A story "SAPPHIRA"

I didn't give it a thought when Sapphira requested I join them for the business trip. Since we were on holiday, it will be a great opportunity to tour the Mid Eastern part of the country.

Sapphira's dad is my father's friend and business associate. Whenever they have a hangout to talk about their business and other official matters, we always accompany them to have our time cruising.

Due to our parents' relationship, Sapphira and I developed a great bond that made us stand out as friends. We spoke on every matter revolving around us and won't hesitate to share anything. We became best friends.

So during the summer holiday, when Sapphira told me about her father's trip and requested if I can join them, I jumped into the offer, knowing fully well that my dad will give his approval.

On that fateful day, I got to Sapphira's house with my bag, only for me to be met by a bizarre sight.

I went closer to find out the reason for the chaos, people were gathered in Sapphira's house. My heart started panting and I could hear my heartbeat loudly as I made my way to her room.

I muttered some prayers underneath my breath. I prayed it is not what my mind is telling me, no it can't be possible, I discouraged the thought of Sapphira dying.

I went into the room and met some persons and her parents crying, I didn't need to invite tears before they started dropping from my eyes.

This must be a dream, I said to myself and pleaded that I should be awakened from my sleep.

Filled with sorrow, I put a call across to my dad to inform him of the development. He requested I give the phone to his friend. After the call ended, Sapphira's dad stood up and made his way out of the house.

What is he up to? That was the question that demand an answer in our hearts, but none dared voice it out.

Some hours later, by then my dad has arrived. We saw Sapphira's dad walk into the compound with some group of men. I inquired from my dad who they are and he said they are from the South. Their leader is a preacher of the Law.

I wasn't satisfied with the feedback, I inquired if they are all preachers, he replied in the negative and then said, the rest are his followers. I initially thought they were bodyguards to the one in front who happens to be very vocal from the way he addressed us.

He told us to stop crying that the young girl is not dead but only sleeping. We laughed at his joke. The more surprising thing to me was how we were able to switch from mourning to laughter within seconds.

He went in with three of his followers and Sapphira's parents. I drew my dad closer to the window of Sapphira's room, peeping through the window I heard him say "Talitha cumi."

My dad told me it means "Young girl, arise" in the Hebrew language. I was stunned to see Sapphira stand up from her bed, as the Preacher held her hand.

He said to Sapphira's dad, "Jairus here is your daughter, serve her food and let this deed be private." Then he came out.

We were all shocked to the marrow, and none uttered a word to the Preacher who just brought Sapphira back to life.

With my mouth wide open, in awe, I left everything and followed him, so I can be a bodyguard, sorry I meant, so I can become his disciple.