THE HOST

The table long, topped with the best gourmet. Main courses, side dishes, and deserts. The guests have begun to eat as the host watches. Along the wall another table spread of various gifts for those who would be his friends.

After some time has elapsed the host stands up. Apparently no one else has noticed. He steps out the door as I rise from my chair to follow. Exiting the door and glancing around the yard I find him heading for a path at the outer edge of the lawn. I follow him into the woods.

It is becoming dusk and the thick of the brush does not make it an easy stroll. Still I follow, thinking he does not yet know I am there. I am only a few yards behind him and he does not give any indication of acknowledgement.

I continue to follow as the thicket breaks at the bottom of a craggily hill. With out hesitation he begins to climb with confident agility. Still, as though following a command I follow. The path has become difficult as I struggle to find places to grab and put my feet. I slip banging my shoulder into a jagged protrusion but seeing him above with perfect balance Regaining my composure and balance I push on.

My fingers now dry and sore as my lips parched show my thirst. I think of those still back at the feast, enjoying the feast and looking forward to the gifts. I focus my mind back on him and see that he has reached the crest of the hill. He takes a quick look out over the view beyond and below.

My host proceeds down the other side as I loose sight of him. Finally reaching the crest myself I see some movement where there is barely a visible path. Twigs slapping, snapping as I forge on, following his lead. The briar thin still grabs and scratches along the way. His apparent confidence and gracefulness compels me to stay on his course.

What does he have in mind? Continuing on such a course while his guests are back at his feast. Why does he not relax with the others? Why do I follow him, as common logic would dictate otherwise? Still he is my friend and if he could endure this trek, so can I.

He still has not given any sign of knowing that I follow. Surely he must by now know I am, or someone is, not far behind. The briary thicket clears and a more leisurely stroll is a relief to the struggles of the climb and thicket. Beyond I see the ocean vast as the sky with billowing waves for the clouds. My host, my friend turns making direct eye contact as though this journey was a joint venture. Silently still he waits knowing I've a question to ask. "Why have you not acknowledge my presence?" I asked continuing with, "I could have fallen back on the bluff."

He responded with, "I knew you were there, I felt your love. I would have protected you from any harm when needed, you do not yet know me well." I then curiously inquired, "Why, did you leave the feast and lead me through the briars and up the stony rise?" to which without hesitation he answered, "Many want only to feed their bellies or desire my gifts... I had to prove that you loved Me only, and not the lavishness of the gifts, that you sought."

Trials come for a purpose. Tribulation proves the loyalty. Perseverance exhibits prevailing Love. I praise my Lord, my God, for proving to me my love for Him.

- Roger W Hancock

Based upon a vision, or a dream (I forget which) given to the wife of the Pastor of the Church (Family Circle Fellowship) I attended for many years.