50 Days to His Heart

Day 13: Henry

I left the house early to meet the caller who allegedly saw our children. There was doubt even with the policemen but I insisted on going. We live in Metro Manila but the caller is from the Quezon Province. Who knows? They can still give us information that we need.

I brought my licensed gun just to be sure and before I left, Lorraine and I both prayed and agreed that whatever happens, we will trust the Lord.

We reflected on Romans 12:12 which says we have to rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, and continue to be steadfast in prayer.

It was funny because what we used was the old Bible given by Conrad. Reading the Bible together is still something new, but I'm enjoying the experience.

Lorraine was worried of me leaving but I assured her that I'll let God take control.

Honestly, it was hard for me because my rational part is telling me that it's impossible but my faith is telling me to just see.

We agreed to meet at a fastfood chain and I can't help but remember how my kids are so fascinated with the Red bee. They would always order chicken joy and fries while Lorraine would order strawberry sundae. I'd get burger and brewed coffee.

That's actually one of the reasons why Lorraine is a good mom. Even if we can afford in eating in bigger restaurants, she would always tell me to let our children experience living an ordinary life. After we eat, she and the kids would play and throw colorful balls to each other. I'd work on something in my laptop and watch them from time to time.

Memories. Good memories. Happy family.

***

I waited for the caller for almost three hours before he finally showed up with his wife. Both are underdressed and I got a feeling that what they are about to say has nothing to do with my children. I still stayed.

'Lord please prepare my heart.'

The woman, who I think is in her early 50's started to cry and I was left with nothing to say.

"Sir, we are very sorry. We needed the money for my operation and we thought.."

"We thought sir that coming up with stories will give us the money that we need." The husband ended.

I had to count from one to ten and tried to clear my thoughts before saying anything. 'Daddy, never ever let your anger control you' was my wife's reminder before I left.

"What operation is that?"

"Sir?" They asked, both confused of my reaction.

"Ahmm... she needs to undergo an operation right, what is the operation about?"

"It is not really an operation but a treatment sir. I... I need to undergo dialysis."

Dialysis will really cost a lot. I've got some friends whose relatives underwent the treatment and they lost a lot of money. Even their businesses and here I am in front of a couple whom I assume do not have money at all. What do I do?

"We are only giving a hundred thousand for those who'd be able to help us locate our children. Dialysis will cost more."

"Yes sir. But we thought if we will start with the treatment right away, then maybe she will get healed."

"Do you have children?"

"Our eldest is in grade 11 and all the others are still in elementary. I drive a tricycle and she accepts laundry for a living."

"Do you know how to drive a car?"

"Sir?"

"You know a car," I had to move my hands and acted as if I'm driving.

"Yes sir, I can."

"Good."

"Sir?"

"Had we met before when I was still the old Henry, no one knows what I could have done, but losing my children and almost losing my wife led me back to the Lord, and I am... I am opening my heart to forgive you both."

I don't know why my voice trembled but I could feel that I am almost teary-eyed.

"Oh. Sir... Thank you. Thank you. Now we can sleep at night knowing that we've done what is right."

"Thank you for your kind heart."

"Here is my calling card and I already have your number. I will try what I can do with the dialysis and help you earn a living. I'll call you if I need a driver... And I'm giving a slot for your eldest child for a scholarship under my company. He just needs to pass the exam and interview."

"Oh!!! Sir, thank you. Thank you."

"It's not me but God. I just hope, I just hope you'll join me in prayer that we will be able to find my children soon."

"No problem sir. We will also tell our children to pray for you."

The couple has embraced me and it felt good.

Really? Since when did I become this welcoming?

***

"Baby, do you want anything from batangas?"

I tried to sound happy and at peace, although my heart is burdened on how I'd break the news.

"I just want sweet peanuts daddy. How did it go?"

"Baby, it's... It's..."

" a hoax?"

"Yes baby."

I heard Lorraine tried not to cry.

"Baby, you can cry. Cry it out baby."

"At least we tried right daddy?" Lorraine said in between her sobs. "But daddy, it's just so painful to hope and lose it."

"I know baby, I know but you'd be surprised with what I did. Baby, I didn't punch the guy."

I chuckled that I was surprised myself recalling how I managed to offer even for a scholarship for the child.

"That's an achievement for my hot tempered daddy."

"Whose hot-tempered?"

"You."

"I know."

"But a playful one too."

"Oh."

"Yeah."

"Baby, I also offered scholarship to the child."

"Wow!"

"It's God's grace I guess."

"Well daddy, wherever our kids are, I know God is just over them."

"Yes. They are."

"What do you want for dinner daddy? I'd cook."

"Just rest baby. I'd bring roasted chicken and wine. Let's celebrate how I overcame anger today."

I heard Lorraine laughed and I laughed too. We are both in pain of losing our children but we are enjoying this new found faith.

And just before I started driving back home, Adrian sent a message saying that he is flying to Chicago and a message that reminded me that in despair, God is our refuge.

Psalm 59:16

I will sing of Your power, I will sing aloud of Your mercy in the morning, for you have been my defense and refuge in the day of my trouble."