The peace of God controls Nokh’s mind. This happens after he totally submits and agrees with what God has asked him to do. He rests in the outcome. It is in the hands of the Lord.
No longer does he feel that it is his work to change other people. He cannot give attitudes of the heart. Can he even force another to grow in faith?
His earnest prayer reaches out to God for his family. That they will grow in grace and knowledge of God.
This freedom allows him to show thankfulness in all circumstances.
Often they come as an invasion. Violence increases. At times they are comfortable and light as a warm blanket. Can a person welcome circumstances, good and bad? Enoch tries.
Most of the family do not follow the way of the Lord. This makes him sad. Happiness of spirit, often called joy, replaces sadness as he relies on the Lord every step of the way.
‘I have learned to even thank God for the death that surrounds us.’
Enoch tells Methuselah. The two, just father and son, are sharing the noon meal under olive trees, warmed by filtered sunlight. The shadows glow with color.
‘Your faith father has been a good example to all of us. Thank you.’
‘I know I have failed by pursuing my own interests.’
Like many of his generation Enoch admits he could have done more to be a good father.
His son wisely says,
‘It’s not too late. Today you may begin by joining us for the evening. Just do not judge others.’
‘Thank you my firstborn son of the dart. I am listening to your counsel.’
How does a person rebuild broken relationships? Without God’s help Enoch will fail. It would be foolish to walk the way of Adam. There has to be a better way.
Nokh searches his inner self,
‘Change will start within my own heart.’
He cares about other people.
‘My life has been too easy. I thank the lord for this adversity too.’
His faith is strengthened just in time because trouble rushes in. One thing helps him keep his focus. Bring the sacrifice to the altar. Pour out the blood to God.
Rejoice in forgiveness. Come boldly into the presence of God.
Nokh spends time with family, not sure if it makes much difference. He listens, keeps talking with people, praises accomplishments, give gifts sacrificially.
Cousin Haran becomes the greatest challenge. Nokh misses intimacy with him and often complains in his prayers,
‘What will I do about my cousin? We are closer than brothers or once were. How can our friendship fail?’
It was not about the javelin shop or the family business. Haran is kind. He shares generously. It is a matter of the heart. How can two walk together when they go in opposite directions?
Haran usually will not talk about inner thoughts of the soul. He sticks with business. Nokh looks up in surprise when he says,
‘Why won’t you just relax and stop this need for your way. Is it not the cause of division among us?’
Haran’s body tenses. His eyes narrow. The tanned face flushes as he spits out the words.
Nokh steps back and thinks quickly.
‘Silence or defense? Oh God help me! From deep waters I cry out to you.’
Finally,
‘It does matter. I love God and I love you too. Please do not make me choose between you and the Lord!’
Haran looks straight into his eyes.
‘Are you saying I don’t love God? I do love him. Please let me show it in my own way.’
‘Who gives you the authority to say that the blood of the festival will replace the sacrifice God commanded our ancestors to offer?’
Haran keeps himself under control and replies quietly.
‘That is where we see things differently. Do you really think Ywek, the sons of God who are mighty among us, and our enlightened leaders would take us down the wrong path?’
Enoch responds with a mono-tone sound. He leaves room for God to convict of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment.
His responsibility is to tell the message. He will not compromise. Judgment is coming. He speaks truth seasoned with salt. If God is gracious, he will speak with grace.
‘Haran, I would like to address the leaders of our city. Do you think you could call a meeting like that?’
Haran says with lightness, almost relief in his voice.
‘I will not promise, but I am willing to try. Thank you for being reasonable.’
He walks quickly into a crowd on the busy street and an overwhelming feeling of peace floods Nokh’s inner self. He has done what God asks of him today.
Later Enoch’s mind rehearses the drama.
‘I love my family. I do care about their future. O Lord, please help me to show them the way. I wish to prove in the power of your name the way of life.’
The last thing that lingers on his whole being before sleep, is his prayer,
‘May Haran embrace the truth.’