The Blessing Seer

Woohoo! A new author has arrived in the Pelican's flock. And it seems this story is one close to all our hearts - how unworthy we all are of His blessings and how He can use these poor, broken vessels.

Blurb:

 When God sends Addy a special messenger who challenges her to step from her comfort zone, she isn’t sure she’s up to the job. She feels inadequate to take on the task of encouraging others, and when she starts seeing visions, she worries she’s losing her mind.

Yet, Addy wants only to be used by God, even if that means seeing visions and risking relationships with family and friends. By stepping out on a limb, can Addy really accomplish something significant for God? What affect will her surrender to His will have on those around her? And what affect will it have on her own life?

Includes a bible study


Excerpt:

Because I’m the pastor’s wife, I know people expect me to know about all things spiritual. I’m sure they assume I could skip Sunday sermons altogether. I don’t need them, right? Wrong! I’m human. I still struggle in my relationship with God. I fail Him. I don’t understand everything. I have to pray and study. In fact, I often feel inadequate to fill the role of a pastor’s wife. Should I know more? Should I be more spiritual? Should I be able to answer any biblical question?

As mentioned in the sermon, I have always sung about counting my blessings. I’ve heard people say, “God bless you.” But, have I really contemplated this topic? Not really. I knew God wanted to teach me something because I couldn’t let it go.

“You know, I’ve heard it told that God has a whole storehouse of blessings to bestow, but many are never received.”

I halted in my tracks, at first wondering if the voice came from inside my head. But, no, a man of medium build stood beside me as if he had been there all along. His eyes glimmered with a most alluring shade of azure akin to the morning sky. His gray-white hair and beard hinted at elderly, yet he appeared quite fit and sprightly.

I hesitated then I extended my hand.

“I’m sorry. I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure. I’m Addy Townsend.” I was actually “fishing” when I said this. I didn’t know who this man was or where he had come from. He didn’t favor the man I had seen earlier in the car. I definitely had no idea why he had immediately begun to discuss the very topic that buzzed in my head. And in this day and time, should I be running from him?

When he placed his hand in my outstretched one, words failed to express the feeling. As odd as it may sound to even my ears, his touch radiated peace like a warmth that rushed from his hand throughout my body and calmed my restlessness. I sensed no need to flee.

“Name’s Conrad.”

“Nice to meet you, Conrad. I’ve never seen you around here. Have you recently moved into the neighborhood?”

“No, just passing through.”

“I see.”

He began to stroll once again, and I fell into step beside him. It felt familiar, as if I had taken this walk with him on numerous occasions. I started to engage in friendly conversation by commenting on the weather or leaves, but I never had the opportunity. He launched the conversation himself.

“Blessings are often contingent on obedience.”

I contemplated that a moment. I considered what I knew from Scripture about the topic of blessing.

“I suppose you’re right, at least historically speaking. I mean, God promised blessing to the Israelites if they would obey.”

“That’s right, Addy, He did.”

His face beamed as if he were proud I had answered correctly, and I smiled for his words to me brimmed with compliment. The ease of conversation with a stranger surprised me. Normally, I would only engage in such dialogue with those closest to me, and admittedly, possibly not even then.

“There are blessings God gives because He is a gracious God.” Conrad continued. “However, there are blessings He waits to give if only the person will obey or follow His will.”

“Yes, He definitely blesses us with much we don’t deserve.”

“It is His very nature.” He stated this in a most matter-of-fact manner.

“But, if there are blessings we could receive based on obeying or following His will, then what you said must be true—there are blessings we never receive because we aren’t obedient or devoted to following His way.”

He stopped and looked at me. His eyes brimmed with compassion. His expression and posture exuded sorrow. “Yes.” His voice was low, and I thought a tear might emerge for the deep emotion I sensed from him.

Silence ensued. I felt the need to cease the intensity of the moment.

“It’s a shame that we would miss out on God’s blessings. If only we knew what God was up to.”

Now Conrad’s eyes seemed to look to my very soul. My pulse quickened. I bit my lip and began to fidget.

“If you knew the blessings God had in store for others, would you tell them?”

“I suppose I would….yes.”

As the words left my mouth, I knew my tone sounded unsure. I diverted my gaze from his, but my thoughts were still riveted on his question. Would I tell someone if I knew the blessing he or she could obtain? I have trouble just sharing my faith with those around me. In fact, I’m not much of a conversationalist about anything.

“Addy.” The way he said my name was so soothing. There was no condemnation for my unconfident answer to his question.

I looked back at him when he addressed me.

“Addy, you are not alone in lacking confidence. There are many who keep silent when they should speak. Just remember if you are yielded to Him, He will guide you. He will give you the words to say.”

He placed his hand on my shoulder. “Do not fear. You can.”

He then turned and strolled down the street. I wanted to say something, but no words would come, and I realized I had arrived back in front of my house. I glanced once more at Conrad’s back. He appeared smaller and smaller—fading into the colorful scenery. I wanted to wait to see which way he would go but had no time to waste. I needed to jump in the shower.

I haven't had a chance to read this one yet, but it sounds like a blessing in itself. And a bible study to boot? I can't wait!!!