Redeemed: A Christian Novel

By Gil Alligood

The book is primarily about Alex and his friend Sarah. They began dating in high school and continued into University. They were married after their second year at University. Sarah's father was a Christian minister who gave Alex excellent advice about growing to adulthood. He encouraged Alex to become a minister. Alex was from a family that could not afford any expense for University. He joined an Army Reserve Company to earn some money for family and education expenses. During one combat mission in Afghanistan he was captured and spent eleven months in a Muslim POW camp. That event caused extreme emotional confusion for him and his relationship with God. His path to redemption with God brought issues that could be helpful to others who really seek a relationship with God. It also discusses issues that others might find helpful during their journey through Jesus to God.

• Language: English
• Publisher: WestBow Press
• Release date: Apr 13, 2022
• ISBN: 9781664262775

Gil Alligood

Gil Alligood is a retired USAF pilot (Colonel), as well as a Plans and Programs Officer at HQ USAF. He still flies his Piper Arrow for pleasure and business. He received a degree in engineering from NC State University, and a Masters degree from The University of Pittsburgh. After retiring from the Air Force, he was an engineer consultant for twenty years before retiring again. He owned and managed his engineering company in Raleigh, NC. After his last retirement he began writing novels. Some of the stories in the novels occur in locations he flew into for the Air Force. Missions included flights into combat areas and nations in conflict. Characters in novels are based on friends he has known during his working career, but identity of the people remain confidential. He is a Christian, has served as an Elder in church, and teaches a Bible School Class. Those principals set the standard for his novel writing. He finds writing to be very good therapy as well as an activity that results in productive products for his readers. He is married, has three children and six grandchildren.

Book preview

1

T heir first date introduced a relationship between two people that was destined to grow. Alex Bosworth was a high school junior, an intelligent young man with handsome features and reasons to expect a reasonable and productive life. He was tall and had excellent athletic abilities. His performance on the football field demonstrated his skills as a running back.

He was at a point in life where he should be making decisions about his future. When he thought about that, he sometimes became uncomfortable. He knew that he could not run with the social group because he could not afford to. His clothes were old beyond the time when his friends would have bought new ones. Still, he was popular because of his pleasant personality and physical attractiveness. His friendly smile and kind words seemed to also attract friends.

Alex’s family owned a small farm that they worked to produce a meager income. The work was physical, and from a young age, he had experienced hard work. It had helped him develop into the handsome, strong young man he now was. His parents were loving and supportive of his activities, as far as money would permit.

His date that evening was with Sarah Jansen. Also a junior in high school, she was active in school events and always had friends. Her short blond hair, ever-present smile, and bubbly, friendly personality made her popular in school. Even though Alex was a bit shy and usually had few words in conversation, he was attracted to Sarah. She seemed comfortable when in his presence. Was it her smile? Was it her cute attractiveness? He did not know, but he was there, ready for their first date.

Alex borrowed the old family car and drove to the residence of Reverend Jansen, the minister at the local Baptist church. Sarah was the reverend’s daughter. That made Alex a bit anxious. On the drive to her house, he did not know whether he should arrive early, late, or on time. He arrived at six o’clock. He was not sure what to expect when he was alone and in close contact with a girl.

He rang the doorbell and waited for a moment until Reverend Jansen opened the door and greeted him with a pleasant smile. Alex stood still and nervously said, Good evening, sir. I am Alex, and I came to visit Sarah.

The reverend recognized Alex’s anxiety and chuckled lightly. This was the first formal date his daughter had experienced. He also knew from conversation with Sarah that it was Alex’s first formal date. He was briefly reminded of his first date with his lovely wife. That moment brought back memories of anxiety as well as pleasure. The thought that his only child was becoming self-sufficient brought joy as well as some anxiety.

While Alex waited for Sarah, her father sat in his recliner and casually talked with him, asking questions and making innocent comments. Alex was nervous in the reverend’s presence. As he sat in the chair, he kept crossing and uncrossing his legs. He nervously ran his fingers through his hair. Why is she taking so long to get ready? he wondered.

The reverend’s questions had a purpose of subtly providing meaningful guidance for Alex. Based on Alex’s replies, the minister learned about his character and some important things in his life. Some comments made by the reverend seemed to attack Alex’s sense of privacy. He responded to some with a show of anxiety. The reverend gently changed the conversation to normal community activities.

Your parents have been attending our church for a long time. You have also been attending for the eight years I have been minister here. Do you feel that your faith has been growing?

Alex was uncomfortable and repeatedly ran his hand over his forehead as if he were sweating. After a pause, he replied, I reckon so. Is that important to you?

The reverend replied, Well, yes, it is. That is the main purpose of my ministry. My job is to help people.

Alex nodded and replied, Uh huh, as if he understood. He was distracted because he was wondering about Sarah. Why is it taking her so long to get ready?

You know, Alex, some of our church programs for young folks can be interesting and helpful. You have not been attending any and might find them useful.

Alex was relieved when Sarah finally entered the living room. He stood and said, Hi. You look great. Are you ready to go?

She smiled and replied, Yes.

He had talked with Sarah numerous times before, but this was different. It was the first formal date either had experienced.

Alex escorted Sarah from the house toward his dad’s old car. He opened the worn, squeaking passenger door for Sarah. When he closed the door, he had to lift it up so it would close in place securely. The clunking noise that it made when it closed did not bother Sarah because she understood.

They went to dinner at Machelle’s Restaurant, a popular family restaurant that Reverend Jansen had been to numerous times with his family. A waiter escorted them to a table, gave them a menu, said, Enjoy your dinner, and left. Alex pulled out Sarah’s chair for her to sit. Just watching her move and sit gave Alex a sense of confused excitement. He stood behind her chair for a moment, hands on her shoulders, then moved around the table to his chair.

After they were settled, Alex asked in a shy way, Is this OK?

She leaned forward, hands on the table. Very good. I like it here. Thanks for bringing me here. Alex relaxed a bit when she reached across the table and patted his hand.

Sarah asked, What are you having for dinner?

Alex blushed as he replied, What are you having? He had very little experience with dining at restaurants.

Sarah looked at him, displaying the most beautiful smile he had ever seen. Her blue eyes captured him. Mine will be simple. Chicken, peas, and yellow rice. I had that dish here when my dad brought us.

The waiter returned to take their order. And now, miss, what would you like for dinner?

Sarah replied, Number seven, the baked chicken with green peas and yellow rice.

And you, sir? the waiter inquired.

Alex looked at Sarah. She nodded slightly at him. I’ll have the same as her, he said to the waiter.

Alex was concerned about how he should act. He was a bit nervous and fumbled a few green peas with his fork when he attempted to eat them. Some of them landed on the table, and some fell to the floor. Sarah smiled and chuckled just enough to express humor but not enough to bring embarrassment. He smiled at her shyly, and she again smiled and covered it with her napkin.

Even though Alex was from a family with a low income, his mother kept a spotless house. Her values had also impacted his standards. Alex stood and removed several peas that had landed in his chair. Then he bent over to begin removing several peas from the floor. Sarah said, Aw, don’t bother with that. The servers experience that every day. They will clean it up after we leave.

Sarah’s comment caused him to relax. He found her company to be pleasant, and that eased the situation. As they continued their dinner and conversation, Alex began to experience a fond feeling of friendship with Sarah.

Many diners in the restaurant knew Sarah and Alex. Some were members of the church where Reverend Jansen preached. They occasionally glanced toward them, smiled, and made a comment to their dining partner.

Alex and Sarah completed their dinner after an hour of comfortable conversation. As they were leaving, they passed a table where one of Reverend Jansen’s friends was dining with his wife. He stood and spoke to Sarah. She gave him the customary friendly hug. He then offered a friendly greeting to Alex and passed his best wishes to each of them.

After dinner, they went to a movie, where they held hands and experienced their first feeling of privacy and closeness. After the movie, they began walking toward Alex’s car when a gentle rain began to fall. They held hands and ran. After entering the car, she snuggled up close to him and said, That rain is a bit chilly. He leaned toward her and kissed her forehead.

After driving her home, he walked her to the door, where they both hesitated. He faced her and moved closer in a motion to kiss her, just as he thought he was supposed to. She looked in his eyes and said, Maybe next time. He opened the door for her. She said, Good night. He turned and left to return home.

Yes, that first date had been pleasant for Alex and Sarah. Both anticipated more time together.

2

T hey sometimes met at school, and Alex began to think of her often. He was pleased with their relationship but was not capable of understanding where it might go. Finally, after several weeks, she said, We had a good time on that date. Maybe we could do it again sometime.

He simply said, OK.

A few days later, Alex got his dad’s old car again, and he and Sarah had their second date. That was still during their junior year in high school. While Alex was waiting impatiently for Sarah to get ready, Reverend Jansen again engaged him in conversation. He seemed to have developed more comments and questions for Alex. Alex still sat and nervously crossed his legs, looking around the room and shifting around in his chair.

One might have considered her father to be invading his privacy, but Alex recognized that the reverend was asking questions that made him think about important things like the future. Alex knew he was receiving life information that no one in his family was prepared to discuss with him.

Alex’s mother understood the social needs of teenagers. She managed to save a few dollars from grocery money. That was what Alex received for his dating money. During summers, he worked with farmers his family knew and made small amounts of money. Occasionally, someone needed help with chores around their farm. Alex was known to be a competent and responsible young man. He was asked to help. That money was also used to pay for his social activities.

Sarah understood Alex’s finances and sometimes paid dating expenses when they did some activity out of the ordinary.

During their senior year in high school, Alex and Sarah became steady dates. Their social activity was still sparse, but they grew to enjoy each other’s company and their close emotional attachment. Sarah grew comfortable with their relationship.

They began to discuss their future after high school. One day, Sarah said enthusiastically to Alex, I think I might go to college and study music. I really like piano. I have tried to learn violin and believe I can play it well with some instruction and practice. You know, I might become a music teacher.

Alex had to admit that he had never seriously thought about life after high school. His family did not have money to send him to college. I reckon I’ll just have to get a job, he confessed to Sarah.

One evening several days later, when Alex was waiting for Sarah to get ready for their date, her father said, Alex, tomorrow is Saturday. Let me buy you lunch at Joseph’s restaurant. Alex showed his surprise with a contorted facial expression. Just as her father made that comment, Sarah walked into the room.

She said in a kidding way, Now, Daddy, do not try to steal my date! I have too much invested in him.

Her father said, After we have lunch, I’ll drop Alex off at his home. Sarah, if you all need transportation tomorrow evening, you can use our car.

Sarah squealed with delight and said, Thank you, Daddy! Thank you! She gave him a big hug!

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The next day, Reverend Jansen picked up Alex at his house and drove to Joseph’s restaurant. Alex was nervous because he was not aware of what Sarah’s father wanted to discuss. After placing their order, the reverend quizzed Alex about what he planned to do after he graduated from high school. Sir, Alex responded, We have three more months before graduation. I might need to start inquiring about a job pretty soon.

Have you considered going to college? the reverend asked.

Alex sat quietly for a moment, turned his head, and stared out a window while he tried to get his emotions under control. He was still irritated when he looked at the reverend and replied with an unsteady voice, Sir, you know my family. My mom and dad are really good people, but neither has ever had any knowledge of business and economics or higher education. They have managed to provide an adequate living for my sister and me but not anything beyond that.

I am aware of that. But that should not make you limit your future.

I think you know that my parents do not have resources to send me to college! Alex realized he had spoken harshly and inappropriately.

Take that responsibility on yourself. You are the one who will reap the benefits! If your future is important to you, you must act for yourself! If you do not, no one else can do it for you. The reverend sat back in his chair.

Alex was frustrated. How could anyone expect me to do something that is simply out of my reach?

You are a resourceful young man. Do not let what you do not have get in the way of what you have! the reverend replied in a determined voice.

They both sat for a few moments, staring at each other.

OK, tell me what you are trying to say, Alex said. He twisted in his seat and appeared to be ready to stand. Then he spoke with a determined voice to the reverend. I have heard from others in my class who are inquiring about colleges that there are lots of costs in going to college. Numbers like twenty to thirty thousand dollars.

Alex’s disposition showed a sense of despair and discomfort. My parents do not make that much money in a year. It is a waste of time and energy for me to talk about anything as far-fetched as going to college. Do not get me wrong. I wish I could go to college. I have the qualities that are needed to make progress and help people along the way. I appreciate your concern for my future, but that is a financial burden I could not place on my parents.

The reverend smiled, then chuckled and replied, That is exactly what I expected you to say.

What do you mean? Alex replied in a loud voice that caused nearby diners to stare at him. Are you trying to make fun of my family’s financial problems?

The reverend looked squarely at Alex, leaned forward, and replied, No Alex, not at all. I admire one who will look reality in the face and say, ‘I can beat you anytime I want to.’ You have done that numerous times during your short lifetime. Sometimes we must depart from the successful experiences we have had and reach forward, even into the unknown. You have shown that you have those qualities. Other people recognize it. You just have to begin to recognize the qualities that God has instilled in you and believe in yourself. In your future, you will be responsible for yourself and any family that you might have. The reverend leaned back in his chair and stared at Alex.

Sir, Alex replied. I did not expect anything like this from you. Maybe you are trying to help me, but how can I reach out to something I cannot even imagine?

Sarah’s father burst out in laughter. Alex did not know how to take the laughter, so he remained quiet while silently simmering in discomfort.

Why are you angry, Alex? the reverend asked.

I am not angry! Alex replied.

The reverend spoke with absolute authority. Yes, you are. It’s OK to have feelings. When you deny your feelings, that is when you begin to make mistakes. That’s when you begin to lose confidence in yourself. You let your standards drift down.

Are you doing this to me because I have been dating your daughter? Are you trying to get me to leave her alone? If you are, you can forget it! We appreciate and support each other.

Alex, this conversation has nothing to do with any relationship you have with Sarah. What you have done and shown in character, determination, and spirit, I approve of, just as others who see your values also do.

That quieted Alex for the moment.

Alex, do you remember that football game late last October with Eli Andrews High School?

Well, yeah, I do. Why do you ask?

Our high school coach is a good friend of mine. You might not realize this, but your coach and I also played football in high school. He accepted an athletic scholarship to attend college. I was not good enough to get an athletic scholarship. In fact, I had to work my way through college.

So? replied Alex.

Your coach and I have talked about young people in high school numerous times. He told me that he should have kicked you off the football team because of what you did during that championship game.

Alex was puzzled. What do you mean?

You know what I mean. That last play of the game. They led by a score of three to nothing. A hard-fought and well-played game. The ball was thirty yards from the goal line with four seconds on the clock. Coach sent in a play to Joe, the quarterback. He called the play, but you said no. You told Joe to call time, and he did. Both you and Joe ran toward your bench while the coach came toward you on the field. Joe yielded to you. You told Coach that you had analyzed the movements of the defense and you had a play that would work. In frustration, Coach told you to run his assigned play. Coach said that you looked at him and shook your head. He had long before observed that you had an ability to read defenses and make decisions. He looked at you and told you that it was your game to win or lose. Just do it!

The reverend continued. Out of anxiety, Coach threw his clipboard to the ground as you and Joe ran back to the huddle.

Alex sat with his head cocked sideways in a defiant mood, looking at the reverend.

You had obviously seen some standard in the other team’s defense pattern and movement. In the huddle, you told Joe that you would line up beside him and have the center hike the ball directly to you on the second hut.

Alex sat quietly for a moment because he did not know what kind of scolding could come next.

Reverend Jansen continued, "you told the center to sacrifice himself on the middle linebacker. Just stop him! Everyone else was encouraged to make their assigned block. You told Joe to charge through the line between center and right guard and block anyone he met.

"That film shows Joe making a movement and quick, loud signal calls. That approach confused the defensive line. On the second hut, you received the ball. Your tight end was lined up on your left, with your wide received behind him. The tight end broke out first, with the wide receiver two steps behind. You had determined that the left cornerback, who was a planner and thinker, would assume that your big end was a blocker for the wide receiver, who would receive a pass. He immediately broke to that side of the field.

"The center demolished the middle linebacker. You took one step back, then began movement to your left, raised your arm to fake a pass, and observed the safety break to that side of the field at full speed. You immediately turned to your right and charged for that hole at your right guard. Joe hit the first tackle who was heading to fill that hole in one of the most impressive blocks I have seen. Head-to-head with both laid out on the ground. You vaulted over Joe and charged downfield. One impressive movement, and you faked the outside linebacker out of position. Nothing left for you but the goal line.

But that left safety immediately saw his mistake, reversed direction, and chased you. He met you when you were one step from the goal line. He hit with all the energy he had remaining. Both of you tumbled into the end zone, looking like only one ball of humanity. The whistle blew, the line judge raised his arms, and the fans came unglued. You and that safety lay on the ground for a moment longer than one would expect and then got up. You looked at him and handed him the football. He gave you a congratulatory slap on the back.

Alex was lost in calm remembrance. The reverend continued, You began to run down the field until you approached your team members, who were charging to meet you. Both teams stopped in the center of the field, shook hands, congratulated each other on a great game, and then proceeded to your bench. You and Joe were met by a coach who was torn in emotions. He tried to hug you and Joe while showing his frustration at the same time. Coach later told me that when he finally calmed a bit and focused on you and Joe, he began to understand that you had a good mind, a pleasant personality, and a love for people.

Alex remined silent.

You explained to Coach in the locker room after the game. You told him that all during that game, you had observed and analyzed the position and movements of the Eli Andrews defensive backfield. The left safety always followed the ball, even when the play was developing.

The reverend paused to see whether Alex might have any question or comment. Alex remained silent, so the reverend continued, A film of that game shows exactly what happened and the results.

Alex gently slapped the table and said, Yeah. That was a good game. Our team played hard.

The reverend looked at Alex with a grin.

Alex laughed and said, Yes, I sort of remember it that way also. But what is the purpose of discussing it now?

Well, the reverend began, in spite of what you might think, it has nothing to do with you and Sarah.

Alex looked the reverend in the eye and said, Well then, what are you trying to say? It cannot be about that ball game. That’s old stuff.

You are right, replied the reverend. It is not about the game. It is about the people in that game.

Again, Alex seemed to be puzzled. What do you mean?

Alex, many people in life are given tremendous talents and skills by God that they never realize they have and therefore never use. Some will say that even if they had those talents, they never had a chance to use them. Right now, you are in that category.

Alex was beginning to see that the reverend had something to say to him, so he remained quiet and waited.

You have been blessed with excellent health, a good mind, and physical strength. That assisted your team in winning that football game. But your physical ability is not what really helped win that game. Your excellent mental skills helped you lay a trap for that defensive safety, but still, that is not what won the game.

Alex was getting anxious. Well, go ahead and tell me. What in the world are you trying to get around to?

"The human spirit, Alex. Only the human spirit. You displayed it at its best when you and that defensive safety met at the goal line. You gave him what you had earned. You gave him the football