Mended Wings
Episode 4
Let’s all be on our feet as we take the benediction in unison,” Joel said to round off the bible study program.
The congregants rose up and chorused the benediction.
Joel walked away from the pulpit to his seat. He went on his knees, closed his eyes, and began to mutter words, nodding intermittently, his hands and fingers curled into fists. It took him about ten minutes to
pray before he stood to his feet. He glanced around. There were only a few people still hanging around. His eyes drifted through the large auditorium and settled on a lady at the altar. She was on her knees with
hands clasped and face lifted up, praying in tongues. Nothing
magnetized him as the tears that flowed freely from her closed eyes, meandering down her cheeks. He stared. Her face was not strange. He had seen the face regularly for four Sundays now and during weekday
programs. What could be the problem? Why was she crying? He sat down and crossed his legs. He had to speak to her. He would wait until she finished praying, he determined.
Seconds rolled into minutes. He checked his wristwatch; it was
5:30 p.m. He had waited for her, twenty minutes. He had many things to do, but her tears begged him to wait, or so he thought. As though she knew what he was thinking, she opened her eyes, wiped her face, adjusted her hair, and rose to her feet.
He stared at her on impulse. She was stocky, statuesque and fair,
with dense lustrous black hair providing her neck a shade. She turned and their eyes met. His eyes locked hers.
He walked toward her. “Sister…”
“Ella,” she completed.
“Yeah. How’re you doing?”
“I’m fine.”
“Are you sure? I saw you pouring out yourself to God.”
“U-uh.” She stole a smile. “Well, that is normal. He’s our father and He told us to cast our care on Him for He cares for us.”
“You’re right. God is faithful to every of His word. I’m sure He’ll meet you at the point of your needs.”
“Yes, He will.”
“Be assured. Everything is going to be alright.”
“Thanks so much for the encouragement. By the way, I loved today’s Bible study. It was revealing.”
“That was the Lord’s doing. His word is new and inspiring every
moment.”
They went towards the door. “You’re so lucky to have such gift of the Holy Spirit,” she said with a smile.
“He’s the potter. I’m nothing but clay in His hands.”
“More of God’s grace upon you.”
“Amen, thanks. So, where are you going?”
“Home. It is not too far from church.”
“Oh, really! No wonder you’re always punctual to programs.”
Was he serious? Had he been noticing her? It had to be but a joke.
That couldn’t be true. The church was a mega one with many hundreds of people, although, there were always few people in attendance of weekday programs. But that wasn’t enough reason for him to have noticed. Or did he have eyes for her already? She tittered. Her thoughts
were ticklish.
“I have no reason to be late. I honour God in all. That’s what
we’re called to do,” she said.
“Beautiful. Well spoken.”
“So, which parish were you attending before?”
“I attended Kingdom Alive Parish in the United Kingdom.”
“That’s quite funny. Kingdom Alive Parish in the United
Kingdom.” She smiled. “What then are you doing in Nigeria?”
He smiled. “Are you stylishly asking me about myself?”
“Uh, not really. But can I ask?”
“Of course, you can, but that will be after you’ve told me about yourself first.”
“There’s nothing much about me.”
“Okay, tell me the little,” he drew a quote in the air, “about
yourself.”
“Alright. I’m Daniella Jacobs, the last child of three, a Christian, and a graduate of Business administration. I work with a small company.
I live with my aunt and her family.” She searched his eyes.
“Go ahead, I can hear you.”
“Well, I think that’s all.”
That can’t be all, but I’ll take that for a start. Now to your
question, I’m in Nigeria as led by the Lord. I’m Joel Mason, the second son of my parents who are based in Nigeria here.”
“Nice. Tell me more.”
“Maybe we should both take that for the day. We’ll get to know
more as time goes on.”
“Alright. Thank you.”
“Do you mind if I drop you at home?”
“Yes, thanks. I brought my car.”
“Oh, forgive me. Where is it parked?”
She pointed to an old blue Toyota Camry. “That’s it over there.”
“What a coincidence! That’s mine beside it on the other side.”
Ella looked at the vehicle beside hers. It was a new black jeep.
“Are you serious?” She smiled. “How could this be?” she muttered.
They chattered on as he walked her to her car. He watched her
drive carefully out of the parking lot. He waved at her, boarded his vehicle, and drove off.
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