In The Master's Service

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WHO?

Elder Louis Culver

As he walked along the forest path, finding his way the best he could in the darkness of night, he contemplated his next endeavor, knowing what he should do but refusing to dwell upon its merits, when suddenly he heard a voice calling: "Who? Who?"

He was startled for he knew no one was aware of his presence deep in the dark woods at midnight. How could anyone know? He had stayed at the vacation cabin for several days and nights and had told no one where he was going to be.

It had become necessary for him to get away from the rigors and ravages of his everyday lifestyle. The world was closing in around him, crowding him in all that he did. He could not breathe.

He thought a change of scenery would help alleviate stress and strain in his everyday work schedule. He had been working hard and had sought to escape the stress at a local bar. The more he worked the more stressed he became; the more stressed, the more he visited the bar.

This trip into solitude seemed like the perfect getaway, an ideal place to rest, to relax and "find himself." Now this, "Who? Who? again sounded in his ears. He had never been frightened before, but now this worried him.

Darkness hides many things and this time was no exception. As he stood quietly listening, he began to hear other voices: "Thou shalt not...;" "Get thee behind me, Satan;" "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness...;" "...unspotted from the world...." "Who? Who?"

Who, indeed? Who was speaking to him? Why were all these thoughts filling his mind? Then he realized he was not alone. No other people were around him, yet he was not alone. There was a Presence with him that was more powerful than his troubles had been.

Darkness could not hide his troubles but light could reveal them for what they were. The light could drive away the darkness and bring the much-needed rest. Then he knew who he was.