Church of the Epistles
A Story of Guilt and Redemption
by Gareth Young
Harris had not allowed himself an emotional response in over thirty years, and this was no time to make an exception. He inhaled deeply and turned to Sarah, just in time to see her pull back from the table, her chair flying into the cupboard behind her. She recoiled and staggered forward into the table, knocking her cereal bowl to the floor, where it shattered, showering Harris and Colby with drops of milk.
But no one noticed the mess. Sarah stood with her hands shaking in front of her face until Harris spoke.
“Let us pray together.”
Harris felt himself starting to crack, knew that he needed the calm and quiet of introspection, and the strength of the Lord to bring him back under control. He kissed his son on the forehead as he stood and eased the youth to his feet. They took a few short steps to the center of the kitchen and knelt facing each other. Harris released one hand and reached out to Sarah, who accepted the invitation and knelt between husband and son, clasping hands to close the circle. They bowed their heads and prayed in silence.
Dear Lord, please grant me the wisdom to see the way through this… situation.
Harris tried to articulate his internal prayer, tried to stay focused, tried to hear Christ’s voice…
Please act through me and allow me to bring your compassion to bear…
… but his mind was in turmoil.