“Hmph,” Pop-Pop grumbles, and changes the channel to Scott Clark.
“‘So that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold, which though perishable is tested by fire.’ First Peter, chapter one, verse seven. Children of God, what you plant in faith, do not dig up in doubt. The Lord looks to you to spread his gospel, his righteous word. How do you expect your seeds to grow if you do not do the Lord’s bidding. . . .”
Piper leans in closer and whispers, “Do you think he’s okay?”
Tears spring up and I nod.
“Yeah.” And if not, he will be. I’ll make sure of it.
She thinks for a moment, then says, “We should leave him sandwiches before bedtime now. So he doesn’t get hungry. He likes tuna fish.”
It’s such a small, tender gesture, and then I realize . . . it’s something she’s been doing all along. Keeping them hidden, keeping them safe.
“Yeah,” I agree, smiling, pulling her close. “That sounds like a great idea.”
“‘And I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers. And I will put my words in his mouth, and he shall speak to them all that I command him.’ Children of God, the Lord has asked me to speak to you tonight, to do his will . . . for weeping may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning. I would not lead you astray. Trust me.”