The Works of Thomas Peters

By Lamar Johnson

The Works of Thomas Peters is a Fiction Christian book about a young man who tries to find his passion and place in life. He leaves his home in Georgia, much to the dismay of his parents, joining the Peacemakers and immersing himself in the community for change, impacting in the country of Ethiopia.

During his stay in Ethiopia, he meets a humble and meek man of God who teaches him biblical truths and integrates the Word of God in every concept of his life. Thomas wants what Mr. Jude has, which is the wisdom of God, humility, gentleness, favor, and wealth. Thomas is diligent in listening to the Mr. Jude and desires a personal relationship with Christ. Using biblical scriptures, this fiction book offers Christ-centered wisdom, forgiveness, and wealth-building principles, helping him discover that the true wealth of God comes from loving God and loving His people.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Apr 6, 2022
• ISBN: 9781098099619

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The Works of Thomas Peters

Lamar Johnson

ISBN 978-1-0980-9960-2 (paperback)

ISBN 978-1-0980-9961-9 (digital)

Copyright © 2022 by Lamar Johnson

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods without the prior written permission of the publisher. For permission requests, solicit the publisher via the address below.

Christian Faith Publishing

832 Park Avenue

Meadville, PA 16335

www.christianfaithpublishing.com

Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 1

The Works of Thomas Peters

Thomas Peters certainly was not a typical teenage boy. He didn’t talk or act like others his age. He never gave much thought to materialism—fancy cars, clothes, or houses. He simply loved life and he loved people. While his parents appreciated Thomas’s caring nature, they didn’t see much value in it for his future.

Back when Thomas was born in 1944, the toll of world war weighed heavily on John and Susan Peters. They determined that their three children would have long, happy and prosperous lives. As the baby of the family, they hoped Thomas would grow up to be a doctor or engineer or, perhaps, follow in his father’s footsteps and become a lawyer. Everything was going according to plan for his siblings. By the time Thomas reached high school, both his brother and sister had already built successful businesses in the family’s hometown of Darien, Georgia.

But Thomas grew up to be just an average student, often bored and aloof in class, his academic record was unimpressive. Frustrated with his son’s lack of focus, John thought military school would instill a sense of determination and ambition in Thomas. But after much consultation and deliberation, the school director politely suggested that military school was not the best place for his son.

Thomas entered his senior year with no plans for the future. He didn’t want to go to college, and he did not want to go into the military. He had no skill set or interest in any occupation.

But there was one thing that came naturally to Thomas: He had a passion and desire to help people. Whenever he came across those who were less fortunate than him, his innate response was to alleviate their suffering in any way he could, often giving his clothes, his food, and his money when he possessed it. He had a passion for life and for people, and he wanted to do his part to help humanity.

One day, the school guidance counselor called Thomas into his office. When he found out that he still hadn’t made any decisions concerning his future, Mr. Murphy suggested that Thomas volunteer with a new organization called Peacemakers International. As the counselor explained how Thomas would be able to help people, learn new cultures, and see other parts of the world, he felt a sense of joy and excitement. The Peacemakers would fulfill his need to serve and his quest for cultural engagement.

After giving it much thought, Thomas decided to share the news with his parents. He made them sit down in the living room and then told them about his decision.

To his surprise, John and Susan were extremely disappointed by his news. They did not want their youngest child to leave American soil to serve in any third-world country.

You are not joining the Peacemakers! John yelled. You are forbidden to go!

His father stormed out of the living room, leaving Thomas and his mother sitting in silence. Thomas, hurt and dismayed by their reaction, kept his resolve and quietly assured himself that he was making the right decision.

With weeks of tension in the home and graduation rapidly approaching, John and Susan took Thomas out for dinner. He was nervous and didn’t know what to expect. He wanted the blessing of his parents, but he knew in his heart that if they did not grant their blessing, he would still go.

After placing their orders, John opened the conversation.

Thomas, I don’t want you to go. This is not the road that your mother and I had planned for you, but I respect and admire your willingness to serve others. So, with that said, your mother and I will not stand in the way of your decision to join.

Thomas was thrilled! He jumped up from his seat and hugged his parents.

I love you all so much! It’s important to me that I have your blessing. It makes me feel at peace.

Susan, filled with a mixture of joy and fear, expressed her love for Thomas.

No matter what, she said, we will always stand with you.

I have friends in Washington from my days at Cornell, his father said, clearing his throat to cover the emotion in his voice. They have influence at the Peacemakers. I’ll make some calls to put you in the best possible situation. What’s the duration of your volunteer program?

Two years, Thomas said.

When you complete the program, I want you to seriously consider fields in medicine, engineering, or law.

I will, Dad, he promised.

With the tension over, Thomas could relax and enjoy the fellowship with his parents.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

Matthew 5:9

*****

Thomas burst into Mr. Murphy’s office first thing Monday morning to tell him the good news.

Let me guess, Mr. Murphy said, evaluating Thomas’s facial expression. You have excellent news to share?

Indeed, I do, Mr. Murphy. I can join the Peacemakers!

Mr. Murphy was delighted.

Great to hear! Let’s get your packet together and send it on to D.C.

No longer feeling aimless, Thomas managed to pull his GPA up to a 3.1, placing a capstone on his high-school career and making his father proud.

The night before his flight to Washington, D.C., his parents threw a surprise going-away party for Thomas. The room was filled with family—aunts and uncles, his brother, Jerry, and his wife, his sister, Karen, and her boyfriend—and a multitude of friends. Even his high school counselor, Mr. Murphy was there to celebrate.

After cake was served, the crowd began to chant, Speech! Speech! Speech!

Thomas stood slowly, reluctant to speak to such a large gathering.

I want to thank you all for taking time from your busy schedules to see me off.

He paused for a moment, attempting to get his emotions under control.

I hope to make you proud. I hope to make all the people of Darien, Georgia, proud. Thank you for your support, and thanks again for coming out.

Thomas took his seat, wiping the tears from his eyes. Then one by one, his family and friends came up to hug him goodbye.

Now the Lord had said to Abram: Get out of your country, from your family and from your father’s house to a land that I will show you.

Genesis 12:1

Chapter 2

The Leap of Faith

The next morning, his father and mother dropped Thomas off at the airport. Susan cried as she watched her son get his luggage from the trunk of the car.

I love you so much, she said. Take care of yourself and make sure you write me often. And if you don’t feel safe, come home.

Mom, it’s going to be okay, Thomas reassured her. Everything is well.

His father closed the trunk and put his hands on Thomas’s shoulders. Come back the man I know you are, he said. I love you. And stay safe.

Before disappearing into the airport, Thomas looked back at his parents one last time. His adventure was now a reality. He was eager to fulfill his dreams. This was the opportunity he wanted, and Thomas aimed to seize it.

The flight from Atlanta to Washington, D.C., was short. Thomas gathered his luggage from the carousel and proceeded to the transportation exist where he spotted a man holding a sign with his name on it. He walked over and introduced himself.

Hello, Thomas. I’m Marty Stevenson. I’ll be your liaison during your stay in D.C.

Back at the Peacemakers’ national headquarters, Marty introduced Thomas to some of the staff. Thomas received his program agenda and instructions, checked into his room, and then gathered with the other volunteers for dinner.

Thomas was seated with such a diverse group of people from all walks of life, and he was happy to be among them. He met Tony from Michigan, Jason from Nebraska, Larry from Montana, Cynthia from Tennessee, Laura from North Carolina, and Brenda from Florida. All of them were young and vibrant, eager to make their mark in life, full of ideas, and willing to serve humanity in any way they could. Thomas knew he’d made the right decision.

Before going to bed, Thomas called his parents to let them know he’d arrived safely. He told them about the dinner and assure them that everything was going as planned.

Over the next 10 days, Thomas and the other volunteers underwent psychological evaluations, cultural-awareness training, safety training, medical evaluations, and medical training before being cleared to fly to their final destinations. Tony was assigned to Nepal, Jason to Panama, Larry to Costa Rica, Cynthia to the Dominican Republic, Laura to the Philippines, and Brenda to Ghana.

Thomas was the only one who did not receive a letter of assignment. Instead, he was summoned into the director’s office. Thomas feared the worst. As he walked toward the office, his classmates murmured among themselves, speculating that maybe he’d failed the training. Thomas slowly grabbed the cold door handle, his shoulders sinking under the weight of discouragement. He turned the latch and walked in.

You wanted to see me, sir? he said nervously.

Hello, Thomas. My name is Arthur Allen. I’m the human resources director here.

Thomas had never seen Mr. Allen until that point and didn’t know what would happen next.

You can relax, Thomas, he said kindly. You’re not going home.

When he heard those words, Thomas’s posture changed.

Well, that’s good news, sir, he said, finally able to breathe again.

I went to school with your father, Thomas. Your dad gave me a call and asked me to assign you to the best possible location—one that is safe and has the best staff. John hasn’t changed much. He’s still as bossy and bullheaded as he was when we were in school. So, I’ve been thinking about where to send you. But first let me ask you this: Where would you like to go?

Sir, wherever you need me is where I will go.

Your father said you’d say that. I’d like to send you to Ethiopia. It’s the safest place we have right now, and we need the best staff in that region.

Then that is the place I will go, sir.

You’ll have to explain this to your folks, Mr. Allen said, knowing that Thomas’s parents would not be comfortable with their son so far away.

I will take care of it, he said. Thank you so much, sir. I won’t let you down!

With his confidence renewed, Thomas walked out with his shoulders high and his head higher.

I’m going to Ethiopia! he shouted.

The volunteers cheered and went away celebrating, thankful that no one was left behind.

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way.

Psalms 37:23

*****

Departure night was finally upon them. As Thomas and the other volunteers gathered in the hotel lobby, they hugged and wished each other the best. Scared and excited, they loaded themselves and their belongings into the awaiting vans and set out for the airport.

Thomas found his gate and waited for boarding. As he sat amid the crowd of passengers, a calm came over him, a feeling that he was in the right place at the right time. The call for boarding was made, and Thomas took a deep breath. Here we go, he said to himself.

He made his way to his window seat, sat down, and watched as the remaining luggage was loaded. Within minutes, a woman sat in the seat next to him.

Hello, Thomas said. The women smiled and returned his greeting.

Once the plane climbed to flying altitude, Thomas slept on and off for the first two hours. Thomas was glad when the flight attendant came by with beverages and snacks. He asked for water, and the woman next to him had tea. As they snacked, she introduced herself.

My name is Lisa.

Hello, Lisa. My name is Thomas. It’s very nice to meet you.

Is your final destination Ethiopia? she asked.

Yes, ma’am, it is.

Is this your first time there?

Yes, it is. How about you? Is this your first time?

Lisa shook her head.

No, I’ve been there on a couple of occasions. I’m missionary, so I go back in forth periodically. What brings you to Ethiopia?

I am a volunteer with the Peacemakers.

That’s wonderful. We’re sort of in the same field.

I haven’t been to church…well…I mean…I sometimes go to church, he said, feeling a bit awkward. This is probably a silly question, but what does a missionary actually do? Forgive me for my ignorance. I’m embarrassed now.

Lisa laughed and gave him a kindly smile.

It’s not a silly question. Actually, it’s a really good question. A lot of people think they know what missionaries do, but they really don’t. We do have some of the same functions as the Peacemakers. We, too, provide health care services, education, infrastructure development, and economic development. But the first and most crucial part of a missionary’s job is to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It’s the principal thing that separates us from the Peacemakers or charitable entities. Most charities only try to meet people’s physical needs. However, we try to meet people’s spiritual needs and their physical needs.

The two continued to talk on and off throughout the nearly 13-hour flight.

As the plane began its descent to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the conversation picked up once more.

Thomas, I hope you don’t mind me asking, but how old are you?

I don’t mind, he said. I’m eighteen.

You’re the same age as my daughter. She’ll be coming to Ethiopia in the coming months to join me on the mission field.

I guess missionary work runs in the family, he said.

Yes, it does. My husband owns a pharmacy, and he closes it for a few weeks out of the year to come over and do missionary work, too.

Once they landed in Ethiopia and the fasten seat belt sign turned off, they were free to exit the plane. Thomas stopped in the nearest bathroom before proceeding to baggage claim. When he finally reached the carousel, he looked for Lisa, but she’d already retrieved her luggage. He grabbed his bags and made his way toward the exit. Just like in D.C., someone was holding a sign that said, Thomas Peters.

Thomas walked up to the man and introduced himself.

Indemin walatschu, the man replied.

I’m sorry, sir, Thomas said. I don’t understand what you’re saying.

"That means hello in Amharic," he laughed kindly.

My name is Buiz Nicanor. I’m the security and transportation manager for the Peacemakers. How was your flight?

It was great, Thomas said.

He liked Buiz and knew they’d get along nicely.

A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Proverbs 18:24

*****

Thomas looked out the car window at the mass of people going in all different directions. The city was fast-paced, and the people moved quickly.

Buiz looked over at Thomas.

You are a long way from Georgia, Mr. Thomas.

I sure am, he agreed.

This is a great city with great people. They have good values. It’s not perfect, but tell me, what country or what city is? I believe you will like it here. I do. Are you hungry?

Starved, Thomas said.

Good, Buiz said, as he pulled up to a roadside café, and Thomas had his first taste of Ethiopia.

When they arrived at the Peacemakers campus in Addis Ababa, Buiz showed Thomas to his living quarters and introduced him to his new roommate. Thomas and Robert, a retired schoolteacher, talked briefly as Thomas placed his luggage in his room. Then Buiz whisked him away to headquarters to meet the team and learn more about his assignment.

Thomas was introduced to each department leaders—Bernie Williams from Agriculture, Sam Bernstein in Education, Dr. Clara Rivers of Youth Development, and Dr. Alan Steinberg with Medical Operations. The leaders informed Thomas he would be working with each department for six months until his two-year assignment was complete, they informed him. If his first year was successful, he would be eligible for a three-week vacation.

After meeting the staff and other volunteers, Buiz gave Thomas a tour of the grounds and then released him to get a proper night’s rest. Before bed, Thomas wrote his parents letting them know that he made it to Ethiopia safely.

Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.

Deuteronomy 10:19

Chapter 3

Going through the Process

The next morning, Thomas stopped by the cinder-block cafeteria for breakfast. He ate eggs and oatmeal before reporting to Dr. Steinberg at the medical center.

Good morning, Doctor! Thomas said with a smile.

Indemin aderatschu, Thomas. Do you know what that means?

"I am thinking it means, Good morning?"

You’re correct! You’ll hear that a lot around here, he said. How did you sleep?

Very well, thank you.

Good! That was a long flight, and it can zap all the energy out of you.

During the morning huddle, Thomas met the medical team and was told what a typical workday would be like. He learned that they would travel three miles every day to the local hospital to train and assist their Ethiopian counterparts. Thomas’s duties were to assist with basic hygiene and sanitation classes, assist doctors and nurses with medical supplies, and help patients who have physical disabilities. He would also be responsible for filing and keeping patients’ medical records up to date.

One day during his normal routine, a pregnant woman walked into the clinic, escorted by her teenage son. Realizing that the woman was in heavy labor, Thomas shouted for the doctor.

Thomas, get me some towels, Dr. Steinberg said after quickly examining his new patient. We don’t have much time! This baby is coming out now!

Thomas moved swiftly. He did exactly as asked and then left the room as instructed. While waiting outside, Thomas tried his best to comfort the woman’s son.

Indemin Walatschu, he said.

Indemin Walatschu, the boy replied.

Having pretty much exhausted his Amharic, Thomas began muttering to himself that he wished he knew more.

It’s okay, the boy said. I speak English. My father taught me. He teaches English at the university. That’s where he is now.

Thomas laughed with relief.

I’m glad because this would have been a very short conversation, he said. Your mother is going to be fine. Dr. Steinberg is a great doctor.

My name is Thomas. How about you?

My name is Jeremiah.

To pass the time, the two talked about soccer. Jeremiah, who was 15 years old, loved to play soccer. It wasn’t long before the nurse came out, inviting Jeremiah to come meet his baby sister. Jeremiah looked nervously at Thomas. Realizing that his new friend needed moral support, Thomas and Jeremiah walked in together.

When Jeremiah picked up his sister, the newborn stopped crying.

She is beautiful, he told his mother.

Thomas asked what’s her