Page 110 of Samson

“Sounds like you’ve got a lot on your mind.”

“Not a lot… It’s just that what’s in there is so heavy. Not to mention I’m worried I’m doing it wrong.”

“What? Praying?”

“Yeah.”

He nodded, an amused smile on his lips. “Then I’m glad I can be the bearer of good news. There is no wrong way to pray.”

“I find that hard to believe.”

“I guess technically if your prayers aren’t genuine, you’re probably wasting your time, but other than that, you’re covered.” When she frowned, he added, “You look worried. Can I ask why it is you think you’re doing it wrong?”

“I haven’t paid much attention to God most of my life, so coming to Him now when I’m desperate, it feels a little disingenuous.”

“Are your prayers insincere?”

“No. Not at all.”

“Then you have nothing to worry about. You may not believe this, but God’s had you on His mind your whole life.”

Her thoughts went back to her childhood. “I do believe it. When I was a little girl, I went to church a couple of times. I can remember feeling God’s presence every time I was there. At least, I think that’s what it was. That’s the only way I could understand what was going on. But no matter what I do now, I can’t get that feeling back. I thought maybe it was because God wasn’t interested since I’ve spent so many years ignoring Him.”

“Do you mind if I sit?”

“Not at all.”

He shuffled into the pew ahead of her and rested his forearms on the back of the seat.

“I’m Ryan, by the way.”

She shook the hand he offered. “Not Pastor Ryan?”

“Yes, but Ryan will do.”

“It’s nice to finally meet you.”

“It’s Delilah, right?”

“How’d you know?”

He laughed. “You spoke to my wife, and we always debrief on a Sunday. We’d noticed you coming in late and leaving as soon as the service was finished.”

“Except last week when she managed to stop me.”

“Yeah.”

“I didn’t think anyone noticed. That’s why I sat in the back.”

“We notice everyone who walks through those doors. I was hoping I’d get the opportunity to speak to you, and here you are.”

“Yup. Here I am.”

“Can I ask what kept you behind today? I’ll confess, I don’t remember seeing you in the service.”

“I wasn’t. I came in late as usual, but I wasn’t feeling well.”

“There’s been some flu going around. You feeling better?”

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