35
ZEKE
I got up Sunday morning and went to church with my parents because I needed to see the difference my folks spoke of for myself—and try to get answers about what I believed and where I belonged.
The church’s structure hadn’t changed, but the congregation, the feel of it had. Sure, people dressed up in their best clothes, but true happiness seemed to shine on their faces.
Within minutes of Braden Hardy taking to the pulpit—his first time—I understood why. He preached tolerance and unconditional love even though he’d been hurt terribly by his father. He taught grace and mercy—without a hint of fire and brimstone or demands to repent for the old man’s evil ways.
Healing had taken place after his father’s leaving, that much became apparent, but I still didn’t feel comfortable sitti
