Page 53 of Gideon

“Yeah.”

“Is there anything else you want to say to everyone?”

“Nothing that I can think of.”

But they had to respond. “This has been a very emotional time for a lot of us,” she said to the people. “I think we should all take a day to pray about it. Those who would like to can meet back here tomorrow. Butremember. If you’re coming to stir up trouble, don’t bother. You won’t get anywhere.”

No one moved until Ty stood with his wife and shook Gideon and Nikki’s hands. “Thank you. Both of you.” They left and others stood. Some came to the front to say a few words, but the rest filed out.

Once the room had emptied, Gideon crossed his arms and turned to Nikki. “That was unexpected.”

“You’re telling me. I knew there had been a change, but I didn’t expect this.” She studied him for a minute. “You look worried.”

“I am.”

“Why? This is the best thing that could have happened.”

“This is great. But I never came here to lead anyone in anything. I meant what I said. I’m on my face trying to do whatever God tells me to. I’m not trying to lead people.”

“You may not be doing it on purpose, but everyone is looking to you.”

“They shouldn’t. That guy Steve is right. I’m nobody. I have no right to expect anyone here to trust me.”

“You’ve already shown what’s in your heart. You’re willing to do whatever God asks. That’s what these people need. They need permission to act and to trust. Someone to show them the way.”

“I’m not a pastor.”

“That’s not what I’m saying. But even if you don’t feel like a leader, you are one. It’s written all over you.”

“How can I lead when I don’t know what to do?”

“You already did. Look what happened here. God is moving. That much I know for certain, and people are ready. He’ll give you more when the time is right.”

“I hope so.”

“Before you got here, a man stood and in front of everyone asked for my forgiveness.”

“For what?”

“He was one of the key guys who had been working against my dad. I never thought anything like that could happen.”

“I just wish I didn’t feel uncertain all the time.”

“You may as well get used to it.”

“Your words are so comforting.”

She laughed. “I know.”

A woman entered at the back. Her dark hair hung across her face as she looked at the floor.

“You may have to excuse me,” Nikki said.

“You know her?”

“Yeah. She’s a friend going through a hard time.”

Gideon looked at his watch. “That’s okay. I should get back to my dad. I had planned on bringing him an early dinner.”

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