The fragile world of a young boy unravels in today's reading from "Countryside: The Book of the Wise." Luke's life has been steadily changing—his beloved grandparents haven't visited in nearly a year despite his constant letters, and his father's recent job loss at the tire plant has cast a shadow over their home. Where once there was laughter, now bitter comments about "the economy" and "dimwits at the Capitol" fill the silence. In one heartbreaking moment, Luke watches his father throw away his framed diploma, declaring it "just a fancy piece of paper" that's worthless now.
Across the street, an improvised park has become Luke's sanctuary. Under the spreading branches of an oak tree, the world seems calmer—even the passing cars sound quieter. It's here, as summer approaches, that Luke finds himself one evening, watching the stars appear one by one in the darkening sky. But this ordinary moment transforms when a strange red light appears among the stars—stationary, brightening and dimming, unlike any airplane. Then comes the whisper of his name, carried on an unseasonably cold wind.
What follows defies explanation. A black mist engulfs the park, silencing the world around him. From this unnatural darkness emerges a figure with glowing red eyes—a man in a black suit who introduces himself as Saul. With unsettling familiarity, he tells Luke, "I have waited so long to speak with you." As the mist parts momentarily to reveal the normal world beyond, listeners are left wondering: Who is this mysterious stranger? What does he want with Luke? And how will this encounter change everything our young protagonist thought he knew about his world? Join us as we continue this journey through "Countryside: The Book of the Wise," where ordinary troubles give way to extraordinary adventures.
https://www.amazon.com/Countryside-Book-J-T-Cope-IV-ebook/dp/B00MPIXOB2
9 mins