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AGONY OF WASTED OPPORTUNITIES
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Author: Pst. Adekunle Isaac Adesanmi
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Chapter 20: The Crossroads of Obedience
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Ezekiel's tears flowed profusely as he spoke to Pastor Emmanuel, his spiritual father, over the phone. "Daddy, the Lord has confirmed it to me tonight..." he said, his voice breaking with emotion. The fear of where to start overwhelmed him, like a heavy fog settling in his mind.

Pastor Emmanuel shouted, "Praise God, Hallelujah!" He could sense Ezekiel crying on the phone, the anguish palpable even through the distance. He understood the situation and everything. "Dear Son, I want to encourage you today as you stand at the crossroads of obedience. The Lord has called you into full-time ministry, and I know it's not an easy decision to leave behind a well-paid job and start from scratch. But I want you to remember that God's ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). He sees the bigger picture, and He has a plan to prosper you, not to harm you (Jeremiah 29:11)."

Remember the story of Abraham, who left his comfortable life in Ur to follow God's promise (Genesis 12:1-3)? He had to trust in the unknown, just like you do now. And God blessed him abundantly, making him the father of faith. In Matthew 19:29, Jesus promises that anyone who leaves behind their old life for His sake will receive a hundred times more in return. That's a promise you can hold onto!

Starting from scratch may seem daunting, but it's an opportunity to build on a solid foundation - your faith in God. As you take this leap of obedience, remember that God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). You're not alone in this journey. Many have gone before you, including the apostle Paul, who left behind his prestigious life as a Pharisee to follow Jesus (Philippians 3:4-8). And God used him mightily!

So, my son, take a deep breath, and trust in the Lord's guidance. He will direct your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). Your sacrifice will not be in vain. You're sowing seeds of obedience, and God will bring a harvest of blessings and fruitfulness in due season. Remember, the greatest reward is not in what you leave behind but in the eternal impact you'll make for the Kingdom of God. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). You got this, son! You're not alone, and God's got your back!

"Thank you, Daddy," Ezekiel replied with a faint voice, his words barely audible through the tears.

Pastor Emmanuel asked, "Do you still remember our favorite hymn?" "I will love us to sing stanza one with the chorus.... Let it sound as a reminder and at the same time a warning for you as you make this decision."

O brother, life's journey beginning,
With courage and firmness arise!
Look well to the course thou art choosing;
Be earnest, be watchful, and wise!

Remember two paths are before thee,
And both thy attention invite;
But one leadeth on to destruction,
The other to joy and delight.

Refrain
God help you to follow His banner,
And serve Him wherever you go;
And when you are tempted, my brother,
God give you the grace to say "No!"

They both sang the hymn wholeheartedly until Emmanuel's airtime got exhausted. The melody lingered in Ezekiel's heart, a gentle reminder of God's faithfulness.

The next morning, Ezekiel attended church service, still grappling with the weight of his decision. He hadn't been that active in church lately due to the demanding nature of his job, but that day, he made a conscious effort to attend the morning service. The worship team's harmonious voices and the sweet fragrance of incense filled the sanctuary, creating a peaceful atmosphere that soothed his troubled mind.

As the worship team concluded their set, Pastor Gideon mounted the pulpit, a warm smile on his face. He greeted the congregation, and the church erupted in a chorus of "Praise God, Hallelujah!" The sound of clapping and cheering filled the air, a symphony of joy and praise.

"I bring a message from the Lord to you this morning," Pastor Gideon said, his voice booming through the microphone. "It's a message that says, 'Don't Fail God'."

Brethren, remember that God has entrusted you with great responsibility and privilege. You have been given a sacred trust, and with it comes the expectation of faithfulness and obedience. Do not fail God in what He has entrusted to you. The consequences of disobedience and neglect are severe, and the repercussions will be felt not only by you but also by those around you.

The message was another confirmation of what he received the previous night. He couldn't finish the service, his mind preoccupied with the weight of his decision. He picked up his Bible, the worn leather cover a comforting familiar feel in his hands, and entered his car, the cool air conditioning a welcome respite from the warm morning sun. As he drove to work, the hospital compound came into view, the familiar sight of the hospital's entrance and the sound of sirens in the distance greeting him like an old friend.

As he stepped out of his car, the warm sunshine hit his face, and he felt a gentle breeze rustle his hair. A colleague approached him, and they exchanged pleasantries, the sound of their voices a gentle hum in the morning air. "Doctor Kingsley said you should see him in the office anytime you arrive. Please make sure you see him," his colleague said, his voice laced with concern.

Ezekiel's response was weary, his voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you... I will." He sounded weak, his words laced with the weight of his emotions. He headed straight to Doctor Kingsley's office, his feet heavy with each step, the sound of his footsteps echoing in the quiet corridor.

As he entered the office, the familiar scent of leather and wood greeted him, the smell of old books and papers a comforting aroma. Doctor Kingsley, the Chief Medical Director, looked up from his desk, a warm smile on his face, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Dr. Ezekiel, how are you doing today? Hope all is well with you? You looked dull," he said, his voice filled with concern.

Ezekiel took a deep breath, trying to compose himself, the sound of his breathing a soft hiss in the quiet room. "I'm fine, sir... just due to stress," he replied, his voice cracking slightly, the sound of his vulnerability hanging in the air.

Doctor Kingsley nodded sympathetically, his eyes filled with compassion, and brought out a letter from his desk drawer, the sound of paper rustling a gentle accompaniment to their conversation. "The management of this hospital wants to appreciate you for your hard work and all your commitment and dedication to work. You are among the 3 of our staff that the management is sending to Australia for a 6 months training after which you will be promoted. All the expenses will be catered for by the management. Congratulations!" He stretched out his hands to shake Ezekiel's, but his eyes widened in surprise as he noticed tears already rolling down Ezekiel's cheeks, the sound of his sobs a soft accompaniment to their conversation.

The letter felt heavy in Ezekiel's hands, the weight of the paper a reminder of the weight of his decision. He looked up at Doctor Kingsley, his eyes brimming with tears, the sound of his tears a soft patter in the quiet room. "Thank you, sir," he managed to say, his voice barely audible, the sound of his gratitude a soft whisper in the quiet room.

What Next?????

AGONY OF WASTED OPPORTUNITIES
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Author: Adekunle Isaac Adesanmi
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Chapter 19: The Unveiling of the Heart
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Esther's laughter echoed through the air, a melodic sound that harmonized with Darasimi's chuckles, dispelling the awkwardness like mist evaporating in the warmth of the sun. The sweet scent of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the room, mingling with the sound of gentle chatter, creating a cozy atmosphere. "Well, I guess this is a first," Esther said, her voice still tinged with amusement, her eyes sparkling like diamonds in the light. "But I like your honesty, Darasimi. My spiritual mother is Pastor Mrs. Jackson of God's Love Ministry International. She's been a guiding light in my spiritual journey, a beacon shining brightly in the darkness."

Darasimi's eyes lit up with excitement, his face radiating enthusiasm, like a sunrise bursting over the horizon. "That's amazing! I've been blessed by her teachings too. I hope to see her one day, to bask in her wisdom and grace." He leaned forward, his hands clasped together, his fingers intertwined in a gesture of eagerness.

Esther smiled, her lips curving upward like a gentle crescent moon, her voice warm and inviting. "That's not a problem. Just let me know when you are ready, and we'll arrange a meeting, a confluence of spirits seeking guidance and growth." She reached out, her hand extended in a gesture of friendship, her fingers brushing against Darasimi's as they shook hands.

As they conversed, their connection grew stronger, like a river flowing effortlessly to its destination, its waters nourishing and sustaining all in its path. They discovered shared passions and values, their hearts beating in harmony, like a symphony of love and understanding. The soft hum of the air conditioner in the background created a soothing white noise, punctuated by the occasional chirp of a bird outside the window.

Meanwhile, Ezekiel sat in his room, his mind racing with Pastor Emmanuel's words, like a wild stallion galloping across the vast expanse of his thoughts. He felt lost and uncertain, like a ship without an anchor, drifting aimlessly on the turbulent sea of life. He knew he needed clarity, but his thoughts were a jumbled mess, like a tangled web of confusion and fear. The soft glow of the lamp on his bedside table cast eerie shadows on the walls, making him feel like he was trapped in a prison of his own doubts.

Suddenly, he remembered Pastor Emmanuel's instruction: "Go and seek the face of the Lord for more clarity." He knelt down, closed his eyes, and poured out his heart to God, like a vessel overflowing with sorrow and longing. As he prayed, he felt a gentle whisper in his heart, a soft breeze rustling the leaves of his soul. He saw a vision of a river, with a small boat drifting aimlessly, like a leaf on the surface of the water. The sun beat down on the water, creating a dazzling display of light and color, like a rainbow stretching across the sky.

The Lord spoke: "My son, you are like that boat, meant to sail smoothly, but currently stuck in the shallows. Your job is like an anchor, holding you back from fulfilling your true purpose. Remember when you first gave your life to me and how mightily I used you during your university days? You were excited, but now fear and doubt have crept in, like thieves in the night, stealing your peace and joy." The voice was like a gentle breeze on a summer day, soothing and calming, yet powerful and authoritative.

Tears started streaming down Ezekiel's face, like a river of sorrow and repentance. Son, I know you're struggling with the thought of leaving behind a comfortable life and a well-paid job to follow Me into full-time ministry. But let Me assure you, nothing can separate you from My love - not even your own fears and doubts. Not your fear of uncertainty, not your fear of financial instability, not your fear of failure. Not even your own sense of security and comfort. For I am your rock, your refuge, and your provider, your guiding star in the darkness.

"But, My child, there is one thing that can hinder our relationship, one thing that can distract you from My love and My calling on your life. And that is your own unwillingness to surrender. If you hold on too tightly to your job, your salary, and your security, you may miss the blessing of serving Me fully. But if you let go and follow Me, I promise you will find a peace and a joy that surpasses all understanding, a happiness that overflows like a fountain of living water.

"So, don't let fear separate you from My love. Don't let doubt hold you back from My calling. Surrender your fears, your doubts, and your life to Me. And I will do the rest. Remember, My son, I am the One who called you, and I am the One who will equip you. I am the One who will provide for you, and I am the One who will guide you. So, trust in Me, and trust in My love. For nothing can separate you from My love - not even yourself.

"My son, the assignment I have committed into your hands is urgent. The souls of many are waiting for you to bring them the message of salvation. Do not delay, for the time is short. You are the light in the darkness, the hope in the despair. Do not let fear and doubt hold you back from fulfilling your purpose. I am with you, and I will guide you every step of the way."

As the vision faded, Ezekiel stood up, crying profusely....

To be continued........

AGONY OF WASTED OPPORTUNITIES
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Author: Adekunle Isaac Adesanmi
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Chapter 18: The Unveiling of the Mandate
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Ezekiel's curiosity lingered like an unquenchable thirst as he awaited his meeting with Pastor Emmanuel. The weight of the unknown hung heavy in his heart, like a dense fog refusing to lift. Finally, the day arrived, and Ezekiel found himself standing before the pastor's office, his heart racing with anticipation. As he entered, Pastor Emmanuel's warm smile welcomed him, like a gentle breeze on a summer day. "Ezekiel, my son, it's good to see you. Please, have a seat." Ezekiel obeyed, his eyes fixed on the pastor's face, searching for clues.

"Ezekiel, how's your job? How are you coping?" Pastor Emmanuel asked, his voice filled with concern. Ezekiel replied, "It's going well, sir. I'm doing my best to serve God in my profession." Then Pastor Emmanuel asked him, "Ezekiel, what is that thing on earth that is so precious to you that you cannot leave for God?" This question sent a kind of fear into Ezekiel's veins. He stammered, "N-no...nothing, sir."

Pastor Emmanuel's gaze pierced through him, like a gentle rain shower on a parched earth. "Can you leave your job for the sake of the kingdom? Can you trade your job for the dying souls?" Ezekiel's mind raced, but he couldn't find the words to respond. The pastor's words hung in the air like a challenge, and Ezekiel's heart wrestled with the weight of the question. He knew that his job was a vital part of his life, but was it worth more than GOD?

"Ezekiel, the Lord has a special mandate for you," Pastor Emmanuel began, his voice low and serious. "You have been chosen to be a vessel for His glory, to bring hope to the hopeless and light to those dwelling in darkness." Ezekiel's heart skipped a beat as the weight of the words settled upon him. "What does this mean, sir?" Ezekiel asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Pastor Emmanuel leaned forward, his eyes burning with intensity. "It means you will be a catalyst for change, a bridge between the divine and the human. You will face challenges, but the Lord will be your guide and your strength."

As the pastor spoke, Ezekiel felt a surge of energy course through his veins, like a river overflowing its banks. "The Lord has revealed to me that you will be a mighty evangelist, traveling far and wide to spread the gospel," Pastor Emmanuel continued. "You will see signs and wonders, and God's grace will be upon you in a mighty way."

After everything, Ezekiel couldn't give him any response. He was totally confused and dumbfounded. Pastor Emmanuel asked him to go and seek the face of the Lord for more clarity. He left confused, with only one instruction echoing in his mind: "Go and seek the face of the Lord for more clarity."

Meanwhile, Darasimi and Esther sat at a cozy restaurant, surrounded by the aroma of savory dishes and the soft hum of conversation. Esther arrived first, her beauty radiating like a sunrise as she waited for over 35 minutes, her patience wearing thin. She finally called Darasimi, who apologized for the delay, stuck in traffic.

When Darasimi arrived, they exchanged warm smiles and pleasantries. Esther had already ordered a refreshing juice, and Darasimi noticed, asking what she'd like to eat. They both opted for fried rice and chicken, their eyes scanning the menu like old friends reuniting.

Esther shone like a diamond in her elegant outfit, her hair styled in a sleek bob, while Darasimi wore a simple yet stylish shirt and trousers, his beard neatly trimmed. They both looked stunning, their beauty complementing each other like a perfectly harmonized duet.

After ordering, they sat in silence, Esther waiting for Darasimi to break the ice. But Darasimi, a spiritual person, struggled to find the right words. Minutes ticked by like hours until he finally cleared his throat, gathered courage, and asked, "Sister Esther, who is your spiritual father? Errrm... I mean, how many times do you fast in a week?"

Esther burst into laughter, taken aback by the unexpected question on their date. "Darasimi, really?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "You're asking about my spiritual father and fasting on a date?"

Darasimi's face turned red as he realized his mistake. "I... I didn't mean to," he stuttered. "I just wanted to know more about you."

Esther's laughter filled the air....

To be continued..........

What Next?

AGONY OF WASTED OPPORTUNITIES
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Author: Adekunle Isaac Adesanmi
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Chapter 17: The Weight of the Call
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Ezekiel's transformative encounter with God still lingered in his mind like a gentle whisper, long after the night had passed. As he dressed for work the next morning, his phone rang, and Pastor Emmanuel's warm, soothing voice filled the line, like a gentle breeze on a summer day.

"Good morning, son, how are you doing? Hope you're fine today?" Ezekiel's response overflowed with joy, his smile evident even over the phone, as he sat on his bed, surrounded by the soft glow of morning light filtering through the windows. "I'm doing great, sir! God is faithful!"

As Pastor Emmanuel spoke, his tone shifted, and he called Ezekiel's name three times, "Ezekiel, Ezekiel, Ezekiel." Ezekiel's heart skipped a beat, recognizing the gravity in his spiritual father's voice, like a gentle drumbeat in the distance. He felt a shiver run down his spine as he realized something significant was about to unfold.

"Ezekiel, you need to find time to see me. There's an important message for you from the Lord, and it's very urgent." Ezekiel's curiosity piqued, he leaned forward, his eyes fixed on the floor, as if trying to will the answer out of the phone. He pleaded for a hint, but Pastor Emmanuel insisted that it wasn't a conversation for the phone. With a sense of anticipation and wonder, Ezekiel promised to visit during the weekend, feeling a sense of excitement building up inside him like a slowly rising tide.

As he stepped out of his house, the warm sun caressed his skin, and the sweet scent of blooming flowers filled the air, like a gentle perfume. He breathed deeply, feeling the fragrance invigorate his senses. He entered his car, turned on the stereo, and the uplifting lyrics of "Greater Tomorrow" by David Ekene filled the space, like a symphony of hope.

"His hands are not short / That He cannot reach to you, / His eyes are never blind / He cannot see your tears, / His ears are not deaf / That He cannot hear you cry..."

The music resonated deep within him, and he hummed along, feeling the rhythm in his heart, like a gentle beat that harmonized with his very soul.

Meanwhile, Darasimi and Esther were engrossed in a phone conversation about their old friend, Ezekiel. Esther asked, "Papa Ezekiel must have become a pastor by now, o. Hope you're hearing from him?" Darasimi chuckled and asked why she thought so, his deep laughter echoing through the phone like a warm embrace.

Esther replied, "You know how God used him mightily during our university days and how he subdued villages. I could remember the incident at that village..." She paused, trying to recall the village's name, and Darasimi reminded her, "Ayepegba village, right?" Esther exclaimed, "O yes! I could remember how both of you confronted Sangotade and his occult group. I am still convinced that Papa Ezekiel is going to be a Pastor."

Darasimi responded, "Papa is now a medical doctor, o." Esther's surprise was palpable, "Medi... what?!" She laughed, her voice echoing through the phone, like a joyful melody. "Papa Ezekiel really needs to go and pray, o. Bro Dee, what he is carrying is a generational mandate. That brother is carrying something very great." "He needs our prayer now more than ever... We really need to pray for him." Darasimi replied, his voice filled with concern, like a gentle rain shower on a parched earth.

The concern in their voices was evident, a reminder of the weight of Ezekiel's calling, like a gentle whisper in the wind. As they continued their conversation, Darasimi asked with a smile, "Lest I forgot, when will you be free to hang out?" Esther laughed in shock, "Huh! Bro Darasimi of God? Eeeeehhh, blood of Jesus Christ! You want to hang out? I hope you're not planning to 'kabbash' me in the Holy Ghost?" Darasimi chuckled, "Haha, no promises, my sister!" Esther playfully retorted, "I'm not sure my 'spiritual insurance' can cover that kind of encounter!" They both burst into laughter, and eventually agreed to meet during the weekend, with Esther secretly hoping to avoid any impromptu deliverance sessions.....

What Next???

AGONY OF WASTED OPPORTUNITIES
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Author: Pst. Adekunle Isaac Adesanmi
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Chapter 16: A Divine Encounter
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As Ezekiel knelt down to pray that evening, a warm light enveloped him, and he saw a figure clothed in radiant white. The air was filled with the sweet scent of frankincense, transporting him to a place of reverence.

"Dear Son, I have missed you so greatly," God said, His voice filled with longing. "I miss those times we spent together in the secret place. I came several times at exactly the time you allocated for me during your university days, when we communed together from 4am to 6am every day before you went out. I miss those times you spent with me during your quiet time every night, 8pm-10pm... or was it the weekly three days of fasting? I miss those days too."

Tears pricked at the corners of his eyes as he remembered the fervor that once characterized his relationship with God. He had been so on fire, so consumed by the desire to serve and please Him. But life had slowly extinguished that flame, leaving only embers of memories.

"Remember the fire that once burned within you?" God's voice whispered, echoing in his soul. "The passion and zeal that drove you to seek Me during your university days and during your NYSC?, you went to villages and cities to preach my gospel and I proved myself in all your programs"

"I'm so sorry, Father," he whispered, his voice cracking with remorse. "I got caught up in the world's demands, and I neglected our relationship."

The gentle smile never wavered. "I know, My son. I know life gets busy, but don't let the world choke out the fire I ignited within you. You were once a bright light, shining for Me, but now your flame has dwindled."

As God spoke, His words kindled a spark within him. The air seemed to vibrate with an otherworldly energy, and he felt the weight of his neglect lifting.

"Ezekiel, I have called you to preach the gospel to a dying world. The urgency of the assignment cannot be overstated. Souls are perishing, slipping into eternity without knowing Me, and you have been sent to rescue them. Do not delay, do not hesitate, for the clock is ticking. Remember, the harvest is ripe, but the laborers are few. I have entrusted you with the message of salvation, and I expect you to proclaim it with boldness and conviction.

"The souls I have sent you to are already perishing, drowning in a sea of sin and despair. They need to hear the Good News, to know that I love them and desire to save them. You are their only hope, their last chance to hear the truth and turn to Me. See their faces, etched with pain and longing, and hear their cries for help. Do not take this assignment lightly, My son. The fate of eternity hangs in the balance.

"I have given you the power to make a difference, to bring life and hope to a dying world. Use it wisely, use it urgently, for the time is short. Feel the weight of responsibility, like a mantle on your shoulders, and know that I am with you to empower you. Go, preach the gospel, and do not stop until all have heard. Together, we can save souls and bring glory to My name. You will be My voice, My hands, and My feet, and I will work through you to accomplish great things.

"Forgive me, Father," he pleaded, his heart breaking with repentance. "Help me to prioritize our relationship again, to make time for prayer and Your Word. I want to be on fire for You like I once was."

God's face shone brighter, and His voice filled the space with warmth. "That's all I ask, My son. Let's start anew. Let's reignite the flame together. I'll be with you every step of the way. This is another opportunity I am giving you."

As the encounter ended, the scent of frankincense lingered, a reminder of the promise made. He rose from his knees, he started singing.....

Create in me a clean heart, oh God
And renew a right spirit within me
Create in me a clean heart, oh God
And renew a right spirit within me
Cast me not away from Thy presence, oh Lord
And take not Thy holy spirit from me
Restore unto me the joy of Thy salvation
And renew a right spirit within me

To be continued...

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AGONY OF WASTED OPPORTUNITIES
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Author: Pst. Adekunle Isaac Adesanmi
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Chapter 15: A Heart-Wrenching Loss
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Ezekiel's countenance was a picture of sorrow as he struggled to convey the devastating news to the grief-stricken parents. Their son's demise had shattered their world, leaving an unfillable void. With a heavy heart, Ezekiel delivered the news, his voice barely audible.

The father's eyes widened in horror, his face crumbling under the weight of grief. He let out a piercing wail, a sound that echoed through the hospital corridors, a poignant reminder of life's fragility. The mother's cry was like a sword piercing Ezekiel's heart, her body trembling with pain as she clung to her husband. Together, they collapsed to the floor, their bodies shaking with unbearable grief.

Ezekiel knelt beside them, his heart heavy with sorrow. He felt the weight of his failure, the anguish of losing a child, especially for the old parents. Despite his best efforts, he couldn't save their son. As the parents' wails subsided, Ezekiel helped them up, his arms encircling their shoulders. He led them to a quiet room, where they collapsed into chairs, their bodies still shaking with grief.

"I'm deeply sorry," Ezekiel repeated, his voice filled with regret. "I wish there was more I could have done." The father's eyes, red and swollen, met Ezekiel's. "You did everything you could," he whispered. "He was all we had." The mother's eyes were empty, her face pale. "Our son, our precious son," she whispered, her voice cracking with pain.

Ezekiel nodded, his heart heavy with understanding. He knew the parents' grief would take time to heal, that the wound would never fully close. But he also knew that with time, they would find a way to move forward, to find a new purpose in life.

Ezekiel drove home, his face and mind haunted by the horror of the boy's death. Although he had witnessed patient deaths before, this one affected him differently. Overwhelmed by guilt, he cried throughout his drive home. Upon arriving home, he went straight to the shower, where he continued crying and screaming.

The ringing of his phone finally broke the spell, and he answered it to hear his friend Darasimi's voice on the other end. Despite being in the same city, the two friends rarely saw each other due to their busy schedules. Darasimi had called him to gist him about his meeting with Esther that day and to check on him, but he noticed Ezekiel's unusual tone and asked if everything was okay.

Ezekiel narrated the events at work and the guilt he felt, bursting into tears on the phone.

Darasimi said, quoting James 5:13. "Is any of you sad? Let him pray. Is he cheerful in mind? Let him sing" (DRB).

My dear brother, I sense that what you're carrying is a weight within you, a spiritual burden that's hard to put into words. Not the guiltiness of the boy's death at all. Many of us have been there, feeling the heaviness of an unseen load that presses upon our hearts and minds.

But guess what, the burden is a call to attention, a signal that there's something deeper going on within you. It may be a sense of purpose unfulfilled, a longing for meaning, or a cry for spiritual growth. Don't ignore it! Embrace it, for it's an invitation to explore the depths of your soul.

Remember, the greatest heroes of faith carried burdens that shaped their journeys. Moses had the weight of leading Israel, David had the burden of his own sin, and Jesus carried the cross of humanity's redemption.

Your spiritual burden is a chance to:

- Develop resilience and character
- Seek guidance and wisdom
- Discover hidden strengths and gifts
- Draw closer to the divine
- Find purpose and direction

Don't try to shake it off or hide from it. Instead, face it head-on, and ask:

- What is this burden trying to teach me?
- How can I surrender it to a higher power?
- What growth or transformation is possible through this?

Remember, the burden is not a curse but a catalyst for spiritual growth. Embrace it, and you'll find the weight lifting, replaced by a sense of purpose, peace, and inner freedom.

Keep in mind, you're not alone in this journey. I will also be praying for you from here. And always remember, the divine is with you, carrying the load alongside you. Their conversation ended with Ezekiel kneeling down to pray

As he opened his mouth to pray, something happened

To be continued in the next chapter...

Is the Lord ministering to you at all ???