Abba’s Garden

By David Crowden

It was a hot summer day, and a boy is playing on the steps of a local church in his neighborhood. He checks the door to see if it's open, looking for a drink of water or a temporary escape from the heat of the day. The door opens, introducing a beautiful garden. As he begins to explore, he meets talking animals and the first man. Later he meets the Creator Himself and discovers that the Creator had been looking for him. He also meets a serpent-type creature that follows him out of the garden and tries to make his life a wreck. A venture into an unknown garden forever changes the lives of so many when a boy discovers Abba's Garden.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Feb 12, 2024
• ISBN: 9798891302129

Book preview

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Abba's Garden

David Crowden

ISBN 979-8-89130-211-2 (paperback)

ISBN 979-8-89130-212-9 (digital)

Copyright © 2024 by David Crowden

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

Pete

Chapter 2

Pete

Chapter 3

Pete

Chapter 4

Pete

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

About the Author

Chapter 1

Pete

Papa, what were you doing on the hill last night? We saw a light up there, my middle granddaughter, Beth, asked, her beautiful brown eyes looking up at me with all the seriousness a four-year-old could muster.

He was talking to Mamma and Poppa God, her five-year-old brother, Ben, spoke up, proud to know the answer.

Does God live on the hill with Mamma? Beth answered as she was processing what was just said.

Well, yes and no, I said, getting ready to expound the fact that God was everywhere, and Mamma was in heaven.

Tell us how you met Poppa God, Papa, Ben asked.

Yeah, tell us, Beth said as her little eyes lit up.

A sigh of relief, because this would be an easier one to explain, or at least that's what I thought at first. I gathered the grandkids around me, sat in my favorite chair, and told them of a time when I was about ten or eleven years old.

I will never forget the day we first met. It was a hot summer afternoon. I was outside, playing in the neighborhood. I was pretending to be looking for lost treasure. I noticed an old building just up the street. It had seven steps leading up to a set of big wooden doors. It reminded me of a castle that surely had treasure or some other secrets hidden. It was a Monday morning, and there were no cars around it, so it seemed the perfect time to check it out. Hopefully if nothing else, it would be air-conditioned and cooler than my house. As I climbed the seven steps, I imagined sword fights with pirates or gun battles with bad guys wanting to get inside to steal the treasure. As I played on the steps for a while, I was starting to get tired and thirsty, so I decided to try the door to see if it was opened. Surely there would be a water fountain inside so I could get a drink. I pulled on the door handle, and it began to open. As I slowly opened the door, I looked around to see if anyone was watching; the coast was clear, so I went inside.

I stepped into what seemed to be a magical place; it was cool and very green. Everywhere I looked, there were different kinds of trees and beautiful flowers growing everywhere. I stepped into someone's garden, but I knew I came into a building. I saw some fruit growing on a vine that was totally different than anything I'd seen before. Everywhere I looked was beautiful green. I thought this must be a dream. Maybe I got to hot and passed out. I looked down, and my shirt was wet from sweating, yet it was comfortable here. I walked a little further, thinking to myself, Can't be a dream. I've never had a dream where in the dream, I think I'm dreaming. I noticed different types of birds singing beautiful songs. Then I was aware suddenly that I was being watched. A couple of times, out of the corner of my eye, I would notice some quick movement in the shadows.

I called out, Hello, is anyone here? Then I walked a little further into a clearing when suddenly, out of a nearby thicket, a huge grizzly bear walked in and stood towering over me.

He sniffed the air, looked at me, then, instead of roaring, yelled out, Adam, who is this? I've never seen him before!

I don't know if it was fear or just the fact that this bear was towering over me and talking, but I was not moving. Then another voice from behind said, I've been following him, never seen him before either.

I turned to see a beautiful black panther, whose back was nearly as high as my head. Who is this new one, Adam? the panther asked as it stopped and stared.

A beautiful lion and lioness walked from another direction toward me. The lioness walked up to me; her head was near my chest, as she began smelling me. He is Adam's other… Then she lowered her head, and the lion lowered his head as well. Then each of the animals, one by one, lowered their heads in some sort of sign of respect to me.

You talk, I said as I looked at each of the animals. They all stared at me in stone-cold silence. Did I say something wrong? I thought to myself.

Then a robin gently landed on my shoulder and said, Well…duh. Then he gently shook his head. All the animals started laughing hysterically; their laugh was so fun I quickly found myself laughing as well.

Who are you? Bear asked, as he was able to finally stop laughing.

I'm Pete, I said as I turned to see that all the animals were just as fascinated with me. Who are you?

I'm Bear. That's Lion and Lioness, Panther. Oh, and Robin is the one on your shoulder.

Bear? I asked, wondering if he had a name.

Yes, Bear, 'cuz I'm the only Bear, he said, matter-of-fact.

What about your other? Panther asked behind me.

She's the other bear, Bear answered, and everyone started laughing again.

Pete, why are you here? You're obviously not from here. I looked up, and there was a large barn owl on a tree branch speaking. Are you looking for something or someone?

I heard a voice behind me say, Yes, why are you here? I turned to see a large man who seemed to be glowing. He seemed to be wearing light; his whole body was glowing. My name is Adam, he said with a huge smile. All the animals once again bowed in reverence to him as he walked toward me.

Hi, my name is Pete. I think I'm lost. What is this place? I wasn't scared but wasn't really feeling safe yet either. The animals backed up as Adam stepped closer; they all seemed to be one big family. The bear sat down, while the lions and panther lay down near us in the grass.

This is Eden, our home. You're never lost here, Adam said to try and put my mind at ease. We have plenty of room and food. You're welcome to live here with us. In fact, you could stay with me. I'm the only one who has no other.

Other…what do you mean? I asked, wanting to understand.

All of creation has an other, one similar to itself, except me, Adam said as he looked, for a moment, to the sky. I'm the only one created in Abba's image. But as I look at you, I can see Abba in you as well. I smiled. I wasn't sure what he meant, but I could tell it was a compliment.

Thank you. I really like it here, but I need to get back to my home, I said to Adam. My mom will be home soon, and my dad is coming home in a couple of days.

Mom and dad, you mean there are more like you? Adam seemed pleasantly surprised. Can you take me to them? I'd love to meet Mom and Dad. Do you live near the waterfall or the other side of Abba's Mountain?

No, I live in town, not far from here. At least, I think it's not far, I thought to myself. I was playing outside and came through a door, and next thing I know, I'm here. I was starting to get worried as I realized this was probably not helping. I don't know where I'm at or how to get back. Honestly, I like it here, but I will need to go back because my family will worry about me. I'm also starting to get hungry.

Here, try one of these. They're delicious. Adam reached up to a nearby tree and grabbed some sort of purple-looking banana. He handed the fruit to me. As I took a bite, my mouth was flooded with delightful flavor. The taste was like ice-cold grape soda. If you'd tired or just not feeling well, try one of those. And he pointed to another tree that looked like purple apples.

Thank you, I said, hoping he wouldn't be mad at me for saying I wanted to go home. I took a second and third bite till the delicious fruit was gone. Then I headed to the purple apple-looking fruit.

The bear walked over to us and said, You have got to try these. They tickle your tongue. Then he let out a laugh. He grabbed another fruit from a tree that was to the left of us. It looked like a big blue pear. I took a big bite, and my mouth was full of the sweetest taste I'd known. It was like one of Grandma's pies, when suddenly, I began laughing; my new friend began laughing as well.

Where is your other? Adam asked the bear, concerned.

She ate some of the blue fruit and is sleeping, Bear said, matter-of-fact.

I looked over at the lion, and he seemed to be grinning from ear to ear. I went over to the lions and, sitting between the two, began to rub them behind their ears. Both leaned their heads toward me, as I was able to wrap my arms around their huge necks and hug them. We began laughing, just enjoying the moment. The birds were gathering around us, singing. I forgot about being lost or trying to find my way home. Perhaps it was the food or the fun I was having, but the thought of leaving was gone for now.

Pete, would you like to go for a ride? I can show you around? Adam asked, as two beautiful white horses walked up to where we were. Maybe after you see more of Eden, you'll want to stay. Bear helped me up on the one horse, as Adam climbed on the other. Take us to see Chakemah, Adam said to the horses, who both nodded.

We started off slowly, then the horses broke into a run across beautiful open plains. I could see a waterfall in the distance; four rivers went out from it. All around were beautiful trees with all kinds of different fruits and flowers. Just ahead was a beautiful mountain, then I noticed some of the birds were flying above us toward the mountain. A couple of elephants were walking toward the mountain as well when they saw us coming. They stopped and kneeled as we rode by, moving closer to the magnificent mountain. The greenery and plants were just as beautiful on the mountain as the area I came in. Both horses slowed to a walk, as if by instinct, at the base of the mountain.

This is Abba's Mountain Adam said, sort of matter-of-fact. He comes here in the cool of the day, and we walk together, Adam continued as he looked toward the top of the mountain.

Who is Abba? I asked, not wanting to seem ignorant.

Who is Abba? Why, He's our Creator, our reason for being, our Father, Adam answered, surprised at the question. You don't know Abba…that would explain why you feel lost, Adam continued with a serious look on his face. He, well, in many ways, is our other. He created all things. He loves us and, each evening, comes and spends time with us. You'll love Abba. His love is like standing under a gentle waterfall. It feels so good and refreshing…yes, and you'll never feel lost again.

What do you do when He comes? I asked, wanting to understand more about Abba.

What do we do…well, whatever we want, Adam answered. I think he was surprised by the question. Sometimes we sing songs from our heart. Sometimes we sit, eat, and tell stories. Sometimes we play games. Once, He allowed me to fly high like a bird. That was fun. Another time, He gave me the ability to swim underwater and speak with the fish. We walked to a large cave opening at the base of the mountain. If you enjoyed the fruit of the garden, then wait till you taste Chakemah's fruit! Adam exclaimed with excitement. We walked into the cave. Although we were in the cave, there was no darkness. There were trees full of different types of fruit growing here as well. Only those created in Abba's likeness may eat of this fruit.

Why is it called Chakemah's fruit? I asked, as he handed me a delicious pear-shaped fruit.

Because of him, Chakemah. He lives here in this part of the garden, Adam said as he pointed ahead to what looked like a huge dragon. Its skin seemed like beautiful diamonds, with patches of green like jasper. The dragon stood as we came near. Immediately, I was frozen in fear. Did Adam bring me to sacrifice me? Was I about to be lunch for this amazing creature? The creature's eyes looked at me directly. It seemed to sense what I was feeling. I could see fire in its eyes that suddenly softened.

Peter, I am here for you, not you for me. My fruits are here to bring life, not harm, Chakemah said as he raised his head high. You never have anything to fear in me, he spoke, then lowered his head. Welcome to my home.

I've never met a real dragon. You're beautiful, as well as your home. Can you fly and breathe fire? I asked. After all, I have never met a dragon, much less one that could talk. I didn't want to miss an opportunity to learn.

Chakemah and Adam both laughed at my reaction and questions. Yes, I can fly and also breathe fire, but my fire is not like you, I suppose. My flames are not destructive or consuming, Chakemah said with a smile across his face. My flame stirs the flame that already burns in the hearts of Abba's children. My fire is one of passion that stirs in the heart of all Abba's children. Then Chakemah moved his mighty tail, revealing a compartment of beautiful pearls, diamonds, and assorted gems, each reflecting the glow and light in the cave. My fruit, my fire, and even my treasure are all gifts for Abba's children. Eyes have not seen nor ears heard all the things that Abba has prepared for those who love Him.

I looked over the amazing scene: exotic and delicious fruit growing in abundance. Treasures beyond the imagination of any king, and in the midst of it all, an enormous dragon that appeared to be made of diamonds and other exotic stones, reflecting and glowing with brilliant colors. This is all so beautiful and amazing, but why in a cave? I asked as I looked around at the magnificent treasure. Shouldn't this be in the fields, where they can be easily found?

The fruit, fire, and treasures are all things that must be searched for, without a cost or sacrifice of searching, then they would lose their value, Chakemah spoke. But the real treasure is found at the top of the mountain, with Abba! His love is the very breath we breathe and life we have. When your heart is ready, you'll find His fire burning in you, and a cave of Chakemah will be formed within you. There was a long silence as both Adam and Chakemah looked to me. I was so enthralled with the entire scene of a beautiful talking dragon that his words were still registering. When you're ready…but for now, we must get you home.

Then he began to breathe fire on me. I raised my arm to shield myself and closed my eyes. The fire felt like a warm breeze and reminded me of a hot summer day. As I lowered my arm and opened my eyes, I found that I was back on the steps of the building. As I looked around, I noticed a sign; the building turned out to be a church. The sign read Abba's House and listed meeting times. I headed home as I knew Mom would be arriving home soon. As I stepped into the back door, Mom pulled into our driveway.

Mom walked in, smiled, and said, How was your day?

Fun, was out exploring the hood, I said, hoping she wouldn't pursue this questioning.

We need to go the store. Your dad is getting back tomorrow, and we need some groceries.

Dad was a truck driver and would have to be away for a week or two sometimes for long hauls, as he called them. He promised to take me one day, when I get older.

She put her hand on my head and said, He'll want to take you fishing when he gets back, so we'll need to get some snacks. I didn't want to admit that I really didn't like fishing; we'd only went once, and between having to stab worms and Dad getting frustrated at me constantly tangling my line, not much fun. I ran and jumped in the car, happy that she's not pursuing the earlier line of questioning. We stopped by my favorite burger place for dinner. Mom always said that you never go grocery shopping on an empty stomach. As we were sitting inside eating, Mom asked, So what did you find exploring today?

I began to tell her about the beautiful green garden, the talking animals who became my friends. About the fruits of shapes and colors that I'd never seen. I told her about my friend who rode horses with me, and then we went to a diamond dragon's cave.

Really…what was the show called? Mom asked. I noticed, as I was talking, she was looking at her watch and then the cars outside. She seemed to think I was describing a movie or show on TV.

Mom, you're not listening…I went to this place and saw all these things, I said, a little frustrated at her lack of excitement. She reached across the table and placed her hand on my forehead.

I hope you're not getting too hot during the day, she stated, as if maybe the heat caused my adventure. Anyway, I'm sorry, I do believe you, but it's getting late, and we need to get going before traffic gets bad. So we cleaned off the table and headed to the grocery store.

As we walked through the store, I was thinking of all that had happened earlier that day. I looked around in the produce aisle. I saw nothing that looked the same as the fruit I saw in the garden. Talking and laughing with the animals, riding horses, and meeting a real live dragon. The dragon's treasure, Dad would never have to leave us again. Mom would never have to work again, if only I could bring some of the dragon's treasure. He said it was for me, when my heart was ready. Ready—ready for what? I was ready to go back. The real treasure is at the top of the mountain. Those words seem to echo far above everything else I'd seen. Who was Abba? Would He be as friendly and nice as everyone else I'd met in the garden world?

As we're finishing up our shopping, Mom looked at me and said we had enough to get a treat, and she grabbed a package of Twinkies and a Dr Pepper. Mom was in a happy mood because Dad would be home a week this time. Whenever he takes a long haul with the trucking company, he will be gone for two weeks but gets a week off when he returns. She knew Twinkies were my favorite, the food of the gods, and add Dr Pepper—now that is like your birthday!

After loading the groceries in the back seat and putting away the cart, I sat in the car, ready to eat these golden cakes of goodness. I tore open the wrapper and took a bite of what I knew would be heaven here on earth and was greatly disappointed. I had noticed that my cheeseburger and fries earlier were not as good as usual. But I thought maybe it was my excitement from my earlier adventures or just a bad day for the cook. But now it was as if I was eating tasteless foam. Where was the goodness, the joy of cream-filled happiness? They tasted the same, but suddenly the same wasn't as good anymore. All I could think of was the fruit I'd had in the garden. Even the Dr Pepper didn't seem to taste as good anymore. My experience in the garden was now making everything else pale in comparison. Does this mean I'll never be able to enjoy my favorite foods again?

Suddenly in midst of my thoughts, Mom said, Hey, bud, mind if I have one? She reached for the Twinkies package. She bit into the other one and said, "Man, these are good."

All I could think was, If you think those are good, you should try the fruit, but I kept my thoughts to myself since she didn't believe me the first time I told her. Honestly, I wasn't sure if I believed it. A man with no clothes but seemed to be wearing light. A pair of talking lions that acted more like loving kittens and amazing fruit trees with colors and tastes that were out of this world. But wait, I experienced that taste. Everything else, I could say, was a dream perhaps, but I tasted something new and beyond compare. The more I thought about it, the more I realized it was real. A bear that talked and made me laugh. A dragon with treasures that were made for me. Did I go to another planet, another dimension? And what other treasures were yet to be discovered? I couldn't wait to go back!

The next morning, Mom was getting ready for work as I ate some cereal; even Cap'n Crunch didn't taste as good anymore. Crunch Berries were no match for that fruit I'd found the day before. Summer was winding down, so I knew I'd have the day to myself, as Mom would be at work, and Dad wouldn't be back till later that day.

So what are your plans for the day? Mom asked. I was nervous because this usually meant she was going to give me a chore list.

I was planning on playing outside, in the neighborhood, I asked, hoping she didn't have a list ready.

Be careful, it's supposed to be hot today, so make sure you drink plenty of water. Come in and lie down if you feel too hot. Mom kissed the top of my head and said, Please be good, no friends over, and don't mess up the house.

I will, Mom…I mean, I will be good, I said with a chuckle. Whew, no chore list. That was a close one. I had to get back to the garden and explore. Surely what had happened yesterday wasn't a dream or caused by getting too hot. But it was the dragon's fire that brought me home. I can still feel the lion's fur and sitting with the animals. I remember how funny and fun the bear was to be around. Adam, the mysterious glowing man who seemed to be in charge of the place. The dragon mentioned something about being ready, and the treasure could only be found by those willing to search for it. Was I ready? Should I wait till I'm older? Perhaps I found something that wasn't supposed to be found yet. But everyone was so friendly and inviting. The true treasure could only be found if I was willing to search for it. Ready or not, I must continue searching for that treasure. I know Mom and Dad could use the treasure; they'd never have to work anymore.

I waited until the car was gone before I headed back over to the old church building. I had a backpack with me this time. I was determined to bring some of the fruit or maybe even some treasure back with me. I was also hoping to find a way to bring Mom and Dad with me to the garden. Perhaps the dragon could help me, or better yet, maybe I could meet Abba. He could help me with my search.

Chapter 2

Pete

Walking up the stairs toward the door, again, I looked around to see if anyone was watching; the coast was clear. I pushed open the door, and once again, my senses were overwhelmed by this beautiful garden. As I walked in, I noticed it was very quiet. I was walking up to one of the trees to start harvesting some of the fruit when suddenly, a hand pulled on my pants leg. I looked, and there was Adam, hiding behind some bushes, motioning for me to hide with him.

Is everything alright? Why are we hiding? I whispered as I knelt down beside him.

Adam looked at me, at first, surprised, then his face broke into a huge grin. He's coming, and I like to hide so He can find me. It's a game we play.

Do you think He'll be mad that I'm here? I asked with a little concern.

No, He already knows…, Adam responded with a quiet reassuring laugh. I glanced over to the right and noticed Bear lying perfectly still among some other trees. Even the birds were silent, hiding out of sight. Suddenly a bright light began to shine over us; it was as if the sun was setting right over on top of us.

I found you. I've been searching for you.

The voice was unlike any I'd heard before; it was loud like thunder but not scary. It reminded me of Mom or Dad tucking me in at night, a very loving and comforting voice. I turned to see who was speaking, and I saw a face that was filled with such pure light I could hardly focus. It felt as if I was underwater, in a pool filled with love and peace. I totally forgot about Adam, Bear, and everything else. It was as if this voice and I were the only living beings at the moment.

Hi, Peter, I've been waiting for you. Welcome to my garden.

Who are you? I asked, although I was pretty sure I knew. Are you Abba that everyone talks about? I asked with all the courage I could muster. Again I was trying to focus on His face, but the light was too intense. The thundering voice that seemed frightening was, at the same time, so beautiful and inviting. I was excited that He was speaking to me.

Yes, Peter, that's who I am. I know you want to take some of the fruit back with you. But I want to give you more than just a taste of my garden. If you'll let me, I want you to know my life, the life you were created to know. When you're ready, I have a lifetime worth of treasures and fruit for you.

Yes, I'd love to know what I was created for, the life you offer, I said without really thinking of what I was saying. I want to know all that You have for me, I said as I relished the idea of feeling this wonderful all the time.

Abba's face shined even brighter with a huge smile. And you shall, but first, we're in the middle of a game. Now it's your turn to find me.

Suddenly, He was gone, and the light lifted from the place. Adam and Bear both came out of their hiding places, giggling. Birds began to return to the trees, and my friend, Robin, landed on my shoulder again.

No worries, He's not a good hider, Robin whispered in my ear. I can help you find Him if you'd like.

One by one, the other animals came out of hiding places, some better than others. A cheetah was teasing Bear. You're not very good at this game. I spotted you right away.

Only because you saw where I hid, Bear said in his defense. Both started laughing at one another when out of the brush came a second bear. Other Bear was obviously much better at hiding.

She rubbed up next to Bear and said, He was helping me to hide.

He said the game's not over. Now we have to find Him, I said.

That, my friend, is your adventure, Adam said with smile. We've all found Him, and once you do, you must tell us all about it. We love hearing the stories of Abba.

One of the horses came up to where I was standing. May I offer a ride to assist in your search?

Yes, I said with excitement, take me to Chakemah's cave in Abba's Mountain. Today I will find the treasure at the top of the mountain, I proclaimed, as if I was in an action movie.

Adam helped me on the horse. The robin flew up, then landed on my shoulder again. I can help you find Him, the bird whispered in my ear.

In that case, you should probably ride here. And I gently placed the robin in my left shirt pocket. This way, you don't fall off, and I don't lose you on the way.

Is everyone ready? the horse asked as he turned his head back toward us. Then here we go! Then the beautiful horse started with a slow gallop before breaking into a run, making sure I was ready. Once again, I could see the beautiful waterfalls ahead coming off Abba's Mountain, the four rivers that formed at its base. There were beautiful trees that grew all along the river that seemed to only grow there. The horse stopped by one so I could grab some fruit for a snack. Horse was able to grab one himself. I broke the fruit up into smaller pieces and fed it to Robin when a coyote walked up to us.

What are you doing? What are you doing? the coyote asked us as we stopped under the trees.

We've stopped to get some of this delicious fruit, I answered, although I thought it was obvious.

Where are you going? Where are you going? Can I come? Can I come? Can I have some fruit? Can I have some fruit?

Go away, chattering coyote, we're too busy for you, Horse said, sort of annoyed. Master Pete is on a mission.

On a mission, on a mission! Can I go? Can I go? I could be your guide, your friend. Can I have some fruit please? The chattering coyote seemed to be constantly speaking and asking questions without waiting for the answers.

Coyote! Hi, my name is Pete. I have a guide, but you're welcome to join us if you'd like. I'm going to find Abba and hopefully the treasure at the top of the mountain. I was able to finally get Coyote's attention long enough to speak as I dropped some fruit to the ground for him to eat.

Finding Abba, finding Abba…did you lose Him? Did you lose Him? How could you lose Abba? How could you lose Abba? He's everywhere. He's everywhere… the chattering coyote went on between bites on the fruit. Then suddenly, Coyote stopped eating and was staring at something or someone behind us. Then he ran toward whatever he was looking at without a word or explanation.

Horse laughed as we started out. I gently placed Robin back in my shirt pocket. Again we were on our journey to Chakemah's cave and to find Abba. A beautiful songbird flew down and landed in a tree ahead of us and began singing a beautifully melodic song about Abba. The bird sang even louder as we approached.

I said to the bird, I'm going to Abba's Mountain to meet Him.

The beautiful bird looked at me for a moment and sang, Happy is the man who seeks Abba. Great treasures await him. The treasure is on top of the mountain! Then the bird suddenly flew away toward Abba's Mountain. I must be headed to the right place, I thought to myself as, again, the horse continued toward the mountain.

We stopped at the entrance of the beautiful cave; inside was glowing as Chakemah reflected the fire burning within himself. Welcome back, Pete, son of Adam.

Just as I walked in, Robin's head poked out of my shirt pocket, then he made his way out and on my shoulder. When Chakemah noticed the bird, he immediately lowered his head in reverence and sang a song of praise to Abba. Abba, great and mighty, ancient of days, welcome, you are welcome here, he sang.

Yes, exactly, I've come seeking Abba. We were playing a game, and it's my turn to find Him, I said with excitement. I want to know Him as well as the treasure at the top of the mountain. He was speaking to me, then said it was my turn to find Him. So here I am, hoping you could help me find Him, I said as my excitement was growing within me.

Why do you seek what you've already found? Chakemah asked, seemingly surprised by my quest. Do you come to Chakemah and say, ‘I'm seeking Chakemah' when he stands before you? Suddenly the glowing light in the cave intensified as Robin flew off my shoulder and took on the image of a large glowing man.

Hello, Pete, told you I could help you find what you were looking for. As He spoke, I could feel the light flowing like cool water over my body. It felt like I'd dived into a waterfall of love. I will never leave you nor forsake you. Sometimes I'm hidden in the small things around you, just to see where your heart is looking. It's your choice to find me or not. You weren't distracted by the chattering coyote but stopped to hear the songbird. You were not afraid to ask for wisdom in your search. You have found me and soon will help others find me as well.

As I stood in His presence, suddenly I'd forgotten treasures, mountains, and everything else. I wanted to run up to Him, while part of me wanted to run away. He seemed to be both inviting and frightening at the same time. Should I sing a song, recite a verse, perhaps bow my head? As I was processing all these thoughts, a great sense of unworthiness overcame me. I began to think of every time I disobeyed my parents or was mean to someone else. Suddenly I felt as if I had no business being here at all. I felt like an outsider, but at the same time, I wanted to fit in.

Thank you for allowing me into your garden and world, I said quietly.

You're very welcome here, and to answer your question, you need only be yourself to please Me, He spoke with a smile and a slight laugh. My love for you is unconditional. Your father is returning soon. You'll need to return home. Remember, I'm always with you. Then suddenly I was back on the front lawn again by the steps.

As I walked in the front door, I heard Mom say, Good timing. Clean yourself up, and help me with the table.

As I glanced toward the kitchen, I could see Mom's face smiling. In her smile, I was reminded of the lesson of the robin. In her smile and voice, I could see hints of Abba's love. I washed my hands but could still feel Abba's presence lingering over me. I wanted to tell Mom and Dad, but at the time, no words could explain what I was feeling.

Hurry, Mom called from the kitchen.

So I went and began grabbing plates and silverware for dinner. I just finished setting the table when we heard Dad's air brakes on his truck as he pulled into the driveway. Mom smiled and said perfect timing as she set the fried chicken on the table. Dad came through the door, and I gave him a big hug, then he and Mom locked arms and kissed. He gently squeezed her bottom, and she giggled, then he said, Something really smells good.

Mom's cooking was better than any restaurant, and whenever Dad had been away for a while, we always knew that his first dinner back was always going to be awesome! Tonight was no exception: golden fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, dinner rolls that were hot out of the oven, green beans. In the kitchen was an apple pie that was waiting as dessert with ice cream on the side. Dad told us about driving and seeing a majestic-looking eagle flying over him. It seemed to guide him down the road. I smiled as, again, I was reminded of how Abba is always around us if we look for Him. All through dinner, although I was laughing at Dad's stories, in my mind, I was in the garden, sitting at Abba's feet. Who else knew about the garden—Adam, the animals, and the amazing fruit trees. Most of all, who was Abba? I'd never felt love like His before.