The breeze was blowing outside with so much intensity, causing my window and roof to rattle. The plan was to enjoy my weekend and have as much sleep as I could, but Sundays come with fellowships.
“Knock, knock,” an innocent voice called at the door.
“Who's it?” I murmured.
“Uncle, it's Cynthia. Mommy said I should ask if you would be going to church,” the voice replied.
“Tell Mommy, I am coming,” I responded.
My plan was ruined. I wish I could come up with some kind of lie to make them go and leave me, but I can't, I just visited them. It would be bad of me to refuse to go to church with them.
After saying my prayer, I headed to the bathroom and took my bath, then joined them.
My sister and her family worship in a small church, “Zion Restoration Center.” I also worshipped there the last time I visited.
The pastor is an elderly man, around early 50’s. He's one of the nicest people I have met. In fact, I worked for him at one of his shops the last time I was in Jos.
Immediately we entered the church, I saw him. He waved from the front seat, his face beaming.
I didn't want to come to church, but my heart was filled with joy when I saw him.
The congregation has improved; there are more brethren than there were the last time I came. The hall was chilly, of course most of the people were in sweaters due to the nature of the environment.
Some children were moving about, and ushers were making every effort to ensure they didn't distract the service.
The church band improved; there wasn't a keyboardist before, but now every instrument has someone to operate it.
When we came, certain activities had already taken place. It was not long before the man of God mounted the podium and delivered a very powerful sermon.
When the service was over, I didn't hesitate; I went to the pastor's stand and greeted him and his wife, “Good morning, sir,” I bent slightly as a sign of respect.
“Ah, ah, Nasarawa person, when did you come?” He bantered with me.
I smiled, “Three days ago, sir.”
“Welcome, brother, we missed you,” he patted my back.
“Thanks, sir,” I replied.
My sister and her husband also came and greeted them, and so did other members. I stood aside watching the beautiful smiles on the faces of people as they greeted each other after the service.
“I will take my leave now, sir,” I told him.
“Okay, let me have some time with you,” he said, holding my hand as he excused the people talking with him.
He took me outside to the parking lot, “Brother, Emreal, how are you?”
“I am fine, sir,” I replied.
My heart raced. It was unprecedented. That was the first time he ever asked for a moment with me.
Different thoughts ran through my head, but I managed to dispel fear and remain composed.
“When do you intend to go back?” He asked another sensitive question.
“On Wednesday, sir,” I replied.
At this point, I thought that the Lord had probably shown him a vision or a warning to give me.
“Emreal,” he called my name, the smile on his face slightly faded.
“Sir,” I answered and gave all my attention to him by looking straight into his eyes.
“Now that you are young, you still have time. Prepare yourself well for your future. Study spiritual books, study financial books, study relationship books, pray, work hard, learn productive skills, and be serious with God.
I am telling you all these things because one day, you will be married and you will have kids. It won't be that convenient to do all these. It is what you invested today that will be your advantage tomorrow,” he concluded.
I was surprised, I thought he wanted to prophecy or pray for me, but he just encouraged me; meanwhile, his words burned my heart, it was like it was God himself speaking to me.
I sighed, “Thank you,” sir.
“You are welcome, God bless you,” he smiled.
When I got home that day, I didn't take his advice lightly. I pondered upon it and decided to apply it to my life everyday.
Each time I look at my life and see the man I have become, I remember that day, I remember pastor John. The event is always fresh in my head.
Pastor John passed on last year. His death was such a shock. Although he is no more, he has left a seed in my life that will live forever.
N.B: All Images Were Generated By Gemini AI