Friday, November 17, 2023

Jasper figured moving across the water amidst the battle might be a safe bet, but they only had enough time to grab the emergency packs. He had to call in a code for the pod sites, but the signals were down. He met Arlyss and the kids at the lake.

The kids were secure on the boat before trouble met their parents and others who rushed toward the chaos. Within minutes, blasts from those who arrived cast bodies into the lake. Tanna and Quincy hid until others came looking for survivors. Their eyes didn’t catch a glimpse of the horror, but they heard screams echo across the water. They went to Government Island, where they stayed for two years until food supplies began to run out.

"You know, I always feared one of the pods would be here," Quincy said.

"Me too." Tanna took off her socks and shoes and placed them in her pack. "Hurry up."

Quincy followed suit. They checked the zippers and snapped the straps across their chests.

“What happens if the pod isn’t functional?” Quincy asked.

“Don’t worry. It will get us into orbit, and the GPS will do the rest.”

“But what if…”

"Dad was the one who engineered the escape pods," Tanna said. "He was good like that."

Quincy looked at the water and back at Tanna. He huffed and raised an eyebrow. Tanna’s words weren’t as convincing as reality, which had turned its back on them too many times.

“I know you have your doubts, but you know who I believe in,” Tanna said.

“I thought I used to.” Quincy backed away.

Tanna reached for his hand as she had done all along. “You still know, which is why you’re here.” She waved him closer. “Dad and Mom’s faith was at its strongest when everything was on the line.”

Quincy’s feet didn’t move, and his closed hand stayed beside him. “Look how well that turned out for them.”

Tanna relaxed her stance. “Yes, their faith allowed them to sacrifice for us, and I’m trying to use my faith to save us because staying here isn’t an option.” Once again, Tanna urged Quincy to let go of the past and reach for something more promising.

Quincy unlocked his fingers and reluctantly turned his hand toward his sister. "We swim together?" Quincy asked.

"Yeah, you’re not alone." Tanna grasped his hand. "Keep your eyes closed when we go under. I'll guide you, little brother."

They stepped to the edge of the dock and jumped.

Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith.

Hebrews 13:7