He sat again with his angel again, resting at kitchen table with steam of coffee rising as sign and incense between vision of the two.
“I’ve been reading Deuteronomy,” he shared. “I don’t think I’ve ever read it before, but the review and words of Moses at his end; his reiteration to honor the commandments and the laws, of what good will come to true and faithful hearts, what will befall those who worship new and false gods; and prophesies to come. It all hit me: the vengeance of a God that is defied, the mercy of a God when sought by penitent heart.
I’ve failed many things: some knowing, some not; but my heart is nearer to as I know God commands, but I still fail, fall, and doubt.”
“But you, too, have Faith…” his angel spoke.
“I do.”
“Then remember that. Remember that always. Listen and discern. Give it up to God and be led. Do not force what is difficult because it is not in accordance with God’s plan.”
“How do you know what is against Design and that which is merely a test of fortitude and spirit?”
His angel smiled, contemplating for words he might understand. “Does your course bring peace—not in flesh or world, but in effect of spirit? That is how you’ll know.
God tests all, especially the most worthy. Like metal in the furnace, it is only by flame that spirits are tempered and refined. Have faith. Withstand the heat. Be refined and made ready for the greater purpose.
You know it in your heart. Let it live.”
His heart was warmed, by angel’s words, and the heat of the rich coffee—bitter but awakening—as he tasted and drank it slow.