgot. I am so sorry. Did you let them

in?

Do you really want me to answer that?

Did you reschedule another day? Jonathan asked.
Do you really want me to answer that? Monica said. I dont
have time to get into it with you because you already know where I
stand on this whole thing. Goodbye, Jonathan.

Monica, wait!
Click.
Monica left the children at the table to continue working in
their workbooks. She pulled out the travel bags. Within forty minutes
she set three travel bags by the front door.

I didnt know we were going on a trip, Mommy, Mitch said.

A surprise trip. Youll see once we get there, she said to the
children. Right now, I need for you to put all your school books in
your book bags and help me take everything out to the van.

Is Daddy coming with us? Jerrilyn asked as she stuffed her

books in her book bag.

Thats part of the surprise, Monica said.

As Monica and the two older children took the luggage and
book bags out to the van, a camera was rolling across the street from
behind the huge elm tree. Monica and the two older children returned
to the house to get the younger children. Jonathan pulled up behind
her as she was putting the seatbelt over Diana Joi.

The appointment with the TV people completely slipped my

mind, Jonathan said as he stopped by the van. Where are you
going? he asked.

Im sure it slipped your mind, Monica said turning to face

him. As for where we are going, thats for you to figure out.

What? I didnt know we had any plans to travel anywhere,

Jonathan said.

Just like I didnt know of the TV people coming to film us,

Monica said. And it is not we; just me and the children.

What? You dont plan on driving all the way there by

yourself, do you?

Looks like it to me. Monica reached out to open the door on

the drivers side, but Jonathan pushed the door shut.

Youre not going anywhere but into the house.

Try me, Monica said. I told you I wanted no part of this fake
reality preacher show and you had the gall to give them permission to
come to my house to film me and my children for the whole world to
see. Thats an invasion of my privacy.

You dont have anything to hide, do you?

Monica rolled her eyes. Just get out of the way, she said
pulling the door open. Youre cutting into my travel time. She slid
behind the steering wheel. Before she could slam the door shut,
Jonathan stuck his head inside the van. Mitch, take your seat belt off
and come inside the house right now, he said.

Stay right where you are, Mitch, Monica said flipping the
auto-lock on. Look, Jonathan, I would advise you not to let things get
ugly up in here. Now go move your car out the way so I can get on
down the road.
Jonathan grinned as he stood up to his full height. You have
no choice but to come in because I will not be moving the car. Now

get your butt in the house, he said gritting his teeth as he waved to
their neighbor who had tooted her horn while backing out her
driveway. Get in the house, now! he repeated.
Monica turned the key in the vans ignition. Jonathan walked
towards the front door with a smug look and pulled his house key out
to unlock the door.

Stay right here, children, Monica said as she opened the

door.
Jonathan unlocked the front door and stepped inside the
house slamming the door behind him.
As Monica was getting out of the van, she happened to
glance across the street to see the TV van parked by the huge elm
tree. Oh, brother! How long have they been sitting there? Looks like
theyre filming. Smiling, she went back into the van. Reality is what
they want, reality is what they will get.
Monica called Jonathan on his cellphone while she pressed
the remote to raise the garage door. The front door to the house
swung open. You dont have to call, Jonathan said out loud. You
didnt need my help putting things in the van so you can take
everything in by yourself.

Your friends from reality TV are parked across the street.

You may want to come and greet them while I say goodbye to them
in real reality TV fashion, Monica said.

Chapter 40
In thee, O Lord, do I put my trust: let me never be put to
confusion.
Psalm 71:1

Jonathan glanced across the lawn to see Rhea Montgomery

and Mike the cameraman stepping on to his front lawn. Mike was
filming. The soft rattling from the garage door caught his attention. He
stepped out onto the patio with a sheepish grin on his face as he
watched his wife drive the van into the garage.

There you go, he said to himself thinking she was parking

the van inside the garage to avoid the TV crew. Hey, Rhea, he
shouted as he waved to them. He shifted his attention back to the
garage to see his wife skillfully maneuver the van at an angle while
backing out of the garage and swinging it beside his car. What the
heck is she doing? Monica stopped long enough to close the garage
door and to give him a call on his cellphone which he pulled out of his
shirt pocket.
Pulling out on to the street she said, It is what it is. Now you
explain that one to your friends on the Young Preachers Club, she
said taking the van out of reverse.

Monica, you cannot do that. We signed a contract,

Jonathan said between gritted teeth with a forced smile still aware
that the camera was going.
Putting the car in drive, Monica pressed on the gas pedal.
No, you signed a contractnot we.

Monica!
Click. Monica hung up and turned the phone off.

Monica dismissed the thought to check her phone as she

stopped at McDonalds to get her and the children something to eat.
She allowed them time to play on the playground before continuing
their journey. After about three hours of driving she decided to check
into a hotel mainly to watch that evenings report on the upcoming
episodes of the Young Preachers Club show. Im curious to see what
they will air tonight, she thought as she paid for the room. After
ordering pizza, breadsticks, and salad for delivery, they settled down
in front of the television.

This is Rhea Montgomery, host of the Young Preachers Club

reality show. Pastor Jonathan Reynolds of the Ninth Street Baptist
Church has allowed us to take a tour of his house to share with
viewers a typical day for his wife and four children. I am sure tonights
program will be of interest to you because we keep it real here on the
Young Preachers Club.
The program started with Jonathan giving an excuse for the
absence of his wife and children.

Weve been very busy here at the church so Im giving her

some time away to get some rest. Being in the pastorate is not an
easy profession as you can imagine.
Excuses, excuses, lying excuses, Monica thought as she took
a bite of her pizza. Man up and tell the truth.
They took viewers on a tour of the house and ended with the
confrontation outside.

Even pastors and their wives have tough days, Rhea said.

The program ended with Monica backing the van out of the garage
and driving down the street. Looks like they were having a
confrontation to me. Well let you, our viewers, decide. Have a good
night. This is Rhea Montgomery signing off.
Looks like they were arguing to me, too, Monica thought as
she and the children finished their meal. She turned her phone back
on.
After cleaning up and readying her children for bed, Monica
received another phone call from Jonathan.

Did you make it safely to your parents house?

No. I havent gotten there yet.
Whats the hold-up?
Nothing.
Tell me youre on your way back after realizing how
ridiculously you acted on camera, Jonathan said.

I wish I could, but the children and I are relaxing in a hotel.

Im not playing, Jonathan. Im very serious about this. By the way, I
watched the show tonight and you let me down. You need to be a
man and tell the truth. Real men tell the truth no matter what.

What are you talking about?

Listen carefully as I quote: Weve been very busy here at the
church, so I am giving her and the children some time away to get
some rest. Being in the pastorate is not an easy profession. Need I
say more?

Well, if you had just stayed put rather than trying to create a
scene, this fiasco would have never taken place for the whole world
to see, Jonathan said.

Oh, so now youre blaming me for you choosing not to come

clean to the American public as to why your wife was headed to her
parents house? Come on now. I told you more than once that I
wanted no part of it. I told you not to let them come by the house
much less in the house, but the young preacher would not listen
not to his wife, not to the older saints, not to the folks back home
cause hes big time now.

Dont you talk to me like that! Jonathan said. Youre not a

pastor. You dont know what I am doing.

You know what? Youre so full of yourself its enough to

make a person nauseous, Monica said. Anyway, say goodnight to
the children and well be heading to my parents on tomorrow.

What hotel are you in, and what time do you plan on arriving
at your parents?

Dont worry about the hotel and well arrive some time
tomorrow. I plan on sleeping in actually because Im in no hurry to get
there since we only have three more hours to get there. Heres
Mitch. Monica handed the phone to her son.

Chapter 41
O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!
Who hast set thy glory above the heavens.
Psalm 8:1

Monica and the children left the hotel late the next morning
and had a leisurely drive to her parents house. Her phone rang after
about two hours on the road.

Hello, Stacy! Its so good to hear from you. Have you heard
anything new about Trelawny? Weve been praying for her safety.

No, nothing new. Were still hoping, praying, searching, and

trying to hang in there, Stacy said. Ive been trying to keep myself
busy but not too busy to watch my best friend put on a great TV
show. Girl, youre a natural actress.

A natural actress? What are you talking about? Monica

asked.

The Young Preachers Club Reality show that aired last night.
You were good. No. I take that back. You were great!
Monica grimaced. You really think so?

Sure.
Truthfully, Stacy, does it look like we were arguing? Did I
show enough anger, and like I drove off in a huffyou know
spinning wheels and all?
Stacy burst out laughing as Monica continued.

. . . because if it showed all that then I hate to burst your

bubble, but I was not acting.

Come off it, Monica. You had to be because I have never

seen such earnestness in your eyes and Ive been knowing you for a
long time. You have a cool way of expressing your dissatisfaction
over a matter, Stacy said. Your philosophy is: never let them see
you sweat.
Monica chuckled. Well, girl, let me tell you something, I was
not acting. That was for real. They want reality? Well, there it is.

Are you serious? Stacy asked sobering up.

Sure, Im serious. Let me tell you about it. Do you have
time?
By the time Monica finished telling Stacy what had been
taking place, Stacy expressed a more sober and sympathetic spirit.

Monica, how could you all let that happen? I mean, I

seriously dont think you should leave. What about your marriage?
What about the children?

I have to do what I have to do to let him know how serious I

am, Monica said. This is something I do not want me nor my
children to be a part of. I know I have laughed my head off at those
pastors and their families who have been a part of that show. The
cameraman knows how to catch you on the camera at the most
embarrassing time. I told Jonathan he can go and hang himself out
for all of America to scrutinize. One blunder, and hell be a laughing
stock among Christians. I want no part of it.

Yeah, I guess I can see where you are coming from, Stacy
said. I forgot youre more of an introvert. Now, me? Id do crazy stuff
like that in a minutejust for fun even. Anyway, I really do hope you

two sort things out. This is not permanent, is it?

No. I have no interest at all in getting a divorce. I just want to

shake him up a little.

Well, dont shake him up for too long, Stacy said. You know
how those hoochie mamas are. How long do you plan on staying
away?

Let me put it this way: the ball is in his court; how long I stay
away is up to him. Hold on a minute; I have an incoming call . . .Its
Jonathan.

Ok, you answer that, Stacy said saying goodbye.

Hello, Monica said.
Where are you and what took you so long to answer the
phone? Jonathan asked.

Oh, so now youre going to tell me how fast to answer the

phone, Monica said.

I was just concerned about you and the children. Is anything

wrong with that? Are you at your mothers yet? Jonathan said.

Not yet. I should be there in a couple of hours. Hold on. The

children want to talk with you.
After the children finished talking with their father, Monica got
back on the line and said, You know where to get me if you need me.
Bye.

Wait a minute! What am I supposed to tell the church family

on Sunday as to why youre not there?

Youre the famous young preacher. I am sure youll come

up with something. But in case you get stumped, you can tell them
the same lie you told the viewers of the reality show: Weve been

very busy here at the church so Im giving her some time away to get
rested up. And you said some other things. Bye, Jonathan.

Wait, Monica!
Click.

Chapter 42
Do all things without murmurings and disputings.
Philippians 2:14

Pastor, you and your wife certainly put on one classy act on
the last episode of Young Preachers Club, Leanne Rider said as she
shook Jonathans hand after services. Is everything alright with you
two?
Jonathan chuckled uncomfortably.

When will Monica be back? Anise asked as she and her

husband walked up behind Leanne.

I kind of left it up to her, Jonathan said. I told her to take as

long a rest as she needs to. She deserves it.

She sure does. I was thinking of giving her a call, but Ill just
let her rest, Leanne said. You all have a blessed evening.
After most of the members had left, Jonathan headed to his
office to pick up a few books to aid in his study that week. Lord,
forgive me for not coming clean with the people; but shes going to
have to learn that she cant have things to always go her way when it
comes to the ministry.
Guilt immediately fell upon him. Your wife has never
demanded her way, and the few times she did its been for the wellbeing of the family. Shes sacrificed her time, energy, and even her
career for the good of the family.
Jonathan cast the chiding voice aside as Joshua, who had

been waiting for him by his office, greeted him.

Pastor Jonathan, things are looking great: ever increasing

crowd; great reality show; more pastors inviting you to preach at their
church meetings, conferences and so on. God is blessing.

He sure is, Jonathan said as he unlocked his office door

and invited Joshua in.

You and your wife need to put on more scenes of conflict like
you did for your last show. We had quite a number of visitors today
and I believe that had something to do with the show. I eavesdropped
on some of the conversations after church and those ladies loved it.
As you know, conflict and drama is what its all about. When others
see how you come through your conflict, it gives them hope for
whatever they may be going through, Joshua said.

Youre right, Jonathan said absentmindedly.

Is everything alright, pastor? You seem depressed especially
after preaching such a dynamic sermon.

Oh, nothing. Just thinking. How long is this contract with the
Young Preachers Club show?

Six months. Are you ready to sign another one? That can be
easily arranged, Joshua said with a grin.

Oh, no, no. Not yet. Six months is fine for the first time.
Well, Im going to let you go. You look beat. Dont forget you
have another conference in about two weeks, Joshua said.

Thank you, Joshua. Keep up the good work youre doing for
the Lord.
Drama. Conflict. Classy act. I wish thats all it was. Id do
anything for a home-cooked meal right now, he thought as he parked

in front of the Chinese food restaurant for the fourth time that week. I
wonder what Monica and the children are up to. Separation. This is
one thing I never thought would happen to our family.
*****
Mrs. Montague was surprised when she opened her front
door to see her daughter and grandchildren standing before her. She
was even more surprised when Monica left to go retrieve the
suitcases from the van along with the childrens book bags.

I know theres an interesting story behind those suitcases,

she said after helping Monica place them in one of the bedrooms.
For you to drive six hoursjust you and the childrenand without
calling ahead to let us know you were coming, I hope you have a
valid explanation.
The house phone rang while mother and daughter were
preparing a late lunch and conversing.

Hello . . . Yes, Jonathan, they made it in safely about thirty

minutes ago . . . No, we havent had time to talk, but dont worry, well
keep them here until you two smooth things out . . . Ill have her to
give you a call later once they settle down. Bye. We love you, Mrs.
Montague said.
Sitting down to eat with the children, Monica related to her
mother all that had been taking place. I refuse to subject the children
and myself to that. Its an embarrassing show that does not glorify
God at all.

Dont you think youre overreacting? her mother said with a

smile. Seriously now. Whats wrong with him advertising the church
via a television show like that? We ought to use every medium
possible to share the Gospel. If he humbly stands for what he

believes, it should be a success spiritually speaking.

Mother, I understand that. Its just that every pastor whos

been on that show has made himself, his family, and thus the cause
of Christ look foolish, Monica said. Even I have had some good
laughs at their stupidity. It seems to me that their wives get caught up
in the so-called glory of being on television, but realize it is too late
for them to pull out when it gets stale; so they put on an act to help
save face. People are not stupid; you can tell some of them are not
even into it. Im not going to put myself or the children through that.
Brother Montague was disappointed to hear that his daughter
and Jonathan were having problems. Are you sure it was just the
show?

Well, theres more to it, Monica admitted. Its a building up

of things. Hes trying to attract the younger crowdour age group
so hes watered down his sermons to attract them and to keep them.

Is he still emphasizing this speaking in tongues as evidence

of salvation? Brother Montague asked.

Thank God he toned that down, Monica said. The deacons

gave him a tongue-lashing about that along with some other things.
They can tell him what to do; he just needs to listen.

Chapter 43
Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove,
rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
II Timothy 4:2

Brother and Sister Montague listened as Monica shared with

them Jonathans confrontation with the deacons.

It happened about a month ago after services. I picked the

children up from childrens church and we went to his office.
Jonathans office door was partially open. We heard voices coming
from his office so we decided to wait in Carmens office. I overheard
the deacons getting on his case, especially Deacon Travis. I dont
know if you remember him, Monica said.
*****

Pastor Jonathan, Im sixty years old and I have been in

many churches. Ive been in the old church where emotionalism
ruled. If you did not run and jump over a pew or two, if you did not do
the holy dance, if you could not call out Jesus name five thousand
times non-stop you were not saved, Deacon Travis said. Ive helped
rock the choir many times, and Ive paid so many dues Ive lost
count. Ive heard the social gospel preacher, the political gospel
preacher, the good works preacherIve heard them all, but with all
that preaching, I was never at peace. I was still searching.

Amen. I know where youre coming from, Deacon Oliver

said.

It was not until I met Pastor Kirby that I understood that if I

believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, not only would I be saved and on
my way to Heaven, but I would have the peace that I was searching
for.

Amen. I know where youre going now, Deacon Oliver said.

Before, you were preaching strong that the only way of
salvation is through Jesus Christ, but lately you have not been
preaching on that much. What in the world is the doors of the church
are open? We dont do that here, Deacon Travis said.

Explain that to us because I thought your goal was to get

people saved, Deacon Buchanan said.

Im just trying to bring more people to the church, Jonathan

said. They dont want to hear about hell fire and brimstone every
Sunday; that will scare them away.

Well, where are you going to scare them to? Hell number
one or hell number two? Deacon Yancey said. It took a sermon on
hell to scare me off the broad road on to the narrow road to Heaven,
so I do not buy that reasoning. The truth is found only in Jesus and,
to my knowledge, hell is still in the Bible.

We have been talking it over, and we dont like the direction

youre taking the church, Deacon Travis said. First, you bring in
some kind of Christian musician singing songs that seemed to
worship a person more than the Lord. Then you start this cacophony
about speaking in tongues being an evidence of salvation. Ive read
my Bible from cover to cover and I have not read anything like that.
This is a soul-winning church

Precisely, Jonathan said. The man we hired to help

promote our church, Joshua Kessler, said to tone down some of that
and get the people in, then

Thats a bunch of hogwash! Deacon Travis said.

You have to preach the Word strongly whether people want
to hear it or not, Deacon Shaw said. The Bible says to preach the
Word in season and out of season. It also says evil men and
seducers will wax worse, deceiving and being deceived. Do you want
to be in the group of deceivers? People who have itching ears are
going to go chasing after preachers who tell them what they want to
hear. But what they want to hear will not get them saved. If you are
going to be one of those preachers who tells people what they want
to hear, not only am I resigning my position here, but Ill be
worshipping at another church going forward.

Ill be right behind you, some of the other deacons voiced.

You have got to go back to the basics, Deacon Travis said.
I appreciate your kind words, Jonathan said, and your
concern, but these strategies that weve been implementing seem to
be working; we have had a packed house every Sundayeven both
overflow rooms have been filled to capacity.

You said the right words: seem to be working. Give it time

and its going to come crumbling down, and I dont want to get stuck
under any rubble, Deacon Oliver said.

We love you like a son, and wed hate for anything bad to
happen to you, Deacon Yancey said. You may not want to hear this:
but I see some pride building up in you. If you cant handle your rising
fame then my advice is to give it upturn this church over to another
pastor.

Chapter 44
To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to
their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.
Titus 2:5

Theres been tension between him and the deacons since

then, Monica said.

Ill get Pastor Richardson to talk with him, Brother Montague

said. In the meantime, you need to consider going back to your
husband. Staying away from him is not going to help anything.

You married him for better or for worse; that means when he
makes wise decisions as well as when he makes unwise decisions,
her mother said.

Dad, Mom, Im not interested in getting a divorce; that has

never entered my mind. I just want him to know that I am serious
about this, Monica said.

So youre willing to jeopardize your marriage and family over

something as frivolous as a reality TV show? Mrs. Montague asked.

Mom, that is not the only reason! That just brought things to
a head. His increasing pride is the underlying cause.

Well, Im sure youre not thinking along these lines, but one
reason why you should get back with him quickly is because your
absence is setting Jonathan up for some other woman to move in on
him, Mrs. Montague said.

Yeah, well, he can control himself if he wants to, Monica

said. Another thing is, hes not spending as much time with the
children as he used to. Hes missing too many of Mitchs baseball
games, and the younger ones just miss him being around. Ive
explained to them hes busy and just to give him more time to take
care of things at the church. I understand that sometimes hes busy
and all that, but the kids cant understand why he doesnt spend time
with them anymore. I just remember how much it meant to me when
Dad came to just about all my school functions. I also remember
being disappointed when he could not make it, for whatever reason.

And what would I tell you during those times? her mother
asked.
Monica smiled. That life is full of disappointments, things are
not going to always go the way you like for them to go, that we are
not always going to get things when we want them, and that I need to
learn to pray and trust God.
Mother Montague smiled.
*****
Jonathan took the time away from Monica to do a lot of soulsearching. He read and re-read the story of King Rehoboam in I
Kings 12:6-33; 14:21-31 and again in II Chronicles 10:1-19. He saw
himself as King Rehoboam getting advice from Joshua Kessler and
the younger deacons.
They all mean well, but wisdom is telling me to lean more
toward the older and wiser deacons who have been around and who
have seen people come and go. Joshua means well, but hes of a
different generation and is using methods to reach the younger
crowd, and thats what we need so the church wont die out. He
hasnt offered any suggestions that are just plain unscriptural.

Jonathan missed Monica and the children, but conversations

with her were short. Its up to you how long we stay apart, Monica
said. You drop this reality TV thing and well come back.

Monica, I cant just drop it; I signed a contract, Jonathan

said.

You can annul any contract if you try hard enough. Pray
about it. God will show you what to do, she told him.

Are you praying about just walking out on your husband with
nothing biblical to stand behind it? Jonathan said. I cant let her
know how much I miss her. She expects me to come begging her to
come back. How long do you plan on keeping my children away from
me? Mitch and Jerri are telling me how much they miss me. How can
you do this to the children?

Well, its not like you spent time with them anyway. Good
bye, Jonathan, Monica said. If hes so concerned about the children
hell get off the show, she consoled herself.
*****

Monica, I think youre being selfish, Stacy told her after

Monica gave her an update on what had transpired since they last
talked. The children are at a critical age when they need to be
around their father. You need to really think about what you are
doing.

Im just keeping the children from public embarrassment,

plus they talk with him everyday, Monica said.

Talking by phone is not the same as talking in person, Stacy

said. As young as they are they would not understand public
embarrassment. Mitch and Jerri will just be excited to be on
television. I think youre the one whos afraid of being embarrassed.

Monica remained silent.

And, Stacy said, dont you miss him as much as the

children miss him . . . maybe even more?

Chapter 45
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust
of the flesh.
Galatians 5:16

Jonathan and Joshua took a one day trip to a leadership

conference in northern Oklahoma. The whole day was overcast and
rain accompanied them on their return trip home.

When will your wife be back? Joshua asked. The network

manager has been asking when can the viewers see you both in
action again, and hes looking for much more interaction between
your family and the other pastors family.

I wish I could say for sure, Jonathan said. I didnt want to

say anything, but the Young Preachers Club reality show is costing
me my marriage. My wife doesnt want to have anything to do with it.
That scene with us arguing, it was not acting; we were arguing for
real about being on the show. Just between us, shes at her parents
house right now, and she says shes not coming back unless I annul
the contract.

Oh, man! Oh, man! Im sorry, Pastor Jonathan. I had no

idea

No need to be sorry. Youre just doing your job. Plus, you

didnt know this would happen, just as I did not know this would
happen. Shes always been in my corner. Jonathan sighed. Just
pray for us, and wed better pray right now that we make it home
safely before this rain gets worse.

Traveling mercies were granted them as they made it to their

individual homes before the huge downfall.I have not seen a storm
this bad in a long time, Jonathan thought as he double checked all
doors and activated the security system. As he was getting ready to
pull the covers over him, frantic knocks on the door and the ringing of
the doorbell drew him out of bed.
Eleven oclock. Now who could be out in this kind of weather,
he thought as he tossed the covers back. Slipping into his robe he
glanced through the window. He did not see a vehicle parked in the
driveway.

Who is it? He looked through the peephole and saw a

female drenched from the rain. He halfway opened the door. How
can I help you?

Please, my car just gave out on me a few yards up and my

phone went dead. May I please use your phone to call my sister?
She doesnt live far from here. Please? the woman said frantically.
Jonathan hesitated before letting her in. He glanced around
outside before allowing her in.

My names Melissa Hunter. I was on my way from Michigan

to visit my sister and her family here in Oklahoma City. I thought I
could beat the rain; anyway, my car gave out on me, and my phone
went dead, Melissa said pulling her phone out of her pocket. May I
please use your phone to call and arrange for them to come pick me
up? I dont have much further to go.
Melissa crossed her arms over her chest rubbing her arms.

Exactly where are you going? Jonathan asked.

Nowhere in this thunderstorm for sure, she said. My sister
lives in Chackle Woods Neighborhood District. If my GPS is correct

and I made the right exit, it should be around here somewhere.

Well, not quite. There are two Chackle Woods

Neighborhoods: the old Chackle Woods and the newer, more
developed Chackle Woods. Its easy to get turned around if youre not
familiar with the area, Jonathan said. The highway separates the
two. Come on in the kitchen. You can use the phone in there.

Thank you so much, Melissa said as she followed Jonathan

into the kitchen. You have a beautiful home.

Thank you. Let me get you a couple towels. My wife and

children are visiting her parents. The phones over there. Would you
like some tea to help warm you up?
Melissa nodded.

The gentlemans back, Carla, Jonathan heard Melissa say

when he returned to the kitchen. He handed her the towels. Thank
you, Melissa said. Excuse me, sir, but I dont think I got your name.

Jonathan Reynolds. Pastor Jonathan Reynolds.

His names Pastor Jonathan Reynolds . . . Okay. Handing
the phone to Jonathan, Melissa said, My brother-in-law, Marlo, wants
to talk with you.

Hello, Marlo. How are you, sir? . . . Like I told her its easy to
get turned around if youre not familiar with the area . . . the rain does
not seem to be letting up any. Theres already some flooding and I
passed by a real bad car accident on my trip back from a
conference . . . Like I told Melissa, my wife and children are away
visiting her parents; it would be kind of awkward, but shes welcome
to use our guest bedroom. She would be downstairs; its a separate
self-contained living area.
Both men exchanged addresses and phone numbers before

saying good night. You wont be going anywhere tonight, Jonathan

said to Melissa after hanging up the phone. Let me show you the
guest area so you can get out of these wet clothes. My wife has
everything you may need back there. There are herbal teas and
canned soups in the cupboard if you think you may need something
to help warm you up.
Stopping by one of the bedrooms, Jonathan said, This is
where youll be staying. Check the closet and the drawers; you
should find some things in there. The washing machine and dryer are
in the room back there, Jonathan said pointing to the door they had
passed by. Jonathan pulled a sliding door out of the wall. You can
lock this for more privacy. Well, youre on your own. Have a good
night.

Jonathan stretched out on his bed. He felt his muscles begin

to relax. Whew! I didnt realize how tired I was. He glanced at his
wifes picture on the bedside table as he reached up to cut the lamp
light off. A sudden longing for her came over himnot just
emotionally, but physically as well. He fought the urge to call her
considering the hour. Different thoughts kept bombarding his mind
preventing sleep from settling in.

Chapter 46
When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is
pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee,
understanding shall keep thee.
Proverbs 2:10-11
Jonathan tossed and turned all night.
You are so full of yourself lately, its pitiful, Monica told him.
I see pride building up in you, Deacon Yancey said.
People want the pastor to tickle their ears nowadays. You
cant do that, Deacon Travis said.
Tone your message down if you aim to get the crowd in,
especially the younger crowd, Joshua advised him.
Now that youre a part of the leadership there, the devil has
his weapons pointed right at you and your family. Your weakness
may not be other women, but be sure that ol serpent knows where
your Achilles heel is; he knows just where to shoot at to bring you
down. Son, make sure you stay prayed up, his father warned him.
Theres a beautiful woman downstairs; shes not from around
here.
No, Jonathan thought. I will not go there.
Nobody will ever know you went there. Your so-called wife
has been gone nearly two weeks now. Shes not coming back; thats
why she took the children.
Shell be back.
Dont fool yourself. You can have that beauty downstairs.
Shes not taken. She wants you, too.

No, I cannot defile my marriage bed.

You wont defile it; your wifes not here to take care of your
needs so no one will hold it against you if Melissa takes care of it; its
just for one night.
No, my wife
Yes, you can. Your wifes a failure. Plus, the Bible says if the
wife wants to depart, let her go ahead and depart, you will not be
under any bondage in such a case.
My marriage vows . . . I
Forget that old marriage vow; make a new vow with Melissa;
consummate it with her tonight.
*****
Monica was resting in bed wondering if she had acted rashly.
Her parents, Leah, Stacy, Sister Richardsonall whom she thought
would stand by her were not in agreement with her decision. Even
Jonathans parents advised her to return as soon as possible. If you
humble yourself and trust God to work it out, youd be amazed at
what the result may be. Jonathan can be strong-willed at times as Im
sure youve already found out. Marriage is a faith relationship. You do
your part and trust God to work it out.
Sister Richardson asked Monica to come in to speak with her
and Pastor Richardson. I heard it through the grapevine, Sister
Richardson said to her. You cant hide anything from me, and you
definitely cant hide anything from Pastor Richardson; he has too
much godly wisdom and discernment.

Monica, I told you and Jonathan that once I performed the

marriage ceremony I did not want to see you in my office talking
about a divorce, Pastor Richardson said.

I really did not want to bother either of you, especially with

Pastor Richardsons health as it is, Monica said.

You and Jonathan are like our own childrenacting

rebellious right nowbut like our own children nonetheless, Pastor
Richardson said. Now, what seems to be the problem?

Let me begin by saying we are not getting a divorce; that

thought has never crossed our minds, and there is no possibility of it,
Monica said.

Then why are you down here and hes up there? Pastor
Richardson asked. Go ahead and tell on yourself first, he said
without waiting for her to answer. I already know what the problem is,
and its not a problem if its handled in the right way. God knows
Jonathan has a pride problem, but Jonathan does not know he has a
pride problem. In fact, he thinks hes very humble. Gods pulling that
pride out of him so He can use him in an even greater way.

Uhm, Stacy said something similar to that when I shared

with her what was going on, Monica said.

Youd better listen to her, Pastor Richardson said. God has

allowed Jonathan to become pastor of Ninth Street as it continues to
grow. Hes preaching in big time churches and at conferences; hes
becoming well-known, but at the same time, his ego is growing, and
hes beginning to think its all about him. The devil knows that he has
a spirit of pride and hes feeding it. God has sent us, his deacons,
and others and even his thorn in the flesh, that is, Brother Cam, as
warning signs for him to stop before it is too late.

Whats the worse that can happen if he does not heed the
warning signs? Monica asked.

I dont know for sure because Gods ways are not our ways,

Pastor Richardson said. But if I were to guess, Id have to say he

could lose the church, fall in with some woman, and/or end up losing
his family; I mean, youre down here and hes up there.

Chapter 47
Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a
time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and
come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your
incontinency.
I Corinthians 7:5

What about you, Monica? Sister Richardson asked as they

were wrapping up the meeting with Pastor Richardson. Have you
noticed anything negative in you that you never thought you had in
you? Being in the pastorate is not just a training ground for Jonathan
as the pastor; it is a training ground for you also as his wife.
Monica thought for a while, then her face broke out in a faint
smile that widened the more she tried to suppress it. We-l-l, my
mother and Stacy both said I was being selfish and only thinking of
myself. I admit, I dont fully see it

Maybe you dont want to see it, Sister Richardson said.

Ive been praying and asking God to help me see it, Monica
said.

Youre on the right track, Sister Richardson said.

Lets hope Jonathan is praying and asking God to help him
see the pride thats within him, Pastor Richardson said. Ill give him
a call and share with him what I just shared with you on tomorrow.
Anytime you want to talk about this, just let Sister Richardson know.

Thank you, Pastor Richardson, Monica said as Sister

Richardson accompanied her to the door.

Monica, Sister Richardson said as they stepped out the

building, you may not want to hear this now, but you may want to get
back with your husband as soon as possible; its going on two weeks
now and he has some physical needs Im sure he wants satisfied.
Monica giggled. Mom mentioned it but I kind of brushed it
aside.

You think on that because we dont want to have a similar

situation as before happening at Ninth Street. Just remember, were
all sinners and we are capable of falling into any sin even though
were in the ministry, so you go back and do your wifely duties.
*****
Jonathan tossed throughout the night but finally fell off to
sleep only to be awakened shortly after to the smell of
coffee. Monica, he thought drowsily as he sat up in the bed. It took
him a few seconds to reorient his mind before the events of the night
came back to him. He glanced at the clock. 8:05. He looked through
the curtains. The sky was still overcast, but it seemed to promise
sunshine later in the day as he could see telltale signs of the sun
trying to burst through the clouds.
Melissa. She must be the one making coffee. Picking up the
paper he had scribbled Melissas brother-in-laws number and
address on from off the dresser, he gave him a call.

My wife and I just dropped our children off at the school. We

should be there in about ten minutes. Thanks again Pastor
Jonathan, Marlo said.

Youre more than welcome. Thats the Christian thing to do. I

just woke up and your sister-in-law had coffee going; I thought my
wife had made it back, Jonathan said.

Thats just like Melissa. She makes herself at home

wherever she goes. Shes a good-hearted person, Marlo said. Well
be there shortly.
Jonathan jumped into the shower, dressed and was on his
way down the stairs when the doorbell rang. I got it, he said to
Melissa as she stepped through the kitchen door.
Jonathan, Melissa, Marlo, and Darlene, Melissas sister, had
a great time of fellowship around coffee and toast. They promised
Jonathan they would be in church at Ninth Street that Sunday.
Jonathan gave Monica a call as soon as they left.
*****

Well be keeping him here for the next two days. He needs
to be on complete bed rest, Dr. Cummins said to Sister Richardson.
He does not know how to rest so I am going to force him to rest.
Pastor and Sister Richardson chuckled.

Take his phone from him. The church will just have to do
without him for a few days, Dr. Cummins said.
After Dr. Cummins left, Sister Richardson reached over to pat
her husband on the shoulder. Doctors orders: complete bed rest
without visitors.

Let me have the phone, Wanda. I have to call Jonathan. I

promised I would, Pastor Richardson begged his wife.

That was before your heart almost gave out, his wife said.
God will keep Jonathan safe until you speak with him. All I want you
to do right now is to pray for him while you rest. We want you back in
the pulpit for many more Sundays.

I feel my time winding down, Pastor Richardson said. But

thank God I can say with Paul, I have fought a good fight; I have kept
the faith.

Please dont speak too soon, his wife said with a sniffle as
she reached down to give him a kiss on the forehead.

Baby, dont cry. Im not gone yet. Ill pray the prayer
Hezekiah prayed when God told him he was going to die. Ill ask God
to extend my years for your sake, Pastor Richardson said hugging
his wife. At the same time, Ill ask God to prepare you and Samuel
for my death.

I dont know if anyone can be completely prepared for

death, his wife said wiping away a falling tear. After regaining her
composure she continued, Im going to call the secretary and have
her cancel all your appointments for the next week, including the
meeting in Louisiana you were supposed to be at in two days.

Oh, man! I forgot all about that. Jonathans supposed to be

preaching as well. Im so proud to have one of my preacher boys
preaching alongside me, her husband beamed. That would have
been the perfect time for me to talk with him. I have to go. I feel
great.

You felt great before I had to call the ambulance, his wife
said. No. You will not be going, and you will speak to Jonathan in
Gods timing. Now lay still or else Im going to call the doctor and ask
him to restrain you.

Chapter 48
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy
Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not
your own?
I Corinthians 6:19

Mother Montague, how have you been doing? Jonathan

asked.

Hello, Jonathan. You sound cheerful this morning, his

mother-in-law said.

Its a great day to be alive. I was really calling to speak with

Monica. Her phone just kept ringing. How has she been doing?

She probably left her phone up in her room. Anyway, shes

doing great and guess what? She really misses you.

Is that so? She sure doesnt sound like it the few times Ive
spoken with her, Jonathan replied.

Shes just trying to act tough. Women are good at that so

dont let it fool you. Anyway, let me go get her. Shes teaching the
children on the back patio. Weve been having some sunshiny days.
Monica hurried to the phone. Hello, she said.

Hello, Monica. Hows everything going with you and the

children? Jonathan asked.

Alls going well. How about with you?

As good as can be. I really miss you and the children. I wish
you all were here, Jonathan said. So when do you plan on coming
back?
Monica hesitated. I want to come back . . . but you know how

strongly I feel.

Its a signed contract. I cant just drop out like that, Jonathan
said.

Joshua can help you get out of it if you pushed hard

enough, Monica said. You know, just last night I was in bed thinking
about the pact we made to resolve any problems between us as soon
as the problems arise and to be honest with each other no matter
how uncomfortable things get. Well, Im asking you to try to see
things from my point of view.
Jonathan thought for a while before speaking. Last night was
my roughest night since you left. He shared with her about Melissa
stopping by and the desires he started having for her. I never
thought I would have such strong desires and be tempted to fill it with
another woman. I know it was an awkward situation, and maybe I
should not have let her in the house with your not being here, but I
could not leave her out in that rain. Thank God, it all worked out.

Yeah. Thank God, Monica said thoughtfully as Sister

Richardsons last words came to her mind: You may want to hurry on
home to your husband; its going on two weeks now and he has
some physical needs Im sure he wants satisfied; Just remember,
were all sinners and we are capable of falling into any sin.
Playing it off, she said, Are you sure that was not just
another set up by The Young Preachers Club reality show?
Jonathan laughed. If it was, they failed once again.
Taking on a more serious tone, Monica said, Be careful,
Jonathan. It would really break my heart if there was some scandal
out on you and another woman.

You dont have to worry about that. But I would have an

even lesser temptation if you would come on back home; even some
of the women at the church are kind of becoming more friendly with
me, Jonathan said. Its going on three weeks now and thats a
mighty long time for two young, married people to be away from each
other, dont you think?
Monica remained silent.

Well, I thank God for bringing me through that, Jonathan

said with a sigh.

I hope Hell bring you through your pride also, Monica said
softly trying to smother the guilt rising up within her.

What did you just say?

Pride. I hope God helps you overcome your pride problem,
she repeated before changing the subject. Have you spoken with
Pastor Richardson? Hold on. Another call is coming in . . . Im back.
That was the church secretary asking us to pray for Pastor
Richardson. Hes at the hospital. The ambulance had to take him in,
Monica said in a shaky voice. I just had a meeting with him and
Sister Richardson yesterday. He was going to give you a call today.

Im going to let you go then, Jonathan said. Im sure your

mother would like to have the house phone free. If you all go out to
the hospital be sure to tell Sister Richardson Ill be praying for his
recovery and keep your phone on you.

Hes on complete bed rest and no visitors.

This reminds me, Im scheduled to preach at this three-day
preacher-leadership conference in Louisiana in the next two days. In
fact, Pastor Richardson was scheduled to preach also. I doubt if he
will be able to make it now.

I dont know. The secretary said hell be out for a few days,

Monica said.

I would love for you to go with me to the conference. Well

be driving. I could swing by and pick you up. Our parents could watch
the children while we make this a mini-vacation, Jonathan said.

Jonathan, my idea of a vacationjust you and meis not a

three day preacher-leadership conference, Monica said. Thanks for
the invitation, but I think Ill just stay right here and view it via the
internet if its going to be live. If you dont mind, I need to get back to
the children.

Ill be praying for you all and please think about all we just
talked about. Bye. Love you now. Give the children my love,
Jonathan said.

Yes, we love you too, she said.

Chapter 49
The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and
the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.
Proverbs 8:13

Jonathan, Joshua, Deacon Travis, and a few other men from

Ninth Street Baptist drove together in one of the church vans to the
Louisiana Christian Leadership Conference.

You preach it up now! Deacon Travis said giving Jonathan a

slap on his shoulder when he was called to the podium.
The Montague family, the Reynolds family, and Pastor and
Sister Richardson gathered in their respective homes to view the
meeting. As Jonathan delivered his message, Monica listened
aghast. That is not the preaching machine husband I know. He
seems lost and unsure of himself. The power is not there.
*****

Wanda, Pastor Richardson said, I really want to offer him

the pastoral position here at New Mt. Zion, but after tonights
preaching, I dont know if I can justify that decision. I wanted a young
man full of fire and who has some spiritual maturity about him, and
one who will be here for a long time. Jonathan and his father would
work well together; but that pride has gotten a hold of him. Did you
count the number of times he used the word I, and me?

Give him time, his wife said. Gods still working on him.
Sometimes God has to bring us down into the pit before He can raise

us to greater heights. Give Jonathan some more time. The best you
can do for him right now is to continue to pray for him.
****
Jonathans parents looked at each other. Hes at the top of
the success ladder. Hes a young man preaching alongside preachers
twenty-thirty years older than he is. He has lost focus of the main
thing. God is kicking the rugs out from under his feet one by one,
Brother Reynolds said.

Youve got to talk to him, his wife said. We cant stand by

and watch him bring about his own destruction.
*****
Although the men, with the exception of Deacon Travis,
congratulated Jonathan as they returned to the hotel, Jonathan felt
discouraged. He had to face up to the fact: Something was missing
from his preaching tonight.

I dont know where the power went, he confided in Deacon

Travis.

I think you know, Deacon Travis said. I think you know.

Jonathan spoke with Joshua the next morning. I want out of
the Young Preachers reality show contract. I know its going to be
hard considering were supposed to be working with another pastor
and his family; but Im sure they can continue on without me.

You are at your peak, Pastor Jonathan. Why the sudden

change?

Like I shared with you before, its costing me my marriage. I

cant risk that anymore. My wife is not coming back until I get out of it.
This is how serious it has gotten: she is normally rallying for me. She

may not like something, but shell go with the flow without a problem.
But when she is strongly convicted about something she will stand
her ground. She was never for us being a part of the Young
Preachers Club in the first place, but I thought once we got into it she
would settle down. She is dead set against it. And another thing: I
have not told anyone the real reason shes with her parents. I do not
want the members to begin speculating, and then gossiping,
wondering how long shes going to be gone. Before long their
speculations will begin to hit the internet, and then we will have an
even bigger mess on our hands.

If youre sure about it, Ill call the network manager right
away, Joshua said. This is not worth losing your marriage, your
peace, and your power over.

Im very sure. When you get married youll understand better

what Im going through, Jonathan said. Im not returning to an empty
house, he thought as Joshua made the phone call. I chose not to
listen to sound advice from those who love me most. Im just like King
Rehoboam.
Joshua got off the phone. The manager says he cant just
cancel the show, he told Jonathan. They promised the network four
months of episodes, and he has to keep his word to them.
Jonathans only response was a tired faraway look in his eyes
and slumped shoulders.

Ill keep trying, Pastor Jonathan, Joshua said. I feel

responsible for it.

No, Joshua. No need to blame yourself. You didnt know

things would turn out this way. Plus, you were just doing your job.

Chapter 50
When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is
wisdom.
Proverbs 11:2
On the return trip home to Oklahoma, Jonathan expressed his
wish to Deacon Travis and Joshua. If you all dont mind, could we
take a detour through Dallas and stop by my in-laws so I can pick my
wife and children up?

Sure, Deacon Travis said.

Im thinking of staying for a day or two, then well drive up in
our van so you all dont have to wait on me, Jonathan said.
Monica was surprised to see her husband as was everyone
else.

What happened to you at the meeting? You were dead. You

sounded like you were searching your way through, trying to pick the
right words; it was choppy, Monica said once they were alone.

Youre right; it was choppy. I feel choppy right now. Monica,

we cant go on like this. The marriage. The children. The church. The
ladies are beginning to ask when will you be back. They really miss
you. I really miss you. I stopped by to take you home, Jonathan said.
As much as Monica wanted to rush into his arms and say
Yes, yes, Ill come home with you, she restrained herself. Have you
been released from the contract yet? she asked.

Joshuas working on it. Cant you ride back with me while he

works on it? Look at whats at stake? Jonathan said.

Jonathan spent the night with plans to pull out early the next
morning and drive the family van back to Oklahoma City. While
kissing the children good bye his cell phone rang. It was Carmen.

Pastor Jonathan, sorry to disturb you, but I was checking the

churchs emails and theres a rather disturbing email. It was sent to
the church family, I believe. I know youre probably on your way back
from the conference, but I felt you should know right away.
Using his wifes laptop, he checked the email. It read:
Dear Ninth Street Church Family,
Some of you may have been wondering how long First Lady
Monica Reynolds is going to be away on her so-called vacation. Her
and her husband, Pastor Jonathan Reynolds, are on the verge of
getting a divorce. Her so-called needed vacation is a cover-up. Give
them another week or so and hell be bringing it to your attention; that
is, if its not confirmed by others before then.
A Concerned Former Member

Now who would do such a thing as that? Monica said more

to herself after Jonathan showed her the email.
Jonathan shrugged his shoulders. I do not know whats going
on, he said as they shared the email with his in-laws.

One thing I do know, Mother Montague said, and that is,

you two need to get yourselves together and get back together. That
is the only thing that is going to squelch this. Well keep the children
for you.
Monica hurried upstairs to pack her things.

Chapter 51
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a
fall.
Proverbs 16:18

Do you see whats happening? Brother Montague said to

Jonathan as they waited on Monica. God has allowed you to rise to
the top and at a young age and within a short period of time, and God
wants you to stay at the top. Youre seen as a leader among
preachers; they look up to you even though some are older than you.
Do you know how many preachers would like to get just one book out
there? And you have two books? All this attention has inflated your
ego, and pride has set in to the point where youre starting to
compromise. The sad thing is you dont even realize it. Ill just
mention this speaking in tongues as the proof of salvation. I could go
on, but I dont think I need to.
Jonathan smiled shaking his head at the absurdity of his
behavior and his unwise decisions these past months.

God has been trying to get your attention. First through

Monica, then through your deacons, then through us and Pastor
Richardson; but you have refused to listen. Rather than let you
destroy yourself, God in His mercy has sent others to block your path
to destruction, because as you know, pride goeth before a fall. Things
are beginning to unravel in your life to point you back to a state of
humility. First, some person named Cam threatening to take over
your church; second, Monica leaving with her mind strongly made up
to stay away as long as she deems necessary; third, that awful
preaching at the conference; fourth, this divorce email. So what are
you going to do? Humble yourself and go back to the basics? Or are
your going to continue on in the same vein?

I got the message, Jonathan said.

Before he and Monica pulled off, Brother Montague gave him
a CD with one of Pastor Richardsons messages
titled Humility. Listen to this on your drive home and dont worry
about Pastor Richardson. Ill tell him whats taken place. Hell be
happy to know you two are back together.
*****
News was flying back and forth among the church members.

What do you think about that email? Leanne asked Anise.

I dont know what to think, Anise said. I mean, its strange
how she left so suddenly. Normally, the pastor announces beforehand
their plans for vacation, conferences, guest speakers coming in,
special events, and such things. Whether they like it or not, we are
indirectly a part of the Reynolds family.

When you think about it, Leanne said, announcing it via the
reality show was a unique way of letting us know.
Anise chuckled. The more I think about it, the more I am
inclined not to believe they were acting.

Of course they were. This reality show is all pretense,

Leanne said.

I think the TV crew caught them at a bad time and they

played it off. Plus, Monica chose a fine time to vacation with her
parents. Weve heard nothing about her or from her since shes been
gone. I believe there might be some truth to this email.

Well, lets just pray for them to stay together. They have a
beautiful family and they are doing a great work for the Lord, Leanne
said. Id hate to lose them as our pastor and first lady.

Me, too, Anise said.

*****

Who do you think sent that email? Monica asked shortly

after they pulled out en route to Oklahoma City.

I dont know for sure. But I think its Cam.

Cam? I thought he was in jail, Monica said.
I believe he contacted someone outside and set it all up,
Jonathan said shaking his head.

Jon, Monica said softly.

Yeah, Monica.
I feel responsible for this happening. If I had just stayed put
this would not have happened. I could have handled it better.

Dont beat up on yourself. We dont know for sure this email

would not have been sent either way, Jonathan said reaching over to
squeeze her hand. And if I had not been acting so stupid you would
not have left. Thats behind us now.

Why are we stopping? Monica asked as Jonathan pulled

the van over to the side of the road.

Just want to show you how much I missed you and to say
thanks for everything.

I missed you, too, Monica said as her husband reached

over to kiss her.

Okay, enough, Monica said. All this romance is not going to

solve what we have to face once we get back.

Chapter 52
Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with
humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the
humble.
I Peter 5:5

Here. Listen to this, Jonathan said placing the CD Mr.

Montague had given him into the CD player. He and Monica where
on their way back to Oklahoma with their children. Your father gave
me a real talking to while we were waiting on you, he said.
Jonathan pushed the play button and Pastor Johnsons voice
sounded from the speakers.

Humility not only marks the start of the Christian life, it is the
start of everything godly in the Christian life. Not too many people
practice the art of humility. Not too many people possess this virtue.
In fact, humility is foreign to our self-assertive, me-myself-and-I
society. I would venture to say that none of us, after realizing our
wretched sinful state and how that we were on the road to hell,
should have a problem humbling ourselves enough to ask Jesus to
be our Savior.

For Christians, the problem occurs even after we get saved.

We refuse to accept the fact that God wants us to have the same
spirit of humility after we ask Him to save us as we did when we
asked Him to save us. He wants us to humbly seek Him to live the
Christian life each day. He wants us to be totally dependent on Him,
seeking His leading, His guidance, and His direction in everything we
do, in any decision we have to make. But most of us just want to use
God to get us saved, but we dont want to use Him to keep us saved;

that is, we dont want to use Him to help us do good works unto
salvation.

Colossians 2:6 says, As ye have therefore received Christ

Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him.

In First Peter 5:5, we read, Yea, all of you be subject one to

another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud,
and giveth grace to the humble.

How does God humble us? Let me give you four ways I
gathered from Jim Bergs book: Changed Into His Image.

One, God can and will send a problem, a thorn in the flesh,
that we cannot handle to expose our helplessness.
This email about our divorce, Jonathan thought. Cams
constant threats to take over the church. He has certainly been a
thorn to me.

Two, Pastor Johnson continued, God can give us a

command we refuse to obey to expose our self-centeredness.
Me not listening to the advice of the deacons, my wife, our
parents, and Pastor Richardson, Jonathan thought.

Three, God can arrange an outcome we cant control to

expose our sinfulness.
My wife leaving, Jonathan thought, and that terrible sermon.

And, four, Pastor Johnson went on, God will do things in a

way we cannot comprehend to show us our finiteness.

Ill leave you with this thought: God does not mind making
you look ugly so that He can bring about a change in you. God does
not mind letting you fall and grovel in the dirt to help change you into
His image. Pride will bring you down every time. Ill leave you with

these words I found somewhere, and that is: Great power reveals
weaknesses in men that they never knew existed.

Amen, Monica said softly.

Lets pray, Jonathan said after a while. Heavenly Father,
thank You for this message. Thank You for not leaving me to myself.
Yes, Lord, You are right. I am full of pride. Thank You for sending
people in my life to point that out to me. I pray that You would help
me get back to the basics and to simply keep the main thing the main
thing. I humbly ask that You would fix all that well face once we
return home. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.

And, Lord Jesus, Monica continued, thank You for taking

my spiritual blinders off as well and showing me how selfish Ive been
and not trusting You to work things out. Please increase my faith in
You. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
Later that evening, Jonathan received a call from Joshua.

The producer says the only way hell feel justified in

terminating the contract is if you make a public statement as to why
you cannot continue, Joshua said. He says our viewers are
expecting to see you and your family and church family for at least six
months so it would be unfair to our viewers not to offer them a valid
explanation. He feels its best for you to give it some sense of closure
rather than leave abruptly and especially since you are supposed to
be working with another pastor and his family, which has not worked
out as planned. The other family is willing to go on.

Okay. Thank you, Joshua. Ill get back with you as soon as
we get back, Jonathan said. I thought for sure the producer would
just let us go and continue on with whoever is next in line after I
explained everything to him, he told Monica.

Are you sure your real reason is not because you dont want
to be further embarrassed? Monica asked with a smile. God wants
us to be completely humble, and theres nothing like an embarrassing
moment to humble us.

Youre right. So are you going to stand next to me when I

apologize to our viewers? Jonathan asked. It would put a stop to
whoever sent this email and to whatever they hope to gain from it.

Of course, Jonathan. Anything to save my marriage and

family, Monica said.

Chapter 53
O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in
man that walketh to direct his steps.
Jeremiah 10:23

Great power reveals weaknesses in men that they never

knew existed. Those words became etched in Jonathans mind and
served to remind him of his near fall from pride. The church family
welcomed them with open arms. Before preaching, Jonathan called
Monica to the podium.

I wish to put to rest the message sent via email that my wife
and I were headed for a divorce. There is no truth to that. I have told
those of you who asked about her welfare that she was taking a short
vacation at her parents. Ill admit that was not entirely true, and I
apologize for lying to you all.
Monica slipped her arm around her husbands waist as he
spoke.

The airing of the Young Preachers Club episode in which it

looked as though my wife and I were arguing was not staged. We
were arguing. My wife never wanted me to put our family out there for
public viewing, but I went ahead with the show because, to be
honest, I was looking at the fame it would bring to myself and to the
church as a whole. I did not think about the wellbeing of our family.
Thats what that was all about. To show me how serious she was
about this decision, she left to stay with her parents. I admit I was
embarrassed and I made it seem like it was no big deal. Anyway,
everything worked out well as God used that situation to show us
some negative things within us that He wanted changed so that we
can better serve the church family at Ninth Street Baptist. Even

though we are your pastor and first lady, we are not perfect. So
dismiss that email and know that we could use your prayers more
than any gossip. Amen?

Amen! the people shouted as they burst out into a round of

applause followed by whistling as Jonathan and Monica exchanged a
lingering kiss.

Thats some love right there, Deacon Travis shouted.

*****

I told you they were not acting, Leanne said to Anise over
the phone later that evening.

I was the one who told you that, Anise said with a laugh.
Im just glad it was nothing but gossip. Thats one family I
want to see succeed, Leanne said. We ought to do something to
show them how much we appreciate them. Theyre for real.

Why dont we plan a Pastor/First Lady Appreciation Sunday

followed by a dinner? Anise suggested.
*****
That week was a busy one for Jonathan and the deacons.
Forty applications had come in from people seeking to fill the position
of assistant pastor. Jonathan chuckled as he scanned the pages of
one of the applications. We can toss this one, he said handing it to
Deacon Travis. That Cam is something else. Hes poking his head
through every door imaginable to get into this church.
The other thirty-nine applicants were lined up for an interview
with Jonathan and the deacons via Skype. After prayer and by
process of elimination, they settled on a Pastor Mooney to come
preach for them first.

Chapter 54
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou
disquieted within me? Hope in God: for I shall yet praise him,
who is the health of my countenance, and my God.
Psalm 43:5
Having heard nothing new about their daughters
whereabouts, Stacy and Robert decided to take a two-week vacation
in Texas at her parents house to get away from the familiar and now
painful surroundings of New York. It pained them to wake up each
day to things that reminded them of their missing daughter. Every
now and then, Stacy found herself going through her daughters
clothes that were hanging in her closet. She would just sit on her bed
and reminisce on the few years she had had with Trelawny. Not a
week went by when she did not drive by the school hoping her
daughter would be there. Every now and then, she would drive up
and down the streets close to their residence, visit the parks she
often took her children to, stop by the Burger King where they had
often dined, looking and hoping to see some sign of her daughter.
Tears came to her more often.

I think we need a vacation, Robert said to Stacy one

evening after bringing to her attention for probably the fifth time since
their daughter went missing that she was setting an extra plate at the
dinner table.

Robert, I feel like Im going crazy sometimes. I dont know

how much longer I can take it. I cant stop thinking about where she
may be.

For Trevons sake, we have to remain strong, Robert said.

Like I said, until I hear otherwise, Im trusting God that she is alive.

But what if our trust gets shattered and she turns up dead?
What then? I dont think I could live with myself after that. If only I had
gotten to the school sooner, Stacy said.

Stacy, stop blaming yourself. You had no way of knowing

they would be doing work on the road and that that would make you
run late. All we can do is continue to pray and ask God to prepare us
for whatever lays ahead, Robert said.

Dont you think Im trying to do that! Stacy said. But why

us? What have I done that is so bad to bring this on?

Why not us? Robert said.

*****
Brother and Sister Wilmington welcomed their daughter, sonin-law, and grand-son with open arms. Their conversation turned
toward Trelawny their first night at the dinner table.

I sure wish Trelawny was here, Brother Wilmington said.

You all havent heard anything new from the police as to her
whereabouts?

Nothing at all, Robert said, sighing. They are speculating

that whoever abducted her may have fled the state. The search for
her, as you know, has gone nationwide. Her picture has been sent to
just about every school in New York and in the surrounding states.
We are doing the only thing we know to do and that is to pray for her
safe return . . . and asking the Lord to prepare us for the worse.

Only God can give you the grace to handle something like
this, Sister Wilmington said.

Yes. We just try to keep ourselves busy, and try not to dwell
on it too much, Stacy said. Speaking of keeping busy, I remember
you sharing with us a while back that the church has expanded its

outreach ministry and is not only holding breakfast and dinner meals
here on the grounds on Saturdays, but is delivering baskets to those
who are unable to make it out to the church. Id love to help with that
while Im here.

Of course youre welcome to help and Trevon can come

along if he wants to, unless hed rather spend the day with his dad,
Sister Wilmington said.

Stacy and her family received a warm welcome on their first

Sunday worshipping at New Mt. Zion. It felt good to be back among
familiar faces.

Chapter 55
Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth.
Psalm 54:2

On their second Sunday as she was greeting and

fellowshipping with some of the members after services, Stacy shook
hands with Trisha Gurber. As she bent down to greet Trishas
daughter she almost jerked back at how familiar she looked. Shenia
was staring at her with curious brown eyes. Trelawny! Stacy almost
blurted out. Regaining her composure she spoke with Trisha Gurber
directing a few of her questions to Shenia who, except for answering
her questions, otherwise was quiet. When it was time to say goodbye,
Shenia and Stacy seemingly exchanged a long familiar stare; Stacy
gave her a hug that felt warm and familiar. She watched thoughtfully
as the Gurber family exited the auditorium.

Stacy was in deep thought on their ride home from church.

She could not hide her speculation as she questioned her mother
about the Gurber family.

Mom, Dad, Robert, I say this without any fear of successful

contradiction, but the Gurbers little girl, Shenia, is Trelawny. I have no
doubt about that, and I believe that Shenia recognized me. The initial
stare she gave me was a look of surprised recognition and the way
she kept looking at me while I talked with Trisha Gurber. Her eyes are
the splitting image of Trelawnysbrown and curious. I hugged her
and I know that hug. I asked her her age and what grade she was in,
as well as her birthday. Everything matches up to Trelawny.

Are you sure youre not jumping to a false conclusion

because you want Trelawny back so badly? her mother asked.
Remember you shared with me on at least two occasions that
almost every five-year-old girl you saw not only looked like Trelawny
but acted like her. You might be speculating out of your hurt. The
Gurbers have been coming here for about three months now, and

Look, Mom, I know my daughter, Stacy said. Personal

questions that I directed at her which may have given away her
identity, her mother quickly and without any reservation answered for
her. Questions like: Do you have any brothers or sisters? Whats your
favorite animal? Trelawny always expressed her desire for a large
shaggy dog. We were going to get her one for her birthday, Stacy
said closing her eyes tightly.
Robert placed his arm around his wifes shoulders as her
voice cracked. He looked at his in-laws. Stacy, are you sure? We
dont want to rashly go and accuse them of kidnapping.

Robert, I know my child, Stacy said adamantly. If you had

met her, you would be in agreement with me.

Stacy, are you sure about this? her father asked.

Shenia goes to school at New Mt. Zion Christian Academy. I
can speak with Pastor and Mrs. Richardson and meet with Shenia to
see what information I can get from her. I can speak with her teacher
to see if she has noticed any questionable behavior in her, Sister
Wilmington said.

I appreciate it, Mom. At least give me a chance to prove

myself wrong . . . if I am wrong. Id hate to return to New York with
this on my mind, Stacy said. May I come out to the school with you
on tomorrow when you talk with her?

That might be a good idea. Well see how she responds to

you, Sister Wilmington said. Let me call Pastor Richardson and let
him know about this.
The following morning, shortly after Trisha Gurber dropped off
Shenia, Shenia met with Pastor and Sister Richardson and Sister
Wilmington in his office where they asked her some personal
questions. Shenia hesitantly answered the questions and ended with,
Please, my mommy told me not to tell anyone that I was from New
York or that I have a brother. Please dont tell her I told you.

Dont worry. We wont, Sister Wilmington said. We were

asking you those questions because I have three people I want you
to meet. She opened the door and signaled for Stacy, Robert, and
Trevon to come into the office.

There she is. Thats my real mommy and daddy! Trelawny

said rushing into their arms. I knew it was you when I saw you
yesterday; you smell nice like my mommy always smells. Trevon!
Trelawny shouted as she hugged her brother.
The Gurbers were arrested later that evening when Trisha
came to pick Trelawny up from school. Stacy and Robert decided not
to press charges after hearing the Gurbers sad story at a meeting in
Pastor Richardsons office with police chief Petralas present.

I cant have any children, Trisha Gurber said amidst tears. I

wanted one so badly it got to the point where I was having physical
symptoms; I was getting sick. I told my husband I was going to kill
myself if I didnt have a little girl soon. We stopped by playgrounds
and schools and would observe the children. Shenia, I mean,
Trelawny and her brother were easy targets as they always stood
away from the other children. We watched them for about two weeks

before taking her. Between sniffles and wiping of the eyes, Trisha
and Matt apologized profusely to the family.

Please forgive us for the worry we caused you, Matt said. I

just hated to see my wife sink into such a deep depression; and when
she threatened suicide, I felt I had no choice but to do something
quickly. Im willing to serve jail time, but, please let my wife go. As you
see, we took good care of Trelawny. It was never our intent to hurt
her in any way.
Stacy was touched. She knew the joys of motherhood. Being
that they took such good care of Trelawny they decided not to press
charges under one condition: that they remain there at New Mt. Zion
and that they keep in touch with them.

Well help you start the adoption process for a little girl,
Sister Richardson said. I understand what youre going through. I
thought I would never have a child, and I fretted and worried and
became depressed. It took an emotional toll on me. But God blessed
us with a son in my late years. So you never know what God has in
store for you.
It was a sad but sweet reunion for Trelawny. She was glad to
be going home with her parents, but she would miss the Gurbers
because they had treated her as though she was their own child.

You keep in touch and Im still going to get you your dog for
Christmas, Matt told her as she hugged them both for maybe the last
time.
On their ride back to New York, Stacy and Robert took a
detour through Oklahoma to visit Monica and Jonathan. It was a time
of rejoicing as they caught up on old times.

Chapter 56
Truly God is good to Israel, even to such as are of a clean
heart.
Psalm 73:1

Within less than a week after returning to Oklahoma, Joshua

arranged a meeting with himself, Jonathan, and Mr. Dublin, the
station manager at the television station.

Now, Pastor Jonathan, Im sure you understand this is a

matter of keeping our word to our listeners, but Im a family man and I
dont want this to cause a rift between you and your wife. So what
well do is arrange for your last airing to be an interview and youll
share with our listeners your dreams and goals for your church, then
you can ease right into an apology for cutting the program shorter
than scheduled.

That sounds good to me, Jonathan said, but my wife

suggested something I think may go over better with our viewers. Her
idea is to stage an argument on the show and then end the show with
its resolution.

Hey, thats going to work even better, Mr. Dublin said after
Jonathan shared Monicas idea with him. We can do it at your house
say on Tuesday after lunch.
The last airing of the Young Preachers Club Network reality
show with Jonathan and his family was a hit.

And believe it or not, Jonathan said to his family back home

in Texas, that last show probably brought more visitors to the church
than any other previous airing.

Thats how God sometimes works, his father told him.

What you think will be an absolute disaster, as long as you are being
obedient to Him, He will turn it around and make good come out of it.
Just stay focused and keep the vision of the Great Commission
before you and walk in humble obedience.

The important thing is you saw where you were wrong,

finally accepted the rebuke, changed, and was willing to lose some
notoriety so Gods name could be lifted up, his mother said.

Dont you feel better now that you were there by his side?
Mother Montague said to Monica.

Yes, I do, Monica admitted. And I also learned selfishness

is close to pride and it only covers your blind spots more and
prevents you from seeing how you contribute to a problem.

Pastor Richardson placed a call to Brother Montague and

Brother Reynolds after viewing the interview and last airing. I saw a
truly humble man tonight. Im ready to place the offer to Jonathan
now. Gods got his attention and I feel in my spirit hell think twice
before taking another detour off the straight and narrow path.

What about Ninth Street Baptist? Brother Montague asked.

Who will oversee that great work there? You know they are still
looking for an assistant pastor.

I believe God will provide someone to take over the church

there, Pastor Richardson said. God placed Jonathan upon my heart
after he preached his first trial sermon here. I never shared that with
anyone; Ive just been praying about it, and Ive had my eyes and

ears on him and Monica. Ill be sharing that with the deacons at our
next meeting.

That sounds good to me, Jonathans father said. He then

added with a chuckle, Pastor Richardson, Ive had a grand time
serving God under you, but I tell you, Im sure looking forward to
serving under my son here at New Mt. Zion.

When you walk faithfully with God, He blesses you even in

ways you could never imagine, Pastor Richardson said. Let me
draw up the letter to send to Jonathan as I feel time is of the essence
now.
*****
Pastor Mooney, coming highly recommended from his former
church in Washington State, preached a fiery, but simple message
titled Living the Simple Christian Life. He and his wife and children
hit it off immediately with Jonathan and Monica; they all felt a kindred
spirit as they fellowshipped together after services. He shared a
similar vision for the church should he become its assistant pastor as
Jonathan had for Ninth Street Baptist.

We just love him and his family, Leanne and Anise shared
with Jonathan as did other members. We dont need to have anyone
else preach for us; we want Pastor Mooney.

Theyre for real.

I can tell he and his wife are one.
I have never seen such well-behaved children.
The deacons voted unanimously to have Pastor Mooney join
their team there as assistant pastor.

He will preach again for us within another two weeks and

then well help him and his family as they take up residence here
within a months time, Jonathan shared with the church family. Be in
fervent prayer for things to go smoothly.

Chapter 57
Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a
good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:6

Upon returning home the Sunday following Pastor Mooneys

preaching at Ninth Street, Jonathan and Monica received a disturbing
call from both their parents: Pastor Richardson had had a massive
heart attack and had to be rushed to the hospital.

It does not look like hes going to pull through this one,
Brother Montague shared with them. Please pray for Sister
Richardson and their son, Samuel.
Jonathan assured them that the Ninth Street family would be
in fervent prayer for them.
Later that week Jonathan received the letter of invitation from
Pastor Richardson. It read:
My Dear Brother Jonathan:
I trust this short letter finds you doing well.
I have watched you ever since your family joined us here at
New Mt. Zion. It was then that I started praying for the right man to
take over this great work that the Lord has allowed me to carry out
here at New Mt. Zion. The Lord placed you upon my heart ever since
you preached your first trial sermon here. I have been praying about
this for years and now I am ready to pass the Gospel baton down to
you.
Jonathan Reynolds, I am writing to humbly ask you to take
over as senior pastor here at New Mt. Zion Evangelical Missionary

Church, effective immediately. I would count it an honor if you would

accept as I believe it is in Gods perfect will.
Blessings,
Pastor Richardson
Jonathan read and re-read the letter. His eyes got watery and
a lump built up in his throat. God, Youre just too great. This would be
more than an honor, and to think I almost lost out on this great
blessingthe blessing of a lifetime. He placed the letter on his desk
and, reclining back in his chair, became lost in his thoughts.

Towards the end of the week, he gave his father a call about
the letter.

Yes, son, Pastor Richardson shared this with me and the

deacons. We have been in fervent prayer for some months now that
God would prepare you to slide right into this position.

What about Ninth Street? You know I cant just leave them
like that. We just now found someone to fill in as assistant pastor. The
deacons and church family voted unanimously for Pastor Mooney
from Washington State to fill that position, Jonathan said.

I wouldnt worry about a thing. Its all in Gods hands. Hell

send someone to fill that position as soon as you accept the senior
pastor position here, his father said.
Jonathan thought about Pastor Mooney and how the Ninth
Street family loved, not only his preaching, but also his family. Is it
coincidental that his application came in at this time, or is it in Gods
will? Its unusual for even the deacons to want him to fill that position
without even hearing or meeting another candidate for that position
even Deacon Travis voted for him without reservation. He smiled as

Deacon Travis words came into his thoughts: We are a praying

church, and when you have a praying church and some praying
deacons and pastor, when God sends us the right man, well know
immediately that he is the man.

Dad, Ill have to pray about this. I feel Im too young and
inadequate to pick up and carry on from where Pastor Richardson is
leaving off. I feel you should fill that position; youre the assistant
pastor and you have worked alongside Pastor Richardson for these
many years. Anyway, Ill pray about it.
Brother Reynolds chuckled. Weve prayed enough about it;
God has already given us the answer. Were just waiting for you to
accept.

I see the big picture now, Jonathan shared with his wife
after he showed her the letter. God has been preparing me all this
time, chipping away at the rough edges and polishing me. Coming to
Ninth Street was not coincidental; it was all in Gods plan.

Are you going to accept it? Monica asked with much

eagerness.

I have to pray about this some more. I dont feel comfortable

leaving Ninth Street just yet. I still have great plans for this church,
he said.
*****

Stacy, I hope he accepts, Monica told her friend. It would

be good to serve God from our hometown.

I am so happy for you, and guess what? Robert is talking

about possibly moving down to Texas. The economic situation up
here is terrible, not to mention the increasing crime. Hes been

checking around and so far Texas seems to offer the best economic
situation for us. So we are praying about that, Stacy said. We just
dont feel safe here anymore since Trelawnys abduction; not that it
couldnt have happened anywhere else.

Is this a mere coincidence or what? Monica said laughing.

Wouldnt that be something, Stacy said, for us to move
back to our old stomping ground?

God is good all the time, Monica said.

And all the time God is good, they both finished.
Oh, I almost forgot, Monica said as they were wrapping up
their conversation, please be in earnest prayer for Pastor and Sister
Richardson. The last time I spoke with Mom she said the heart attack
left Pastor Richardson confined to a wheelchair and it left him
paralyzed on one side of his body.

Thats what Mom and Dad shared with me, Stacy said. We
are definitely praying for them. I hope he gets back to good health
before we move down there. It would be good to see them again.

Chapter 58
Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we
shall all be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at
the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall
be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this
corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put
on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on
incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then
shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is
swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave,
where is thy victory?
I Corinthians 15:51-55
It was 3:03 A.M. when Monica and Jonathan received phone
calls from both sets of parents right behind each other. Pastor
Richardson had passed away in his sleep. It was a sad time as plans
were made to attend the funeral. It was a very sober but touching
home-going service as Brother Reynolds delivered the eulogy. The
auditorium was filled to capacity, the overflow rooms were filled.
Monitors were installed in some of the classrooms to accommodate
family, friends, visitors, and well-wishers to this sad yet happy
occasion as they celebrated the home-going of a great man of God.

Ladies and gentlemen, Brother Reynolds began, this was

Pastor Richardsons final request for his funeral, and that is, that I cut
through all the platitudes and share Gods simple plan of salvation.
That was his lifes work and ministry: sharing with the lost how they
can gain eternal life. He is now resting in Heaven, and he says if you
wish to see him again at your time of death, which will come, then
listen to these words from God that I am about to share with you, and
do what these words tell you to do:

First, accept the fact that you are a sinner. Ecclesiastes 7:20
says: For there is not a just man upon earth that sinneth

not. Romans 3:23 says: For all have sinned and come short of the
glory of God.

Second, accept the fact that there is a penalty for sin. The
Bible states in Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death

Third, accept the fact that you are on the road to hell. Jesus
Christ said in Matthew 10:28: And fear not them which kill the body,
but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to
destroy both soul and body in hell.

Fourth, accept the fact that you cannot do anything to save

yourself. The Bible states in Ephesians 2:8 and 9: For by grace are
ye saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is a gift of God.
Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Fifth, accept the fact that God loves you more than you love
yourself and He wants to save you from hell. John 3:16 says, For
God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that
whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting
life.

God wants you to repent of your sins, believe on the Lord

Jesus Christ, and pray and ask Him to forgive you of your sins and to
come into your heart and save you this very moment. Romans 10:9
and 13 says: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord
Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from
the dead, thou shalt be saved. For whosoever shall call upon the
name of the Lord shall be saved.

And I end with these words: Death can be the entrance to

the reunion of family and friends for eternity in Heaven, or it can be
the exit to the separation of family and friends for all eternity in hell. If
you wish to see Pastor Richardson and other family and friends who
have gone on home to Heaven to be with the Lord then believe on

the Lord Jesus Christ. You can seal that belief by praying the
following prayer:

Heavenly Father, I acknowledge that I am a sinner and that I

have sinned against You by breaking Your commandments. For
Jesus Christs sake, please forgive me of my sins as I now believe
with all my heart that Jesus Christ died for my sins, was buried, and
rose so that I could have the victory over death and have eternal life
in Heaven with God. Lord Jesus, please come into my life and save
my soul from sin and from the punishment of sin which is hell. Fill me
with Your Holy Spirit and help me to repent of my sins and to turn
away from my old life and to follow you in the new life. Amen.

Chapter 59
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God,
that he may exalt you in due time.
I Peter 5:6

Jonathan and Monica spent a few days with their families.

Although it was a sad occasion, it was great to see Stacy and her
family who had traveled down for the funeral. Matt and Trisha Gurber
were pleased to announce Trishas pregnancy. Sandy was moving full
steam ahead in completing her course of study at TCU; Solomon was
growing healthy and strong. Sister Mills and Brother Harold were still
going strong. The New Mt. Zion Christian Academys school body had
grown in number; plans were being made for the expansion of the
building or to move the high school to another area close by.
Jonathan spent much of his time with his father as they
looked back on the wonderful days spent with Pastor Richardson.

I tell you, he was like a father to me, Brother Reynolds said.

He had a genuine love for all people and you felt that love.

He was the epitome of humility, Jonathan said. I just dont

feel worthy to fill his pulpit.

None of us should ever feel we are worthy to fill any position

in our service to God. I believe thats where God wants to bring each
of us: to that point where we honestly dont feel we are worthy to do
anything for Him, and that whatever little we do accomplish for Him is
all because of Him working in and through us. That, to me, is true
humility.

Youre right, Jonathan said. Ive been praying about it. I

dont know if I told you this or not, but Pastor Mooney will be coming

on staff within another two weeks as assistant pastor. Were

solidifying his housing. I cant leave him like that.
After thinking, his father said, Why dont you just turn the
senior pastor position over to him and give your most trusted deacon
the assistant pastor position?

Thats a thought. I havent said anything to anyone about

taking over the pastorate here except for Monica. Its going to come
as a shock to the church. Ill probably have to take leave within a
months time.

We havent said anything to the church family here yet,

Brother Reynolds said. But dont you worry about a thing. Brother
Montague, myself, and the deacons will hold the fort down until you
get here. A young man like you will get the energy going here what
with all the young people we have attending.
Jonathan and Monica joined in the Wednesday night Prayer
meeting at New Mt. Zion. They sensed the peoples loss and at the
same time listened as the congregants expressed curiosity as to who
would replace their beloved pastor.

All I know is whoever replaces him has to be the real deal,

one member said.

He also has to be a preaching machine, another said.

He cannot be a compromising, ear-tickling, back-scratching
preacher, another said.

He cant be a prosperity preacher, more concerned about

money than souls, someone else said.

Definitely one who has his wife and children under control,
another church member added.

Seems to me like you fit the bill, Monica said to her

husband in the privacy of their bedroom.
Long after his wife fell asleep, Jonathan lay awake praying
and thinking.
Lord, I have some great plans for Ninth Street. Ive come to
love the people there. If I leave them now, Ill feel like Im leaving a
job unfinished.

Ill send someone to pick up where you left off, he felt God
was saying to him.
Youre asking me to fill a tall order here at New Mt. Zion. I
dont believe anyone can fill Pastor Richardsons shoesespecially
not me.

Im not calling you to fill his shoes. Im calling you to humbly

continue the work there and take the church in the direction I want
you to take it in. You keep your eyes on Me and step out in faith.
Lord, I just dont have the firepower Pastor Richardson had.
The people are used to his preaching.

Im not asking you to preach like Pastor Richardson. The

same Holy Spirit that gave him that fire power is the same Holy Spirit
that will give you an equal amount or more fire power.
Oh, Lord, I pray even as Elisha prayed when Elijah was taken
up into Heaven, let a double portion of the Spirit that was upon
Pastor Richardson be upon me. I humbly present myself for Your
service.

Chapter 60
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you
up.
James 4:10

Ill give you a call with an answer, Jonathan told his father
while saying goodbye as he and his family prepared to head back to
Oklahoma.
After about three hours of driving, he gave Pastor Mooney a
call.

Hello, Pastor Mooney, I have a proposition for you. Instead

of filling in as assistant pastor at Ninth Street, how about filling in as
senior pastor at Ninth Street. You dont have to give me an answer
right now, but the position is open . . . Im not joking . . . Oh, no, no.
Nothings happened. I dont know if you know Pastor Richardson of
New Mt. Zion Evangelical Missionary Church. Thats my home
church.
Jonathan shared everything with Pastor Mooney.

In fact, my family and I are on our way back from his funeral
and spending a couple days with both our families. It was a blessing;
it was more of a praise and worship service than your typical funeral.
After hanging up the phone he called Deacon Travis next. He
glanced across at his wife; she had a big smile on her face and a
twinkle in her eyes.

Hello, Deacon Travis. How are you, sir?

Im doing great. How did everything go?

Just great, Jonathan said following with a report of the

funeral. He launched into the new position awaiting him at New Mt.
Zion should he accept.

Ive been praying about it for a while now, so forgive me for

springing it on you. But I want you to pray about something. How
about serving as assistant pastor of Ninth Street under Pastor
Mooney?

Whoa, now, Pastor Jonathan! Did you pray about this?

Deacon Travis said. Im over the sixty years mark. That church
needs someone young, someone full of energy.

That church also needs someone full of Gods wisdom, who

has discernment and will not compromise. And yes, I have prayed
about it, and God told me that you are the one to fill that position.
Youd be a great help and encouragement to Pastor Mooney. God
reminded me that youve been faithful down through the years and
how that youve stood with two young men of God who were at times
too bull-headed to listen to God, but how that you have uplifted them
in prayerhowever with much patience and biting of the tongue.
Deacon Travis laughed.

See it as God rewarding you for being faithful in serving Him

since you claimed Him as your Savior. And I thank you for not being
afraid to correct me when you saw me going astray. Are you still
there? Deacon Travis?

Im still here, my brother. This is just too much blessing for

me. God is too good, Deacon Travis said clearing his throat.

Yes, God is very good. So are you going to pray about it?
Jonathan asked.

There is nothing to pray about. You say God told you Im the
man, then I humbly accept. Ive learned not to fight against God. And
on top of that, Id better fill it before ol Brother Cam tries to stick his
head through the door again.
Both men laughed.

Ive already spoken with Pastor Mooney. I believe hes going

to accept the senior pastor position. Well meet with the other
deacons on Saturday, make an official announcement on Sunday,
and it will all be in Gods hands going forward. We love you, my
brother, and Ill be talking with you when I get back. Ill call Carmen
right now and have her contact the other deacons about the meeting .
. . God bless.

Just one more phone call, Jonathan said to his wife as he

punched in another set of numbers.

Hello, Dad . . . Yes, everything is alright. Were still on the

road. I was calling to let you know I humbly accept the position as
pastor of New Mt. Zion Evangelical Missionary Church. Give me a
month to get things squared away here at Ninth Street, then well be
back to continue that great work started by a great man of God . . .
Dad, are you there?

Im here, son. You dont know how much this means to us

to me. I count it an honor to work alongside my son in the Gospel
ministry in pointing lost souls to Jesus.
Monica could hardly contain herself as she waited for her
husband to get off the phone. Before he could finish saying good
bye, she threw her arms around his neck and planted a kiss on his
cheek. I love you so much.

Hey, Im driving! Give me a chance to at least preach one

sermon at my new church.
*****
God used Jonathan with the help of his wife and his children
as they grew older to continue the great work started at New Mt. Zion
Evangelical Missionary Church. Thousands of lost souls were saved
and lives changed and Christians strengthened all for the glory of
God.

He must increase, but I must decrease, became Pastor

Jonathans life verse and it was evident as he humbly carried out the
Great Commission: Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing
them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have
commanded you: lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the
world.
The End.