Fire In The Winter

Throughout your spiritual concourse you can't be hot and cold at the same time. The Lord doesn't deal with lukewarm spirits, therefore; as for me I rather be on fire! No eskimo dealings!

From the Jew who brought you Fire In The Rain!

Watch the levels.

In an undisclosed location, nestled deep within a frigid, snow-draped wilderness, a fire was kindled, its flickering flames contrasting starkly against the white expanse of the landscape. The biting cold enveloped the surroundings, creating an atmosphere that was both serene and foreboding. Here, several brothers had chosen to gather, a tradition steeped in memories and shared experiences. Among them was Aaron, who, taking his role seriously, arrived two hours ahead of the appointed time. He understood the importance of the campfire, not just as a source of warmth against the chilling air, but as a focal point for their reunion, a symbol of camaraderie and connection. With meticulous care, Aaron arranged the logs and kindling, ensuring that the fire would burn brightly and steadily, casting a warm glow that would beckon his brothers as they navigated their way through the thick, dense forest. The snow crunched beneath his boots as he moved, the sound muffled by the thick blanket of white that covered the ground. The air was crisp and invigorating, filled with the scent of pine and the faint hint of wood smoke that would soon permeate the area.

As the sun began its descent toward the horizon, the sky transformed into a canvas of oranges and purples, signaling the approach of sundown, the designated time for their gathering. One by one, the brothers began to arrive, each emerging from the shadows of the towering trees, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of the fire. They greeted one another with hearty embraces, laughter echoing through the stillness of the wilderness, as they shared stories of their journeys through the forest and the paths that had brought them together on this special occasion. Each brother carried with him a unique tale, a piece of their lives that added richness to the gathering. Some brought along supplies for the evening—marshmallows for roasting, pop-up tents, thermoses filled with hot cocoa, and an assortment of snacks that would fuel their conversations long into the night. The fire crackled and popped, sending sparks dancing into the night air, while the brothers settled around it, their faces glowing in the warm light, ready to share not only food but also laughter, memories, and the bonds that held them together despite the distances that often separated them. As the darkness deepened and the stars began to twinkle overhead, the wilderness around them seemed to come alive with the sounds of nature. The wind whispered through the trees, and the occasional hoot of an owl punctuated their conversations, reminding them of the beauty and tranquility of their secluded location. In this moment, surrounded by the warmth of the fire and the presence of each other, the brothers felt an unbreakable connection, a sense of belonging that transcended the challenges of their everyday lives.

Not long after, Aaron spoke to them with a powerful voice and full of conviction:

"Look here, O brethren, a fire has been kindled, with wood placed at its base and ignited. Just as our ancestors did, the Levitical priesthood maintained the fire on the altar. However, this elemental flame will burn steadily for a time. The question is, who ignited the fire within you? I have ignited this fire myself, so all six of you need to keep it burning through the night by adding wood in pairs. This action, brothers, symbolizes maintaining the flame, being passionately on fire for the Lord in spirit."

On a chilly winter's day, deep in the heart of a forest, seven brothers gathered around a crackling campfire. The cold air nipped at their faces, but the warmth of the fire and their shared experiences kept their spirits high. They took turns sharing their stories, each drawing from biblical verses that had guided them through various aspects of life.

The first brother, Aaron, spoke about patience. 

He shared James 5:7-8: "Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. 8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh."

In this passage, James emphasizes the virtue of patience, particularly in the context of faith and anticipation of divine intervention. The exhortation begins with a direct appeal to the community of believers, referring to them as "brothers," which fosters a sense of unity and shared experience among them. This term not only signifies familial bonds but also reflects the collective journey they are undertaking in their spiritual lives. The metaphor of the farmer serves as a poignant illustration of patience in action. A husbandman or farmer invests considerable time, effort, and resources into cultivating the land, knowing that the process of growth is gradual and requires unwavering commitment. The reference to the "precious fruit of the earth" is Israel which highlights the value of the harvest, a product of labour and a reward that comes after a season of waiting. The farmer's reliance on the "early and the late rains" symbolizes the dependence on external factors beyond one's control, highlighting the necessity of faith in the process. Just as a farmer must trust in the timing of nature, believers are encouraged to trust in God's timing for His promises to be fulfilled.

Furthermore, the instruction to "establish your hearts" invites a deeper introspection into the emotional and spiritual preparation required during times of waiting. It suggests that patience is not a passive state but an active engagement of the mind. Believers are called to strengthen their resolve and maintain a steadfast spirit, rooted in the assurance that the coming of the Lord is imminent. This anticipation is not merely about waiting but involves cultivating hope, resilience, and a deeper relationship with God by keeping his commandments. In essence, this passage serves as a reminder that patience is a crucial aspect of the Israelite faith, urging believers to remain steadfast and unwavering in their hope, even amidst challenges and delays. The promise of the Lord's return is a source of comfort and motivation, inspiring them to endure with confidence, knowing that their efforts and faith will ultimately bear fruit in due time.

Next, John spoke of prophecy.

The year 2025 has started dramatically! California is engulfed in flames, the impact of M.A.G.A. is becoming evident under Trump's administration, and the extreme and unpredictable weather across the country is fascinating. 

I recall 2 Peter 1:21, which states, "For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost". 

This profound verse highlights the divine origin of prophetic messages, underscoring that these revelations were not merely the result of human imagination or desire. Instead, they were inspired by the Holy Spirit, indicating a direct connection between God and the prophets as ambassadors who delivered His messages. This distinction is crucial because it establishes the authority and authenticity of the scriptures, affirming that they are not just human writings but rather sacred texts ingrained with divine truth. Brothers, I'm telling you, this is a straightforward statement because recently, someone in the world alleged that the fires and weather patterns are caused by HAARP.

The verse invites us to reflect on the nature of prophecy and its role in guiding believers. It suggests that true prophecy emerges from a place of divine inspiration, where individuals are moved by the Holy Spirit to communicate God's will and purpose. This understanding encourages us to trust in the reliability of the scriptures, knowing that they are grounded in a higher authority than our own understanding. Furthermore, the emphasis on being "moved by the Holy Spirit" speaks to the active role of the Spirit in the lives of believers. It suggests that the Holy Spirit not only inspires the prophets but also continues to guide and influence the times we're in today. Ultimately, 2 Peter 1:21 encourages us to cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereignty and to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives. Regardless of their belief, the prophecies will unfold, as they are impartial. Many may disregard the writings in The Book, but those of us who are enlightened believe in Matthew 24, believe in Mark 13, believe in 2 Esdras 9, and believe in 2 Esdras 15 and 16.

Titus, the third brother, spoke about deliverance,

Citing Psalms 34:17 "The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles."

This chant of David is a reminder to us of God's unwavering support in times of need. Psalms 34:17, is written aforetime that we are reminded of the profound truth embedded in this verse. This scripture encapsulates a powerful promise that resonates deeply with those who find themselves in moments of distress or despair. The righteous, those who strive to live according to God's will and uphold moral integrity, have a unique relationship with the Divine, characterized by trust and reliance. In times of crisis, when the weight of the world feels unbearable and the burdens of life become overwhelming, the act of crying out for help is not merely a sign of weakness but rather a testament to faith. It is in these vulnerable moments that one can experience the depth of God's unwavering support. The narrative of individuals who have faced adversity often serves as a poignant reminder of this promise. Their stories illuminate the ways in which God intervenes, providing solace, guidance, and ultimately, deliverance from the troubles that threaten to engulf them. Consider the various forms that this divine assistance can take. It may manifest as a sudden change in circumstances, the arrival of a helping hand when least expected, or an inner peace that transcends understanding amidst chaos.

Each experience serves to reinforce the belief that no matter how dire the situation may seem, there is always hope and a path to resolution through faith. Moreover, the communal aspect of sharing such stories strengthens the collective understanding of God's faithfulness. When individuals recount their experiences of deliverance, they not only affirm their own faith but also encourage others who may be grappling with their own challenges. This cycle of testimony fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support, reminding everyone that they are not alone in their struggles. Thus, the essence of Psalm 34:17 extends beyond a mere declaration; it becomes a source of encouragement and strength for us navigating the tumultuous waters of life in Babylon. There's no other race on earth that needs deliverance more than Blacks, Hispanics and Natives Indians. It reassures believers that their cries do not go unheard and that God's presence is a constant source of comfort and aid in the face of adversity. Whenever I fall in diverse temptations verses like this serve as a beacon of hope, illustrating the reality of divine intervention and the assurance that, indeed, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.

The fourth brother, Jeremiah, spoke about faith,

Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." 

This profound statement encapsulates the essence of faith, which serves as a guiding principle for many individuals navigating the complexities of life. As Titus mentioned before, in times of trouble; we cry out to God for deliverance but we must have faith in deliverance. Take heed the days shall come, that they which dwell upon earth shall be taken in a great number, and the way of truth shall be hidden, and the land shall be barren of faith. Brothers, faith is not merely a passive state of mind; it is an active and dynamic force that instills confidence and hope in the face of adversity. It signifies a deep-seated trust in the promises and possibilities that lie beyond our immediate perception. Hold stedfast in God's covenant, emphasizing resilience and unwavering commitment to your convictions, even amidst uncertainty and doubt. Do not be like our ancestors in the wilderness, whose hearts were not right with God and were not stedfast in His covenant. This entire chapter narrates the faith of our ancestors, even highlighting the faith of a Canaanite outsider, The OG 304 Rahab. How much more, then, should we possess faith? Remember, faith is often tested during challenging times, when the path ahead appears unclear and the outcomes uncertain. It is during these moments of trial that the true strength of one’s faith is revealed.

Brothers, I boldly say onto you all; Babylon will fall and God's kingdom shall be established whether I live to see it or not. That's faith, so I urged you to recognize that the assurance that I seek is not solely found in tangible evidence or visible results, but rather in the profound conviction that my hopes are grounded in something greater than myselves. This conviction serves as a beacon of light, to guide us through the darkness of doubt and despair. Grow your faith to develop a sense of peace and assurance that goes beyond our current circumstances, allowing us to endure and remain hopeful for a better future. Finally, the call to hold steadfast in faith is a timeless message that resonates deeply with those who seek purpose and meaning in their lives. It encourages individuals to embrace hope, cultivate conviction, and support one another in their shared journey toward a future filled with promise, even when the path ahead remains unseen.

Mark, the fifth brother, talked about the cleansing of the mind.

Referencing Romans 12:2 "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

He stressed the importance of keeping their thoughts pure and focused on God's will, emphasizing that the mind is a powerful tool that can either uplift or hinder one's spiritual journey. By maintaining clarity in their thoughts, individuals can cultivate a deeper connection with God and align their actions with a higher purpose. Beware of distractions and negative influences that and cloud judgment and lead you away from the path of righteousness. Furthermore, focusing on God's will to assist in the cleansing of the mind requires an ongoing commitment to self-examination and the willingness to let go of the past and let of mortal thoughts that do not serve a constructive purpose. This process involves recognizing the influence of external factors—such as societal pressures and personal doubts—that can lead to a misalignment with God's intentions. By consciously choosing to redirect your thoughts toward positivity, love, and service, we can create a more fulfilling and meaningful existence. Ultimately, he conveyed that the journey of keeping one's thoughts pure is not merely a personal endeavor but a communal responsibility as Israelites because the collective mindset can significantly impact the broader community. Therefore, I urged everyone to support one another in this pursuit, fostering an environment where spiritual growth and divine alignment can flourish.

Matthew, the sixth brother, spoke of charity.

Sharing 1 Corinthians 13:3 "And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing."

In this profound statement, Paul emphasizes the critical importance of love, often referred to as charity, in our actions and intentions to be on fire for the love of the brethren. He articulates a powerful truth: that even the most generous acts, such as giving away or selling all one's possessions to support those in need or sacrificing oneself for a cause, are rendered meaningless if they are not rooted in genuine love and selflessness. The implication here is that the mere act of giving, no matter how grand or noble it may appear, lacks true value unless it is accompanied by a heartfelt desire to uplift and care for others. Paul's message serves as a reminder that the essence of our deeds lies not in their outward appearance or scale, but in the spirit with which they are performed. The term "charity" in this context transcends the simplistic notion of giving; it embodies a profound, selfless love that seeks the well-being of others without expectation of return.

It calls for a deep connection with others, an empathy that transcends mere obligation, and a commitment to fostering a sense of community and belonging. Without charity, the acts of feeding the hungry or clothing the poor become hollow gestures, lacking the warmth and sincerity that love brings. Are we engaging in acts of kindness to be seen and praised, or are we genuinely driven by a heartfelt desire to uplift and support those around us? The absence of charity signifies a disconnect between our actions and the true spirit of humanity, which is rooted in love and empathy. Therefore, Paul’s teaching challenges individuals to reflect on their motivations and the deeper implications of their charitable actions, urging them to cultivate a love that is genuine and selfless, for it is this love that truly enriches both the giver and the receiver.

Finally, Luke, the seventh brother, talked about prayer.

Quoting Philippians 4:6 "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." 

Paul reminded us of the power of prayer in maintaining a strong connection with God. He encouraged believers to engage in prayer and supplication, which involves not only asking for help but also expressing gratitude for the blessings already received. This dual approach fosters a deeper relationship with the LORD, as it combines the act of seeking assistance with a heart full of thankfulness. Paul's reminder serves as a powerful testament to the transformative nature of prayer in our lives. By inviting individuals to bring their concerns and desires before God, he underscores prayer as a vital tool for spiritual growth and resilience. It is through prayer that one can find peace amid turmoil, guidance when faced with uncertainty, and strength during moments of weakness. King David himself fell upon his knees in prayers to the LORD for forgiveness asking not to take the holy spirit from him. Moreover, the act of making requests known to God is not merely about presenting a list of wants; it is a holistic practice that encompasses reflection, humility, and trust.

When we pray, we open ourselves to divine wisdom and insight, allowing our hearts to align with God’s will rather than solely our own desires. This alignment can lead to a profound sense of purpose and direction in life. In addition, the phrase "with thanksgiving" highlights the necessity of maintaining an attitude of gratitude, regardless of the circumstances. Gratitude has been shown to enhance mental well-being, foster positive relationships, and cultivate a sense of contentment. By incorporating thanksgiving into our prayers, we acknowledge the goodness in our lives, which can shift our focus away from difficulties and towards the blessings that surround us. This is the genuine Thanksgiving to the LORD, not a wicked holiday commemorating the massacre of millions of my people. Ultimately, Paul's exhortation serves as a reminder that through consistent prayer you'll quench not the spirit and in all things giving thanks, we can deepen our connection with God to navigate life's complexities with grace. In doing so, you'll gain experience with a profound peace that comes from surrendering our worries to a higher power. This practice not only ignites our spiritual journey but also transforms our everyday experiences, allowing us to live with greater hope and assurance.

CONCEALED CHARACTERISTICS

As the brothers swapped stories, two of them, Titus and Mark, turned into the group's resident skeptics, embracing disbelief and blasphemy like it was the latest fashion trend. Inwardly, they poked holes in their brothers' beliefs, stirring up a pot of unease. Their brains became playgrounds for nonsensical thoughts, swapping out mind-over-matter for a circus of foolishness and pride. Instead of using this time to build a solid brotherhood, their scrambled minds let in doubts and skepticism like uninvited party crashers. Titus couldn't stop glaring at his phone, grumpy because he missed his DoorDash delivery before heading out. Meanwhile, Mark had his Sport Channel paused at home and couldn't stop daydreaming about his Draft Kings picks, wondering if he'd struck gold or just a dud.

You see, Titus and Mark are like two peas in a pod, except they're more like the same pea split in half. They wouldn't dare spill the beans about what's rattling around in their noggins, thanks to their rock-solid disbelief. So why hang out with believers when they're not on the same page? Easy peasy, it's all about embracing the glorious disaster of failure! They've got grand plans to kick back, globe-trot, munch on bizarre delicacies, and avoid any doomsday drama. Life's a hoot for them in this world that's falling apart faster than a cheap sandwich. How they miss the glaring signs is anyone's guess, but maybe it's just their destiny.

Titus, once a firecracker of faith, now finds himself scratching his head over the very beliefs that used to light his fire. He mulled over the teachings that had been drilled into him since he joined the Israelite faith, wrestling with the thought that they might just be relics from the past, about as relevant as a floppy disk today. "Buying on the Sabbath is just like any other day," he dared to think, blasphemously. His once sunny outlook was now clouded by doubt and a dash of cynicism.

Mark, meanwhile, took a slightly different route; he became the loudspeaker of disbelief. His sarcasm was as thick as molasses as he poked fun at the principles that once brought everyone together, stirring up debates that left the group in a delightful tizzy. His jabs were sneaky, like a boxer with a wicked grin, and he hid them as cleverly as a horse kicking up dust to cover its tracks.

Oh, Satan's little minions were tiptoeing around like they were on eggshells, trying not to make things awkward for the gang while Titus and Mark's concealed characteristics were the elephant in the room. With lips flattering smoother than a politician's promise and a heart that could win an Oscar for best double-cross, Titus yakked about deliverance, although he doesn't believe in the chariots of Israel or what "he" prefers to call Elonocrafts. Meanwhile, Mark went on and on about mind-cleansing, yet he’s got more dirt than a soap opera. He’s like a devilish critic at a heavenly book club, trashing scriptures that were around long before he was a twinkle in anyone's eye. Looks like the LORD might be on a coffee break, letting folks run wild, saying proud things and doing whatever tickles their fancy without any cosmic slap on the wrist! Their sneaky traits lingered like a ghost at a party, unnoticed by those without a sixth sense, and their spooky vibe danced around, creating a mischievous little rift that seemed as harmless as a kitten but was ready to unravel the "alleged" bonds of brotherhood.

THE TREELINE

Suddenly, a crackle and the snapping of branches echoed through the air, jolting the brethren with surprise! The night was indeed cold, but not so brisk as to pose a serious threat of hypothermia. Thick snowflakes tumbled down in clumps, while an intense silence enveloped the group, save for the lively crackling of the fire. Each man huddled closely with his companions, clutching the last few pieces of wood Aaron had prepared for defense. Their eyes eagerly scanned the treeline, straining to spot any potential threats lurking in the shadows, though the dense snow and thick darkness made it challenging to see clearly. Suddenly, a large owl swooped down from the canopy of a pine tree, sending several inches of snow cascading to the ground in its wake.

Just moments later, the sound of clapping resonated just beyond the treeline. And then, emerging from the shadows, came an eighth brother—Stephen! He had been listening quietly and now stepped forward to share his thoughts. Stephen spoke with wisdom and humility, emphasizing a fundamental truth that often went overlooked. With the brethren feeling at ease, they realized that the skirmish that startled everyone was only Stephen. They greeted him with joy, and each brother enthusiastically tossed their last pieces of log into the fire.

Stephen, The eighth brother, emerged.

He quoted 1 Corinthians 3:11

"For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." 

Stephen explained that while the noble notions of patience, prophecy, deliverance, faith, cleansing of the mind, charity, and prayer were vital, it was the fundamental basis of their faith in Jesus Christ that superseded all else. Stephen's words resonated deeply with the brothers, reminding them that their faith's core foundation was the most important aspect of their beliefs. Christ, the Rock of Ages, stands unshakable and eternal—yesterday, today, and tomorrow! Everyone who builds upon this Rock should eagerly count the cost. With a newfound understanding, they joyfully embraced each other, including Titus and Mark, who inwardly grappled with the invigorated spirit of the brethren once Stephen arrived. The campfire blazed even higher, like it was celebrating the brotherly reunion. The ominous duo's spirits sank like a stone in a river. Their emotions were overwhelmed, for when light appears, it effortlessly dispels the darkness. Astonishingly, this left them as lifeless as a doorknob, dangling like a petal in the wind as their spirit collapsed. Two unresponsive figures, unwilling to partake in the unseen wonders, just sitting on the sidelines. Together, they continued to share their experiences, now with a stronger sense of unity and purpose, knowing that their faith in Jesus Christ was the unshakable foundation upon which they could confidently build their lives.

SMORGASBORD FAITH

Matthew could you look up the word "Smorgasbord" please?

Good Ol' Merriam, now read the synonym definition:

Brothers the understanding of this example is fairly simple. Everyone spoke about some excellent topics, however; they'll be likened unto a Smorgarsbordif Christ isn't the foundation. Being hot and cold swallowed up together has its place on a platter but when it come to the Messiah, you can't have both. As the synonyms stated it's an unorganized collection of various things. Being hot or cold is synonymous or the same as unbelievers can't be equally yolked with believers nor darkness can't dwell with light or righteousness with unrighteousness. Now, Stephen is the kind of person who loves to use play-on words but in this instance he wasn't acting under his full control for the LORD was working through him. Suddenly, as Stephen continued to expound some more about building on Christ. He turned to Mark and said unto him:

"A spiritual man judgeth all things and is harnessed with discernment to Mark-that-man at a moments notice. Do you agree?

Marked aimlessly nodded in agreement. Then, he turned his action to Titus and said:

"Titus, does the Word Of God Tightly Tie Us together as a people proving we are the descendants of slaves and Christ is our King, Lord and Saviour? 

Titus also aimlessly nodded in agreement. Thrilled with the answers they provided, Stephen eagerly launched into teaching about the devastation of having your candle put out!

Brothers, it is crucial in your journey with Christ to increase your learning and understanding so that your light remains shining. Brother John discussed prophecy, which is relevant both then and now.

2 Esdras 14:25

25 And come hither, and I shall light a candle of understanding in thine heart, which shall not be put out, till the things be performed which thou shalt begin to write.

The LORD himself ignited a candle of understanding within you, which shall not be extinguished, however; there's a condition. The Lord knows them that are his which cannot be plucked out of his hands. For the rest, here's the flip-side:

Proverbs 13:19

19 The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out.

Proverbs 24:20

20 For there shall be no reward to the evil man; the candle of the wicked shall be put out.

Stephen's fiery tongue was on a whole new level, as if live coals had ignited his lips, passionately spreading the blazing gospel with fervor!

"Listen up, folks! If you're all bark and no bite,

The LORD will put out your light!" Stephen shouted.

Job 18:5-6

5 Yes, the light of the wicked shall be put out, and the spark of his fire shall not shine.

6 The light shall be dark in his tabernacle, and his candle be put out with him.

After Stephen's blazing chants, the guys soaked up the lessons like they were free pizza. Meanwhile, Mark was as still as a statue, only twitching occasionally to check the random dings on his phone. Titus, however, was silently swearing at Stephen, wondering how he dared to spout such nonsense. Then Aaron piped up and said to them,

"We need to get more wood pronto! The flames are dwindling, let's team up in pairs and gather as much as we can—more hands mean more wood! Let's divide and conquer!"

MAKWA MONSTERS

All the folks skedaddled except for Mark and Titus, who decided to hang back like they had nothing better to do. It was Mark's brilliant idea—he acted like Stephen's chanting had turned him into a grumpy old man with a bitterness level off the charts. And since misery loves company, Titus stuck around too. They were like two peas in a pod, or maybe two grumps on a log.

While everyone else wandered off with lanterns and flashlights to hunt for firewood, Mark and Titus didn't waste any time before they started griping about their brethren and whining about how cold and dark it was. Titus even joked that they should have done this in a Walmart parking lot instead of going all "real-world pilgrimage" on them. At the very least, if one was nearby now that my DoorDash delivery went MIA. Instead, I could've just easily waltzed inside and raided the shelves for some grub and a drink! So, they griped and murmured and griped some more, until they lost track of time because, surprise surprise, their brethren hadn't come back yet.

Sitting by the dying campfire, which was flickering like it was on its last breath, Mark and Titus sighed heavily, sucked their teeth, and shook their heads, wondering what was taking everyone so long. Then suddenly, they heard a crackle and snapping of branches. Mark reassured Titus that it was just the lads messing with them. But then, another crackle came from a different direction. Titus was sure their brethren were out there having a laugh at their expense.

Mark, being the loudmouth of the duo, hollered at the treeline, telling their friends to quit playing around. But there was no answer. The two looked at each other, then at the dying campfire, and both scrambled for their phones to use as flashlights. The crackling and snapping of branches, mixed with heavy rustling from different angles, threw them into a panic. Lo and behold, two Makwa Monsters emerged from the dense, snow-laden trees. The she-bears chomped down on Mark and Titus like they were bear snacks, and it was over in a flash. The bears acted like Mark and Titus had stolen their cubs and they were out for revenge.

About thirty minutes later, a few of the guys wandered back into the campsite in pairs, just like they had left earlier that evening, filled with laughter and camaraderie. However, their hearts did a nosedive into their stomachs when they spotted the campsite, which now looked as though a tornado had danced through it, leaving chaos in its wake. Tents were torn and flapping wildly in the wind, while their belongings were strewn about, shredded like confetti at a wild party, a stark contrast to the organized and cheerful space they had left behind. With a sense of dread settling in, they slowly began to search the scene, their flashlights cutting through the darkness as they called out for their missing friends. The beam of light illuminated the wreckage: backpacks ripped open, sleeping bags tossed aside, and food supplies scattered like remnants of a forgotten feast. The air was thick with tension and an unsettling silence, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or the distant hoot of an owl, adding to the eerie atmosphere that now enveloped the campsite.

As they cautiously moved deeper into the disarray, the unease grew discernible. Each whispered name echoed in the night, but there was no response, only the haunting stillness of the surrounding woods. Suddenly, a bloodcurdling scream pierced the air, sending chills down their spines. "OH MY GOD!" rang out from the panicked voice of John, reverberating through the trees as he stumbled upon a horrifying sight that would forever be etched in their memories. He had discovered the gruesome fate of Mark and Titus, their bodies lying motionless amidst the wreckage, a stark reminder of the peril that had befallen them. The scene was horrific; the remnants of their lives lay scattered around them, and the realization of the danger they were in hit the group like a freight train. The gravity of the situation settled in, and fear gripped their hearts as they struggled to comprehend the tragedy that had unfolded in their absence. Desperation and grief mingled in the air, as they stood frozen in shock, grappling with the reality that their bi-annual adventure of preparedness had taken a dark and terrifying turn.

Written by Shamgar Israel,

Shalawam.