The Official Writing Challenge
BACK TO
CHALLENGE
MAIN
INSTRUCTIONS
how it works
submission rules
guidelines for
choosing a level
ENTRIES
submit your entry
read current entries
read past entries
challenge winners
Our Daily Devotional HERE
Place it on your site or
receive it daily by email.


TRUST JESUS TODAY

  • Share
  • how it works
  • Submit
Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: ALL TALK, NO ACTION (01/10/19)
Taking a deep breath, Pastor Enrique Sanchez sat quietly in his well-driven pickup truck as he prayed and thought about what he would say. He was careful about visiting those who were not part of his church flock and he made it a rule never to visit someone unless that person had specifically asked him to come. In this case, though, he was breaking both rules. The man's wife and children had begun attending about a year ago, drawn by a special event, and recently they had become regulars. Sadly, though he claimed to be a follower of Jesus, her husband did not attend and she was becoming increasingly frustrated by his absence. So, on a day when dark clouds threatened rain, Enrique exited his vehicle and made his way toward the entrance to the apartment complex.

Navigating the series of paths and corridors that led to the appropriate apartment, Enrique thought about the people who lived here. Most were low income, living from paycheck to paycheck, and not a few lived unsure of their legal status. It was difficult to call people to a life of following Jesus when their own lives were so unsettled. Enrique did not know the husband's story, but he was prepared for anything. The life of a pastor was a challenge in the best of circumstances and looking about him Enrique knew that these were not the best of circumstances. He approached the apartment door, rapped on it with the metal knocker, and waited patiently.

"Pastor, I'm so glad you came."

Yolanda appeared frazzled as she opened the door; clearly putting on her best face.

"Glad I could come."

Yolanda stepped aside to allow Enrique inside. She walked toward a room in the back and he followed. Knocking on the closed door, she called, "Guillermo, the pastor's here."

There was an awkward silence. Yolanda was clearly trying to keep up appearances, but she was just as clearly losing that battle.

"Come in!"

A scratchy voice called from within as Yolanda turned the knob and opened the door. She looked weary and frustrated.

"I'll leave you two to get acquainted."

As Yolanda walked off, Enrique stepped into what was colloquially referred to as a man-cave and given the surroundings it was quite a nice one.

"Have a seat pastor. I'll be right with you."

Yolanda's husband sat on a couch with a game controller in hand and using a headset to communicate with his fellow game-players as a video game shown on a very large screen. It was an impressive set-up. Enrique took a seat in a chair and waited as the game played out. Finally the game ended and Yolanda's husband removed the headset and turned off the game.

"Hey, pastor. I'm Guillermo."

"Glad to meet you. Call me Enrique."

"Okay, Enrique. What can I do for you?"

This was the moment that Enrique hated, but he had made a commitment and he would have to see it through.

"Yolanda asked me to visit. She would like you to join her at church."

"I understand. I'm a Christian, Enrique and I'm sure you have a nice church. My wife and kids seem to love it, but I'm just too busy. Sundays are my day of rest; that's biblical you know."

Enrique smiled within. People always had time for everything but church and they always had scripture to back it up.

"It's important to set an example for your children. Otherwise they won't value church."

"They seem to be doing just fine. My job is to keep a roof over their heads, food on the table, and clothes on their backs. I think I'm doing okay."

"I agree."

"So what's the problem?"

"Your children will do what you do; not what you say."

"We're fine, pastor. I appreciate you coming, but we're okay. I'm sure you have more important problems to deal with."

"Well, thanks for taking the time."

"No problem. I am a Christian and I do appreciate what you are doing for my family."

"Thanks."

Enrique took his leave, closing the door carefully behind him.

"Any luck, pastor?"

"I think your husband is happy the way he is."

"Well, you did your best. Thanks for coming."

"See you at church, Yolanda."

Enrique headed back to his truck. He hoped the children would follow the example of their mother, but he wasn't sure. Only time would tell.
The opinions expressed by authors may not necessarily reflect the opinion of FaithWriters.com.
Accept Jesus as Your Lord and Savior Right Now - CLICK HERE
JOIN US at FaithWriters for Free. Grow as a Writer and Spread the Gospel.
This article has been read 457 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Jennifer Woodley 
01/18/19
There will always be those who claim to be followers of Christ, but their actions prove differently. Well written and right on topic.
Claudia Barrington
01/18/19
This was painful to read becasue I am a woman who married an unbeliever. He does believe now, but in the same way Yolanda's husband believes. I have two grown sons. I'm hoping for miracles. Your story is true for many.
Trudy Newell
01/19/19
Painful to read, but true to life and right on topic. Thanks for sharing. One small red ink. When you said 'pick-up' you didn't need to say truck as well. You have talent, keep writing.
C D Swanson 
01/19/19
Excellent writing on such a painful topic that was told in such a powerful way.

God Bless~
Barbara Culler 
01/24/19
I could picture it all as you described it. You also hit it on the head as many people with little money often at least have a big screen TV. Great job.