Mark put the plane on auto pilot and put the headset on to monitor all flights in the area. Andrew was busy answering emails and checking the schedule for flight exercises. He had an email that was interesting and confusing.
Sir:
We have successfully moved all files to your new offices at Whiteman. The young man that was assigned as your assistant has taken two days leave to visit family and is expected back in the office Monday morning. He is an odd man and while he takes instruction well, his mind does not seem to be on the task at hand.
Your living quarters have been readied for your arrival and all your boxes have been placed in the extra bedroom. Hope your mission was successful. We await your return in two days.
Sincerely yours,
Lt. Henson
Andrew started thinking out loud, “Why would Jason take leave so soon and what was he up to?” Mark looked over at Andrew quizzically, “You taken up talking to yourself now?”
“Sorry, I was reading this email about Jason and trying to figure that young man out. I had email from Shannon about Sam’s latest cargo drop and she made no mention of Jason being there for a visit. I guess I’m just a little confused by it all,” Andrew said.
Mark shook his head, “Sam warned you about him. Do you think he was up to something sinister?”
Andrew looked worried, “I don’t know, but I will find out as soon as we arrive in the states. Do you think you can get Sam on the radio since he should be making his return flight today?”
Mark set the frequency to radio Sam and all he got was static, “I think we are still too far out, but I will keep trying. We should be in better range within an hour. He might already be on the ground by then so maybe you should email Shannon and ask her to have Sam contact you as soon as he lands.”
“I will email her and probably should have a response fairly quickly. I’ve also been thinking about this plane……..think we should keep it at the base, but let Sam use it for his cargo drops. What do you think?” Andrew asked.
Mark nodded his head in agreement, “Good idea, Andrew. Now how about thinking about a roommate in your new digs? It would be great to be with a known fellow believer and we could study together in the evenings…….that is if you want someone living with you.”
“I’ve already thought of it and yes, I would love to have you room with me. You can help keep an eye on Jason, too. Something tells me he’s up to no good, but we shall know when we get back,” Andrew told him.
Andrew continued catching up reading and answering his email while Mark busied himself with the monitors. The two men sat in silence for a while until Mark broke the silence, “What did you think about Connor’s revelation? Bill was busting his buttons with pride that his son was chosen to be one of the 144,000. He was more than shocked to find out he was of Jewish origin. Wonder why his parents never told him he was adopted? I know it would be a huge shock to me, but Bill took it all in stride.”
“The Rabbi will be the best one to guide Connor and teach him all he needs to know about Jesus Christ and His life while here on earth. Couldn’t ask for a better guide than the Rabbi. Did you know the 144,000 to be chosen had to be pure? I keep learning something more about God’s plans for us, but wish I could have had more time with the Rabbi. We will have to study on our own and thank goodness the Rabbi gave us notes and a lesson plan,” Andrew said.
“I had no clue about the 144,000 period, but then I haven’t studied prophecy that much and just started reading Revelation so I absolutely didn’t know. The Rabbi was reading several passages of scripture and when he talked about what he had just read, it was like a light bulb moment and I understood exactly what he was talking about. But then it seems as though I’m having a lot of those light bulb moments and remembering the things Claire used to talk about,” Mark reflected.
“No doubt. I know I am hearing and reading the words with an open heart which helps me understand much better. Claire read to me every night, but most of the time I was polite and really didn’t listen to the words. I miss hearing her read the Bible because the words sounded much better when she read them aloud. Such a sweet voice to my ears,” Andrew said with a tear forming in his eye.
The two men fell silent once more both concentrating on the duties before them. Andrew finished his emails then turned his attention to the directives issued by the GF military and Mark closed his eyes for a little rest before he had to rendezvous with the tanker so he could fuel the plane for the final leg of the flight home. Soon they would be back on home soil, but they would never forget being in the Holy Land and their time with the Rabbi.
Sir:
We have successfully moved all files to your new offices at Whiteman. The young man that was assigned as your assistant has taken two days leave to visit family and is expected back in the office Monday morning. He is an odd man and while he takes instruction well, his mind does not seem to be on the task at hand.
Your living quarters have been readied for your arrival and all your boxes have been placed in the extra bedroom. Hope your mission was successful. We await your return in two days.
Sincerely yours,
Lt. Henson
Andrew started thinking out loud, “Why would Jason take leave so soon and what was he up to?” Mark looked over at Andrew quizzically, “You taken up talking to yourself now?”
“Sorry, I was reading this email about Jason and trying to figure that young man out. I had email from Shannon about Sam’s latest cargo drop and she made no mention of Jason being there for a visit. I guess I’m just a little confused by it all,” Andrew said.
Mark shook his head, “Sam warned you about him. Do you think he was up to something sinister?”
Andrew looked worried, “I don’t know, but I will find out as soon as we arrive in the states. Do you think you can get Sam on the radio since he should be making his return flight today?”
Mark set the frequency to radio Sam and all he got was static, “I think we are still too far out, but I will keep trying. We should be in better range within an hour. He might already be on the ground by then so maybe you should email Shannon and ask her to have Sam contact you as soon as he lands.”
“I will email her and probably should have a response fairly quickly. I’ve also been thinking about this plane……..think we should keep it at the base, but let Sam use it for his cargo drops. What do you think?” Andrew asked.
Mark nodded his head in agreement, “Good idea, Andrew. Now how about thinking about a roommate in your new digs? It would be great to be with a known fellow believer and we could study together in the evenings…….that is if you want someone living with you.”
“I’ve already thought of it and yes, I would love to have you room with me. You can help keep an eye on Jason, too. Something tells me he’s up to no good, but we shall know when we get back,” Andrew told him.
Andrew continued catching up reading and answering his email while Mark busied himself with the monitors. The two men sat in silence for a while until Mark broke the silence, “What did you think about Connor’s revelation? Bill was busting his buttons with pride that his son was chosen to be one of the 144,000. He was more than shocked to find out he was of Jewish origin. Wonder why his parents never told him he was adopted? I know it would be a huge shock to me, but Bill took it all in stride.”
“The Rabbi will be the best one to guide Connor and teach him all he needs to know about Jesus Christ and His life while here on earth. Couldn’t ask for a better guide than the Rabbi. Did you know the 144,000 to be chosen had to be pure? I keep learning something more about God’s plans for us, but wish I could have had more time with the Rabbi. We will have to study on our own and thank goodness the Rabbi gave us notes and a lesson plan,” Andrew said.
“I had no clue about the 144,000 period, but then I haven’t studied prophecy that much and just started reading Revelation so I absolutely didn’t know. The Rabbi was reading several passages of scripture and when he talked about what he had just read, it was like a light bulb moment and I understood exactly what he was talking about. But then it seems as though I’m having a lot of those light bulb moments and remembering the things Claire used to talk about,” Mark reflected.
“No doubt. I know I am hearing and reading the words with an open heart which helps me understand much better. Claire read to me every night, but most of the time I was polite and really didn’t listen to the words. I miss hearing her read the Bible because the words sounded much better when she read them aloud. Such a sweet voice to my ears,” Andrew said with a tear forming in his eye.
The two men fell silent once more both concentrating on the duties before them. Andrew finished his emails then turned his attention to the directives issued by the GF military and Mark closed his eyes for a little rest before he had to rendezvous with the tanker so he could fuel the plane for the final leg of the flight home. Soon they would be back on home soil, but they would never forget being in the Holy Land and their time with the Rabbi.
- P4H
_______________________________________________________________
Jonah leaped to his feet. He could feel the ship groaning beneath his feet. He could hear the winds howling and the water smacking the sides of the vessel. Dumbly he followed the ship’s owner onto the deck. There they were met by an angry delegation of sailors.
“Why did you do this to us?”
“What have you done?”
“What is your God doing to us?”
“This storm is all your fault. What do you have to say for yourself?”
Fear rose in Jonah’s heart. “Well, men, I’m a prophet of God who has run away from an mission that God ordered me to carry out. Yes, I have brought this calamity on you innocent people. You’re suffering because I was disobedient to God. Just throw me overboard and the storm will cease.”
“No, we don’t want to do that,” said the ship’s owner. “Let’s try to row back to land.” But it was of no avail. The ship trembled from stern to stern as a mighty wave struck its side.
Reluctantly, the sailors picked up Jonah and when the next wave washed over the deck they heaved him overboard. The wind stopped shrieking, the rain ceased its ferocious pounding. All was calm. The amazed sailors fell on their faces and worshipped the Almighty God who commanded the seas at a word of His mouth.
Jonah struggled in the water. It was so cold and deep. In his heart he knew he was going to die. He failed to notice a giant fish sneaking up behind him. Gulp! Jonah found himself floating downward in darkness. Did I go to Hell, he wondered. Soon he stopped the downward movement and all he felt was a slight swaying motion as the fish traveled swiftly through the water.
Aini stared at Abdul; her face fairly shone with excitement and anticipation. "Well, what happened next!?" she demanded.
“Why did you do this to us?”
“What have you done?”
“What is your God doing to us?”
“This storm is all your fault. What do you have to say for yourself?”
Fear rose in Jonah’s heart. “Well, men, I’m a prophet of God who has run away from an mission that God ordered me to carry out. Yes, I have brought this calamity on you innocent people. You’re suffering because I was disobedient to God. Just throw me overboard and the storm will cease.”
“No, we don’t want to do that,” said the ship’s owner. “Let’s try to row back to land.” But it was of no avail. The ship trembled from stern to stern as a mighty wave struck its side.
Reluctantly, the sailors picked up Jonah and when the next wave washed over the deck they heaved him overboard. The wind stopped shrieking, the rain ceased its ferocious pounding. All was calm. The amazed sailors fell on their faces and worshipped the Almighty God who commanded the seas at a word of His mouth.
Jonah struggled in the water. It was so cold and deep. In his heart he knew he was going to die. He failed to notice a giant fish sneaking up behind him. Gulp! Jonah found himself floating downward in darkness. Did I go to Hell, he wondered. Soon he stopped the downward movement and all he felt was a slight swaying motion as the fish traveled swiftly through the water.
Aini stared at Abdul; her face fairly shone with excitement and anticipation. "Well, what happened next!?" she demanded.
- KBR
________________________________________________________________
“Sir, thirty miles off our starboard, here” Josh pointed to a spot on the chart “Looks like a riff maybe 200 feet deep and wide enough to lay down in”
Joe looked at the chart and saw the chart indent of a small valley running from the northwest to the southeast. “Enter the plot into the computer see what it says about us having enough time to get there.”
As Josh typed in the variables, Joe did the same thing on the chart.
After a few seconds Josh face bore a frown “Computer says we are short by 48 seconds”
“Hmm I got 42 seconds, we need to shave off at least 50 or get the other sub to distract”
“We could shoot a torpedo his way. Slow him down while we speed up”
“No, the first sign of a fish in the water he runs full speed while setting a fire solution on us. Nope we need something else to pull his thoughts away from us.”
The Captain and crew of the Wales not knowing the fate of their former brothers and sisters, slowly inched closer to the valley on the sea bottom while the Captain and half his crew onboard the GF Sub Tampa Bay put aside the women and drinks in search of the noise off their starboard side.
“Sir radio traffic, good news sir” The Radio Tec commented as he handed a slip of paper to his Captain.
Captain Jones, pushed the red head away from him and told her to get dressed. Realizing the partying was quickly coming to and end, the titled queen left the area in search for her clothes.
Looking over the message the Tampa Bay Skipper smiled then shouted with joy. “Well done boys.”
Everyone hearing the shout looked up and watched as the Skipper started to dance around before grabbing the microphone and making an announce to his crew that would be made very shortly all across the world.
“Men and women of the Tampa Bay, I have great news to report to each one of you. Our sister ship the Teodor late yesterday afternoon fired two tactical warhead missiles at the whole enemy fleet destroying them all. It seems as if they were hiding like dogs down below South America and the GF Teodor found them. Folks the war is over and we can now all party like there was no tomorrow.”
The crew went wild, men grabbed the first women they could find, men left their post and watches to celebrate this wonderful victory. The helmsmen eased back on the wheel allowing the fins to raise as the sub itself rose back to the surface. Once on the surface, the helmsmen signaled to the engine room to stop all forward movement.
This was the distraction the Wales needed and slipped away in the dark. Back on course and headed north not knowing why her hunter just quit.
Joe looked at the chart and saw the chart indent of a small valley running from the northwest to the southeast. “Enter the plot into the computer see what it says about us having enough time to get there.”
As Josh typed in the variables, Joe did the same thing on the chart.
After a few seconds Josh face bore a frown “Computer says we are short by 48 seconds”
“Hmm I got 42 seconds, we need to shave off at least 50 or get the other sub to distract”
“We could shoot a torpedo his way. Slow him down while we speed up”
“No, the first sign of a fish in the water he runs full speed while setting a fire solution on us. Nope we need something else to pull his thoughts away from us.”
The Captain and crew of the Wales not knowing the fate of their former brothers and sisters, slowly inched closer to the valley on the sea bottom while the Captain and half his crew onboard the GF Sub Tampa Bay put aside the women and drinks in search of the noise off their starboard side.
“Sir radio traffic, good news sir” The Radio Tec commented as he handed a slip of paper to his Captain.
Captain Jones, pushed the red head away from him and told her to get dressed. Realizing the partying was quickly coming to and end, the titled queen left the area in search for her clothes.
Looking over the message the Tampa Bay Skipper smiled then shouted with joy. “Well done boys.”
Everyone hearing the shout looked up and watched as the Skipper started to dance around before grabbing the microphone and making an announce to his crew that would be made very shortly all across the world.
“Men and women of the Tampa Bay, I have great news to report to each one of you. Our sister ship the Teodor late yesterday afternoon fired two tactical warhead missiles at the whole enemy fleet destroying them all. It seems as if they were hiding like dogs down below South America and the GF Teodor found them. Folks the war is over and we can now all party like there was no tomorrow.”
The crew went wild, men grabbed the first women they could find, men left their post and watches to celebrate this wonderful victory. The helmsmen eased back on the wheel allowing the fins to raise as the sub itself rose back to the surface. Once on the surface, the helmsmen signaled to the engine room to stop all forward movement.
This was the distraction the Wales needed and slipped away in the dark. Back on course and headed north not knowing why her hunter just quit.
- Alex
________________________________________________________________
The sun was shining brightly as Bud worked on the barn and Kerri and Alexis worked in the garden. Bud wiped his brow and grumbled a little about the heat when suddenly the sky changed to a grayish blue haze. Bud yelled down at the couple working below, “Do you see how the sky is changing colors? You think it’s going to storm or something? Can’t believe how quickly it changed.”
Kerri shaded his eyes and looked up, “Bud, it’s the weirdest color I’ve ever seen. Maybe we should head indoors just in case it blows up a storm.”
No sooner had Kerri gotten the words out the sky turned a bright blue and the sun was again shining brightly. “Wow, did you see that? I got this really warm feeling inside as though an angel is watching over us and just painted the sky in brilliant colors. Did you feel anything different?” Kerri asked Bud and Alexis.
Alexis gasped, “I don’t know what you felt, but I got this warm sensation throughout my body. It is as though someone or something is walking among us and we just can’t see them.”
In the distance they could make out a figure dressed in a brilliant white robe and it looked as though he was carrying someone in his arms. The figure got closer and they could finally see the angel and he was carrying Steven. “Children, fear not. Your friend has gone home to be with the Savior. You must remember to keep your faith strong and not mourn his passing.” The image in his arms was no longer there and then the angel began to fade, too.
Alexis began to cry softly, “Oh no, not Steven.”
Bud and Kerri seemed to stand motionless for a long time before either one spoke, “We need to get to town and find Steven. We owe him that much,” Bud said choking back tears.
Kerri put his arm around Alexis to comfort her, “He was going to take us to the clinic next week and we were making plans for the new garden. Remember what the angel told us, he is now safely in the presence of the Lord. He will not have to suffer what is to come and that comforts me greatly. I would rather be in the arms of the Lord than facing the uncertainty of the future in an evil world.”
“Do not say anything to the others until we find him and bring him back,” Bud told them.
“I don’t know if that’s a good idea or not. You know Linda will be furious with you for withholding that kind of information from her. I think we need to let them know what just happened,” Kerri said.
Alexis left the men to discuss what should be done and went inside to get the rest of the group. They all gathered outside as Kerri told them what they had just witnessed. They were silent until Miss Maude spoke up, “I’ve known Steven since he was a young boy and he was a good man. We can all celebrate his life and be thankful he’s now resting in the arms of Jesus. He and Sam were good enough to save me from the depths of bitterness and despair. If they hadn’t stopped by my house, I don’t know what would have become of me………and I would never have found Jesus. Thank you Jesus for Steven.”
They all said together, “Amen.” Alexis began softly singing and all joined in.
Here is where I want to be
I'm resting in your presence
To worship at the feet of my King
And I love to be with you
For here I know I'll be changed
Jesus wrap your arms around me
Ever so gently, ever so gently
I'm resting in your presence
Safe beneath the shadow of your wings
I'm resting in your presence
For you are my refuge and peace
They stopped singing and began holding onto each other. Bud pulled Kerri to the side and said, “We need to find Steven and bring his body back here. I will get my gun because whatever happened to Steven might happen to us, too. I don’t know what we will find when we find him. Heaven help the evil that did this to our friend and brother in Christ.”
Kerri drew Shannon to him and quietly told her he and Bud were leaving to go into town to find Steven and bring his body back. He kissed her gently then squeezed her tightly to him, “See if you can get Sam on the radio and let us know when to expect him back. He should be arriving any time. Let him know we will be in town if he’s arriving soon we will bring him back with us. Just call and let me know.”
Shannon whispered, “I won’t tell him about Steven. I think he should be told in person. I’ll just ask what his ETA is and nothing more. You had better be careful and watch your back…..I want you to come back to me….. I love you so much please, come back to me in one piece.”
“I will. Now Bud and I had better get going. I love you very much,” Kerri whispered in her ear and hugged her tightly.
Bud and Kerri got into the van and headed to town. Both men apprehensive of what they would find, but they had to take care of their friend.
Kerri shaded his eyes and looked up, “Bud, it’s the weirdest color I’ve ever seen. Maybe we should head indoors just in case it blows up a storm.”
No sooner had Kerri gotten the words out the sky turned a bright blue and the sun was again shining brightly. “Wow, did you see that? I got this really warm feeling inside as though an angel is watching over us and just painted the sky in brilliant colors. Did you feel anything different?” Kerri asked Bud and Alexis.
Alexis gasped, “I don’t know what you felt, but I got this warm sensation throughout my body. It is as though someone or something is walking among us and we just can’t see them.”
In the distance they could make out a figure dressed in a brilliant white robe and it looked as though he was carrying someone in his arms. The figure got closer and they could finally see the angel and he was carrying Steven. “Children, fear not. Your friend has gone home to be with the Savior. You must remember to keep your faith strong and not mourn his passing.” The image in his arms was no longer there and then the angel began to fade, too.
Alexis began to cry softly, “Oh no, not Steven.”
Bud and Kerri seemed to stand motionless for a long time before either one spoke, “We need to get to town and find Steven. We owe him that much,” Bud said choking back tears.
Kerri put his arm around Alexis to comfort her, “He was going to take us to the clinic next week and we were making plans for the new garden. Remember what the angel told us, he is now safely in the presence of the Lord. He will not have to suffer what is to come and that comforts me greatly. I would rather be in the arms of the Lord than facing the uncertainty of the future in an evil world.”
“Do not say anything to the others until we find him and bring him back,” Bud told them.
“I don’t know if that’s a good idea or not. You know Linda will be furious with you for withholding that kind of information from her. I think we need to let them know what just happened,” Kerri said.
Alexis left the men to discuss what should be done and went inside to get the rest of the group. They all gathered outside as Kerri told them what they had just witnessed. They were silent until Miss Maude spoke up, “I’ve known Steven since he was a young boy and he was a good man. We can all celebrate his life and be thankful he’s now resting in the arms of Jesus. He and Sam were good enough to save me from the depths of bitterness and despair. If they hadn’t stopped by my house, I don’t know what would have become of me………and I would never have found Jesus. Thank you Jesus for Steven.”
They all said together, “Amen.” Alexis began softly singing and all joined in.
Here is where I want to be
I'm resting in your presence
To worship at the feet of my King
And I love to be with you
For here I know I'll be changed
Jesus wrap your arms around me
Ever so gently, ever so gently
I'm resting in your presence
Safe beneath the shadow of your wings
I'm resting in your presence
For you are my refuge and peace
They stopped singing and began holding onto each other. Bud pulled Kerri to the side and said, “We need to find Steven and bring his body back here. I will get my gun because whatever happened to Steven might happen to us, too. I don’t know what we will find when we find him. Heaven help the evil that did this to our friend and brother in Christ.”
Kerri drew Shannon to him and quietly told her he and Bud were leaving to go into town to find Steven and bring his body back. He kissed her gently then squeezed her tightly to him, “See if you can get Sam on the radio and let us know when to expect him back. He should be arriving any time. Let him know we will be in town if he’s arriving soon we will bring him back with us. Just call and let me know.”
Shannon whispered, “I won’t tell him about Steven. I think he should be told in person. I’ll just ask what his ETA is and nothing more. You had better be careful and watch your back…..I want you to come back to me….. I love you so much please, come back to me in one piece.”
“I will. Now Bud and I had better get going. I love you very much,” Kerri whispered in her ear and hugged her tightly.
Bud and Kerri got into the van and headed to town. Both men apprehensive of what they would find, but they had to take care of their friend.
- P4H
__________________________________________________________________
The crew of the Wales could sense something in the air, a feeling that tugged at them all but as they got closer to their target, the sea traffic picked up which kept most of the crew busy on both watches. It was on the forth night after the encounter with the sub Tampa Bay that the HMS Wales, her Captain and crew sat on the surface 45 miles off the coast of New York. Though they couldn’t see the lights the glow of the city was enough to announce to all here lay the Big Apple.
“Sir, do you mind if I try tuning in a radio station for some news?” Engineman Gabi asked standing down on the main deck.
“No go ahead we might as well hear what has happened in the last few weeks”
Gabi turn the dial of his small radio to on then started scanning the FM dials. Music, some sports networks and a lot of government sponsored networks informing people where they could sign up to help the Global Family. Gabi passed all these and was about to pass another one when it talked about a military submarine coming to New York.
“Sir, listen to this” Gabi yelled as he turned the volume up.
The new Mayor of New York Al Ashi, welcomes the Global Family Submarine Teodor next week on it’s first stop before heading East to be given the medal of freedom by our great leader Teodor Argyros. Single handedly out smarted the enemy forces, the submarine Teodor destroyed the whole enemy fleet. There are many who claim using nuke missiles was uncalled for but many of the new top military leaders are praising this action by saying it shortened the war and saved millions of lives. On other news, the bloodly water trick that those two witnesses are still performing has cause the sky rocket of stocks for the bottle water companies.
Everyone who heard the news just stood there. Not one sound was made, even the slapping of the waves against the sub seemed to stop.
Joe felt anger start to build in his body and his hands started to tremble.
“Lord, please help me here, give me the comfort I need and the strength to endure this news. I know many there, including Ben, are with you now so let this news be our comfort. Amen
Joe went below to the Conn, his face was white and that is what made Josh ask what was wrong.
“I need to address the crew” Joe said as he reached for the microphone. Missing it, Josh grabbed it then handed it to him as he guided his friend to set down.
“Give it a second” Josh said still not knowing what ill news his Captain had.
Joe fought back the tears and swallowed hard trying to keep the knot down so he could speak.
“Men, this is the Captain speaking, I need a minute” Joe swallowed harder as his mouth quickly dried out. “Water, get me some water” Joe asked a sailor standing next to him
Joe bowed his head “Lord I need you more then ever now, I need you to give me the wisdom and strength I need to lead this crew after they hear of this news”
Taking two big drinks of the water, Joe wiped his mouth and began to speak.
“Men just minutes ago we received radio traffic from the public radio station in New York City. They have reported that a submarine belonging to the new world government forces has nuked the Bright Star Fleet… Killing everyone and destroying all vessels.” Joe paused a second as he heard the silence run throughout the sub. “At this time this is all we know and it could be a propaganda move. What benefit it would have I don’t know so we have to assume the worst. Our mission calls for us not to engage the enemy at all cost so we will hold true to that. In one hour we will hold a quick service if no contacts are around up on the main deck. Those not on watch may attend, those on watch join us in prayer.” Joe couldn’t hold back the tears any longer as he let the microphone slip from his hands.
Josh feeling a need grabbed his Captain lifting him up and directed him to his stateroom.
Men started to talk and soon higher voices could be heard. Josh took the microphone and announced to all that they were still on a submarine and that talking was to be kept to a low tone and to get rid of the anger. They were Christians now and if one thing Ben had taught them were to be slow to anger.
The tone lowered but for some the anger grew.
“Sir, do you mind if I try tuning in a radio station for some news?” Engineman Gabi asked standing down on the main deck.
“No go ahead we might as well hear what has happened in the last few weeks”
Gabi turn the dial of his small radio to on then started scanning the FM dials. Music, some sports networks and a lot of government sponsored networks informing people where they could sign up to help the Global Family. Gabi passed all these and was about to pass another one when it talked about a military submarine coming to New York.
“Sir, listen to this” Gabi yelled as he turned the volume up.
The new Mayor of New York Al Ashi, welcomes the Global Family Submarine Teodor next week on it’s first stop before heading East to be given the medal of freedom by our great leader Teodor Argyros. Single handedly out smarted the enemy forces, the submarine Teodor destroyed the whole enemy fleet. There are many who claim using nuke missiles was uncalled for but many of the new top military leaders are praising this action by saying it shortened the war and saved millions of lives. On other news, the bloodly water trick that those two witnesses are still performing has cause the sky rocket of stocks for the bottle water companies.
Everyone who heard the news just stood there. Not one sound was made, even the slapping of the waves against the sub seemed to stop.
Joe felt anger start to build in his body and his hands started to tremble.
“Lord, please help me here, give me the comfort I need and the strength to endure this news. I know many there, including Ben, are with you now so let this news be our comfort. Amen
Joe went below to the Conn, his face was white and that is what made Josh ask what was wrong.
“I need to address the crew” Joe said as he reached for the microphone. Missing it, Josh grabbed it then handed it to him as he guided his friend to set down.
“Give it a second” Josh said still not knowing what ill news his Captain had.
Joe fought back the tears and swallowed hard trying to keep the knot down so he could speak.
“Men, this is the Captain speaking, I need a minute” Joe swallowed harder as his mouth quickly dried out. “Water, get me some water” Joe asked a sailor standing next to him
Joe bowed his head “Lord I need you more then ever now, I need you to give me the wisdom and strength I need to lead this crew after they hear of this news”
Taking two big drinks of the water, Joe wiped his mouth and began to speak.
“Men just minutes ago we received radio traffic from the public radio station in New York City. They have reported that a submarine belonging to the new world government forces has nuked the Bright Star Fleet… Killing everyone and destroying all vessels.” Joe paused a second as he heard the silence run throughout the sub. “At this time this is all we know and it could be a propaganda move. What benefit it would have I don’t know so we have to assume the worst. Our mission calls for us not to engage the enemy at all cost so we will hold true to that. In one hour we will hold a quick service if no contacts are around up on the main deck. Those not on watch may attend, those on watch join us in prayer.” Joe couldn’t hold back the tears any longer as he let the microphone slip from his hands.
Josh feeling a need grabbed his Captain lifting him up and directed him to his stateroom.
Men started to talk and soon higher voices could be heard. Josh took the microphone and announced to all that they were still on a submarine and that talking was to be kept to a low tone and to get rid of the anger. They were Christians now and if one thing Ben had taught them were to be slow to anger.
The tone lowered but for some the anger grew.
- Alex
________________________________________________________________
Joe looked out over the crew. Unlike when Daniel gave his talk or the day Jack gave his talk when Daniel was killed, looking at the men, their faces displayed anger and revenge.
Joe opened up by asking Josh to say a prayer for all. After thanking Josh, Joe told the men that they had ten minutes before they had to clear the deck and submerge down due to higher traffic in the area.
“Gentlemen, there is nothing I can say or do to bring back our crewmates. Each one of us because we a hunger for revenge would like nothing more then to go in to that port with missiles flying and torpedoes swimming to a enemy target.
The problem is men and we all know it; the problem is the enemy can’t be killed with all the weapons in the world.
Each one of you with the exception of the Weapons Officer and our five Naval Seals, each one of us are here today because of what Ben and Daniel have told and taught us. No longer are we Jews following the old ways, we are Christians that have given our hearts to Jesus.
Now I more then anyone wish Ben was here, he was our spiritual leader and he would agree that the war and the battles that has taken place and will take place are not wars between men. The battles ahead will not be over land but the war that is here and will for a bit longer is spiritual between good and evil, between God the mighty and Satan himself.
Men are just pawns Satan is using, he knows he will lose in the end but for every man, women and child he can keep from our Lord he feels he can win.
Now, we can stand here and fill our hearts with anger and hate for our fellow man or we can do what Jesus told us to do. Turn the other cheek.”
Grumbling sounded with most of it coming from the seals.
“I can’t tell you to forget what has happen but I will ask that each one of you turn our anger over to the Lord, let him deal with Satan. We ourselves can’t win, we need Jesus. We can forgive but let not forget." Joe stoped there and let what he said hopefully sink in before continuing.
"Tomorrow evening, we will start the final leg of our mission. At this time only a few members on board know what that mission is. I will say I hope it will make a statement to the world and to Satan that no matter how hard they try, they or he will not snuff out our Lord and Christ.
After we have completed this mission, the weapon officer as well as the Seals will be welcomed to continue to sail with us or they may head for shore since this is their country. A far as the Wales and her crew, if the Lord is willing, we will travel back to our homes in Israel.
Before closing, let me make this clear. We will not start a fight nor will we sink another vessel just because. But, if we are hunted and or attacked we will fight back with everything we got.”
The men cheered knowing that their Captain was not running scared to fight.
Joe closed the meeting up with a prayer before the main deck was cleared and the diving bell rung.
- Alex
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Sam heard the chatter over the radio and he had put the plane on auto pilot to go to the rear of the plane and throw up. His emotions were raw and his heart was aching for the crew of the fleet that had been destroyed and not long after he had dropped the supplies. “Did I somehow lead the enemy to their location and that’s how they were destroyed? Oh Lord, tell me I didn’t help destroy the fleet. I couldn’t bear it if I was the cause. Lord, I pray all those on board were believers and now rest in Your Holy presence,” Sam once again threw up and tried pulling himself together then he heard Shannon’s voice coming over the radio, “Sam, Sam can you hear me? Need to know your eta as soon as possible. Sam, come in, Sam.” Her voice trailed off and he rushed to the cockpit to pick up the transmission.
“Shannon, I’m here….copy you……should arrive in less than one hour….out.”
“Sam….copy…..Kerri and Bud will pick you up…..out.”
He was trying to grasp all that he had heard about the fleet being completely destroyed and decided to try to get Andrew and Mark on the radio. They should be in US airspace by this time.
“Mark….Andrew….do you get a copy….over?”
There was a long silence then he made out Mark’s voice, “Copy”
He would have to think of a way to code his remarks since he didn’t know who might be listening, “Last mission was a success……fleet no longer exists…..copy?”
Silence on the other end of the transmission then he heard, “When…copy?”
“In the last 24 hours…copy?” Sam felt the tears stinging his face once again, “Will send details later…..copy?”
“Copy….over and out.” Mark replied.
He looked at the ground below and wished he was on the ground so he could have better control of his thoughts and emotions. He would soon be home and could hold Christina in his arms and tell her about what had happened.
Mark turned to Andrew for an answer to what might have happened to the fleet. Andrew logged into the military site and found the answer…..the enemy fleet has been destroyed and we are triumphant…..signed by the Admiral of the GF Navy.
“Mark, they found them and destroyed the whole fleet that had been hiding out. Amy had just sent me an email about Sam successfully making the drop, the flotation devices worked and the fleet had sent a message to thank them for the supplies. Wow, it’s hard to imagine what the crew went through and if they knew what was coming. I pray they are now with our Lord.” Andrew choked back a tear, but how can you grieve for souls that were now with the Lord in heaven.
“We will have to be extremely careful with everything we transmit and everything we do. Hopefully, we will continue to have those on the inside we can manipulate to do things to keep us out of trouble and undetected,” Mark remarked.
The two sat contemplating the news they had just heard and thought about what lay a head for all Christians. Andrew said out loud, “Lord, be with us and keep us in Your watch care.”
“Shannon, I’m here….copy you……should arrive in less than one hour….out.”
“Sam….copy…..Kerri and Bud will pick you up…..out.”
He was trying to grasp all that he had heard about the fleet being completely destroyed and decided to try to get Andrew and Mark on the radio. They should be in US airspace by this time.
“Mark….Andrew….do you get a copy….over?”
There was a long silence then he made out Mark’s voice, “Copy”
He would have to think of a way to code his remarks since he didn’t know who might be listening, “Last mission was a success……fleet no longer exists…..copy?”
Silence on the other end of the transmission then he heard, “When…copy?”
“In the last 24 hours…copy?” Sam felt the tears stinging his face once again, “Will send details later…..copy?”
“Copy….over and out.” Mark replied.
He looked at the ground below and wished he was on the ground so he could have better control of his thoughts and emotions. He would soon be home and could hold Christina in his arms and tell her about what had happened.
Mark turned to Andrew for an answer to what might have happened to the fleet. Andrew logged into the military site and found the answer…..the enemy fleet has been destroyed and we are triumphant…..signed by the Admiral of the GF Navy.
“Mark, they found them and destroyed the whole fleet that had been hiding out. Amy had just sent me an email about Sam successfully making the drop, the flotation devices worked and the fleet had sent a message to thank them for the supplies. Wow, it’s hard to imagine what the crew went through and if they knew what was coming. I pray they are now with our Lord.” Andrew choked back a tear, but how can you grieve for souls that were now with the Lord in heaven.
“We will have to be extremely careful with everything we transmit and everything we do. Hopefully, we will continue to have those on the inside we can manipulate to do things to keep us out of trouble and undetected,” Mark remarked.
The two sat contemplating the news they had just heard and thought about what lay a head for all Christians. Andrew said out loud, “Lord, be with us and keep us in Your watch care.”
-P4H
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"No!" Jerome choked out as he read the news bulletin. "The enemy fleet has been destroyed.....the enemy fleet has been destroyed....." the words were burning his retinas as they blurred before him...his eyes filling with tears that threatened to fall.
He noticed some of the employees looking over at him, so he had to reel himself in and keep his composure. Struggling to do so, he decided to calmly pick up his laptop and move in the direction of technical support so the others might assume his yell was attributed to computer issues. Once out of site, he took a detour towards his room.
After he was inside, he put his laptop on the table and collapsed into his armchair, head in his hands. So many brothers in Christ had lost their lives in an instant, all due to the evil intentions of Teodor. Jerome stood up and began to pace and speak out loud. "Teodor is the reason new believers are being killed. Teodor is the reason I have to pretend to be something I'm not. Teodor is the reason the masses have turned away from God. TEODOR IS THE REASON FOR ALL OF THIS EVIL!" Yelling felt good at the moment. "I was so STUPID to reject God and NOW I HAVE TO DEAL WITH THIS LUNATIC!"
Jerome fell to his knees, sobbing and spent. He had to talk to someone, anyone who understood this kind of pain. He looked up as he heard his computer beep. He walked over and saw he was being called to a video chat on Skype. Rubbing his eyes he blearily sat down and accepted the call.
"Jerome?" It was Andrew. "Jerome, are you ok?"
"Why did you call me?" he replied, a little sharper than he intended.
"Well, I felt God tugging on me to call you, so I did. Forgive me, but you look upset."
"I am, very much so. I just found out the entire Bright Star Fleet was completely obliterated."
Andrew sat back a little, dropping his head. Looking up, his eyes were full of tears. "Me too. I feel anger and vengeful in my head, but I know Christ wants us to be slow to anger and suppress the desire to get revenge. All we can do is focus on the joy of their presence with Christ in heaven."
Jerome nodded, finally wiping his last tears of his face. "Yeah, they aren't in pain anymore. Jesus is holding them now...I need to think about that and not get lost in grief."
Andrew studied Jerome a moment. "It looks like there's something else on your mind. Care to share?"
Jerome chuckled a little. "It's stupid I guess, since it's nothing new really. I'm just angry at Teodor for causing all this pain and hardship for believers and for deceiving so many people...and I feel like I'm living a double-life, one face for Teodor and the other for you guys, all because of Teodor." His last sentence was sharp and angry.
"You have a right to be angry. He's the Antichrist, and he is going to continue to make our lives miserable. Luckily we've got God on our side. Don't lose sight of that, ok?"
"Ok" Jerome muttered, sounding like a little boy who was told something he didn't want to hear but knowing it was true.
"Hey Jerome" Andrew whispered. "Would you like to pray?"
"Definitely, I think that's the best thing right now."
They both bowed their heads, and Andrew lead them in prayer. "Lord Jesus, you know these times are difficult, and the grief and pain can bring us down. Lord, we pray you will bring us comfort and encouragement, and that your light will break through the darkness that attacks us everyday. We pray for our brothers and sisters who have left this world, and we rejoice in the knowledge that they are rejoicing with You in heaven. Protect us from Teodor and his evil intentions, and give us the strength to be bold when faced with the opposition. Remove our fear and replace it with peace and confidence, and help us use these gifts to tell others about You. We lift up Your children who are still here in prayer, that you will also give them the things we have prayed for today. In Jesus name we pray, Amen."
"Amen," Jerome said softly.
Both men felt peace, comfort, and the sense of protection envelope them, and they said their goodbyes with smiles on their faces.
The Lord was protecting them with His army of angels.
He noticed some of the employees looking over at him, so he had to reel himself in and keep his composure. Struggling to do so, he decided to calmly pick up his laptop and move in the direction of technical support so the others might assume his yell was attributed to computer issues. Once out of site, he took a detour towards his room.
After he was inside, he put his laptop on the table and collapsed into his armchair, head in his hands. So many brothers in Christ had lost their lives in an instant, all due to the evil intentions of Teodor. Jerome stood up and began to pace and speak out loud. "Teodor is the reason new believers are being killed. Teodor is the reason I have to pretend to be something I'm not. Teodor is the reason the masses have turned away from God. TEODOR IS THE REASON FOR ALL OF THIS EVIL!" Yelling felt good at the moment. "I was so STUPID to reject God and NOW I HAVE TO DEAL WITH THIS LUNATIC!"
Jerome fell to his knees, sobbing and spent. He had to talk to someone, anyone who understood this kind of pain. He looked up as he heard his computer beep. He walked over and saw he was being called to a video chat on Skype. Rubbing his eyes he blearily sat down and accepted the call.
"Jerome?" It was Andrew. "Jerome, are you ok?"
"Why did you call me?" he replied, a little sharper than he intended.
"Well, I felt God tugging on me to call you, so I did. Forgive me, but you look upset."
"I am, very much so. I just found out the entire Bright Star Fleet was completely obliterated."
Andrew sat back a little, dropping his head. Looking up, his eyes were full of tears. "Me too. I feel anger and vengeful in my head, but I know Christ wants us to be slow to anger and suppress the desire to get revenge. All we can do is focus on the joy of their presence with Christ in heaven."
Jerome nodded, finally wiping his last tears of his face. "Yeah, they aren't in pain anymore. Jesus is holding them now...I need to think about that and not get lost in grief."
Andrew studied Jerome a moment. "It looks like there's something else on your mind. Care to share?"
Jerome chuckled a little. "It's stupid I guess, since it's nothing new really. I'm just angry at Teodor for causing all this pain and hardship for believers and for deceiving so many people...and I feel like I'm living a double-life, one face for Teodor and the other for you guys, all because of Teodor." His last sentence was sharp and angry.
"You have a right to be angry. He's the Antichrist, and he is going to continue to make our lives miserable. Luckily we've got God on our side. Don't lose sight of that, ok?"
"Ok" Jerome muttered, sounding like a little boy who was told something he didn't want to hear but knowing it was true.
"Hey Jerome" Andrew whispered. "Would you like to pray?"
"Definitely, I think that's the best thing right now."
They both bowed their heads, and Andrew lead them in prayer. "Lord Jesus, you know these times are difficult, and the grief and pain can bring us down. Lord, we pray you will bring us comfort and encouragement, and that your light will break through the darkness that attacks us everyday. We pray for our brothers and sisters who have left this world, and we rejoice in the knowledge that they are rejoicing with You in heaven. Protect us from Teodor and his evil intentions, and give us the strength to be bold when faced with the opposition. Remove our fear and replace it with peace and confidence, and help us use these gifts to tell others about You. We lift up Your children who are still here in prayer, that you will also give them the things we have prayed for today. In Jesus name we pray, Amen."
"Amen," Jerome said softly.
Both men felt peace, comfort, and the sense of protection envelope them, and they said their goodbyes with smiles on their faces.
The Lord was protecting them with His army of angels.
- Katy
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"The rebel army fleet has been destroyed!" Men and women stopped their daily tasks and danced for joy in the streets of Mosul. The beloved Supreme Potentate Angyros has achieved worldwide peace in our lifetime!" The latest news bulletin blasted forth from the nearby mosques and town criers betook themselves to the streets to spread the good news. Abdul saw all the commotion and heard the news as he flayed fish over a pan. His knees shook. Dear God, this can't be true! They say that the rebel fleet pledged allegiance to Christ Jesus! And if they were killed, Teodor will stop at nothing. He will kill the rest of the Christians too! Already a large group of people were gathering by the riverside. Men joined hands with men and started wildly dancing until many a man tumbled off the riverbank into the bloody waters below.
Aini, who knew nothing of rebel navies, couldn't figure out what was going on other than that the Potentate had won a major victory over someone or something and that there would be no more fighting - ever! Everyone she asked seemed too happy or crazed to answer her questions. This only frustrated Aini. Finally she herself was so caught up in the general excitement that she joined hands with the first woman she met, and away they went to go dance and parade with another group of women.
Aini, who knew nothing of rebel navies, couldn't figure out what was going on other than that the Potentate had won a major victory over someone or something and that there would be no more fighting - ever! Everyone she asked seemed too happy or crazed to answer her questions. This only frustrated Aini. Finally she herself was so caught up in the general excitement that she joined hands with the first woman she met, and away they went to go dance and parade with another group of women.
- KBR
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Babylon, Iraq
Earl looked up as he heard a loud cheer. Curious he pushed the wheelbarrow full of bags of cement over toward a large group of men.
"What's going on?" He asked.
"That rogue fleet of rebels just got blown out of the water!!" One man laughed. Men were laughing and jumping around making noises like explosions, celebrating the death of those sailors.
Earl grinned and nodded. "About time." He said.
"Ok, back to work!!!" A guard shouted.
Earl steered the wheelbarrow over through the elevator gate and pushed the 6 and slammed the gate closed behind him. The elevator stopped at the sixth floor and Earl pushed his cargo toward the eastern section. He began unloading the bags and saw a man standing still with tears running down his face. Earl looked around for a guard but none were in sight.
He saw Crazy G heading for the sobbing man. Crazy G stopped in front of his fellow prisoner and began to push him around.
Earl quickly finished unloading the bags of cement as the situation between the sobbing man and Crazy G escalated.
Earl caught the wheelbarrow and rushed back toward the elevator and as the gate closed behind him he could hear Crazy G shouting. "You whiny cry baby. Crying over a bunch of rebels. Those guys were enemies of the Global Family and your crying cause they got what was comin to em."
Earl barely caught what the sobbing man said. "They were men created by God. I only pray that they knew Jesus."
Earl heard what sounded like a slap as the elevator descended. Reaching the ground Earl opened the gate and pushed the wheelbarrrow toward the eastern supply truck. He was only fifty yards from the truck when he heard a loud thud behind him. Turning he saw on the ground the body of the man who had been sobbing over the lost fleet of men.
Earl shaded his eyes and looked up to see Crazy G standing six floors above him. Earl looked back at the body on the ground behind him and back up at Crazy G. Then he snapped a salute and a grin to Crazy G. "Missed me by that much." Earl shouted laughing holding up his hand with his fingers about three inches apart. Crazy G burst into laughter and Earl snapped another salute, shrugged and continued his trek to the supply truck.
Earl looked up as he heard a loud cheer. Curious he pushed the wheelbarrow full of bags of cement over toward a large group of men.
"What's going on?" He asked.
"That rogue fleet of rebels just got blown out of the water!!" One man laughed. Men were laughing and jumping around making noises like explosions, celebrating the death of those sailors.
Earl grinned and nodded. "About time." He said.
"Ok, back to work!!!" A guard shouted.
Earl steered the wheelbarrow over through the elevator gate and pushed the 6 and slammed the gate closed behind him. The elevator stopped at the sixth floor and Earl pushed his cargo toward the eastern section. He began unloading the bags and saw a man standing still with tears running down his face. Earl looked around for a guard but none were in sight.
He saw Crazy G heading for the sobbing man. Crazy G stopped in front of his fellow prisoner and began to push him around.
Earl quickly finished unloading the bags of cement as the situation between the sobbing man and Crazy G escalated.
Earl caught the wheelbarrow and rushed back toward the elevator and as the gate closed behind him he could hear Crazy G shouting. "You whiny cry baby. Crying over a bunch of rebels. Those guys were enemies of the Global Family and your crying cause they got what was comin to em."
Earl barely caught what the sobbing man said. "They were men created by God. I only pray that they knew Jesus."
Earl heard what sounded like a slap as the elevator descended. Reaching the ground Earl opened the gate and pushed the wheelbarrrow toward the eastern supply truck. He was only fifty yards from the truck when he heard a loud thud behind him. Turning he saw on the ground the body of the man who had been sobbing over the lost fleet of men.
Earl shaded his eyes and looked up to see Crazy G standing six floors above him. Earl looked back at the body on the ground behind him and back up at Crazy G. Then he snapped a salute and a grin to Crazy G. "Missed me by that much." Earl shouted laughing holding up his hand with his fingers about three inches apart. Crazy G burst into laughter and Earl snapped another salute, shrugged and continued his trek to the supply truck.
- Zags
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