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Chapter Ninety-eight
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A Special Sunday
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Elizabeth had chosen to have breakfast with the Collins's on Sunday morning since she would not share this meal with them again before departing. She wanted to discuss the possibility of staying with them again and the feasibility of a cot for Jack in her room. Looking forward to a little one around the house, Peter and Carol were excited to meet Jack and gladly opened their home to the Thornton's until the day before construction would begin.
"Thank you so much. Again, I'm guessing we would spend most of our time with Nathan and Allie, and if we were late we could have Jack sleep on Nathan's bed and then Nathan could carry him up here. I should probably keep a pair of Jack's pajamas down at the Cottage for that reason!" Elizabeth paused. "I miss him, you know? I've had the most wonderful time here with Nathan and Allie, and it's been a pleasure to spend time with you also, but I have never been away from Jack for so long and it will be wonderful to see him in a few days. Of course, he will want to hop right back on that train when he finds out I have been here with Daddy Na'tan and Awlie!"
Peter looked at Carol's smiling face and chuckled. "Is that what Jack calls them?"
"Good morning. Grant residence. Nathan here." The ringing telephone was early on a Sunday morning, but Nathan had been seated at his desk completing a few more notes for Elizabeth to take back with her on the train. He answered quickly.
"Good morning, Nathan. It's Rachel. I just received a call from Johanna Blake. Josiah has awakened with a sore throat and cannot sing the duet today. I can change the order of special music, but would you be willing to sing 'Of the Father's Love Begotten' today instead?"
Nathan paused, then agreed. "I would be glad to. I believe the pianist and I have rehearsed it sufficiently, but are the other musicians' prepared?"
"I have worked with them at the Academy, and you heard how talented they were in Friday's concert. I believe they are ready." Rachel assured him.
"Okay! It will certainly be a surprise for everyone! Even the choir has only heard me sing with the piano! Who will sing the brief duet part?"
"The guitarist will and she has practiced that with me as well. It will be beautiful, Nathan."
Nathan took a deep breath. "Okay. As long as I have the words in my folio to prompt me if needed. I will be happy to sing this morning."
"Oh, Nathan! I cannot thank you enough. I am indebted and I know this will be a musical gift to us all." Rachel expressed gratefully. "Thank you so much!"
Nathan hung the receiver on the holder and glanced at the clock. It was time to eat and finish dressing so he and Allie could pick-up Elizabeth and head to church early.
"Good morning, Honey. It is so good to see you…" Nathan commented approvingly as he took Elizabeht's navy blue coat from her. "You look pretty today."
"Oh? Thank you, Nathan. I know this is not a color I normally wear but I thought it was so pretty and wintery, plus wool suits are perfect in this weather."
As Nathan helped Elizabeth with her coat, he asked. "What would be the name of this color? It looks becoming on you, my Love."
"It's the color of an eggplant, but I believe everyone uses the European name as it sounds more elegant. 'Aubergine.'" Elizabeth giggled. "No matter the name I really like the color."
"I do too." Nathan agreed.
Elizabeth wrapped a scarf around her neck, and donned her gloves as she and Nathan headed towards the automobile to meet a shivering Allie inside.
"Are you feeling alright, Allie?" Elizabeth immediately noticed her chattering teeth.
"I'm fine, Mrs. Thornton, just cold. Sunday dresses just aren't warm enough in this weather." She giggled with a quivering voice.
"Sweetheart! You need to be warm, not just fashionable. Tell me where you have a sweater in your room and I'll get it while your father warms the car." Elizabeth was out the door as soon as Allie explained and upon finding the sweater, she also grabbed a woolen blanket that caught her eye. Locking the door since she still had her own key, Elizabeth hurried to the car, clutching the warm woolens to her.
Allie quickly shed her coat and added the sweater before donning her coat and buttoning-up. She snuggled under the blanket and grinned. "Thank you, Mrs. Thornton! It is so nice to have you take care of me." Allie added softly, "Just like a mother."
Before turning into the street, Nathan caught Elizabeth's gaze noticing that her eyes glistened. To keep from responding in kind, Nathan swallowed hard and checked the road for oncoming vehicles.
Having pulled onto the road, Nathan quietly spoke his mind. "Thank you, Lisbeth, for mothering Allie. She has missed that and… no matter how I've tried, few have any idea how difficult it is to both mother and father a child. I am sorry that you understand, but I am so grateful that our future will offer a complete family to our dear children. Our shared sorrow will be our strength, won't it?"
Elizabeth reached out her hand to place it lightly on his forearm. "All our griefs and struggles, our wounds and dashed hopes are making us stronger, Nathan. I feel it." She paused then added, "No. I know it."
Nathan agreed. "I do too."
"I do three." A young voice from the back seat added.
Elizabeth let go of Nathan's arm and reached her hand over the seat back.
From inside the wrapped blanket, Allie reached to take her teacher's hand and they held hands for the remaining trip downtown.
Arriving in the church parking lot, Allie unwound herself and loosely folded the blanket.
Catching sight of his daughter as he turned in his seat to back the car into the parking spot, Nathan commented. "Maybe we should keep a woolen blanket in the car for the winter. Shall we?"
Elizabeth interjected. "Why not keep it draped over the desk chair by the door and bring it out every time you go to the car? That way it will always have the warmth of the house… Well at least on the outgoing trip!" Elizabeth laughed.
Nathan grinned. "And that is why we are such a good team, my Love. Together we arrive at the best solutions to care for our family!"
Taking note of all the pronouns her father and teacher were using, Allie smiled widely and hopped out of the car. Nathan and Elizabeth linked arms, so Allie took her father's other extended arm and the trio headed into the church, as Allie thought to herself, 'Our family!'
Johanna Blake approached Nathan as he was entering the choir room after saying good bye to his girls. "Oh, Nathan. Rachel told me you are willing to sing today. Josiah feels fine, it's just that any cold he contracts always goes to his throat. Jared will be taking his place next to you in the choir today though. He knows all the pieces since he hears Josiah sing them at home so frequently! Anyway, thank you!"
"It truly is not a problem as I have rehearsed this solo often! Glad to help and I will be praying for Josiah to heal quickly. Please tell him so when you get home?" Nathan smiled warmly. "Excuse me, Johanna."
"Of course, Nathan. I will." Johanna responded as she waved and moved down the hallway.
As he changed into his choir robe, Nathan spoke to Jared who was buttoning his father's robe. "Good morning, Jared. I am so sorry your father isn't able to sing with you today. I hope Miss Bell can rearrange another time? I was looking forward to hearing you sing again."
"Thank you, Sergeant Grant. Dad will be fine in a few days I think and Miss Bell assured me that we'll sing in one of the next couple Sundays. I'll be taking Dad's place in the choir today," Jared grinned. "So you will at least hear me sing!"
Allie was surprised to see Jared enter the choir loft beside her father, but was secretly thrilled she would be able to look at Jared throughout the service. Allie forgot that her Mountie-father was in a position to see her watching Jared and he noticed!
Reverend Huntley opened the service with prayer and, before inviting the congregation to stand to sing the first carol, he introduced it as a call to worship, "O Come Let Us Adore Him."
After reading the Scripture passages from the Old Testament prophets and a portion of the second chapter of Luke that spoke of Joseph and Mary travelling to Bethlehem, the pastor led the pastoral prayer. The congregation sang another carol, then Reverend Huntley introduced the offering while the organist played a solo rendition of the carol that Nathan would be singing. (*56)
A young cellist and guitarist moved to two chairs beside the pianist while Nathan quietly made his way to stand beside the piano in readiness. As the organ notes quieted and the guitar and cello began their introduction, Nathan stepped forward, lifting a quick and silent prayer. Opening his folio, he began to sing his favorite Christmas carol, "Of The Father's Love Begotten."
"Of the Father's love begotten, Ere the worlds began to be,
He is Alpha and Omega, He the source, the ending He,
Of the things that are, that have been, And that future years shall see,
Evermore and evermore!
At His Word the worlds were framèd; He commanded; it was done:
Heaven and earth and depths of ocean In their threefold order one;
All that grows beneath the shining Of the moon and burning sun,
Evermore and evermore!
O that birth forever blessèd, When the virgin, full of grace,
By the Holy Ghost conceiving, Bore the Saviour of our race;
And the Babe, the world's Redeemer, First revealed His sacred face,
evermore and evermore!
O ye heights of heaven adore Him; Angel hosts, His praises sing;
Powers, dominions, bow before Him, and extol our God and King!
Let no tongue on earth be silent, Every voice in concert sing,
Evermore and evermore!
This is He Whom seers in old time Chanted of with one accord;
Whom the voices of the prophets Promised in their faithful word;
Now He shines, the long expected, Let creation praise its Lord,
Evermore and evermore!
Christ, to Thee with God the Father, And, O Holy Ghost, to Thee,
Hymn and chant with high thanksgiving, And unwearied praises be:
Honour, glory, and dominion, And eternal victory,
Evermore and evermore!" (*57)
The congregation was silent, many with eyes closed as they absorbed the holy moment and pondered the worshipful lyrics. Later many acknowledged the beauty of Nathan's voice, a warm, full and smooth tenor. Nathan never strained, he just hit every note effortlessly, so his delivery was not a distraction from the words he sang. Instead, his rich voice and demeanor enhanced the carol and had they not been in church, many would have wholeheartedly applauded.
For Nathan, he had lifted his face to heaven as he reverently sang the final verse, eyes closed and heart full of praise. As he lowered his gaze, he caught the surprised and meaningful glance of Elizabeth, then of Allie. Next to her sat Grace, Carol and Peter, all of whom were wiping their eyes. But as Nathan looked back to Elizabeth, his countenance shone. As much as he sang to the Lord alone today, he was grateful to have surprised and blessed Elizabeth.
As Reverend Huntley stepped to the podium, he thanked Nathan and the student musicians, inviting the congregation to pray. He then invited Nathan to the pulpit and introduced him, explaining that he had asked Nathan to read one of his poems for the next few Sunday's because they were a part of his sermon content. "Today, Sergeant Grant will read 'The Journey to Bethlehem.' Nathan?" The pastor stepped aside and Nathan began.
"The Journey to Bethlehem"
"As family and familiar fade into the distance,
hesitation turns into determination
and each step forward becomes more urgent.
Discomfort grows as weariness sets in
yet they trudge on beneath the bright sun,
pausing only for water, food and welcome rest.
Noisy travelers crowd the well-worn road
thus they welcome rare moments to sing praises
and ponder prophecies, angelic visits and dreams.
Choosing to trust YHWH with every anxious thought,
they give thanks for His wondrous works and
for the privilege of their part in fulfilling His eternal plan.
To the mind of man, the timing may be the worst—
to travel so far, so close to the expected birth—
but YHWH, His holy name be praised, knows best.
Contemplating the signs and stars set in place long ago
assurance grows, for truly "God is with us."
The Creator of the universe, I AM…with and within.
For two chosen travelers on Bethlehem's long ago road,
and even for us today, this Holy Son, Jesus,
transforms the cost of sacrifice into the joy of giving.
Jesus transforms the routine into treasured moments,
the mundane into melodious worship
and life's journey into present and eternal blessings." (*EMH)
Quickly moving towards his seat in the choir, Nathan gave silent thanks to the Lord that those contributions were completed for today. He also asked the Lord to help him handle the responses after the service, grateful he could introduce Elizabeth and distract people from any personal accolades! As he took his seat, Nathan gave thanks for that too, quickly glancing at Elizabeth and Allie. When he noticed Allie was focused on Jared, Nathan silently prayed again, then turned his attention to the sermon.
The sermon touched the hearts of many in the congregation but, after the benediction, they were torn as to whether they should depart from the main doors and be able to speak to Reverend Huntley or if they should go forward and try to thank Sergeant Grant. Today was the first day that the pastor had introduced the handsome man who had read a poem previously. Now they knew he was a Sergeant!
Nathan quickly exited to the choir room to deposit his robe, don his suitcoat and collect his overcoat. While there, Rachel hurried to his side to thank him profusely for stepping in today and assured him the music was more than she could have hoped for.
"Not to hurry the weeks between now and then, but I am really looking forward to Christmas Eve now! Have a good day, Nathan, and thank you again!" Rachel waved and moved to another conversation.
With a quick, "You are welcome," Nathan exited the room and, returning to the sanctuary, saw Wes with Ardis and the Samuels. Elizabeth was chatting with Claire and Dan, Grace and the Collins's. A few pews away, Allie was whispering with some Youth Group friends. Nathan took the side aisle and was relieved that his delay in the choir room was enough to send most people out the main doors to see the pastor.
A few members approached Nathan, but allowed their compliments and thanks to be swift so he could get to his family. Elizabeth watched him come towards her and smiled with sparkling eyes. "You didn't tell me about this, Nathan. What a beautiful surprise! I loved the carol at the concert, but I confess this is my favorite rendition." She reached her hand around his waist as he reached his arm around her shoulders in a quick side-hug. Looking up at him adoringly, Elizabeth continued, saying, "It was beautiful, Honey. Truly beautiful."
Carol and Peter turned as they heard Elizabeth's comment. "Nathan! That was beautiful. I love your voice and with the poem as well, we… well…" Carol laughed softly and whispered. "We may have to consider changing churches!"
Peter was startled by Carol's admission, but when he thought about it later he realized that when he wasn't in town, Carol would have more family and community here at Knox than she had experienced previously. Often people kept distance between themselves and a Commissioner and his family, whether in fear or out of some misplaced concern for befriending a Mountie or an exaggerated respect for the office. The end result was a lonely existence for leadership unless you worked very hard to develop friends. Peter knew he had plenty of colleagues and friends within the Mounties, but as she got older, Carol had fewer connections within the ever-changing RCMP community of wives as well as at church. They would have to discuss this possibility, but for now, Peter clapped Nathan on the back and thanked him for sharing his gifts in song and in poetry. "You are a blessing, Nathan. Thank you."
Wes and Ardis moved closer to talk to Nathan and Elizabeth. "Well, brother, I am so glad I came this morning. Wow. You can sing. I mean I heard you when we were caroling, but this? I am so impressed! You are always in pitch. Your solo was wonderful and I just read that poem last week. It was perfect for the pastor's sermon today. Thought-provoking."
"Wes is right, Nathan. I loved the last part when you said, 'God transforms the cost of sacrifice into the joy of giving, turns the routine into treasured moments and the mundane into…' Oh! I can't remember what word you used. I'm sorry…" Ardis blushed, embarrassed.
"No problem, Ardis. The phrase is 'the mundane into melodious worship.'" Nathan then repeated the final section. "'Jesus transforms the cost of sacrifice into the joy of giving, the routine into treasured moments, the mundane into melodious worship and life's journey into present and eternal blessings.'"
"Yes!" Ardis said with emphasis. "Mary and Joseph had to take that journey because of a tax imposed on them, but God used it to bring them to the prophesized town to fulfill His plan. Their trip was a sacrifice, along with all the other sacrifices they made with Mary expecting a baby, but I can imagine joy. And I can also imagine them drawing close to each other and to the Lord as they traversed that difficult road. Their sacrifice, routine and mundane steps turned into fellowship and praise, and eventually into the joy and blessing of our Messiah. Beautiful, Nathan. Thank you for all of this morning's special contributions."
"Thank you for your compliments and you are welcome. Both of you. I am grateful God can use my words for His good!" Nathan looked back to Wes. "So will we be seeing you here at Knox more often, Wes?"
"I think you will." Wes smiled at Ardis. "My only reasons for missing would be my mother's health, but I can probably get her set-up for the morning so I can attend. Especially if I bring home a lovely lady to visit with her for our Sunday meal!"
Nathan raised an eyebrow. "Oh, are you headed there now, Ardis?"
Ardis nodded shyly as she spoke softly. "I am, Nathan. Thank you for introducing us."
"My pleasure. Enjoy the rest of your day and I will see you tomorrow, Wes." Nathan grinned, but made no teasing remark. He was actually considering this to be an answer to prayer and that he did not take lightly. Nathan Grant wanted everyone to be as happy as he was now!
Allie took his arm at this point and reminded her father they should be leaving soon.
"You are right, Allie-girl. Dinner is waiting!" Nathan grinned, then released her arm so he could put on his overcoat and scarf. "Were you warm enough in church with the extra sweater, Honey?"
"I was. I am so glad Mrs. Thornton suggested that. I didn't think it would be good to wear a sweater over my Sunday dress, but practical is good sometimes, right?" Allie looked at Elizabeth and grinned.
"Yes, dear girl. Practical is very good." Elizabeth added. "Especially in winter!"
"So, are we ready? Grace, are you ready to depart as well?" Nathan asked. "Allie can you hold onto Mrs. Thatcher, please?"
"Of course! Let's go!"
Dinner at the Samuels was enjoyable for everyone and, as they finished the last of the pumpkin pie, Grace Thatcher exclaimed that she was afraid William would be jealous when she told him how privileged she was and how delicious the meal was. "William told me he would take you up on your invitation to dinner when he returns to Regina!" She laughed. "Thank you so much for including me today. I am enjoying meeting those who know and love Nathan, and I am delighted to call you my friends now as well."
"We are glad you could come, Grace." Jon responded, chuckling. "Plus, the invitation still stands for your husband's return and for you to join him if you are here too!" Jon wondered if the Thatcher's weren't starved for connections with genuine people to whom the status and size of a bank account meant nothing. If his little family could provide that fellowship, he was grateful to God. Also, Jon actually enjoyed them both!
"Nathan, after I help you with the dishes, would you like me to take a few photographs of you and Elizabeth to mark this special visit?" Jon offered. "I can include Allie and Grace as well in a couple."
"Oh! Would you please?" Nathan was pleased. "I only have one photo of Elizabeth and me from a few years back so that would be wonderful. Thank you!"
Elizabeth eyed Nathan curiously. "You have a photo of the two of us, Nathan?"
"I do. Carson gave me a copy of the one he took at the Flynn wedding, the one he called…"
"A Keeper." Elizabeth named it at the same time as Nathan.
Nathan stopped, hands full of suds. "You remember too?" He asked softly.
"I do." Elizabeth smiled shyly. "I also have a copy. Clara gave it to me shortly after she got the wedding photos. I confess I have looked at that photo frequently ever since."
"You have?" Nathan inquired, surprised.
"I kept in in the drawer of my bedtable and often looked at it before I turned out the light." Elizabeth blushed. "Well, there was a time when I didn't look at it. I just couldn't face what I was losing. But, I've examined it frequently again in the past few weeks. It is a keeper, Nathan."
"That it is." Nathan shook his head, incredulous. "Almost as if it is meant to be." He turned back to the dishes, deep in thought.
After assisting with clean up, Nathan and Elizabeth, who had insisted on being by his side drying the dishes, stepped into the living room for a few photos, before excusing themselves to return home. Nathan had prearranged with the Samuels that they wouldn't spend the afternoon together this week and when Allie learned they would find a Christmas tree this afternoon she was excited. Leaving early was okay for them all since Jane and Jon had purposely decided to bring in their own tree and spend family time decorating it this afternoon.
(*56) Organ prelude: Divinum mysterium (Of the Father's love begotten) – arr. Wilbur Held | Christian Lane, organ
A.N.: For the organ version, recommend online recording of Divinum mysterium (Of the Father's love begotten) – arr. Wilbur Held | Christian Lane, organ, Emmanuel Episcopal Church Baltimore.
(*57) "Of the Father's Love Begotten" Based on the Latin poem "Corde natus" by the Roman poet Aurelius Prudentius. First printed 1582. Translation by J. M. Neale, extended by Henry W. Baker (1851/1861) Public Domain
A.N.: For a choral version we would have heard at Allie's concert, I recommend listening online: Of the Father's Love Begotten – Arr. James E. Clemens, South Bend Chamber Singers.
- For a solo version, I suggest the following, although it is a female soloist and you will have to imagine Nathan's tenor singing: Of The Father's Love Begotten | The Door, The Door Faith Space"
(*EMH) The Journey to Bethlehem, Original Poem by E.M. Hunter, Self-published in 'Illuminations,' Copyright 2014.
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