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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Home for Christmas (11/20/08)
The weary shepherd rested beneath the old tree. He suddenly felt just as old and worn as that aged, gnarly tree. This was work for young men. Boys who still had dreams nourishing their hearts and hope sparkling in their eyes. The only thing sparkling in David’s eye this night was the slight glisten of a tear before it slowly rolled down his leathered and wrinkled face.

How ironic, he often thought, that he had been named after that shepherd boy David of so long ago. One so handsome and brave-- he so plain and cowardly. One carrying his harp while the other couldn’t carry a tune. One started with sheep and ended with subjects and palaces. The other began with sheep and ending with… well – just a few more of these dumb sheep.

Sure, the old shepherd had once tasted the sweetness life can bring. He had a home, a wife, and even two fine sons. But famine had claimed it all in one horrible year. And ever since, his only roof consisted of the canopy of stars. His only companions were truly no companions at all. Just weak, stupid animals that were constantly in need.


And so, yet another long and lonely night began. All was quiet as David’s aching muscles finally began to relax. He closed his eyes and prayed for the peace that now only came to his mind in sleep. Of course you and I know- this is where old David’s story really begins…


He didn’t know which scared him more—the music or the light. One moment he was sleeping and the next he was face down in the dirt shaking in fear. And then the voice so clear and awesome….


“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy……”


It was as if the magnificence and the light penetrated David’s very bones. He knew he must go. The weary body and soul ran- yes ran- to find the meaning of such an angelic message.

And before he knew it- he was there. David’s eyes reflected all his guilt, pain, and despair. The baby’s eyes somehow reflected glory itself. David had felt the joy and hope of holding his newborn son- but this was different. Inexplicably, swaddled with this tiny newborn was the joy and hope of all mankind.


David eventually went back to his sheep. In all his days- he never did have another house. But after that night- that glorious first Christmas night- it didn’t matter. He had found a home for his heart and soul.
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Member Comments
Member
Date
Marlene Austin
11/29/08
Descriptive, well thought-out story. I'm sure THAT experience could have influenced the MC's attitude for the rest of his days. :)
Lyn Ruth
12/01/08
I like that line: home for his heart and soul. I real heartwarming story. Thank you for this well written article. God bless you! ^-^
Deborah Porter 
12/05/08
Shelley, I just wanted to let you know that you did very well in the Challenge this week. Even though you didn't quite make it into the winners' circle, you made it into the highest rankings for Level 2, placing 11th for the level.

If you would like to check the highest rankings for yourself, you can see them here:

http://www.faithwriters.com/Boards/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=23289

With love, Deb (Challenge Coordinator)