The Desert Map

Prologue

         This is a story for early teens to young adults that allows them to walk through the process of biblical interpretation by story. A story often engages the heart and mind in a way that teaching, sermon and lecture will not. This story is particularly about a young boy named Daniel, who grows up in a desert tribe that is running out of water. Daniel’s father bequeaths him a map that leads him to fresh water. Daniel takes the map, and invites his friends along, on the adventure. Throughout he the must learn about:

Chapter 2 -Meaning –

Chapter 3 -History of Interpretation-

Chapter 4 -Interpretation Questions-

Chapter 5 -Psalms-

Chapter 6 -Wisdom-

Chapter 7 -Genres-

Chapter 8 -Epistles-

         Along the way, Daniel and his friends are also confronted with lessons about faith, relationships, and ultimately coming to know the Scriptures in a meaningful way. Though the interpretation method is a process learned throughout the story—an engaged reader can learn rich lessons of both interpretation and practice all at once. A teenager and young adult will walk through this story, relating to the characters, and realizing the power of the Scriptures to guide daily life. So join Daniel, as he discovers Meaning, Interpretation, Psalms, Wisdom, Genres and Epistles and comes to know Yahweh and His work in a whole new way.
Chapter 1

A Change of Pace

         Daniel tossed his hammer aside and wiped the sweat from his brow. His father had instructed him to fix the weak stakes around the tent. Now his back ached from bending, pounding, digging and fixing. Every inch of him was wet from the heat of the afternoon sun. He heard his mother stirring copper pots near their tent.  The pots bubbled with lamb; He was certain she was making a special dinner for father. Daniel leaned back on his haunches and surveyed his work.

         He had been able to secure two of six weakened stakes. The dry ground just kept cracking and letting the supports bend and loosen. “I wish father could just take care of this himself!” Daniel thought. Even with the cliffs in the distance, no shade could reach the desert ground. Still, he spent the rest of the afternoon working, until two more stakes were secured. Then his mother called him in.

         They ate together around a low table set up close to father. The meal was silent and Daniel waited nervously until his father took bread, dipped it and then ate. The air was hung with heaviness. His mother and sister barely spoke most of the meal, until his father did.

         “Daniel, you know what this meal is not for me.” His voice was deep, but strained. “It is for you.” Daniel nodded, unsure of what to say. His mother and sister kept their eyes on father. “I am getting worse. This could be my last meal before I pass. I asked your mother to cook it because,” He coughed roughly, and breathed deep. “This meal is my heritage to you.

         Daniel took a deep breath, and spoke respectfully, “I understand, father.”

         “Daniel,” His father continued, “You are now the head of this home. You are fifteen, and your mother and I believe that you are capable.” He sipped the lamb broth, and some caught in his fraying beard. “You will be the man of the house when I am gone.” Daniel’s mother cupped her hand over her mouth, and began to weep.

         His sister whimpered, “Daddy...don t go, not yet...” and she broke into soft sobs.

         “Tania,” Her mother whispered, “Don’t make this harder on him. He wants this to be special for Daniel.” Daniel felt the weight of the room on his shoulders; he didn’t know what to say. Daniel s father turned his attention to his daughter.

         “Tania, I need you to listen to Daniel like you’ve listened to me.” Tania leaned her head close, and placed it her father s great shoulder. “And I need you to learn everything you can from your mother. She’ll need your help. And one day soon you’ll be just like her.”

         “I will.” She nodded, “I will learn everything I can from mother. And I will listen to Daniel too.” Her mother brushed tears from her eyes. Daniel tried to think of something to say to his father. Something to let him know how much he would miss him.

         “Okay, Tania, escort your mother out of the room. I need to talk to Daniel one on one.”

         “Alright,” Tania sighed deeply. She took her mothers arm and they left together. Daniel s father turned toward him.

         “Daniel, You’ve barely eaten anything.” His father observed. “I know all this must be overwhelming for you. I’m certain it’s hard seeing me sick.” Daniel looked at his father, sickly, weak, tired, and yet so concerned for him. “But I am looking out for your best, and the best for our family. It is overwhelming as a young man to think of taking this on. You are small, and the drought is starving the whole tribe. I would feel helpless if I were you.”

         Daniel sighed, and nodded, “It is, father.” He managed to eek out without crying. “I don’t know what to do.”

         “It is okay, son. You are now a man. I have given you a home and a family. You don’t have to have all the answers. You will learn. You are great at that; I’ve watched you do it your whole life!” His father smiled. “Daniel, I wanted to speak with you one on one because there is something you need to know. You are now the man of the house, and you will need to make big decisions for our family.” His father lifted from beneath the table an old parchment rolled into a scroll. “For some time I have held onto this map.” Daniel heard the history in his voice. “It is very valuable to me and to your mother because it shows us where we can find water.” Daniels eyes widened.

         Why have you held onto it? Haven’t you shown anyone?” Daniel wondered.

         “Oh, we did, or at least talked about it with the town, years ago.” His father’s eyes closed as he drifted back to the memories. “But the town didn’t t want anything to do with it.”

         “Why not? People are dying without fresh water”

         “Well, this water the map leads to, it is powerful, and takes a great heart to find it. Most of the men in town didn’t think it existed. Those who did thought it was impossible to find without dying. No one thought it was worth it.” His father opened the map, revealing specific signs and instructions. There were images of a cave, a tribe, a letter and a door.

         “I always heard that another tribe cut off our water source. That we are in drought because of them.”

         “That is true too, his father said, but do not be fooled, son, it is also because of us. It takes a brave man to seek this out. And you will have to make that decision for our family soon. I did my best to let our tribe know the truth now you may have to save our family from the consequences.”

         “What do I need to know?” Daniel inquired. Something inside him lit up. “Tell me the way”

         “Ah, son. I love your passion, but you will need more than passion to find this water. I will give you some clues, but you must use your mind; let wisdom guide, she will not fail.” His father laid both palms on the map s edges. “First, you must know the Big picture, and never forget it. Without this map to give you context, you will be lost anywhere you go.” Daniel nodded in understanding. “Then, you must go to each of these places He pointed to the images, the cave, the tribe, and the letter. Each one is a sacred place. The ancients thought that Yahweh spoke to those who went there. You must seek those places out and learn why they are important. You must go to the context and understand it; only then will you be led to the water.” Daniel could imagine himself, trekking from unknown to unknown. “There are clues written by each image they will guide you in you quest.” His father coughed roughly. “But most important. You must understand that others have gone before you and found water. They have written clues for you too. Pay good attention to these and always put them in context of the map’s instructions.” Daniel looked at his father’s tired eyes. “Lastly, Daniel, you must memorize this song, it was my mother s, who gave the map to me—His father s weak voice sang out:

Let the water spring forth from the ancient stories

Listen to their voices and remember where they’ve been

It was their time, their place, their authors, who

Provide the meaning that s flowing within

And listen son, to the deeper drum,

It s a revelation into your soul

For in their voices lies the ancient song of old

For in their voices lies the ancient song of old

There is one who comes to give life

his waters stream from the endless springs of time

Wisdom flows from the word, cave, tribe

Trust in him who will give you truth through these signs.

And listen son, to the deeper drum,

It s a revelation into your soul

For in their voices lies the ancient song of old

For in their voices lies the ancient song of old

         The sounds flowed over Daniel like refreshing waves in the warm evening. He was brightened even hearing such a story from his father. His father always held such deep convictions. He spoke so often to their family about Yahweh, and His presence with them. Daniel even heard his father praying late into the night, especially since his sickness has gotten worse. Even though Daniel didn’t really understand the story. He knew it was valid, because he knew his father.

         The two talked for a while longer until his mother came in and urged them to rest. Daniel went to bed feeling so relieved at the trust his father placed in him. Maybe he could handle being head of the house but the deep ache of missing his father seeped into those thoughts. He waited to let the depth of those reach his eyes.
 

Chapter 2

An Adventure Begins

         It was only a few days later that Daniel’s tears flowed free. The whole tribe gathered together by a tomb carved into a nearby cavern. His mother and sister wept with him and moaned as they sang sad songs. A few men came up later to affirm Daniel’s new role in his family, and to encourage him with high opinions of his father. This didn’t do much to help him, other than make him feel a bit less equipped.

         It was strange to see his mother alone. Though she kept up pace, pouring much of her attention into Tania. Daniel slowly learned the needs around the house and began to grow up into his father s position. It wasn’t for many months later, after his 16th birthday, that the drought began to get worse. He watched the men of the town huddle around full of anxiety. Theories for the causes and the worsening of it all spread like wildfire throughout their tribe. Daniel gathered together with a few of his closest friends near the towns well, which by this time was in months of completely drying up. He had a plan. And he brought his father s map to back him up.

         Dust was growing when Collom, Meldon, Alkin, and Caris arrived. Most families were gathering for dinner, but these five were together under Daniel s request. He spoke in a soft voice, “Alright, what I have to tell you is of utmost importance. I asked each of you here because you have been my friends for a long time, and I trust you.” Everyone nodded and a hushed. He continued, “My father passed away six month ago. And I have taken over his role as the leader of my house. Since the drought has gotten worse, others are getting concerned. Some are grumbling, but others are threatening to break up our tribe and cutting off the weak. With everything happening, I have the feeling that our tribe won’t last long without fresh water.”

         “Yes, my father is an elder I heard them arguing about, when the times comes, who should die first.” Said Meldon, a little scared himself, “It sounded like the women, especially the old, are the first to go. I know my family will be okay, since my father is an elder, but I don t think it s right to let people die.”

         “Yes, but we re all going to die soon,” interrupted Collom, “And some believe there isn’t any water left anywhere once the well is dry.”

         It’s better the weaker ones go first,” Alkin added, “At least we’ll have a chance of the strong finding water sometime.” He gestured to himself.

         “You know we can t leave the town without a house-hold leader, Alkin.” Meldon hesitatingly reminded, and I don t think any of our fathers are wanting to die apart from their families.”

         The strong voice of Caris injected, “Collom, Alkin, Meldon, you need to remember no one knows where water is. And even so, they couldn’t find it. If we went anywhere near the far tribe they would tear us apart. And they have the only land with water!” Alkin growled at her insight. She turned to Daniel and smiled, “Let s hear what Daniel has to say I m sure there’s a reason he called this meeting.”

         “Yes there is. There was a lot of trouble in our parents past with what I m about to tell you. It has to do with fresh water. And it is extremely important that you all keep this a secret between us. Will you?” They all agreed, then huddled a bit closer. Daniel withdrew the ancient map from his pocket. He explained to them everything his father had told him their last meal together. He shared with them the words of the song. And what he had figured out recently while considering the adventure he was about to propose.

         “So, here s what I intend. I think the map is true, and that the images of the cave, the cliffs, the letter and the door are real. And, since I am the head of my household, I can leave the camp whenever I want. And I can bring whomever I want with me.” They all paused for a second, considering what Daniel was suggesting. “So, I want you four to accompany me on the adventure to find fresh water. Collom, you are the strongest friend I have we’ll need you to carry most of the supplies. Meldon, you have the best insights on the religion of the elders since your father is one of them as we encounter clues; you can give us history on past decisions. Alkin, you and I have been friends the longest, and you are the most passionate person I know we will need your inspiration to endure. And Caris, you have wisdom like my father, and I know he liked you. You will be the only woman in our group, and you will help with every decision.

         “And you expect us to believe this nonsense!” Alkin balked. “I am your oldest friend, so I’ll be honest; this map is just a old fable from your father s childhood. Why should we trust it? And risk our lives for it!”

         “Yea, Daniel,” Collom wondered too, “This map could have been made by anyone. What if the only reason your father gave you the map was to stir your heart and mind? To give you some hope?”

         “Yes, maybe it s not important what the map says,” added Meldon, who was already worried about the adventure. “Maybe the cave on the map is really our well, and the tribe is our tribe, and the letter is our laws, and the door...umm...well, I m sure it means something.” Meldon tripped over his words as Alkin took the flow. Daniel was caught off guard at their theorizing.

         “Yea, what if the map is really about our town, maybe the water is right here, and all we need to do it just realize it.” Alkin half jested and half considered his own idea.

         “I don t know Alkin,” Meldon was took his suggestion seriously, “I think it s much more about inspiring us, waking us up. Just like when my father leads the elder gatherings, they speak to wake up the listeners. I think the inspiration we’re already experiencing is the best indicator the map is already working. We don t need to go anywhere.” Meldon wandered off on his own idea, but Daniel saw how easily he cowered from the quest. And Alkin already had taken a strong stance that the map gave meaning to their tribe, “the water is right here!” He kept passionately urging. Collom backed off, a little confused at their various interpretations and kept mumbling, “I’m not sure if we can really know what it means, guys.” Caris voice again reigned in their chaos.

         “Friends, this is preposterous. Meldon and Alkin, you are greatly confusing Collom. And you are insulting Daniel s father with you nonsense. How can this map have more than one interpretation? It’s a map, it s meant to lead somewhere.” Daniel was extremely thankful for Caris insight. “And it is meant to lead somewhere real.”

         “What if that real place is our tribe!” Alkin proposed.

         “No. That cannot be, Alkin.” Caris rebutted, “For one thing, why would someone create a map for water if it was already right here? The map would be pointless and our tribe would already have water. I know you are passionate, but you can be passionately wrong. And you’ll be wasting all our time searching for water with a map that tells you to find water elsewhere.” Alkin shut his mouth. “Be passionate about what the map is telling you, not the other way around.” He grumbled beneath his breath, but had nothing to say back to Caris.

         “And second, Meldon, you are just afraid of this adventure.” Caris noticed. Daniel raised his eyebrows at Caris bluntness. Meldon shriveled. She continued, “Why would this map be only to inspire us and make us feel good? How is it good if we are going to die without water? That wouldn’t be good at all; it would be deceiving. You are using your own interpretation of the map to avoid what it is literally says, because you are scared.” Meldon gave an innocent laugh; he knew she saw right through him.

         “Caris, this is why I want you on this adventure.” Daniel blurted out. The others were still hesitant but Daniel seemed exhilarated. “My father believed this map was literal. And I believe it is literal. It came from the ancients, who found water at these sacred places where Yahweh dwells and that is where we need to go! The town denied this years ago, and look how they are suffering from drought and dehydration. Do you want to end up like them? We can bring life to everyone, if we just trust this map and see where it leads. Who is with me?” Daniel put a brave hand in the middle of the group. Caris’ hand met his instantly. Collom was a quick third. With Meldon slowly placing his in with a sigh. Lastly Alkin warned, “If we go through with this stupid map, and the water ends up being here, I m going to strangle all of you!” With that he placed his hand in.

         “Well,” Daniel instructed, “then we shall leave in two mornings. Collom, you gather a weeks worth of supplies. Meldon, you talk to your father over the next two days and find out as much information about the elder’s decision to not seek the water, and anything else significant. Alkin, Caris, and I will work on the details of the trip over the next two nights. We will meet back here at the well before dawn. Let s get ready, and hope that Yahweh, who my father worshiped, will guide us till then.” They all said goodnight to each other for the night stars were already draped overhead. They reminded Daniel of a vast map, and he wondered if Yahweh used them to find His way around the world? He lay in bed excited and barely able to sleep. He thought of how glad his father would be that they were going to find fresh water. “I bet he would have come with us if he could.” Daniel thought before he drifted off to sleep.
 

Chapter 3

What Mother Knows

         The next day Daniel s mother was finishing lunch and he was on his way out to meet with Collom and Caris.

         “Daniel, I need to speak with you before you go” She asked of him.

         “Mother, I’m really in a hurry. Caris and Alkin are waiting for me.” He said anxiously.

         “I know you are busy. But I need to speak with you.” She was calm. She was always so solemn since father passed.

         “Can’t it wait until tomorrow?” He begged.

         “Will you be here tomorrow, Daniel?” She caught him off guard, “I get the sense that you are leaving. Why haven t you said anything?”

         “Oh, mother, you wouldn’t understand. I am leaving, but it’s because of something father told be before he died.”

         “Then it can’t be something I don’t already know.”

         “I doubt it this time, mother.” Daniel drew in a deep, patient breath, “He shared this with me on the night he made me head of the house.”

         “Your father and I shared everything.” She paused, and raised her eyebrows, “I m guessing this has to do with our map.” His mother s confident suggestion left Daniel dumbfounded.

         “But...” He had no words, and then blurted, “If you knew, why didn’t you talk to me about it?”

         “You are the head of the house now, Daniel,” She coolly responded, “Your father and I thought you could handle the map on your own. Who am I to approach you on it when we gave it to you?

         “We? You and father both decided to give it to me? Why didn’t father say anything about you knowing in the first place?” Daniel struggled to put the pieces together of his secret mission that seemed not so secret anymore.

         “I think that was your father’s first move in allowing you to be man of the house. He respected you enough to trust that you would come to me if you needed.” She filled in the gaps with the motherly tone that only wise mothers know. Daniel, beginning to understand, was filled with intrigue at his mother s timing.

         “How did you know I was actually going, mother? How did you figure it out?” Daniel was almost laughing inside. His mother was the most careful woman he knew. She kept a tight home, clean meals, and had a strong, encouraging, watchful eye. He was a fool to think he could hide their adventure from her.

         “It was only a matter of time, dear. Once you’re father gave you the map, and told you about our early efforts to sway the tribe, I figured you d be out the door in a few months!” She looked into his eyes with a smile. “It seems you’re a bit slow. I’ve been waiting on you.” She toyed affectionately with him.

         “I should have thought you d find out. I’m sorry, mother. I never should have hidden this from you.

         “No. You shouldn’t have. But it’s all right. You are actually doing a great job as head of our home. I know you're doing this to protect our family, particularly Tania and me.” He felt the sweetness of her affirmation, especially since it meant the absence of her husband; a grief that deeply connected them. She whispered to him with a wink, “I should like to head out with you, were it not for Tania.” They both laughed.

         Daniel attempted to mend his earlier attitude as his mother served lunch, “Oh, and don t worry about Caris and Collom, they can wait. I’ll tell them I was doing research” They began to eat and talk, “Mother, why didn’t you and father leave when you were young and follow the map yourselves?” Daniel wondered. She nodded at the insight of his question.

         “Well, that was a hard decision for your father and I. Let me fill you in on a bit of history, and I think it will all make sense." As his mother spoke her voice soften, like a rippling stream. It felt to Daniel like her ancient words swirled and moved back and forth over them. It was like the riddles of prophecy weighed down in a secret anticipation, inexplicable and old. He drew back, as if listening to a song, and soaked in his mother's rhythmic words.

         "This map that you hold comes from an ancient culture. They were devout people, full of mystery. Their story was ordinary like ours, until Yahweh swept them up into His. Yahweh, even older than the oldest tribe, chose them to reveal His heart to all the tribes in the world. This was a mystery greater than anyone had known.

         "Of course, this seemed ludicrous to the other nations—but Yahweh delivered that ancient tribe again and again from everything that threatened them. Yahweh even delivered that tribe when that they rejected Him. He brought them home like a father does for a lost son. He tended to them, and made them know Him, and blessed them.

         "Soon, a new thing happened, one that they had waited for generations. A man came who claimed to be the son of their Yahweh, a man from their tribe. Yet, after so many years of waiting, they rejected him, and killed him.

         "But, Yahweh surprised them, and raised His son to life again. Some of the tribes’ people claimed that the son is Yahweh. Others were not so sure. We do know one thing though, this son and this tribe, they are the ones who have written this map. It has been handed down for generations to our people."

         "This is the map we showed to the elder council when we were a young couple. We urged them to seek the water that it leads to, but they denied it. They did not think that this water could be found. And especially if it meant mingling with the tribe on the map."

         His mother's face got serious and grave, "Daniel, many people will tell you how to read this map. They did for your father and I. It took us years to sort through their theories. Remember, these theories comes less from their minds then from their hearts. Some will try to convince you it is an allegory for our own tribe, others will whittle it down to scruples and stale bread, others will say that the images contain hidden meanings, others that the meaning flows from your thoughts of it. The elders especially will say you must consult their council alone about this, and a few in our tribe will dismiss any meaning in this map.

         “You must be diligent—trust that the map has meaning in it. It was written by the ancient tribe, by those who knew Yahweh, and Yahweh placed Himself in this map. As you follow it, fresh waters will fill your soul. Bring those back to the tribe—maybe then they will understand its power."

         "You mean that Yahweh, who father talked about, has placed Himself in this map? How could He do that?" Daniel wondrously exclaimed, looking over the ordinary parchment.

         "Because, dear," His mother heart compelled him to listen, "Yahweh is a spirit, and this map is written through human spirits who served Him completely. It is infused with His spirit." She paused in thought, "But there is one other thing..." She placed a loving hand on his shoulder. "May I ask something of you Daniel?"

         "Yes, mother. Anything." He was gripped by her conviction.

         "I want to ask Yahweh something for you...for His spirit to come into you and lead you." She spoke deeply, like the words arose from her heart. "And that He will help you to follow this map, and read it in truth, so that you may hear 'in their voices...the ancient song of old'.” He recognized his father’s song. “Daniel, I want you to know Yahweh, but you must want to know Him too." Daniel paused at her beckoning thoughts. This whole thing sounded so close. Was Yahweh someone who he could trust? At first he thought it was just a map and a quest. It gave every indication of being permanent—like an adventure from which he could return home. "What am I getting into?" He wondered inside.

         "I think I would like to know Yahweh." Daniel whispered. "I know father loved Him, and I trust him, and I trust you." He pondered for another moment, "And I need Yahweh. I could die looking for fresh water. And I'm already confused hearing all those other voices. How else can I follow the map without the mapmaker?"

         So Daniel and his mother spoke softly together. And Daniel felt an ora of excitement and deep meaning fill his stomach. He was both satisfied and hungry all at once. He was caught up in wordless thoughts.

         "I think you'd better be going." He mother said with a gentle laugh.

         "Oh, yes..." It was like coming out of a dream. Something beautiful had occurred, but he didn't know what exactly.

         "Before you go, take this," she had written some words on a small, rolled parchment. "You must read this, as a reminder on your adventures..."

         "Shall I take this as your blessing, mother?" He smiled. "Of course." She smiled, "And you have Yahweh's too."

         "Thank you!" He said, leaving his mother with a kiss and bouncing out the door. The

Evening cool was already setting in over the dusty landscape. He thought, "Caris and Alkin need to hear this!" Yahweh entered his mind as the orange sun spread our like great caring arms over their tents. "This map will change our lives."
 

Chapter 4

A Deeper Friendship

         Daniel had shared his mother's story with Alkin and Caris the night before, as they discussed plans for the adventure. The freshness was still so profound for Daniel that Alkin joked about his eyes being wide, and it being a "story". Caris was quiet for most of his enthusiasm—caught up in his wide eyes, and ready to hear a bit more about Yahweh. She saw that where before Daniel was nervous to even meet, the danger involved in this adventure was now little in Daniel's eyes. Once they finished the itinerary, Alkin headed home, but not before joking, "Well Daniel, if you haven't already gone crazy, then this adventure just might do it."

         Caris stayed afterwards to talk. "You're mother's words are breathtaking." She exclaimed. "I didn't want to say too much with Alkin around, but I've wondered about your parents before. They've always been so strange—in a quirky, wonderful way."

         "Yea, I never really thought about it very much until today." Daniel laughed, "But as my mother told me their history—I couldn't stop thinking about my father. He was solid. The rock of our family. I was so scared when he got sick." Caris noticed his sincerity. "But now, after talking with my mother, I see how he could be so strong...I think Yahweh gave him strength."

         "He was always so kind to me,” Caris said. "And your mother was too. I wish my parents would listen to me and care for me like yours."

         "Yea, well, at least you still have your father," Daniel added.

         "But what good is it? My mother and father hate each other." Her eyes were filled with loneliness. "We live with each other like ghosts. We don't talk at meals. My mother doesn't teach me anything like Tania learns. And my father would never give me anything of his— especially something he cared deeply for like your father. He cared about you so much." Caris saw her thoughts helped to deepen Daniel's.

         "I never really thought of my father's map showing care for me. I guess I always thought he made me man of the house because there was no one else..." He shyly laughed.

         "No way," Caris encouraged, "I know two of families who lost a father from the drought, and they had brothers come in an care for the widows. Your father was brave to put you in charge. I don't mean to downplay you, but you are still young. He must have really trusted Yahweh!" She laughed.

         "Yes," Daniel laughed too, "I think he did." They laughed together, and paused a moment, looking at the stars poking out from underneath the night sky.

         "Daniel," She was thoughtful, "Do you think Yahweh would care for me? Like your father did for you?" He was fascinated at her courage. Her question was insightful, honest and brave. She trembled a bit. It seemed like the energy of asking had sucked her dry. He looked at her.

         "Yes." He spoke with his whole heart. "Yes, even more than my father, or anyone." He saw her countenance soothing. "Caris, I think Yahweh has more care than we can imagine. He cares for you so much."

         "It's hard to picture," She admitted. "Really. It's hard for me to think about. I can only think of how lonely it is at home...there is such a void. We have no love around us."

         "Caris, I want to ask you something." Daniel trembled, thinking of her, "I want to ask Yahweh to take you as his daughter. I want to ask Him to love you like a father." Caris stared at the dust beneath their feet. She drew a deep breath.

         "I would love that, Daniel,” She whispered. A tear dripped from her eye. “But do you think He would want me?”

         “I think He’s wanted to be with you for a long time.” He smiled.

         They talked together in hushed voices by the corral outside of her family’s tent. And as the darkness settled over them, Daniel swore he could see a new brightness in her eyes.

         Before they left, Daniel offered, "Caris, I know this adventure is going to be hard. But I'm glad you're coming. I need a friend like you." She smiled, larger than he had ever seen.

         "Me too, Daniel" And she opened the tent flap to walk in, "I don't think we'll come back the same." She laughed.

         "Too late," He smiled. She nodded and left him alone and full hearted in the night. "Thank you, Yahweh" He said in a whisper to the stars—and he swore they twinkled back in delight.

         Daniel unrolled his mother's parchment before bed. It warmed his heart to remember their conversation, as he read her notes out loud to himself. He fell asleep considering the adventures to come:

Some Motherly Advice

Whenever interpreting the map, ask yourself these questions:

1. What does this tell me about Yahweh?

Remember, this is Yahweh's story that He wrote to His tribe. He was revealing Himself to them. Since you have Yahweh's Spirit, you can understand His heart in history.

2. What does this tell me about His story with the ancient tribe?

Remember, this was written to an ancient people. There will be tricks to help you interpret along the way. But always trust the tribe of the map so that you may hear 'in their voices...the ancient song of old'.

3. What does this teach me about me and my friends?

Remember, noticing God's heart and His people will help you to know which part of the map to follow. Follow the truth, you'll find always lead the right direction!

4. What part of this can I carry with me?

Yahweh has made you capable of receiving and understanding Him and His story—so take a piece with you and hold it in your mind and heart throughout the day. This will keep your heart in the right place—and give you consistent insight into its direction.

You are so precious, my son.

I know your father is so proud of you, and I am too... return to us soon.
 

Chapter 5

The Hall of Songs

        

         Daniel, Caris, Alkin, Meldon and Collom gathered by the well before dawn.

         "Alright," Daniel whispered, the early morning chill still clinging to his breath. "We're all here. The itinerary is set. Collom gathered our supplies. Alkin, Caris and I decided that the map leads us first to the cave—so that is our destination. It is about a full days hike from here to the base of the mesas. If all goes well, we will set up camp outside the cave tonight. Tomorrow we will attempt to interpret the map and explore the cave." Everyone picked up their packs. Meldon had brought one of his father's small donkeys to carry his weight—everyone else helped each other. They were soon hiking into the soft light of new morning.

         They ate...(food), and shared a small supply of water Collom had gathered from the well. It wasn't until dark that they saw the silhouette of a large mesa against the night sky. And shortly after were able to set up camp, roast a bit of lamb, and rub their aching feet. Caris told them a quick story around the crackling fire; Collom and Meldon drifted off before she finished. After Caris' story, Daniel and Alkin imagined what the cave might hold: treasures, bats, pitfalls, mazes, streams or secret, undiscovered passageways. Their minds eventually led them to dreams—all five slept soundly.

         Daniel arose in dawn's light. He sat on his own and examined the image of the cave carefully. He memorizing the surrounding notes so that they could better navigate inside. They read like this:

In our songs our rhythm our words

Stand prayers to Yahweh with voices unheard

Our hearts break with Him in daily pieces

And still he breaths in us new graces

Sometimes we sing Him a bright hallelujah

Sometimes we share a His ancient stories

And in the darkness, we know we can trust Him cause darkness and light are alike to Him.

Even in this we breathe His knowledge unending how in wisdom he created all of the earth

She is the one who shared in his structure

And it's through her that we find His worth.

Hallelujah we praise the ancient almighty

Whose song we echo in heart-full praise

Let us come now and bow as creatures before Him

And let His wisdom and songs be raised.

         He had Caris assist him on the second verse.

         "Daniel," Caris reflected, "I really like the line, "our hearts break with Him in daily pieces" something about breaking with Yahweh really stands out to me." Daniel knew it was because of her family. He couldn't imagine how hard being in a loveless home. But he kept this to himself.

"Yea, and it's amazing that 'He still breathes in us new graces,’" Daniel added. "It sounds like the fresh waters to me that we're looking for." He smiled at her. They knew they had found something special together.

Caris and Daniel continued to rehearse each verse as they packed up camp. Collom had brought a torch soaked in oil, which he lit on some smoldering ashes. They ate a few dried pieces of fruit and hiked the short distance to the cave.

         The mesa was the color of rust and the cave was a slit in the mesa's side. "If we didn't have this map, we could have easily wandered by this..." Daniel thought as they walked closer. Daniel slipped in first, with the torch. The rest of the group following one by one. Meldon squeezed in fifth, waiting till the last moment to enjoy the safe, sunlit sky.

         The inside of the cave was fairly large—and would have been completely dark if not for Collom's torch.

         "So...this is it, huh." Meldon wondered, as his eyes adjusted. "I guess this is what I imagined. It is really dark though..." His voice quivered and squeaked a bit.

         "It'll be fine, Meldon." Alkin derided. "This is what we have a map for, right Daniel." But Daniel had already begun walking to the furthest wall. A sliver of light reflected softly on the wall, giving contour to words that had been etched in the stone.

         "Wow," Caris said, right behind Daniel. He had brushed off the dust and was tracing the etchings with his fingers. "Can you read it?" She said, squinting in the murky lighting.

         "Yes," He said excitedly, "I think it's instructions...or a warning...or both?"

         "What does it say?" Collom wondered. Alkin and Meldon had caught up, so that all their faces glowed and squinted together in the torchlight.

"Behold, Thou dost desire truth in the innermost being,

And in the hidden part Thou wilt make me know wisdom.

Purify me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;

Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow...

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;

A broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise..."

         "What does it mean?" Collom asked.

         "It doesn't matter, Collom. It obviously doesn't help us." Alkin added.

         "It sounds interesting though, what do you think Daniel?" Meldon turned to Daniel who held the torch.

         "Well, I'm not sure right away. Let me think." He responded

         "What about the map's instructions?" Caris thought. "Didn't the first verse say 'our hearts break with Him in daily pieces...? I don't know what it means, but this reminds me of "a broken and contrite heart."

         "I think you're on to something Caris." Daniel pondered, "the next line was, 'and still he breaths in us new graces...' and that reminds me of 'purify me...and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow...' maybe this is a piece of the tribe's ancient songs!"

         "Wow. It sounds beautiful," Collom observed.

         "Why would they have this at the entrance of the cave?" Alkin questioned. "It seems depressing."

         "Or honest." Caris jeered.

         "Let's go further in." Daniel suggested. "Whoever wrote this only wrote a piece of it for some reason. I'm sure there's more ahead."

         They all moved forward at Daniel's suggestion. In the left-most corner of the cave, the found low ceiling that allowed them to move into another room. It had a high ceiling, with steep walls. There was a ray of light shining down into the middle of the floor. The all slowly moved toward the dry light.

         "It must be a tiny hole...it's so far up!" noted Meldon, arching backwards.

         "It makes the room so much brighter though," said Caris. She played with the ray of light, moving her hand from dark to light to dark again. "I can see the dust dancing in the light, it's really amazing." Collom came over and played the light-game with her.

         "Let's keep moving guys," Alkin recommend, "I'd rather not be in here, when that light goes dark." They nodded, and continued to explore the room, until Daniel beckoned them further.

         "There's a hallway here!" He said, "I think it takes us further down..."

         "Down?" Meldon gulped. "I didn't think we were going down."

         "You can hold mommy's hand if you'd like," Alkin pointed to Caris.

         "He's fine, Alkin." Caris said. "Aren't you Meldon?" She looked at him.

         He smiled. "I think so...I just can’t help talking my thoughts out loud." He said

         "No kidding," added Alkin.

         "I wouldn't talk if I were you, Alkin" Caris retorted, "Your mouth has gotten you in trouble more than once."

         "Come on' everyone, let's keep going!" Daniel's voice echoed from yards down the tunnel. They all bumbled ahead—Meldon carrying the rear. They trekked forward in quiet—their rhythm of scrapes and clomps being the only sounds. The hallway was getting tighter and tighter, until they had to walk with their backs scrunched down. This made them all very uncomfortable. It was a long while before anyone said anything. Alkin spoke up first.

         "I thought you had said there would be more, Daniel." He complained. "How do we know we're going anywhere important? This could be the wrong cave for all we know."

         "The wrong cave?" Meldon shuttered, "But we've already gone so far...if this is wrong..."

         "We could be lost." Collom finished his sentence.

         "We're not lost," Caris claimed, "We have been going one direction the whole time. So when we leave, we can just head back the same way..."

         "Did anyone see this?" Meldon screeched. He was tracing the walls and ceilings with his fingers. Caris and Collom touched them too.

         "There just rough," Alkin balked, "what's the big deal."

         "No, it's not just rough..." Caris observed, "Meldon is on to something. Daniel, come here with your torch!" Daniel squeezed through Collom and brought the light close to the wall. "Oh my," Caris drew a breath.

         "Look!" Collom gasped.

         "Does anyone have another torch? We need more light." Daniel ordered.

         "I have some kindling," Collom suggested. They ignited it with the torch, and soon the whole cave was lit brightly. The flames danced, and the hallway was covered entirely with exquisite and beautiful etchings similar to the entrance.

         "We've been walking over these carvings the whole time?" Meldon wondered.

         "Yes!" Daniel exclaimed, "Remember the map, 'in our songs our rhythm our words, stand prayers to Yahweh with voices unheard" These are the prayers of the ancient tribe. They are unheard, because they carved them in stone!

         "It's amazing." Caris said. They all were filled with wonder. "And remember, 'And in the darkness, we know we can trust Him cause darkness and light are alike to Him.' We've been hiking through this dark, uncomfortable cave...not knowing the whole time we were surrounded by these prayers."

         "I've never imagined anything like this." Meldon added, "The elder council will never believe it."

         "They never believe anything," Alkin added.

         "Hey everyone! I found the prayer from the entrance! The words are exactly the same...but the whole song is here!" said Collom. They all stood back reading the ancient words in flickering light.

Psalm 51

For the choir director.

A Pslam of David,

When Nathan the prophet came to him,

After he had tone in to Bathsheba.

Be gracious to me, O God, according to Thy loving-kindness;

According to the greatness of Thy compassion blot out my transgressions.

Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,

And cleanse me from my sin.

For I know my transgressions,

And my sin is ever before me.

Against Thee, Thee only, I have sinned,

And done what is evil in Thy sight,

 So that Thou art justified when Thou dost speak,

And blameless when Thou dost judge.

 Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity,

And in sin my mother conceived me.

Behold, Thou does desire truth in the innermost being,

And in the hidden part Thou will make me know wisdom.

Purify me with hyssop, and I shall be clean:

Wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.

Make me to hear joy and gladness,

Let the bones which Thou hast broken rejoice.

Hide Thy face from my sins,

And blot out my iniquities.

Create in me a clean heart, O God,

And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

 Do not cast me away from Thy presence,

And do not take Thy Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of Thy salvation,

And sustain me with a willing spirit.

Then I will teach transgressor Thy ways,

And sinners will be converted to Thee.

Deliver me from blood guiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation:

Then my tongue will joyfully sing of They righteousness.

O Lord, open my lips,

That my mouth may declare Thy praise.

For Thou doest not delight in sacrifice,

Otherwise I would give it;

Thou art not please with burnt offering.

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;

a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.

By Thy favor do good to Zion;

Build the walls of Jerusalem.

Then Thou wilt delight in righteous sacrifices,

in burnt offering and whole burnt offering;

Then young bulls will be offered on Thine alter.

         "He is full of so much passion and remorse. I don't understand all of it, but it makes so much more sense as a whole," said Daniel.

         "Who do you think 'David' is?" Collom wondered. "Did he write it?"

         "Of course David wrote it...it says it's 'a psalm of David'," Alkin stated.

         "I can't imagine anyone writing something so beautiful," said Caris.

          "What is a psalm?" Collom asked.

         "It's an ancient word for song or poem.” commented Meldon, “The elders still talk about them once in a while, though I rarely hear them ever sing or recite anything like David's."

         Daniel remembered his mother's note, "My mother wrote me a note about interpreting

the map's words." He unrolled so they could all see, she said, 'what does this tell me about Yahweh? Remember, this is Yahweh's story that He wrote to His tribe. He was revealing Himself to them. Since you have Yahweh's Spirit, you can understand His heart in history.' She's pretty wise. Let's look at what this tells us about Yahweh..."

         "It says 'Thy loving-kindness; Thy compassion; Thou art justified," Said Collom. "Yahweh must be loving and fair."

         "And that ‘Thou does desire truth; Thou will make me know wisdom," Observed Caris. "He must desire honesty and be very wise. And it seems like 'Thou hast broken', means that He is causing David to experience this brokenness.

         "These phrases, 'Thy presence; Thy Holy Spirit; Thy salvation; Thy ways; Thy righteousness; Thy praise'," noted Meldon, "These are words I've heard from the elders, but never with such fervency and fire. I can see why He felt broken."

         "And it ends with, 'Thou wilt not despise; Thy favor; Thou wilt delight; Thine alter'," Added Alkin. "What could Yahweh despise in David?" They all paused, gathering the dynamic words of the song in their heart.

         "Do you think his brokenness had to do with him 'going in to Bathsheba'?" Alkin wondered. "Who is she?"

         "And who is Nathan?" Daniel asked, "It seems like this brokenness song came after David had 'gone in to Bathsheba' and then 'Nathan the prophet came to him'."

         "Well," Alkin joked, "What else could happen between a man and a woman?"

         "He seems pretty broken about it after Nathan came." Collom noted. "I think that is what the song is about—whatever happened between Bathsheba and David—He must be talking to Yahweh about it."

         "It seems like he feels really bad," said Alkin. "Like he is sucked dry, with no water to cool his thirst."

         "My mother's note says to, 'Remember what this tells me about Yahweh's story with the ancient tribe." Daniel proposed. "Maybe Yahweh had already taught them to come to Him when they've offended him. David says he needs to be 'washed', 'cleansed', 'purified with hyssop' and that he has 'done

what is evil in Yahweh's sight'. But it seems like David can't clean himself."

         "I think you're right, Daniel," Caris added, "David keeps asking Yahweh to clean him. He

says, 'deliver me from blood guiltiness, O God, Thou God of my salvation.’ There must have been some sort of standard that David broke...he feels guilty even down to his blood! He thinks he has personally offended Yahweh...he seems really scared and needy. "

         "Yea, it is really personal.” noted Daniel, “Even in the part about sacrifice at the end, it is about David's 'broken and contrite heart'. I guess Yahweh wanted his tribe to come to Him when they offended him."

         "But it seems like they can and do come because He will clean them!" Meldon spurted out, surprised at his own excitement. "All I mean, is that they wouldn't have come to Yahweh unless He could do something about their offense—unless they could be reconnected with Him. Otherwise they would just hide."

         "Good insight, Meldon." Caris affirmed, "That is amazing."

         "Do you think Yahweh really wanted them to come to Him if they personally offended him?" Alkin timidly asked.

         "I think so, Alkin." Daniel affirmed, "David says that Yahweh 'dost desire truth in the innermost being, and in the hidden part Thou will make me know wisdom." If Yahweh desires truth, I think it means he wants transparency—like the openness between best friends."

         "But Yahweh is the one David offended!" Collom said, "How could he be transparent with Yahweh when David knows he offended Yahweh?"

         "Because since he offended Yahweh, Yahweh is the only one who can deal with it. If you hurt your friend, you need to go to your friend for forgiveness, right? No one else can do it." Caris spoke from deep thought, "I think it's the same with Yahweh. Because He is the one who is offended, then He is the only one who can 'create in me a clean heart...and renew a steadfast spirit within me...sustain me with a willing spirit...deliver me from blood guiltiness, O God.’ David wants to have Yahweh forgive Him, so they can enjoy a good relationship again." Alkin, Meldon and Collom at soaked in her thoughts. Daniel and Caris just smiled, feeling like Yahweh was a familiar friend to them already. The ancient song hung in the air and unheard words sang in their hearts.

         "This whole hall way is filled with these songs! I can't even imagine how many amazing things each of them says." said Daniel.

         "Neither can I." gasped Meldon. "I wish the elders could read these."

         "Look," Caris said, "The next song is right here, it says, 'Psalm 52'...we must have already trekked through fifty songs! I wonder how many more there are?"

         "Well, not to ruin the moment," sobered Alkin, "but this doesn't mean we're any closer to fresh water, or to finding a way out. The song is nice, but it isn't really helping us get further."

         "Does the map have any suggestions about what to do from here?" Meldon asked.

         "No," Daniel answered, "It only gave us the ancient tribes notes at the beginning. I think we have to go ahead and see what Yahweh brings." Daniel grabbed the torch and they all moved forward, walking over songs after song of the ancient tribe. Daniel began to notice that there were large divisions between song 72 and 73, and further on in song 89 and 90, then in 106 and 107. "I wonder if these songs are divided into sections?" He pondered to himself, "that would make sense...then each section could tell a story or cover a certain topic. I wonder if they all tell the story of Yahweh and the ancient tribe?" He thought this was so wonderful—they could tell Yahweh's story through songs. "Maybe I'll write a song myself someday, about what Yahweh has done in my families' life." The thought made him smile. He thought about his mother's last note, 'What part of this can I carry with me?' There was so much to consider from their conversation—but in the end, he carried 'Behold, Thou does desire truth in the innermost being, and in the hidden part Thou will make me know wisdom." He started to say the verse in his heart, over and over again. He glanced back and saw that Caris was in deep thought, too.

         Daniel stopped and turned to share his thoughts with everyone, but Meldon didn't see.

This knocked the whole group forward. They fell over each other. The rocks gave way under Collom's right arm—causing a terrible ruckus. Collom grabbed Daniel as he fell. Daniel reached for Caris. Caris pulled in Alkin. And Alkin yanked Meldon. Meldon screamed. They all tripped, and slipped, and skidded down a hole of smooth stone. They howled, terrified of their speed, and completely unable to stop themselves. It was like a tight, smooth, tube-way, that spun them until they were all dizzy, and then kept going and going...always further than they imagined it could. It seemed an unbelievable length until they hit an open air free fall. They splashed at the bottom into a deep pool.
Chapter 6

The Room of Wisdom

         Daniel surfaced in a deep breath and saw Caris and Collom beside him. Alkin surface a second later. And Daniel heard a high pitched wail from a hole in the ceiling—Meldon shot out and landed safely in the water next to Alkin. They all helped each other to the black sand shore, near the wall of the cave. Once they recovered and shook the water out of their ears, they stopped. They were silenced at the view, and drew wondrous breaths.

         "Water!" Meldon shouted, "Look everyone!"

         "We all saw it Meldon!" Alkin exclaimed, squeezing out his clothes.  "We fell in it."

         "This is amazing!" Collom said, "I never have seen anything so beautiful!"

         "The walls are huge," Caris opened both her arms to mimic its size.

         "And it must be almost a half mile across!" added Daniel. He squinted his eyes, and

could see the dark water lapping against the far shore.

         "We'll be stuck in here forever." Meldon said, in exhausted panic.

         "We're all pretty scraped and bruised, too" Caris included.

         "At least we have water," Collom smiled, "And lots of it."

          "Too bad we can't do anything with it." Alkin groused, "Rather than die of dehydration,

we'll starve!"

         "Ohh..." Meldon groaned, filled with worry.

         "We won't be stuck forever," Caris explained, "There's a reason we can see without the

torch in here. There is light somewhere, and where there is light, there is an exit."

         "Look. Everyone, let's fill our water jugs first. Then we'll decide what to do." Daniel

instructed. They all went to work filling their jugs, and drinking till their stomachs hurt. This put them in a much better mood altogether. None of them said, but they all wondered about how they would ever get all this water to their tribe. This problem was not the first they needed to tackle.

         After this Daniel proposed, "I have an idea. It looks like the water is pretty shallow on the far end of the lake. Why don't we tread through the shallow water as best we can and see if we can make it to the far side. That way, we can gain some perspective, and if it doesn't work, we can just camp here for the night. And, as Alkin observed, at least we won't die of thirst." He laughed.

         They all moved forward with whatever leftovers they had after their fall—which was very little. As they sloshed through the low waters, Meldon spied something on the far shore. "Look everyone! There are scrolls over there!" He pointed excitedly, and they all picked up the pace. In a few minutes they reached the scrolls—there were hundreds of them! The shore they arrived at was a bit lighter, and it was very easy to see the words in the cave's natural light.

Yahweh possessed me at the beginning of His way,

Before His works of old

From everlasting I was established

From the beginning, from the earliest times of the earth.

When there were not depths I was brought forth,

When there we not springs abounding with water.

Before the mountains were settled,

Before the hills I was brought forth;

While He had not yet made the earth and the fields,

 Nor the first dust of the world.

When He established the heavens, I was there,

When He inscribed a circle on the face of the deep,

When He made firm the skies above,

When the springs of the deep became fixed,

When He set for the sea it boundary,

So that the water should not transgress His command,

When He marked out the foundations of the earth;

Then I was beside Him, as a master workman;

And I was daily His delight,

Rejoicing always before Him,

Rejoicing in the worked, His earth,

And having my delight in the sons of men.

Now therefore, O sons, listen to me,

For blessed are they who keep my ways.

Heed instruction and be wise,

And do not neglect it.

Blessed is the man who listens to me,

Watching daily at my gates,

Waiting at my doorposts.

For he who finds me finds life,

And obtains favor form Yahweh.

But he who sins again me injures himself;

All those who hate me love death.

         "Wow, this one is different!" Daniel said. "It still sounds like a song, though."

         "Who are they talking about?" Meldon wondered, "I get that Yahweh 'possessed' someone...but who was it?"

         "Yea, it seems more like a riddle," said Caris. "But it definitely has to do with the beginning of the world."

         "How do you know that?" Alkin questioned.

         "Because, Alkin, look at the words: it says 'the beginning' two times, 'before' three times, 'when there were not' twice, and says 'of old', 'everlasting' and 'the earliest times of the earth' once. It is obvious that whoever this is, there were around when Yahweh created the earth."

         "Yahweh created the earth?" Meldon wondered, "I never thought of it like this, so delicate and powerful."

         "Yes, we can tell it was Yahweh creating because the beginning says 'Yahweh possessed me at the beginning of His way' and then later says that whomever was there, was around when Yahweh 'He had not yet made the earth; He established; He inscribed; He made; He set; He marked." Whoever this is, they were around along time ago. They are even more ancient than the tribe who wrote this." They all thought for awhile about how long ago all this happened.

         "Who could be around before the world was created?" bursted Alkin. "That doesn't make any sense. There can't be people before the earth."

         "Well, maybe it's not about a person," suggested Caris. "What do you mean?" wondered Collom.      "Well, maybe it's someone or something Yahweh would have used when He created."

         "This is impossible to understand..." Meldon complained, "I think my head is going to

explode."

         "I don’t think..." Daniel said, "The ancient tribe wouldn't have written it down if they thought it was impossible to understand."

         "Well, I'm stumped." Said Alkin.

         "I am too," said Caris.

         "Me too," said Collom and Meldon.

         "I have one more clue." Said Daniel, “Remember the song from the map, Caris...

Even in this we breathe His knowledge unending

how in wisdom he created all of the earth

she is the one who shared in his structure

and it's through her that we find His worth.

         “I think that the one who created with Yahweh is ‘Wisdom”

         “What do you mean?” Collom thought.

         “I think it means that Yahweh created the earth with ‘Wisdom’.” Caris exclaimed. “Like every inch of it. The structure of the mountains. The bright skies. The rolling hills. The fields. The springs. Even the dust. It was all created by Yahweh using ‘Wisdom’”

         “So everything is infused with Yahweh’s wisdom?” Meldon asked.

         “I think that is what it is saying.” Daniel reflected.

         “Does that mean that these caves and the lake is infused with His wisdom.”

         “I guess so.” affirmed Caris.

         “Does that mean that we are infused with His wisdom too?” Alkin added a profound point.

         “I don’t feel very wise.” Collom exclaimed.

         “I don’t think he means that, Collom” Daniel said, “I think he means our structure, and our world, was put together in wisdom. So it has the mark of God’s wonderful skill and understanding in all of it.”

         “It doesn’t make you smart,” joked Alkin. “It just means that you are created by someone smart.”

         “Everything I look at is now so profound!” Meldon shouted, “Everything has Yahweh’s wisdom in it!”  His voice reverberated off the cavern’s wall. They laughed at his excitement, but knew he was right.

         “ Ah, children!” A gruff voice broke the concentration of the five, “You are doing well! Very well indeed!” All five of them turned around to see a thin, drawn-faced man, wearing a long, grey garment, wrapped in a magenta belt. He had worn sandals on his feet.  He had a sparse, white beard, and wrinkles that made his face seem like it was always smiling. “Children, children. How did you get down here? And how are you able to understand the ancient words? That takes a lot of skill.” He was a tall man, and leaned on his staff, and looked them each in the eye with a “humph!” Daniel spoke first.

         “Sir, my father gave me an ancient map, that he said leads to fresh water. He passed away recently, and out tribes drought is getting worse. So my friends and I set out on this adventure to find fresh water, following this map. We were walking through the hallway of songs, when the rocks gave way, and we found ourselves down here.”

         “Yes, hah! You stumbled upon the center of the earth,” He laughed to himself.

         “The center of the earth!” Meldon whispered, “I thought we fell far!”

         “Is this really the center of the earth, sir?” Caris question him.

         “Oh, no.” he said. “That is just what I call it. It is my room of wisdom. And you have found its treasures.”

         “How do you know about these scrolls?” Threatened Alkin, “We found these scrolls and this water through Daniel’s map!”

         “Oh, these!” He laughed again at his impertinence. “These have been here longer than I. They are very old. As old as the rocks, I’d say!”

         “Yes, I think so,” Daniel added, “for these rocks and this whole cavern was formed by Yahweh in wisdom.”

         “Mighty insight, for a little one.” The man gestured to Daniel, and talked to the other four. “He must be the leader.”

         “So what if he is!” Boasted Caris. “At least we have a leader—who are you? Just wandering around in a cave by yourself. That’s pretty suspicious!”

         “And the little lady can bark.” He said to the other four. Then turned and stared here in the eyes. “My child, you are a wonderfully brave creature.” Caris didn’t know whether to attack or blush. He continued, “My little friends, I am a prophet of the northern tribes. They have banished me for saying things—certain things pertaining to your map—and now I wander between the caves and the tribe. My only desire, and this I seek, is to tell forth all that Yahweh wants to say to His people!”

         “So you are a vagrant!” blamed Alkin. Who was immediately ignored.

         “Are you really homeless?” Asked Collom, with an air of concern.

         “I confess. I am a stranger and an exile here on earth. I look for a better country” He said, “but there is another who had nowhere to lay his head, and I make my home with him.”

         “What do you mean?” scoffed Alkin.

         “I think he means he serves Yahweh.” Caris said

         “Is that what you mean, sir?” Asked Daniel

         “With all my heart.” He admitted, “I wander in deserts and mountains and caves and holes in the ground.” And with this, he got on his knees. “Children, I have come to give you a gift.”

         “Really!” piped Meldon

         “Wow!” said Collom and Caris. Daniel remained attentive, and Alkin went silent.

The prophet cupped his hand and said, “In here is something for the five of you. It is extremely precious, and cannot be taken away once it is received.”

         “That sounds nice,” said Collom and Meldon.

         “What is it?” asked Caris.

         All of them gathered closed to his clasped fingers. He breathed softly on his hands. Everyone got very quiet. Now, there is only one for all of you, so don’t be greedy.” he laughed. At this, he opened his hands wide. They all stared, and saw nothing but his palms.

         “What was that?” Alkin laughed.

         “I’m confused.” Said Meldon.

         “That, Children” explained the prophet, “Is the gift of faith.”

         “I didn’t see anything.” Alkin and Collom said.

         “Faith is not something you can see” stated the prophet

         “Why there wasn’t anything in there?” Asked Meldon.

         “There was, child, there was much.”

         “What do you mean?” Caris wondered

         “Faith is something you cannot see or hear or touch.” He said softly, “It is only something you can receive! And it is something you have already explored. Daniel, didn’t you trust Yahweh to start this journey? And Caris, didn’t you trust Daniel’s words about Yahweh? And Alkin, didn’t you experience Yahweh in the Psalm you read? And Collom and Meldon, haven’t you trusted your friends throughout this adventure? And they all looked around, still expected to see something. But still it was ordinary them. “You have all had faith in each other already!” He laughed, “And you have begun to have faith in Yahweh, haven’t you.” Daniel and Caris nodded, but Meldon, Collom and especially Alkin still looked sufficiently confused.

         “But if we already had faith, then you didn’t give us anything.” said Caris.

         “Oh, but I have.” the prophet said with a smile. “Now you know you have faith. You hadn’t thought of it before this, had you?”

         Caris smiled. “No. I hadn’t...thank you. I guess.” She laughed a bit, and Daniel did too.

         “I still feel confused,” Meldon whined.

         “Me too,” Added Collom.

         “You three will understand in time. Especially you Alkin. You have a lot to think over, don’t you?”

         “I don’t know what you’re getting at.” He said, “I think I’m just fine.”

         “You are, child.” He nodded, “but you still have a lot to think over. It’ll come.” He now turned to all of them. “For the time, children, let me show you one thing about these scrolls. Then we must be going.”

         “Going where?” Asked Meldon.

         “Wait, child. You are full of questions. I will tell you soon.”

         Daniel gave Meldon a comforting look, and Caris smiled at him—putting his fears to rest for a bit. The Prophet went on to teach them one very important thing about the scrolls. “If you were able to climb to the top of this cave and look down—which you can’t so don’t try. You would see these scrolls are all laid out in a certain order. In fact, all the scrolls from the ancient tribe are laid out in a specific order, in order to teach something specific to their tribe. And, if you could get all the scrolls, from all the locations on the map, and put them in order—they would tell one grand story about Yahweh and His tribe.” The group nodded, getting a little bit more of the big picture. “If you understand the larger story of Yahweh, you can put the scroll in the right part of the story. This will help you to understand what the story is about, who wrote the story, and why they wrote it. Without these three things, you could make any sort of meaning you wanted out of these scrolls. But if you did this, their teaching would be of no help to you. Do you all understand how important it is to know the big story?” They nodded again. “Good.” He smiled.

         “So what part of the story is room of wisdom?” Meldon asked

“Good question, little one.” He said, “These scrolls make up a wonderful genre called “Wisdom”

         “That’s what Yahweh used to create the world!” piped in Collom.

“Right you are, Collom. There are really four books in this room, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Job and Song of Solomon—and five, if you include the hallway of songs that you fell from. I cannot explain all of them for now. But let it suffice to say that the room of wisdom helped the ancient tribe, and can help us, to learn to live wisely and skillfully within God’s world. That is why I called it the center of the world!” He laughed. “It’s a little joke of mine. Since everything about wisdom for life starts in the basics here—it is really the center of everything.” The group smiled at his silly connection, but they understood that this was really a holy place.

         “So, this is what the tribe read to learn to live well in the world?” Daniel attempted to summarize the Prophet.

         “Very, very true, little one.” He smiled, and looked at the group, “No wonder you’ve chosen this boy to lead.” Caris smiled at Daniel, and Alkin rolled his eyes. The Prophet added one more thing.

         “So in context of the genre, this section you read, it is about Wisdom being used to form the entire world. This is what the ancient tribe knew about Yahweh—and so they thought if they could grow in relationship with Wisdom, they would know Him better and learn to live in His world. Pretty smart people, right children!” The smiled. “So when I heard Meldon exclaiming about Yahweh’s wisdom being everywhere...I knew you were right on track. I had to come visit you.”

         “Thanks” Meldon bashfully said. “I was excited.”

         “So now I will take you to my home.” He announced definitively.

         “I thought you said you were homeless?” Said Alkin.

         “I think that is what you said, child, not I.” He said with a wise look in his eye. Alkin kept his mouth shut from then on. They followed him and jumped a few large dark rocks until the met a small stream flowing from the cave. In it there was a little wooden boat with oars and a lantern. “There is enough room for five—but since you are children, I can fit all of us.” They all stepped with questionable looks into the creaking vessel.  “It’s not much.” He smiled, “but it holds great treasures. Like jars of clay!” he laughed to himself. “And it’s better than staying in the cave, right Meldon?” Meldon awkwardly nodded, and holding onto the wood corner for dear life. It looked like the waterway snaked forwards towards some sort of exit. Everyone but Daniel and Caris felt a bit uneasy, rocking back and forth, and floating down the stream with a prophet who talks to himself. Their boat ride echoed down the water chamber. 

         “Where do you live?” Daniel asked the prophet as he lifted the great oars, “Oh, I live in the cliffs by the northern tribe.”

         “Do those happen to be the cliffs on my map?” He asked with wonder.

         “They are the same.” smiled the prophet. “Is it much of a surprise to you that we ran into each other?” He asked

         “I think I’ve stopped believing in surprises.” Daniel smiled.

         “That’s my boy!” Laughed the prophet. “Onward!” He shouted to the cavern. They all looked forward to see an exit to the cave.

         “Wow!” said Collom, “We’re safe!”

         Meldon turned to Alkin and said, “Funny, you think that the water would flow into the cave, not out of it.”  Alkin nodded distractedly. “And that we would really have to row our way out of here. But we don’t, the water from the room of wisdom is carrying us out into the world!”

         “That’s great, Meldon.” Alkin dully responded. But Meldon was caught up in his own observations.

         “Maybe we really were at the center of the world?” Meldon wondered to the winds that brushed his face. They floated through the exit onto a stream that carved through a great canyon. Immense cliff grew on every side of them—higher than any could see. Breathless sounds of awe and wonder came out as they observed the fertile land in the canyon and stretched their eyes to see the cliffs-tips.

         “This is where you live?” Caris said excitedly, “It is gorgeous.”

         “This is amazing.” Daniel agreed.

         “We will be there shortly.” the prophet explained.

Chapter 7

The Prophet’s Home

         The little boat pulled into a small eddy in the stream. They all got out carefully, and the prophet, who got out last, tied the boat to a small branch to anchor. He grabbed his staff and beckoned them toward his door. They had to hop and dance around small dry bushes, and sand, where it looked like the water and moved up and down over seasons. There was a serene smoothness about the entrance, and his home. The walked into a low cave, covered with a leather door, and they saw a meager home. “He might as well be homeless,” thought Daniel, but kept his observation to himself. There was a small, dry fire, carved into the wall of the cave. There was also a mat against the far wall, and some scrolls; “he must sleep there,” thought Daniel. The prophet pulled up a few stones and logs for each of them to sit on as they gathered around the fire. Collom helped him light the wood, and blow until the flames were hot. The group began to talk, and relax in the prophet’s small cave. He invited Alkin outside—which took some coaxing— and brought some sort of short spear. They returned a few minutes later with seven or eight fish. “I caught the last two!” boasted Alkin. Everyone was very excited, and in a short bit they had cooked the fish and were filled to the brim. The prophet offered some sweet crackers he had baked the day before—which was a perfect addition to their already full stomachs.

         Before bed they talked, and told stories. The Prophet shared some really amazing ones—ones they had never heard before. The ones that struck Daniel were about the son of Yahweh who came. The Prophet talked about him like he was a close friend—they all were very curious to find out more about Yahweh’s son. At dusk the Prophet took Daniel out on his own. They hiked a short way past his home, and up the cliff-edges. The view overlooked a large amount of tents and wooden buildings, “This looks like a city!” He thought.

         “This is the northern tribe.” The Prophet explained. “It is because of their relationship with your tribe that you do not have water now. I wanted you to see them in the peaceful evening—because tomorrow we will go there, and it will be like chaos.”

         “What do you mean we will go there?” Daniel wondered

         “The next destination on your map, it’s a tribe, isn’t it”

         “Yes.” Daniel affirmed, “But...I thought.”

         “All of us will go. It has been a long time since I have been home.” He said with a deep, long, look in his eyes. “I know you just arrived at my home. But there isn’t much time for your tribe. We must attempt to resolve our differences with them.” The Prophet sighed.

         “Okay,” Daniel said, and the wondered, “How is it that you know about the map and the images?”

         “Ah, child.” He smiled, “You pick up on a lot. Your father wasn’t the only one with a map. Everyone has been given a map like his. Some people have lost theirs, some have thrown them away. I was given one by my family years ago. But, when I spoke about it, my family was killed. And my map was lost.” Daniel felt the deep sorrow in his voice. “Luckily, I had put much of it to memory. I was able to visit the center of the earth, and enjoyed the hall of songs. I also found other scrolls of the ancient tribe in these cliffs—but we don’t have time to look at all of them. They are beautiful though.”

         “What are they like?” Daniel wondered.

         “Oh, unlike anything you’ve ever read.” He reflected, “There are ancient stories of Yahweh first making the tribe. And then coming to one of them and making a promise to be faithful to them forever. Their are amazing stories of battles. Of miracles. Of horrible leaders. And of faithful prophets. Some are narratives- which are historical stories that have been written down to teach Yahweh to future generations. Some are Law—which are commandments Yahweh has given for the way His people are to living in relationship with Him. Some are letters—which are written to specific people, teaching them something specific about Yahweh and their tribe.  Some are prophesy—written by ancient people like me who forth-tell the word of God to specific people in the ancient world. Some are Songs or Poems—like what you read in the hall of songs. And others are Wisdom—which is told in a variety of ways, in little sayings called proverbs, in a conversations called a theodicy,  in reflections and even in poetry. There is a last one, which I bet you may encounter later. It is called apocalyptic—meaning it is a letter or prophesy or revelation that teaches about Yahweh and the end of the world!” Daniel’s eyes were glazed at how many scrolls there were, and of such variety. “Oh my, child there is so much Yahweh has done—and even more than what has been written. It will take your life to explore it all. But for now, we will visit the tribe. Tomorrow, Yahweh will give us a great gift.”

         “How do you know?” Daniel asked

         “Because, whenever Yahweh asks us to do something. It will always be good no matter how scary it is.” Daniel nodded at how personal his friendship was with Yahweh.

         “You trust Yahweh so much.” Daniel said. “I don’t know if I can trust Him like you do.”

         The prophet laughed, “Oh, Daniel. You don’t have to trust Him as much as I do. Only I have to do that. You only have to trust Him as much as you do. He has given you enough already!” Daniel smiled. He had been trusting Yahweh, maybe that gift of faith really did help him somehow?

         “Can I ask you one last thing?” Daniel said. The prophet nodded. “Are you scared to see the tribe, since they killed your family?”

         The prophet’s voice saddened, “Yes, Daniel. I am very much afraid. But I am afraid of one thing more.”

         “What?” wondered Daniel.

         “Not listening to Yahweh when He tells me to go.” The prophet smiled, “I would rather be with Him in the worst, the be alone in the best.” Daniel nodded, he really would like to trust Yahweh like that. But he remembered that Yahweh had given him enough for now. They made the short trek back to the prophet’s home, and all of them slept hard and quick after their long day. It was a restful sleep for them all, knowing their slept in a prophet’s home—a prophet of Yahweh.
Chapter 8

The Northern Tribe

         The group awoke and packed quickly. Daniel filled Caris in on the conversation between him and the prophet from the night before. They hiked along the trail that Daniel had walked last night. The prophet stayed in the back—his thoughts kept him quiet. Daniel led the group, and they talked excitedly until they caught sight of the tribe below. The sight was quite different than the night before. The Prophet explained that the tribe was in the midst of a celebration.  Unfamiliar music and shouts floated over from the city. Colors and clothes blurred together with tents. Some groups of people were dancing together. There were fires, and amazing flavors and smells that met their nostrils. They picked up the pace, all a bit excited to see what the festival was about. They soon made it to the outside, and walked slowly into the crowds. “Stay together.” Daniel commanded. And they did.

         They wove in-between a thousand sights.  Alkin saw a sword-swallower. Meldon saw a fire breather. Collom watch a man walk across coals. And Caris was caught up in the foreign clothes and styles the women wore. Daniel kept his eyes out for any sort of clue that Yahweh had for them. And the Prophet remained in quiet thought.

         As they neared the center of town. Booths of food and drinks met them. A strange mix of spices, fruits, vegetables, meats and wines spun into fabrics of flavors and sights. Soon, at the very center, they were came to a large stage, on which they present shows, and had popular voices speak to the tribe about their ways. Important men and women gathered around, shouting and applauding the speakers, and throwing money at them. One man stumbled over his words, and said something silly, and he was dragged off stage, and thrown into the mud. Daniel watched in awe at the continual outpouring of new ideas and stories from the stage—it was overwhelming to him. He looked back at the others, and they too were a confused and overwhelmed at the energetic speeches and the wealthy listeners. It was a moment later that Daniel noticed the Prophet was missing. “Where was he? Did they loose him in the crowds?” But Caris grabbed his attention.

         “Look!” She shouted, pointing to the large stage. “Our friend...” The prophet slowly made his way onto the stage. People already began to ridicule his tattered cloak and old sash. “Who wears sandals nowadays!” One of the lauding shouted. The crowd laughed at the Prophet, and cajoled him to speak, if he knew how.  The prophet closed his eyes, and lead steadily on his staff. He took a deep breath, and began:

But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish in order that I may gain Christ, and maybe found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from Yahweh on the basis of faith, that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained it, or have already become perfect, but I press on in order that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.

The crowd was silenced at these passionate words, spoken with humility and authority. “

         “He must have lost all things!” One shouted, “Look how poor he is!”

         “Yah!” Said another, “Maybe he lost his mind!” The crowd laughed. They began to jeer at him, making fun of his words.

         “He is boring!” shouted one

         “Who wants to suffer!” shouted another.

         “Get him off the stage!” yelled a lady.

         “No one cares about your Christ!”

         But the Prophet stood still and spoke again:

Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing; so that also at the revelation of His glory, you may rejoice with exultation. If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. By no means let any of you suffer as a murder, or their, or evil-doer, or a trouble meddler; but if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not feel ashamed, but in that name let him glorify God. For it is time for the judgment to begin with the house-hold of God; and if it beings with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And if it is with difficulty that the righteous is saved, what will become of the godless man and the sinner? Therefore, let those also who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right...

As he was finishing, the crowd began to pick up rocks from the ground and throw them at the Prophet. He was helpless to defend himself.

         “He’s not moving!’ Caris shouted, “We have to help him!”

         “I don’t know,” Meldon shuttered, “Those people are pretty mean.”

         “Their aim isn’t too good!” Alkin said, as an intoxicated man clocked a person nearby.

         “I’m going up there!” Daniel said, “Follow me”

         Caris pulled Meldon saying, “He just saved us yesterday, and you’re letting him get pelted!” Meldon followed quickly after them.

         Once onstage, the group froze. People stared at them, and a few kept throwing rocks at the Prophet—who was on his knees with bruises.

         “You must stop!” Commanded Daniel “People of the northern tribes! Stop!” They halted to listen to him. And he kneeled next to the Prophet. “I know those words were from the scrolls. Help me tell them!” the Prophet whispered shortly to Daniel. The crowd talked in complaint, and the other four stood awkwardly to the side.

         Daniel stood and proclaimed, “People of the northern tribes. This man whom you are hurting is a prophet of Yahweh. Years ago, his family shared the contents of a map with you, that told where to find fresh water. In your doubts, your fears, your unbelief, you put his family to death—thinking they were deceived and would lead the tribe astray.  But it is you who have gone astray! Look at you today. You are wasting time and abusing entertainment, when Yahweh is here and wants you to know Him. And you are dying of drought without Him.

         This prophet is our friend. He saved us yesterday. Took us into his home, fed us and kept us safe. And now you are stoning him without even caring about a word He says. It is His words that would give you fresh water, but you are killing him instead—just like you did his family. And you have stoned the one who would lead you to life.

         The words he spoke. These are from letters that Yahweh has given. An ancient tribe wrote these down in letters (epistles) to explain the ways of fresh water to the ancient communities. And these would bring fresh water to us if we listened and understood the truth of Yahweh and His son! This prophet has entrusted his life to a faithful creator...yet who have you entrusted your lives to?”

         Daniel stood heaving in front of a now silence crowd. They had never seen a young man speak with such passion and zeal. The other four slowly scooted behind Daniel in support.

         “Where are you from, boy?” Shouted one

         “Yes, where?” shouted another.

         “We are from the southern tribe; the tribe that you cut off from water so many years ago. Our people are dying too. We have nothing. And our families are sick. My friends and I set out in search of water, and it has led us here.”

         “These words you speak of,” Shouted one, “Where did you say you got them?”

         “We used a map my father gave us. And it has led us here.” Daniel explained.

         “Does your map look like this?” Another asked, holding up a rolled parchment similar to Daniel’s.

         “Or like this?” Shouted another, holding up an identical parchment.

         “Or this.”

         “Or this.” shouted four or five other voices. They passed one forward to Daniel, and after unrolling, noticed that it was an exact match of his father’s map.

         “Where did you get this?” Daniel wondered.

         “From my father,” shouted a man.

         “From my mother,” shouted another. Hundreds of voices echoed back similarly.

         “Why have you not used this maps and gone to find fresh water?” He shouted back to them. They paused, speechless.

         “I didn’t realize it actually meant anything!” One shouted.

         “I thought it was a parallel to our tribe” Said another.

         “I didn’t really like my mother, so I just forgot about it” Laughed another

         “My father told me it was just a story, and the water didn’t exist.”

         “Who would foster such lies?” Daniel said, “Why do you all believe such foolish things?”

         “I think they came from the southern tribe!” One man remembered.

         “Yes,” said another, “Your elder council taught our parents long ago!”

         “It was this that caused our tribes to divide!” Another admitted. Daniel was now the speechless one among them. He looked back at his friends, and they were just as surprised as him. Caris stepped up.

         “People of the northern tribes. It looks like we have all been equally deceived! Our parents and grandparents made an awful decision to spread lies to yours, and then to leave you behind. And you have lived under their lies for so long—you’ve forgotten you’re deceived! And our tribe has lived without water; water that you didn’t even know existed. We are all equally lost here. I suggest that we listen to this prophet, throw off the old lies, and seek the fresh water together!”

         The crowd slowly murmured, then began to applaud, and even shout. Daniel helped the prophet to his feet. “Yahweh is working.” Daniel affirmed. “They are finally hearing His words.” The prophet smiled.

         Some of the tribes-people helped the Prophet down, and brought warm cloths, and helped to sooth his wounds. They all rested in the tribe leader’s tent; for he had been watching at the stage. Ad they ate the best of his house that night. The talked until late in the evening about the words of the letter that the Prophet has spoken. He explained that the first letter was written by a man named Paul, who was writing a church in the ancient city of Philipi. They were faithful in caring for Paul’s needs, and shared his burden to spread the truth of Yahweh’s son to the world. The second letter was written by a man named Peter who was one of Yahweh’s son’s closest friends. Peter had written to all the dispersed people throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia—all ancient cities where people began to follow Yahweh’s sons. The tribe leader soaked all of this in—asking question after question.

         The prophet explained that the letters were always structured in a similar pattern, so that interpretation was fairly clear. The letter has five parts, a greeting, thanksgiving, a body, a moral exhortation and a closing. As long as he discovered the author, the ancient audience, the topic and the message throughout it, then he could understand the meaning of the letter. Once he understood what the author meant to tell the ancient audience, then he could gather some meaning for his own life. This often led him to fresh waters. Everyone was impressed at the Prophet’s wisdom in understanding the scrolls. But he emphasized, that is why everyone in the tribe has a map, so that they can interpret the scrolls on their own. Everyone is easily able to enjoy the fresh water.

         Daniel was amazed at everything that transpired that night. Caris sat next to him, just as eagerly attentive, and equally glad to be with him. The group laughed and felt surprisingly safe in such an unknown place. They stayed with the tribe leader that night. They were thankful to not need to think of their plans for tomorrow, and excited about sharing the fresh water.
Epilogue

         Daniel and his friends followed the Prophet to fresh water, near the prophet's home. Many of the northern tribes people settled in the Prophet’s land. They slowly made trips over to the southern tribes people, bringing fresh water with them every time. Many in the southern tribe saw the abundance and joined the cliff-dwellers. The first of these was Tania and Daniel’s mother.  Eventually Caris’ family came, and they drank deep of the new waters, and enjoyed new love and care between them. Meldon became a long-time-trekker, making the journey between the northern and southern tribes hundreds of times. He specifically brought fresh water to the elder council, and slowly they began to see the lies they had spread. Some even returned with him to live among the cliff-dwellers. Collom became a premier architect after his disaster in the caves. He spent years learning about rocks, and building homes for the cave dwellers that were safe and near to the fresh water. He eventually took a wife for himself from the northern tribe, and they are building a family next door to the Prophet.

         Alkin remained for years in the northern tribe area. Enjoying, what the Prophet had called ‘fleeting treasures’. It was years before Daniel and Caris convinced him to return to the cliffs. Not until long past the time where Daniel and Caris were married and had children, did Alkin return at the beckon of their son, whom they had named “David” after the songwriter they loved so much. One night they all spent with the Prophet, who passed away very content, next to the fresh waters, and thanked Daniel and Caris for their long friendship before returning to Yahweh and His son.
An Unknown Visitor

         Daniel awoke in the middle of the night to a voice that beckoned him outside. He followed it, until it let him outside the tribe, to the desert dunes. Everything seemed dreamlike. Sand blew softly across his face, and the night felt cold and dry. A few dunes away, Daniel saw a wooden door, standing alone.  He walked over to it, and opened it. He could see all the way through. He walked through it and closed the door behind him. Everything remained the same.

         In that same moment light burst in front of him—blinding his eyes.

         “Daniel!” A strong voice said. Daniel fell to his knees at the blinding light.