The Kingdom

She would've passed by Kuri, only He held His hand out to her. With a cry she threw herself at His feet in joy that she was not rejected, but conflicted of spirit because she of all was the most unworthy of the mercy being offered to her.

He touched her and instantly her travel worn garments were gone, now replaced with a dress of purest white. Gasping she looked up to behold the face of her Suitor, who had never ceased from His ardent pursuing of her.

He took her hands and pulled her to her feet, "All is forgiven Ayaya. You are My bride in whom I find no fault. Your place from now on is by My side even as we are one."

Ayaya, feeling gloriously changed, stepped beside Him who was now her husband and together they stood receiving the souls of those entering into the Kingdom.

*****

Not sure how it came to be, Susori found herself climbing the pathway upwards with her children, the last of all those gathered. The Savior and His bride continued to wait for her slow approach toward them.

Her Master's face bore only kindness and understanding in its regard of her as He said, "Let go of the world and all its cares Susori and enter into the place I have prepared for you."

Crying Susori approached and fell against Him and He held her tenderly, mindful of the baby held in her arms. Gently, He took the baby from her, as with His free hand He wiped at the tears on her face.

He waited for her to calm down and then simply said, "Come."

He turned to the last vessel and climbed aboard with the baby, who cooed delightedly the whole time within His grasp. Susori, feeling strengthened from within followed behind Him, as Ayaya was beside her carrying Lavaya in her arms.

The boat drifted upwards from the stairway of leaves that now fell spent to the upturned forest floor as all the light and color of Ayenathurim faded into darkness, because the Spirit of El Elyon was no longer in residence upon the face of the land.

It was the end of an age of Grace and the beginning of eternity for those who were the first to believe. More would follow, but theirs would be a salvation gained through great tribulation.

*****

Dazedly I took in the fact that the sun was all but over the horizon. More keen than that though, I sensed the spiritual change in the atmosphere around me. My family was safe along with all the others.

Victory had been achieved. I could die now.