Chapter One: How it began
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep…"
I yawned, sinking further into the wooden pew, half-drowsy and entirely uninterested. Another Sunday, another sermon I've heard a hundred times before. Church was never about choice—it was tradition, drilled into me since childhood by my well-meaning parents. I didn't feel inspired or moved. If anything, I felt... nothing.
They talk about God as if they've seen Him, touched Him. They speak with such fiery conviction, but I just don't get it. Why obsess over someone so silent, so distant?
I snapped back to reality as the final hymn echoed through the building. Closing time. Finally. I grabbed my bag, hoping to slip out unnoticed before the pastor cornered me—he always seemed to find a reason to talk to me. Sometimes, I think he's a little too invested.
As I reached the door—freedom in sight—he appeared right in front of me, blocking my path.
"So close," I muttered under my breath.
"Deborah, I've been trying to get your attention for a while now," he said, raising an eyebrow.
I clutched my bag, feigning innocence. "Oh—I didn't hear you. I guess my mind wasn't really here."
He gave me a knowing look. "I'd like to have a word. Just a few minutes in my office."
My heart sank. This wasn't a casual chat.
Inside, I sat stiffly across from him as he leaned forward, hands clasped.
"How are your parents? I didn't see them today."
"They traveled for a program. They'll be back before next Sunday," I replied, already sensing where this was headed.
"That's fine," he said, sliding a flyer across the table. "What I wanted to talk to you about is important. I've noticed your detachment—your lack of interest in church, in Christ. There's a youth camp coming up, and I want you to attend."
I glanced at the flyer and froze.
TEENAGERS OF CHRIST: SEEKERS OF HIS KINGDOM – CAMP OUT
Date: November 25th – December 2nd
A whole week?
My mind raced. I had things to do, a life outside of this. No way I could just disappear for that long. Before I could object, he added firmly, "This isn't optional, Deborah. I've already spoken to your parents—they support this. You've got a month to prepare."
And just like that, he stood and walked out, leaving me stunned and silent.
I sat there, flyer in hand, disbelief clouding my thoughts. I didn't want this. Why did I have to go? Why did it feel like I was being punished for something I never signed up for?
Tears burned behind my eyes, but I blinked them away. This "God" they speak of… where was He when I was hurting? When I was crying myself to sleep? And now they expect me to serve Him with all my heart?
Still, deep down, I knew I didn't really have a choice.
"One week," I told myself. "Just survive one week, and you'll be back to your life."
But a quiet, unsettling feeling twisted in my gut—one I tried hard to ignore.
Something was about to change.