Men of Clay: Soul Savers

By J. Laura Chandler

Adam Garcia last remembers entering his office at the embassy and then later awakening in the cold and musty darkness of a cave in the lower Jetta of West Jerusalem. He doesn’t know who tried to kill him, but Malach, the messenger, saved him and told him God had a mission and new identity for him. He is no longer Adam Garcia, United States ambassador, but Arel Kohn.

Kohn’s new life comes with remarkable gifts that equip him with the divine knowledge to guide and protect prominent leaders of many nations and bring them to the saving grace of God Almighty. Because he is chosen, he will be feeding the master’s sheep as God’s ambassador.

Men of Clay, author J. Laura Chandler’s third book, manifested itself as a vision from God when she was reminded that God always has a plan, and he cares for those he calls his own. She created characters for this novel who are clever, fearless, and who embrace dangerous missions with divine courage. The supernatural characters offer insight into a new and thrilling dimension.

• Language: English
• Publisher: LifeRich Publishing
• Release date: Feb 10, 2022
• ISBN: 9781489739988

J. Laura Chandler

J. Laura Chandler is a caregiver and nurturer by day and a writer by night. She lives with her husband in Cornelius, North Carolina. This is her third book.

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Copyright © 2022 J. Laura Chandler.

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This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

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ISBN: 978-1-4897-3999-5 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4897-4000-7 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4897-3998-8 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022900534

LifeRich Publishing rev. date: 04/21/2022

Contents

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Seven

Eight

Nine

Ten

Eleven

Twelve

Thirteen

Fourteen

Fifteen

Sixteen

Seventeen

Eighteen

Nineteen

Twenty

Twenty one

Twenty two

Twenty three

Twenty four

Twenty five

Twenty six

Twenty seven

Twenty eight

Twenty nine

Thirty

Thirty one

Thirty two

Thirty three

Thirty four

Thirty five

Thirty six

Thirty seven

Thirty eight

Thirty nine

Forty

Forty one

Forty two

Forty three

Forty four

Forty five

Forty six

Forty seven

Forty eight

Forty nine

Fifty

Fifty one

Fifty two

Fifty three

Fifty four

Fifty five

Fifty six

Fifty seven

Fifty eight

Fifty nine

Sixty

Sixty one

Sixty two

Sixty three

Sixty four

Sixty five

Sixty six

I

dedicate this novel to my children William Chandler and Laura Rhiannon. God seems to use us best when He subjects us to change. I believe He calls us to meet people where they are, and that requires grace, letting go of what we think, holding tight to what we believe and giving God free reign to mold us. My children have challenged me to relinquish refractory lines of thought and patterns of behavior, while inspiring me to remain true and steadfast to my core beliefs.

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How many times would he relive the first moment of his new identity?

Am I in heaven or hell?

He would never forget his surroundings. Total darkness with a beam of penetrating light that was bright yet soothing to the eyes and soul. As disoriented as he was, he felt a presence as soft as a whisper on a warm breeze. A piercing blue light illumined where he was lying by a small pool of crystal-clear water. As he sat up and looked at his reflection, he saw an enormous figure beside him. An angel? No. A warrior? Perhaps. Malach, the messenger!

Are you here now, Malach?

Malach was a soothing comfort to him. His appearance alone brought a confidence to Arel like he had never known. Malach was a figure of magnificent stature, heavily muscled, with intense eyes, and a sword sheathed to his left side. His presence displayed strength, victory, and divine power.

Arel’s mind drifted back to the cave where his captors had left him. His assailants had thrown him into a pool in the lower Jetta of West Jerusalem. Arel could not say who had done it to him. He only remembered entering his office at the embassy and then awakening in the cold and musty darkness of the cave.

Malach saved him and told him the American president and prime minister of Israel had confirmed his death. Malach told him God had a mission and new identity for him. He was no longer Adam Garcia, United States ambassador, but Arel Kohn.

Arel’s pathway out of the cave was directed by the intense silvery-blue light streaming near the pool. Malach had told him that no one would any longer recognize him as Adam Garcia and that he would be given instructions from Francis Shai. Mr. Shai would be the only person who knew Arel had previously been the American ambassador.

Arel’s perceptions were like scenes through a veil. He kept wondering if he was dreaming or having a vision, but when he finally exited the cave, he saw a lone car parked in the visitor’s parking area. It was after hours, and the cave was closed. Instinctively, he knew the driver was his connection.

Hi, my name is Darius, and I am here to meet Arel Kohn.

That would be me.

I have some clothing and a satchel for you. Why don’t we stop at the nearest gas station and have you change?

I would like that very much, as the clothes I’m wearing are damp and smell like mildew.

After changing clothes and slipping on a soft leather jacket, he took a quick look in his camel-colored leather satchel. There was a passport book, wallet with driver’s license, two credit cards, and a substantial amount of cash. In addition to a cell phone, there was a small laptop computer with a password on a slip of paper taped lightly to the screen.

Are you ready to travel to your hotel? It is about an hour’s drive from here.

Yes, I am. Thank you, Darius. Please tell me about yourself and when I’m to meet Francis Shai.

And, indeed, Arel did meet Francis Shai. It was the morning after he had a wonderful night’s sleep in the King David Hotel. He did not have any idea how he would recognize Mr. Shai, but Malach told him he would know him immediately.

When Arel stepped into the elegant dining room of the hotel, he spotted a white-haired gentleman sitting alone. His hair was beautiful and almost shoulder length. He motioned for Arel to come join him.

Hello, Arel. Please have a seat. I’m Francis Shai. Francis, of course, knew Arel’s real identity was Adam Garcia, but all focus needed to be on Arel’s mission at hand.

Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Shai.

Please call me Francis. I took the liberty of ordering our breakfast. The hotel has an excellent chef who prepares a breakfast fit for King David, himself.

I’m not particular about food. Never been a fussy eater, but I do appreciate any meal that is prepared with care.

Francis leaned back, never taking his pale blue-gray eyes from Arel. The older man was long limbed and wearing a creaseless white linen suit.

Of course, I know you have questions about your mission. I’ll share what you need to know immediately. Things may change abruptly; no use getting ahead of ourselves. You’ve met Darius. Soon you will become more acquainted with him. His father is the minister of logistics and defense for Iran. As Darius is the only Christian in his family, and a new one at that, he is a young man with questions. I know you will assist with his journey of understanding, but that is only a small part of your mission. Soon you will meet with Prime Minister Hishal of Israel. I’ve told him of you and your language skills. He needs extra eyes and ears near him to keep him safe. As you know, growing tensions between Israel and Iran threaten to escalate dreadfully, and the prime minister needs protection. In a week, there will be an important meeting in Rome—the Crown Conference. Government officials of high rank from many countries will be attending. Any questions so far?

Francis, I only speak five different languages, so I’m not sure how well I’ll represent Prime Minister Hishal.

Perhaps Malach did not share with you that you speak the languages of all the countries that will be represented at the Crown Conference, plus many more. That is a gift that came with your new identity. Don’t question it. You are, indeed, multilingual.

Certainly, you must know I am overwhelmed with this new identity.

Before long, you’ll have the confidence that our Lord is empowering you with.

Francis, I’ve been a Christian for many years, but this is my first time encountering a supernatural being like Malach!

"You will witness more, shall we say, supernatural happenings soon, but we’ll not delve into that now. I’ll be seeing Hishal later this morning. And by the way, I’d like to suggest you buy clothes more appropriate for your meeting with Hishal tomorrow and the conference in Rome. There are a couple of fashionable men’s clothing stores here at the hotel. The managers have been instructed to help select your attire. Tailors are on-site, and you’ll be given priority, same-day service."

Arel completed his shopping. He called Darius to see if he would meet him for dinner. Darius was spending the summer in Israel and staying with his sister in her apartment not far from the King David. Darius wanted Esta to come along with him for dinner.

Suddenly Arel heard Malach: Tonight will present many surprises. There will be special guests presenting themselves to Darius and Esta, so prepare yourself to give answers that would glorify your heavenly Father.

I’m not sure how to prepare myself for any of this mission, Malach.

Read scripture and pray. That is the only path and preparation you’ll need for this entire mission. The Holy Spirit will guide you and give you the words to say.

Why do I feel such a profound sense of responsibility?

Because you are chosen, and you will be feeding the Master’s sheep. Now you are God’s ambassador.

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Darius, you must tell me all about your new friend!

Now, Esta, let’s not get our hopes up for any romantic involvement here, OK? I know you—always looking for the one special guy who is supposed to be in your life forever.

You are mistaken; I’m only curious, and I would imagine you are too since this individual kind of dropped out of the sky!

I would say ascended from the pit of a cave is more accurate!

I wish you would tell me what is really going on.

If I were not sworn to secrecy, I would. This mission has set me on edge. I have no idea what to expect. All I can do is trust Jesus in all of this.

You’ve been somewhat secretive yourself since you started working for that Mr. Shai. Plus, that strange dream you had the other night about a man named Jesus, whom the Christians say is their Messiah. Now this man named Arel you’ve teamed up with, who also works for Mr. Shai. And all you have to say is you are going to trust in Jesus.

Yep, that’s what I said. Even if I said any more, I’m not sure you would understand at this time. Esta, I love you and care about your heart, but God is going to have to open your eyes for you to understand many of the things I would like to discuss with you.

I’m waiting for my vision, brother.

Maybe you could fly to Rome with Arel and me for the Crown Conference. Dad will be there, and we can visit with him. We will have the weekend to tour Rome after the conference ends. What do you say?

I’ll think about it. Depends on our visit with Arel tonight.

Maybe a romantic adventure!

One never knows; could be.

From what I’ve learned of Arel so far, which is not much, he is a serious fellow.

OK, I’m ready. Would you mind getting the car and picking me up at the front entrance?

I will, and by the way, you look beautiful tonight.

As Darius approached the vehicle behind the apartment building, he sensed he was being watched and followed. When he parked the car earlier in the day, there was plenty of activity, but now it was dusk, and no one was in sight, only a black Mercedes parked a half block or so from his vehicle. A sense of dread came over him. He stepped up his pace, and as he reached for the handle of the car, a hand covered his mouth, and two men wrestled him down on the sidewalk. He felt a cold piece of metal on his throat and knew it was the side of a knife.

As soon as you get his hands tied, I’ll grab his keys and wallet. Remember the side alley we saw? We’ll drag him down there, and he won’t be discovered until tomorrow.

Darius was trying to think smart. He knew if he yelled, his throat would be slit. Oh, Jesus, help me.

In that instant, both men were thrown from their feet, and Darius’ hands were miraculously untied. Both men were swinging their fists and trying to protect themselves at the same time. They were getting a bloody beating.

When Darius got to his feet, both men were lying on the sidewalk and looked to be unconscious or worse. He secured his keys and wallet and walked to the entrance of the apartment building, where Esta was waiting.

I thought you were going to get our car.

Well, I need to call the authorities because I encountered two thugs on the back street, and they took a beating. I do not know what kind of condition they are in.

What do you mean? Are they dead?

I hope not.

Did you witness who did this?

Not really. It was too dark, but I do know this: God spared my life!

Come on. Let’s walk back to the car together.

I’m not sure this is a wise idea.

I’ve got my pistol in my purse. Now come on.

When they approached their car, there was no sign of anyone. The black Mercedes and the men had vanished.

Esta, surely you believe me. Those two men were not capable of walking away!

Let’s go, Darius. We’ll discuss this on our way to the hotel. Get in the passenger seat. I’ll drive. King David Hotel, right?

Yes, and Arel will be waiting for us out front. He was still shaken and confused.

I’m listening. Are you going to tell me more about this brawl, or are you going to remain silent?

I’m trying to process the whole incident.

Never known you to be a man of no words.

I think I witnessed a supernatural event tonight.

First a dream or vision followed by a conversion, and now a supernatural battle. You are losing it, Darius!

Esta, slow down. There is Arel at the side entrance. Do you see him? Pull over now.

Arel opened the back car door and sat behind Darius. Good evening to you both.

This is my sister, Esta.

Very nice to meet you, Esta. I’m looking forward to getting to know you and Darius.

It is a pleasure meeting you, Arel. I’m thinking the Mediterranean Bistro would be an enjoyable place to dine tonight. The atmosphere lends itself to our getting acquainted, and the food is great.

Your choice; my treat. Let’s do it.

Esta took another look at Arel in the rearview mirror before pulling out of the parking space. He took her breath away. She had never seen such a striking face, and his eyes were indescribable.

It was a Friday night, and the traffic was high volume and moving slowly, so everyone enjoyed a light and casual conversation on the way to the bistro. Arel expressed interest in the things to be enjoyed in Jerusalem. He asked Darius and Esta about their family in Iran and what the family did for leisure. He could tell there was a little rivalry between the two and enjoyed their hardy competition.

Finally, after arriving at the bistro, they were seated in a private corner where they could continue conversing.

Arel said, If our server asks for our beverage order, would you order water for me? I’m going to the restroom and will be right back.

When he entered the men’s room, there was no one else to be seen, and Malach told him that Joshua and David had protected Darius earlier and saved his life. Immediately after delivering this message, he was gone. Now Arel knew why he had excused himself from the table.

When he returned to the table, Darius suddenly took on a serious expression and seemed reserved.

Esta, feeling more confident, scooted over to the corner of the booth. Here, Arel, have a seat beside me.

Thanks. I shall.

Are you excited about your trip to Rome?

I’m not sure if excited would adequately define my feelings. Honestly speaking, my feelings vacillate between being somewhat anxious and experiencing a whole host of trepidations.

Darius said, I’m looking forward to introducing you to our dad. You’ll like him. He has a great sense of humor and a natural way of making people feel at ease. So glad you are fluent in so many languages. I’m sure it makes it easy for you to relate to most anyone.

I still have reservations and many insecurities regarding my new position. For example, I have a meeting with Prime Minister Hishal in the morning, and I feel most unprepared for the task.

You speak with such confidence and authority. I find it hard to believe that you would be unprepared for anything, Esta said.

Before Arel had a chance to respond, Darius suddenly blurted out, Arel, I’m troubled about an incident that happened to me this evening before we came by for you at the hotel.

Did you witness any spiritual warfare, Darius?

Perhaps. What made you ask me that?

One of God’s messengers told me that David and Joshua helped you out of a skirmish this evening.

OK. Enough of this crazy talk between the two of you. It is like both of you are speaking a foreign language in my presence! Esta said heatedly.

Sorry, Esta, said Darius.

Softly, Arel said, Perhaps you might tell both of us exactly what happened to you this evening.

Darius told his account of the event in detail, and both Arel and Esta remained quiet the entire time.

I have no way of knowing this, but could you two be a target because of your dad’s position in Iran?

Arel, that is preposterous. Why would someone want to harm our family?

I have no answers right now, just questions.

Arel, I have invited Esta to come along with us to Rome, if you have no objections. Do you think she will be safe?

Maybe safer with us than staying here alone.

OK, guys, you’re talking about me as if I were a child with no opinion.

Arel took her slender hand. We want to protect you, Esta. The political arena can rapidly become ruthless and corrupt when powerful nations have little regard for anything other than their own agenda. We must tread with caution. I’ll ask Prime Minister Hishal about your traveling to the conference with us. I cannot imagine any objections.

Esta was mystified by the events that had happened earlier, and now she felt vulnerable and insecure regarding her safety. Ever since Darius’ conversion after having a dream or vision, which he tried to explain to her, she felt uneasy. Theirs was not a religious family. For as long as she could remember, her dad was always involved in government policies and regulations, while her mother provided a warm and secure home for her and Darius. Whenever their dad was home, he was fully committed to entertaining the family and taking them on excursions. Whenever the family traveled to other countries, an interpreter always accompanied them. Matter of fact, he was her dad’s personal interpreter in business as well. His name was Zana Farbod. Zana reminded her of Arel. They both had a special confidence that helped one to feel safe. She hoped that Zana would be traveling with her dad to Rome.

Darius, I hope Zana accompanies Dad to Rome. I would like for Arel to meet him. Don’t you think they could relate to one another?

I do. Both are Christians.

Zana Farbod is a Christian? How did you know?

I’ve always known something was different about him, and when I told him of my conversion, he understood and told me to be patient with our family.

Their server asked if there was anything else he could get for them before he left the check.

Darius asked if anyone wanted dessert, but everyone seemed sated. He placed a hundred-dollar bill in the vinyl folder, handed it to their server, and said, We don’t need any cash back. Thank you.

The server asked, Are you sure?

Yes, we are. Thank you for serving us. We enjoyed the burgers, and those french fries were the best!

After the server left, Arel glanced at Esta and smiled. She looked so innocent and perhaps a little confused.

Esta spoke softly. I want to know how people become Christians.

Arel turned to her. Esta, a good place to start is in the book of John in the New Testament of the Bible. Perhaps later tonight you could start reading. God’s Spirit will guide you. Don’t be afraid to call out to Jesus for His wisdom and guidance. After my appointment with the prime minister in the morning, I’ll check with you, and perhaps we can pray together.

Arel, I’m not sure. All of this is unfamiliar to me, and I do not know much about praying either.

Esta, Jesus will lead you. Actually, I should be back at the hotel by one tomorrow, and if you have any questions, give me a call, only if you feel led. Otherwise, we’ll have plenty of time to share on our trip to Rome.

Darius said, Arel, it is getting late. I know you have a full day tomorrow, and you’ll need your rest tonight. I’ll get the car, and you and Esta meet me at the front entrance. As you said, we’ll have plenty of time to talk later. Esta and I have enjoyed your company immensely, and we thank you for the wonderful meal tonight.

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Esta stretched and lingered in bed, wanting to savor the thoughts and events of the night before. As Arel had suggested, she read the entire book of John, and her soul had been stirred by a gentle and tender spirit that bathed her entire being with a sensation she had never imagined. After reading the book of John, she turned the lights off, and in darkness, she boldly asked Jesus, King of kings, to change her life and lead her in His paths of righteousness.

Now, she did not even want to move out of the bed. She replayed everything, trying to recapture the essence of His presence again and again. She never wanted to turn loose of His love. She now knew God could easily consume one’s mind, body, and soul. Jesus, You are not a religion. Yours is not some kind of movement, but You, my Lord, are a very personal God, and You and You alone have a purpose for Your children. Thank You, Lord for inviting me by Your Holy Spirit to accept the gift of salvation. Father, I covet Your wisdom, Your love and protection. Grant it, sweet Jesus.

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Arel heard his name called out.

Malach, is that you?

Yes. You’ve been in a very deep sleep. I’ve been in your room for an hour or so now.

I was somewhat troubled and had a difficult time getting to sleep last night, but of course, you know all about it, don’t you?

I was on other assignments last night, so I was not aware you were troubled.

I could not get out of the past, Malach. There are so many thoughts that carry me back to my real identity, Adam Garcia—the life I always knew and the people I’ve always known. Sometimes I’m grieved to my very bone marrow.

Arel, your parents are in heaven. Your younger brother is in heaven. Your family awaits you in eternity. And you’ve been given the privilege of supernatural encounters here on earth that confirm you’ll be reunited with those you love.

It may have something to do with missing America and the culture. I have never felt at home in Israel, and I’ve lived here on and off for three years now.

"God’s people are in countries all over this world, Arel. God’s children are family, so I hope you’ll be more connected as you continue your mission. For a moment, let’s focus on the picture from ancient and eternal perspectives, where there is no beginning: souls exist. Harmoniously, they live. Each performs their individual task for which they were created, with equal accomplishment and all in perfect accord. Souls exist to bring about the fulfillment of the creator. However, for a soul to perform the ultimate task for which they were created (to judge the actions of all created things to whom accountability has been ascribed), they must be put to the test. They must pass through