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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: REFLECTION (10/10/19)
Giving An Account

We were all lined up and asked to give an honest assessment of our lives as accurately as possible, and there would be no do-overs. The word "Reflection " came to mind. As they were ushering folks into this private office, now and then, we heard a terrifying sound reverberate from the room that became an interrogation/execution area. This ugly sound was recognized and identified as a gunshot. We all became weak in the knees as we didn't understand what was about to happen to us. The woman in charge was also unkind to her followers, as she appeared to be angry at the world, almost heartless. My original thought was, how can this be happening in " Good-Time USA." We were always allowed the freedom to do and say just about anything we felt. I likewise must admit that this event was unnerving and caused most of us to change on the spot. I mean beliefs, as well as our so-called values.

What crossed my mind was how I could have been a better pastor. Yes, my congregation is tiny, and I believe that the Holy Spirit is presently giving me a stronger backbone to lead.

How often do you search yourself, I mean take a good hard look at yourself in the mirror? As a pastor, I caved in and gave them what they wanted, which turns out to be a watered-down message each week, so that they were in and out the doors quickly.
Due to this horrific event in my life as well as my fellow captive victim's much soul searching was done rapidly.
We all surmised that our lives were on the line, and it all would be determined by what we said in that awful interrogation room. All of a sudden, my fellow captives were addressing me as pastor instead of just by my first name.
Immediately I said a silent prayer for strength from Jesus Christ, my Lord, and Savior. I promptly realized that I needed to be the Hands and Feet of Jesus. Now regarding our captors, the ones who herded us up like sheep and cattle pointed us to the slaughter. The Holy Spirit said to me that they must now see me; differently, I recognized that I might be the only Bible that they read this day. Even if I lose my life, they must understand the Christ in me is taking a stand of love and forgiveness. I started to shout to the others that they will be forgiven of all their sins if only they ask for it and repent. At that moment, another shot rang out along with shrills as well as some loud sobbing. I believe that I heard a young male say that I can't do this. I responded to the people to trust in the Lord and to stand on the Word of God.

My mind continued to call upon my God, and then to my wife and children. I must admit that I was getting very concerned as many who walked into that room, I saw from
afar in another area smiling as with relief. I, as their pastor, became very convicted, and I thought to myself, what have I done. For as long as I have to be apart of this world, I must be an example. Immediately a verse came to me from my favorite book of the Bible Joshua, and We are told to " Be Strong and Courageous" (Joshua 1:6). Now Courage is persevering in spite of fear.

It's the time for you and me to take a long and hard look into the mirror to maybe see just what others are seeing. We all have to give an account.
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This article has been read 496 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
C D Swanson 
10/18/19
Amen.
Great message and right on target.
Blessings~
Barbara Culler 
10/19/19
In the end we will be judged. I'm confused over your story. Where were you, and why were people being shot? Perhaps it an imaginary account, but I was unable to understand. I do, however, know tat we will have to give an account to God some day.
Terry R A Eissfeldt 
10/24/19
Wow - scary but possible. It rambled a bit here and there. One thing that would really make this story pop is if you included more of our senses. What were you smelling? What was the waiting room decorated like (or not!) What did the captors look like, sound like.
Blessings