Daring Creative Minds

Daring Creative Minds Daring minds is all about shinning God's light and sharing his love through the use of our talents

04/11/2024

Continuation of episode three
“Could I go back to that?” she wondered aloud, the thought both thrilling and daunting. But as soon as it arose, another concern flooded her mind: Where will I find the capital to start again?

Just then, as if in reply, a quiet yet profound peace settled over her heart, and the words “Be still, and know that I am God,” emerged from the depths of her spirit. She closed her eyes, letting them wash over her, allowing herself to trust that she was not alone in this journey. Whatever lay ahead, she knew God was with her, and she would not face it in fear.

With this renewed hope, she whispered, “Thank you, Lord. I will trust in You.”

04/11/2024

Chapter Two _Episode three
RISEN
the stillness of her small, dimly lit bedroom, Mrs. Ketura knelt beside her bed. The gentle breaths of her sleeping children drifted softly from the adjoining room, a comforting reminder that, though they faced hardships, they were still together.

With clasped hands and a heart laid bare, she whispered her deepest burdens to God. “Lord, I don't know where to start. Since my husband disappeared, everything has fallen apart. I don’t feel like myself anymore. I want to be strong for my children, to show them there is hope, but… I feel so lost.” Her voice trembled, and a single tear traced a path down her cheek.

But tonight was different. The sermon from earlier in the day echoed in her mind—words about joy in suffering and perseverance in trials. She had not felt joy in so long, but something had shifted, a glimmer of strength she hadn’t felt in years. As she poured out her fears, a gentle yet firm assurance stirred within her. Words she hadn’t read in a long time resonated in her heart: Do not be afraid, for I am with you.

Curious and comforted, she opened her old, worn Bible, and her gaze fell on the familiar passage: Isaiah 41:10“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” She read it over and over, feeling the words etch themselves deeply into her spirit.
Am I to just fold my hands and wait? She began to flip through the pages and landed on the story of Lydia, a woman who sold fine cloth and served others with the work of her hands. As she read, she remembered her own days as a cloth merchant before she married. She’d loved that work, finding joy in selecting fabrics, helping customers, and managing her business. But her husband had expressed concern, saying it took too much of her time, and for the sake of her family, she had given it up.

17/10/2024

Chapter two
Episode 2
“We must remember, brothers and sisters,” the pastor's voice echoed through the church, “that suffering does not mean God has abandoned us. In fact, it is through our suffering that we grow, that we bear fruit. James tells us to consider it pure joy when we face trials because the testing of our faith produces perseverance.”

Mrs. Ketura felt her heart stir. She had been drowning in sorrow since her husband vanished, but perhaps there was still hope, even if she couldn't see it yet. Her thoughts turned to her children, Jerry and Eleora. They needed her to stay strong, and perhaps this was the strength she had been searching for.

In the same service, Mrs. Eliasha sat with her children, her mind drifting to her husband. He had seemed so defeated the night before. She didn't know what was wrong, but she knew it was more than just the family’s financial strain. As she listened to the pastor, her heart ached for her husband. She whispered a silent prayer, asking God to light their path and help them persevere, even in the face of whatever trial they were about to face.

The message resonated deeply with both women. They prayed for strength, for guidance, and for the courage to keep moving forward. Though their burdens were heavy, they left the church feeling a renewed sense of purpose, unaware of how their lives would soon become intertwined in ways they couldn’t yet imagine.

As Mrs. Eliasha and her children returned home, she found Mr. Eliasha sitting at the kitchen table, lost in thought. His eyes met hers, and for the first time in days, he spoke honestly.

“I have something to tell you,” he said, his voice strained but determined. "The doctor...he said I need a heart transplant, and if I don’t get one soon, I...won’t make it.”

Tears filled Mrs. Eliasha’s eyes, but she held his hand tightly, her resolve strengthened by the message from the church that morning.

“We’ll get through this,” she whispered. “God is with us"

17/10/2024

Chapter 2: A Heart in Waiting

Mr. Eliasha sat in his car outside the hospital, the doctor’s words echoing in his mind. His heart, failing. Six months. He couldn’t bring himself to start the engine, couldn’t face the prospect of going home to his family with this news. What kind of man was he if he couldn't protect them from what was coming?

Eventually, he drove back home. It was Saturday evening, and the house was unusually quiet when he entered. His wife, always attuned to his mood, looked at him with concern.

“I’m just tired,” he muttered, brushing off her inquiries. “I’ll stay home tomorrow. You take the kids to church.”

His wife nodded, but she knew something wasn’t right. Mr. Eliasha had been distant lately, but this felt different. That night, sleep eluded her, but she clung to her faith, praying for her husband’s peace and strength.

The next morning, the sun filtered through the windows as Mrs. Eliasha prepared the children for church. Mr. Eliasha lay in bed, his heart heavy with more than just his diagnosis. He had been the pillar of his family, the steady rock, and now he felt like he was crumbling.

Mrs. Eliasha and the children left for church, leaving him alone in the silence. He stared at the ceiling, wondering if there was any hope. He had no plan, no idea how to save himself or his family from the impending tragedy.

At the church, Mrs. Ketura sat quietly in one of the middle pews. It was the first time she had attended a service since her husband disappeared, and the weight of that absence pressed on her. Today, she had decided to come, hoping for some kind of solace, some answer to the endless questions that plagued her mind.

The pastor's message that morning was titled "Joy in Suffering." He read from the book of James, reminding the congregation that trials are a test of faith and perseverance. His words seemed to be directed straight at her

09/10/2024

Continuation of episode 4

"Lord," she whispered within herself, "it’s been a long time since I spoke to you, but here I am. I’m sorry for running away when everything turned dark after my husband disappeared. I didn’t know what to do, but you’ve reminded me today that you’re still here, even in the little things. If this is your way of calling me back, I’m ready. Hold my hand through this, Lord, and if you will, bring my husband home. I’ll trust you with all of it."

As she finished her silent prayer, a sense of peace washed over her. It wasn’t a solution to all her problems, but it was a start—a reminder that she didn’t have to carry the burden alone.

Her children’s laughter echoed in her ears as she sat there, her heart a little lighter, her faith a little stronger.

09/10/2024

Chapter 1: Episode 4 – A Ray of Light

Mrs. Ketura walked home with a lighter heart than she had felt in a long while. Her neighbor, Mrs. Sheila, had been more than generous, not only giving her some foodstuff but also sending her home with a cooler filled with cooked food. It felt like a miracle, and as she entered the house, she was greeted by the excited voices of Jerry and Eliora.

“Mom!” Jerry exclaimed, his eyes widening at the sight of the cooler and bags in her hands. “Did you go to the market? How did you get all this food?”

Eliora jumped in before Mrs. Ketura could answer, her voice full of wonder. “Mom, I thought you didn’t have any money. How did you get all this? Wow! Rice and beans? It smells delicious! Did you go to a restaurant?”

“Mom, can we eat now?” Jerry added, his excitement shifting to hunger. “I’m so hungry!”

Mrs. Ketura laughed, her heart swelling with love as she watched their eager faces. “Take it easy, my dears,” she said, smiling warmly. “Okay, go and get the plates, and we’ll eat. I’ll explain everything once you’ve eaten.”

The children scrambled off, and moments later, they returned with plates in hand, barely able to contain their anticipation. Mrs. Ketura dished out the food, and they dived in hungrily, the sound of their eager chewing filling the room. She sat back, watching them with a sense of peace she hadn’t felt in a long time. They were safe, and for now, their bellies would be full.

As they ate, Eliora paused and looked up at her mother with innocent concern. “Mom, won’t you eat too?”

Mrs. Ketura smiled, her heart swelling with love. “Oh, dear, don’t worry about me,” she said softly. “I’ll eat later. You just enjoy your meal.”
She watched as her children continued eating, their laughter and chatter a balm to her soul. In that quiet moment, she lifted her heart to God, a prayer forming in her thoughts.

05/10/2024

Continuation of episode 3

"Why don’t you come to church this Sunday?" she asked. "I know it’s been a while, but I promise you... you’ll find peace there. You don’t have to do this alone. Let us walk with you, let God remind you of His promises—just like He did today."

Ketura hesitated, uncertainty flickering in her eyes. She looked down at her hands, the weight of the invitation settling in her chest. But then she remembered the warmth of the words she had just spoken, the way they stirred something deep within her that she thought was lost.

"I... I’ll think about it," she whispered, her voice soft.

Sheila smiled warmly, her heart full of understanding. "That’s all I ask. Just think about it. And no matter what, know that God is with you—and so am I. Always."
Here’s the continuation, capturing the children's excitement and Mrs. Ketura’s silent prayer as she begins to open her heart.

04/10/2024

Episode 3: Rekindled Hope

Ketura closed her eyes, letting the warmth of Sheila’s words seep in, but the weight of her struggles still hung heavily on her chest.

"I know it's not easy," Sheila continued, her grip tightening slightly, "not for you or your children. But please, don’t turn away from Him. You’ve been away from church for some time now... and I understand why. It’s hard to hold on when you feel lost. But remember, Ketura, 'He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.'"

Mrs. Ketura’s breath caught in her throat at the sound of the familiar verse. For a long moment, the words hung between them, and then, almost instinctively, she whispered:

"He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust..."

Her voice was faint, but the words carried the depth of her weariness and the longing for something greater. She opened her eyes, her lips moving again, almost inaudibly:

"Surely He will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence..."

Tears welled up, blurring her vision as the scripture she had once held dear resurfaced from the depths of her memory. Her hands trembled as she continued, her voice cracking but full of hope.

"He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings, you will find refuge..."

She paused, her throat tightening as the tears began to fall freely now. Sheila squeezed her hands gently, offering her silent encouragement.

"His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart," Ketura whispered, barely audible. Then, with a long, shaky exhale, she lifted her gaze to meet Sheila’s once again, her eyes filled with unshed tears, yet something was different—a faint glimmer of hope.

Sheila nodded, her expression softening as she leaned forward. "Yes, Ketura. He is your refuge. And you are not alone in this. Let Him carry your burdens."

For a moment, silence settled over them, the weight of the moment pressing into the small space between them. Then, Sheila spoke again, her voice gentle yet firm.

04/10/2024

Continuation of episode 2

husband, about life. But I want you to know that . You will come out of this stronger, and your children will have a glorious future.”

The words pierced Ketura’s heart. She had been trying so hard to be strong for her children, but now, standing there, with this unexpected blessing in front of her, the dam broke. Her eyes welled up with tears, and she could barely speak. “Mrs. Sheila... I don’t know what to say,” she managed, her voice trembling.

She wiped away the tears quickly, but her voice still cracked as she spoke, her hands clenched tightly together. "I left the house, Ma," she whispered, her eyes distant, "with no destination... no money in my pockets. I didn’t know where I was going. All I knew was I had to find food. The kids were hungry, and... I couldn’t stand it anymore."

Her gaze finally met Sheila's, raw and searching. "Did God truly send you to me?"

Mrs. Sheila’s smile was soft, her eyes filled with warmth and understanding. She reached out, gently taking Ketura's hands in hers. "Would you believe me if I said He did?"

Ketura blinked, a tear slipping down her cheek.

"I can see the questions, the pain in your eyes," Sheila continued, her voice steady and soothing. "You feel like God has forsaken you, like you're all alone. But let me assure you, Ketura, He hasn’t left your side. Yes, He sent me to you today, as a sister, as a friend, to remind you of His love that never fails. He is still your God, and He is with you, even in this moment of doubt."

01/10/2024

Episode 2: Friend in deed

Mrs Ketura was pulled back from her thoughts by the gentle touch of a hand on her shoulder. Startled, she turned around to see the warm, familiar face of her elderly neighbor, Mrs. Sheila, beaming up at her.

“Hello, Ketura. I’ve been saying hello for a while now. You seem lost in thought,” Mrs. Sheila said kindly. “How are you? And how are your children? I trust all is well.”

Mrs. Ketura tried to muster a smile, but it barely reached her eyes. “Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t see you there. We’re fine, thank you. I was just thinking about some things.”

Mrs. Sheila nodded knowingly. “It’s okay, dear. You seem like you’re heading somewhere. Are you in a hurry, or can you spare a few minutes?”

Mrs. Sheila was well-known in the neighborhood, affectionately called "Neighborhood Mama" by many. A devout Christian woman who had lost her husband in a car accident years ago, she was now alone with her daughters all grown and married. But despite her own trials, she made it her mission to bring peace and joy to others. Her presence had a calming effect on anyone she met, and Ketura couldn’t help but feel a little lighter just standing near her.

Ketura smiled weakly and said, “I can spare a few minutes. I’m not in much of a hurry.”

Mrs. Sheila smiled back and gently led her towards her small, humble corridor. She gestured to a seat and offered her some water, which Ketura gratefully accepted. “Please, I’ll be back,” Mrs. Sheila said, disappearing into her home. A few moments later, she returned with a sack, filled to the brim with food items—rice, garri, beans, and more.

Mrs. Ketura gasped. “Oh no, Mrs. Sheila, this is too much! I can’t take this from you. How do you cope? You’re all alone, and…”

Mrs. Sheila chuckled, waving her. The Lord have been generous to me and I ought to do same to others.This is just a small token to help you. I’ve noticed things haven’t been easy for you lately, and I’ve been praying for you. I know there are many questions in your heart, about your hu

01/10/2024

Chapter one
Episode 1: Shadows of a Broken Life

The days had become long for Mrs. Ketura. The house was eerily quiet without the sound of her husband’s voice. He had left one rainy morning without a word, abandoning her and their two children, Jerry and Eleora. She had searched for answers, for reasons, but none came. All that was left was the echo of his absence, a void that threatened to swallow her whole. She sat in the dimly lit room, her mind wandered back to the life she once had, the life of a housewife—secure, predictable, sheltered.
But now, she had nothing to fall back on.The harsh reality hit her like a cold wind. With no education or career to lean on, she had to start from scratch. Each morning, she rose before the sun, taking on any menial job she could find—cleaning houses, scrubbing floors, doing laundry for wealthier families. The work was brutal, the pay barely enough to scrape by. Her hands had become rough, calloused, a testament to the hard labor she endured daily. But it wasn’t the physical exhaustion that hurt the most—it was the gnawing bitterness deep within her heart.

“Why would God let this happen to me?” she whispered one night, staring at the cracked ceiling of their tiny apartment.

Each night, as she lay in bed, her thoughts swirled with disappointment and anger. She had believed in a life of love, in a marriage of commitment, but those beliefs had been shattered. Still, every time she looked into her children’s eyes, she found a flicker of strength. Jerry and Eleora, despite their young age, were brave, comforting her in ways she never expected. “We’ll be alright, Mama,” they would say, their innocent voices filled with hope.

But deep down, Ketura couldn’t shake the feeling that everything was falling apart. She wanted to believe their words, to embrace the hope they offered, but the weight of her reality pressed heavily on her heart.
Walking down the road with no destination and hope,Mrs Ketura was pulled back from her thoughts by the gentp

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