Tracie Peterson by Tidings of Peace Page A

“You go ahead inside, and I’ll get parked and join you. Save me a seat!”
    They scrambled from the car and up the steps of Faith Church just as the rain began to fall in earnest. Ruth paused long enough to take the cookies from Grandpa Bennett before ducking inside to greet her friends, while Rachel remained supportively at David’s side.
    “Mrs. Bennett, it’s so nice to see you here on this less-than-perfect evening,” Pastor Gray said as they entered the building. The roly-poly pastor bobbed his balding head up and down as he shook her free hand. It was as if the actions of his hand dictated those of his head.
    “We wouldn’t miss it,” Ruth said, smiling. “And how is Mrs. Gray? I heard she had caught a cold.”
    “Nothing to worry about,” the man assured. “She’s here tonight. Ever ready to take on her job at the piano. But thank you for asking.”
    Helen quickly hurried downstairs to prepare for the play. Rachel leaned over to her mother. “I can take these downstairs for you.”
    Ruth became instantly aware of a growing crowd. She felt David press in behind her. She turned and smiled. “No, I’ll handle it. You stay here and introduce David.” She gave his shoulder a gentle pat. “They’re coming to greet the hero of Pearl Harbor,” she said softly. “You’re important to them, David. You and so many others are the reason they are working so hard, doing without. Remember that.” He nodded.
    “Ruthie, is this that young man you told us about?” a sweet-faced older woman questioned.
    “Yes, this is the man. I’ll let Rachel do the introductions while I get these goodies to the kitchen.” She spoke for the benefit of everyone who had gathered to meet their houseguest. She added, “He isn’tused to so many people. He’s been recuperating from his wounds, mostly seeing just doctors and nurses, so go easy on him.” With that she took her leave and Rachel took over.
    Rachel threw David what she hoped was an encouraging glance. “This is Kenny’s good friend from the ship, David Cohen.”
    “Well, we’re proud to have you here,” the older woman said, reaching a hand out to shake with David. “I’m Ginny Williams. My son joined up with the Army Air Corp just this year. I’m glad to get to meet you.”
    David murmured thanks and was soon inundated with names and faces from congregation members. When her father came through the front door, shaking the rain from his hat and coat, Rachel felt a sense of relief. He would no doubt see to it that they made their way into the sanctuary and save their socializing for the party after the play.
    True to form, he did just that. Marion Bennett paused only long enough to hang up his coat, as well as David’s and Rachel’s, then doffed his hat and suggested they find a seat.
    “Looks like it will be a full house tonight,” Ruth said, sliding into the pew beside her husband.
    “Looks like half the town has turned out,” Rachel’s father replied. “Some probably came for the play and some to catch a glimpse at David.”
    He gave David a wink, but Rachel felt him tense in the seat beside her. She started to lean over and ask him why, but Pastor Gray made his way to the front of the church and a hush followed.
    “Let us pray and give thanks for the season,” he began.
    All heads bowed in unison, with exception to one. Rachel couldn’t help but note that David was uncertain what he should do. She squeezed David’s hand reassuringly, then closed her eyes.
    “Oh, great and merciful God, we ask for a speedy end to the war and the safety of our boys. We ask that here, in the season celebrating the birth of your Son, Jesus, you would touch the hearts of all, blessing them with the assurance that you are in control. And that no matter what heartache we might have to face, you alone are just and righteous—thy will be done. Amen.”
    Without much introduction, the Christmas play sprung to life. Mrs. Gray played familiar Christmas songs while a