CHAPTER TWELVE
Donnie decided to go visit his dad before his vacation was over, but first, he had volunteered to help his mother with the house cleaning. So the next few days, he spent doing the many tasks she had lined up for him. But Donnie didn't mind. He knew the harder he worked, the less time he would have to think of what might have been. He washed windows on the outside while Mrs. Slocum washed inside. Together they hung paper in two rooms. Then while Donnie painted woodwork, his mother washed and ironed curtains. And while Donnie sanded and revarnished the living room floor, Mrs. Slocum was busy cleaning the kitchen cabinets and putting in new bug-proof paper. After airing the mattresses and cleaning the floors meticulously, they trimmed the hedges, raked the yard, and prepared the flowers for the winter ahead.
"You wouldn't think there would be so much to do at one little place," Donnie commented as they worked. "You haven't changed one bit, Mom. If Connie was here you would have her going full steam too, just like old times."
Mrs. Slocum straightened her back long enough to have a good hearty laugh.
"Work's good for you, Son. It helps to develop good, strong muscles."
"Yes, Mom, I've heard that all my life. I should have the strongest muscles of anyone around. I've certainly had to exercise them enough. You've had me working like a Trojan ever since I was a toddler in diapers."
Again his mom threw back her head and laughed merrily. "But aren't you pleased at how nice everything looks?" She looked around admiringly. "We won't need to do most of this again for a long time."
"But you'll find plenty more to do, Mom. You're one who never runs out of work for all who will volunteer, or whoever you can dupe into it."
By Friday noon they were both ready for a rest.
Wearily, Donnie pushed his chair back from the table as his mother started gathering up the dishes. "What are we doing this afternoon, Mom?" he asked.
"You can take the afternoon off, Son. As soon as I get these dishes done, I'm going to make you a treat – a scrumptious lemon pie."
"Um-m-m, that sounds like a winner." Donnie started toward the door. "I guess I'd better go quick, before that scrutinizing eye of yours finds something else for me to do," he said teasingly.
"Thanks so much for your help, Donnie. I could never have made it without you. You're a hard worker."
"Yep, I know, Mom. You're bragging on me to get me to keep helping you. I know your tricks."
That set them both laughing again. It was good to have fellowship between them once more.
Donnie left the house at eight Saturday morning, starting on his way to see his dad. He had felt strongly that he should go, and Mrs. Slocum had encouraged him.
"You should go see your dad every once in a while, Donnie. I'm sure he yearns to see his children at times. Besides, maybe you can help him spiritually."
Donnie was amazed at his mom's change of attitude. As he drove along, he thought of the times she had done all in her power to keep him and Connie from going to visit their dad. And he remembered how she had treated him as if he were not welcome the few times he had come to see them. Mr. Slocum had always been an object of contention between Mrs. Slocum and the twins, so it was refreshing to be encouraged by his mom to visit his dad. What a difference salvation had made in her life!
Chilled by the morning air, Donnie reached over and turned the heater on. He tried the radio but, after turning all across the dial and finding nothing worth listening to, he switched it off. What a difference salvation has made in me, too, he thought. Wish I'd thought to bring Mom's recorder. I would like to hear that "Pilot" song again.
Donnie began to sing as he drove along, filling in with humming in the places where he couldn't remember the words. Then he began to think of all God had done for him in just one week's time. He still felt good about the way the Lord had helped him make his restitutions, and how this had given him opportunities for witnessing.
He thought of Lisa and how the Lord had been helping him to conquer his feeling for her. He knew the battle wasn't over yet, but he didn't regret what he had given up to go with God. The joy and peace he had found far surpassed any earthly joy.
Then he patted his empty shirt pocket. For six days, now, he had not smoked once. Oh, he had been tempted – tempted severely. But God had helped him to resist the temptation. Donnie knew he could trust Him to keep on helping him until the craving was entirely gone. His heart welled up in praise to God, and glory flooded his soul.
Where had the time gone? Donnie wondered as he pulled up at his dad's. The grounds were more beautiful and spacious than he had remembered, and the house more imposing. Suddenly, he felt uneasy. Would his dad be in the mood for a visit from him today, he worried. Maybe he should have called first. But it was too late to think of that now.
Gathering his courage, he walked up to the house and rang the doorbell. After a few moments the maid opened the door.
"Well, good mornin', Mr. Donnie. How good to see you! Come in, come in." She welcomed him with a big smile.
Donnie entered, taking in the appearance of the living room at a glance. Everything was spotlessly clean and orderly. Expensive furniture was tastefully arranged, contrasting sharply in Donnie's mind with his mom's humble furnishings. The colorful sofa and chairs blended beautifully with the plush carpet on which he stood. A large scenic picture hung over the sofa.
"Where's Dad," he asked, his eyes still on the lovely picture.
"He's in his room. He's not feelin' well today," she answered soberly. "Seems like ever since Miz Slocum passed, he's been goin' downhill."
Donnie was shocked. "Oh, I'm sorry. I wasn't aware that his wife had died."
"You mean Mr. Slocum didn't telephone you about it?" Her big expressive eyes revealed her amazement.
"No, he didn't call."
"I can't believe it. Your own step-mother died and was buried, and you didn't even know it. I jus' cain't understand it."
"When did she pass away?" Donnie asked.
"Jus' two weeks ago today. Real sudden like, it was." With concern written on his face, Donnie asked, "What happened?"
"Heart attack, Mr. Donnie. It happened so fast, it took our breath away. She seemed too young to die. But you know, the young ones is passin', jus' like the old hands. We jus' better be ready when our number is called. He might summons us anytime."
"That's right, Amanda. Are you ready if your number is called?"
"Yes, sir, Mr. Donnie, I shore am."
"May I see my dad?" .
"I'll go knock and see if he'll be disturbed."
Donnie waited quietly, his eyes roving around his surroundings, comparing again. How different from his mom's little living room with its varnished floors and cheap furniture. But one day his mom would exchange her humble cottage for a beautiful mansion in heaven. As for his dad, his earthly mansion was all he would ever have, unless he got right with God.
Amanda reappeared, her face beaming. "He says he sure will see you, Mr. Donnie. You should have seen his face light up like a full moon when I told him 'bout you bein' here. He threw his legs right off that bed and set up. Follow me, Mr. Donnie."
She led the way down a long hall and pushed open a door that was already slightly ajar, leaving Donnie to go on in alone.
Donnie entered, extending his hand eagerly for the usual handshake. His dad gripped his hand and held on longer than usual, while a hint of moisture came into his eyes. Donnie could not help noticing how the hand that held his trembled, and how the pale face that looked up into his quivered with emotion. His dad looked older. Even his hair seemed much greyer than when he had last seen him.
"How are you, Dad?" Donnie asked in greeting.
"I'm okay, son. Just thought I'd lie down awhile. I try to rest as much as I can when I'm not working. Besides, there isn't much to do here at home now. It gets awfully lonely--" He choked up and could go no further.
"Amanda told me about your wife, Dad. I was terribly sorry to hear
what you had been through. Why didn't you let us know?"
"I didn't see the need, son. I felt sure you wouldn't come. You hardly knew Eloise."
No, Donnie thought. She never gave us a chance to know her. The few times we came to see Dad, she always kept in the background. Aloud he said, "I guess we weren't very well acquainted with her, but, Dad, I would have come to be with you."
"How could you have come, son? You live so far away and have a job to hold and the responsibility of a wife and baby. I just didn't see the need of disturbing you."
Donnie dropped his head. "Dad, I'm divorced from Sharon. I'm back home with Mom."
"Oh-h." He let out a low moan.
"I know how it must make you feel," Donnie told his father. "I'm sorry to add to your burdens. I have many regrets about my past."
"Don't we all, son!" Mr. Slocum said, his tone implying that it was a fact, not a question. "It's better to try to forget some things. Here, take the weight off your feet." He arranged two comfortable chairs conveniently.
"Dad," Donnie said as he was seated. "I'd like to talk about it a little, if you don't mind."
Mr. Slocum nodded.
"I won't go into detail, but I've lived a sinful life," Donnie began. "It was because of the way I lived that I lost Sharon and my precious baby girl. I don't suppose I'll ever be able to forget that." He took out his handkerchief and wiped tears from his eyes. Mr. Slocum sat staring straight ahead.
"I can never go back and live those days right," Donnie went on, "but by God's help, I can live the rest of my life right. A week ago today, I forsook my wicked ways and turned to Jesus. He forgave all my sins and made a new person out of me. I've been straightening up my past, making restitutions and apologies. I feel I owe you an apology, too. I haven't been the kind of son you could be proud of. I squandered a big portion of the money you sent me while I was in college, using it on liquor and cigarettes and cards. For this, I ask your forgiveness. Also, I want you to forgive me for asking for money for a car. I should have worked and earned the money instead of leeching off of you. You've never turned me down, Dad. You've always been generous and gracious. I took advantage of your generosity. Will you forgive me for being such a no-good son? I'll try to make up for my failures from here on out."
Not trusting his voice, Mr. Slocum merely nodded. It was evident he was greatly moved upon. Father and son sat for several minutes in silence. When Mr. Slocum finally spoke, it was with a great effort to retain his composure.
"I don't think you owe me any apologies, Donnie. I am the one who needs to apologize." Tears came into his eyes in spite of all his efforts. "I guess I've been a pretty rotten father," he finished lamely. '
Again there was silence. It was an emotional moment. Impulsively, Donnie reached over and embraced his dad.
"Let's forgive each other, Dad," he said, "and go on from here. Okay?"
Donnie and Mr. Slocum spent the remainder of the day trying to make up for the years of companionship they had missed. Donnie shared details of his life from the time he was very small, and he discovered things about his father that he had never known before.
Once when Connie was mentioned, Mr. Slocum said, "I get regular letters from her. She's really taken up with her religion. "
"Yes, she is. It was her transformed life that won Mom to God, you know. Then their holy lives and their prayers are what won me to God."
"I wonder what it will take to win me," Mr. Slocum laughed.
Donnie knew he meant it for a joke, but he answered as if his dad had spoken seriously.
"If you'll repent of your sins and ask God's forgiveness, He'll save you, Dad. He has never yet turned away a sincere heart."
"I'll remember that when I decide to get right," Mr. Slocum said, but his manner was nonchalant. Changing the subject, he asked, "You wouldn't be interested in moving here and working for me, would you? You can name your own salary, once you're trained. I'm quite confident you'd make several times what you're making now, even while in training. After all, Son, this business will be yours when I'm gone."
Donnie was astounded. What should he do? What should he say? He thought of his small pay check each week, and then visualized the enormous amount he could make with his dad. He would be a fool to turn down such an offer, he reasoned.
Then he thought of his mom and the little church with its praying people back home. Which was most important? Would he be able to keep his experience without the help and encouragement of other Christians?
"Is there a church around here?" he asked simply.
Mr. Slocum threw back his head and laughed. "What a question to ask when offered such a proposition as I have just offered you. Son, I want to make you the vice-president of my firm. I want to line your pockets with money. That was the main reason I pushed you to get a college education. I confess I lost heart when I found out you were drinking. But now that you've straightened up, I could use you. How much college did you get, a couple of years or so?" When Donnie nodded, he continued, "You can take night classes while you're in training. How about it?"
Donnie sat as one dazed. He could not answer. He felt as if a bombshell had hit him, and he was trying to get his bearings.
"Oh, yes, about the church," Mr. Slocum said, as if suddenly remembering. "We'll build one if that's what you want. We'll ship a preacher in here from somewhere - unless you want to do the preaching." He looked searchingly at Donnie. Something he saw in Donnie's countenance caused him to add, "I'll do anything to get you to join my firm." In his excitement, his words tumbled over one another.
"Dad," Donnie finally answered, "I can't make such an important decision without time to pray about it. I appreciate your generous offer from the depths of my heart, but since I've turned my life over to God, I must have His leadership. "
Mr. Slocum drew in his breath and sat back in his chair. "Donnie," he blurted out, "all I have to say is that you're a fool."
His words stung, but Donnie knew in his heart that he was right not to give his dad a quick answer.
The conversation became strained after that and, since it was getting late, Donnie rose to go.
"I've enjoyed my visit very much, Dad," he said, expressing his sincere feeling.
"I'm glad you could come, son. It's too bad you didn't like my offer."
Placing his hand on his father's shoulder, Donnie tried to explain. "Don't think I'm unappreciative of your offer. I think it's great, and I will consider it and pray about it, but I just don't feel right about giving you a quick answer."
"You're not afraid to trust me, are you Donnie?" his dad asked sullenly.
"No, Dad, it's not that. I know I can trust you. You've proven yourself to me. I know you're trustworthy. It's just that I want to know God's will in the matter. Maybe, this is His will. Maybe it's an open door for me. But, Dad," he looked at him imploringly, "I just want to make sure. Will you try to understand?"
"I'll try, son. It's been good having,you. This would have been a long and lonely day without you. Come back soon."
"I will, Dad. I promise."
As Donnie drove back home, he had plenty to think about. After their happy day together, he felt closer to his dad than he ever had before. He knew that his dad's offer was a chance of a lifetime if he wanted to make money. Perhaps, this was the answer to his problem about going back to work where he would be seeing Lisa every day. Could this be the leading of the Lord? After all, there was nothing evil about money, he'd just have to use it right.
You ought to jump at your dad's proposition, the devil whispered in his mind. Just think of all the money you could put into the work of the Lord! You know that little church could use extra money. And there's Reverend Morgan. Surely he needs a raise, or he wouldn't be driving that old car. And you know how Connie could use money in New Guinea, to help build clinics and schools and provide food, clothing, and medicines for the poor heathen there. Then there's your mom. She's never had much in this life. You could gi
ve her the many things she deserves, and even pay her way to go see Connie. Just think of all you could do if you had money to do with. You should turn your car around right now and go back and tell him you'll accept his offer. Do it now. Do it now.
The pressure of the enemy of his soul nearly had Donnie's head spinning. The enemy kept on whispering suggestions of good things Donnie could do with money until he almost overpowered the young Christian.
"Oh, God," Donnie began to pray earnestly. "I don't want to be led astray. Please don't let the devil trick me into doing the wrong thing. I'm just a new babe in Christ, so will You please help me to make the right decision and help Dad to be understanding whatever way it goes."
After praying, Donnie felt at peace and determined not to let the love of money ensnare him. He resolved to pray until he knew God's will.
A letter awaited Donnie upon his return home. Wondering, he tore it open and read:
Dear Brother Donnie,
Greetings in the name of our precious risen Saviour and coming King! Trust this finds you well and enjoying God's blessings.
I really enjoyed our fellowship together by the side of the road. I related your wonderful testimony to my church Sunday. It brought tears to the eyes of many and helped to encourage other parents to hold on for their wayward children. One lady confided to me after service that she was on the verge of despair for her son, but that she received a new touch from God due to the testimony of your wonderful conversion. She said she intended to buckle on the armor a little tighter and to fast and pray and believe God a little more. Praise the Lord, Brother Donnie! Wouldn't it be wonderful if her son was brought into the fold due to your testimony?
I knew you would be interested in hearing about Mrs. Fontenot. We went to see her the next day, and she seems sincere in wanting God's way. I read the Bible and talked to her, as well as praying for her. She said she felt something tickling her heart. Of course, she doesn't know the Canaan language yet, but I'm encouraged with her testimony. I left a cassette player and the Bible tapes that I told you about. She seemed real thrilled. She asked me to visit her boys and try to get them to close up their business on Sunday and come to church. Pray for this endeavor. You may have some sheaves to lay at the Master's feet because of your obedience in making restitutions and witnessing.
God bless you, Brother. Wish you could come up and spend a weekend with us. I'm praying about your marital problems. Maybe God, in His foresight, saw that you were going to repent and kept your wife from remarrying. Why don't you go .see her or call her? I believe God has His hand on you. He needs you in His harvest field.
Write me sometimes, or come see us. Keep encouraged. Jesus is soon coming, so stay close to him. Pray much and read your Bible daily. Jesus will see you through.
Your brother in Christ,
Jim Chaney
When he had finished reading that letter, his mom handed him one from Connie. He took it eagerly, hoping it was in response to his letter about his conversion. But he was soon reminded that mail didn't travel that fast from the remote station in New Guinea where Connie worked. Slowly and thoughtfully he read her letter:
Dear Mom and Donnie,
Trust this finds both of you well. My prayers go up constantly for you, as well as for our needs here.
I'm glad you let me know about Donnie and Lisa. I don't want you to keep things from me, dearest Mom. I was so sad when you finally told me about your wreck and your confinement in the nursing home. All that time, had I known it, I could have been praying especially for your healing and encouragement. Please don't ever, ever keep things from me again. I know you didn't want to worry me, but I knew something was wrong when I missed several weeks hearing from you. God gives me extra grace, to get me through my trials, so I'm trusting you to level with me from now on. O.K?
About Donnie and Lisa, I guess their wedding date is set. Donnie, if it's not too late when you get this letter, please, please reconsider. The devil would like nothing better than to get you in his snare and tangle up your life so that nothing but a mighty miracle could ever get it straightened out again. Larry and I are banding together with Mom, praying and fasting for you. Please don't get mad at us. I love you so very much and want to see you get to heaven at any cost.
We started, last week, meeting together every morning at five to pray for a Holy Ghost revival. We're seeing a few mercy drops fall but, oh, for real revival! We want to see an awakening among these precious natives. They're getting in, a few at a time, and we're thankful for every single one, but we're praying for a landslide. I believe God is going to give it.
"Mom, I hate to tell you this, but after admonishing you not to keep anything from me, I don't want to keep anything from you. I've been feeling pretty low lately. Physically, that is. It might be a touch of malaria. Pray for me. Don't worry, because it's probably nothing serious, but I'm just not up to par.
Mom and Donnie, I love you both so very, very much. Write me soon and keep me abreast of the news from home. I'm so anxious over my dear brother, especially. Why don't you give God a chance in your life, Donnie? You'll never be sorry.
With much love,
Larry and Connie
"I hope there's nothing seriously wrong with her," Mrs. Slocum said soberly when she saw Donnie had finished the letter.
"Me, too. But when she gets my letter about my conversion, I'm sure it will cure all her ills."
"It will about bless her half to death," Mrs. Slocum agreed, her face breaking into a happy smile.
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