God Is Coming
Contents:
Part 1：
1. Church, Crash, and Accident
2. Birth, Death, and Catastrophes
3. Childhood, First Recollection, and Plague
4. Mom, Buddha, and Plato (1)
5. Mom, Buddha, and Plato (2)
6. Superpowers and the Divine Realm (1)
7. Superpowers and the Divine Realm (2)
8. School Shooting and George Washington
9. Dreamscapes: Behind the Histories and the Supplement
Part2:
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Part3:
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Part4:
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The author writes to the readers:
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To clarify, while this novel explores various religious themes, it does not advocate for any specific religious belief. Although I have portrayed different faiths in a positive light, my primary focus is on developing the storyline rather than emphasizing religion itself. From the title, one might infer a strong connection to the Bible. While the novel’s design and structure draw inspiration from certain biblical elements, I have refined and reimagined these aspects to provide readers with fresh and engaging content rather than overly familiar material. Essentially, “God Is Coming” is a multifaceted fantasy novel designed to captivate readers of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
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Part 1
1
(Church, Crash, and Accident)
“Bang!” With a tremendous explosion that metaphorically remains the loudest event ever “witnessed” by humanity, both in the past and in the future, the universe heralded its grand beginning. This event, known as the Big Bang, occurred approximately 13.8 billion years ago. From that monumental instant, the cosmos embarked on an extensive journey of evolution, continuously unfolding and expanding into the complex tapestry we observe today. This astonishing and still controversial event set the stage for the creation of stars, galaxies, and eventually life itself, marking the start of an ongoing saga of cosmic evolution.
The relationship between the Big Bang theory and the concept of divine creation has long been a subject of wide-ranging contemplation and debate. While the Big Bang theory provides a scientific explanation for the inception of the universe, suggesting a singular, all-encompassing explosion that marked the beginning of cosmic existence, many view this monumental event through a spiritual lens, seeing it as a form of divine orchestration. For some, the precision and complexity observed in the unfolding universe imply an intelligent design, hinting at a transcendent force or entity guiding cosmic evolution. This convergence of science and faith fosters a rich dialogue, encouraging deeper exploration into the origins of life and the nature of existence. Throughout the long passage of time, by intertwining empirical and spiritual insights, humanity draws closer to understanding its place and the meaning of life.
Does the Big Bang signify the onset of the universe’s natural evolution, or does it mark the beginning of God’s grand cosmic design? Our story unfolds based on the latter hypothesis. Let us traverse 13.8 billion years of time and space, arriving at the present moment.
On an autumn Sunday morning on the outskirts of Charleston, the capital of West Virginia, it was 10 a.m. The season unfolded into a grand spectacle of colors across the state. Gold, deep red, and orange leaves created a masterpiece, evoking nature’s finest artwork and splashing the landscape with vibrant hues. The silhouettes of distant mountains, bathed in the autumn sunlight, seemed almost delicately sketched with beams of light. This picturesque scene stood in stark, beautiful contrast against the soft blue sky and fluffy white clouds above.
Nestled on flatland below a small hillock, a Gothic church stood proudly, its classic stained-glass windows sparkling in the sunlight. The cross atop its spire reached skyward, as if touching the infinite expanse of the universe. Together, the autumn colors, distant mountains, and church composed a serene and poetic tableau. Each fallen leaf, drifting cloud, and chirping bird added to the scene’s unique ambiance. Nearby, a clear autumnal lake mirrored the spirituality of the season, reflecting its surroundings like the eyes of a beautiful maiden — a beauty both superficial and intrinsic.
The beauty of the seasons unfolds indifferently because it is often overlooked by those perpetually rushing and lost in life’s ceaseless clamor. Yet, even a brief pause to immerse oneself in nature can forge a deep connection. For those who take the time to admire the scenery, it seems as if nature gazes back at them; those filled with gratitude express their awe. In this exchange, the heavens and the earth find solace, and people may discover even greater blessings.
Indeed, the four seasons present the same vistas to everyone, everywhere, at every moment. Yet, each individual endows these scenes with their own unique meanings. For some, regardless of the landscape’s beauty, it might symbolize their final encounter with the natural world. Thus, learning to cherish becomes even more important and meaningful.
You may not be intimately familiar with West Virginia, but you might recognize the song “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” This beloved folk song, now the official state anthem, has become synonymous with West Virginia. Its opening line, “Almost heaven, West Virginia,” evokes a profound sense of longing and connection to the state’s natural beauty, representing a heaven of faith.
West Virginia, nestled within the heart of Appalachia, is not just known for its breathtaking mountains and rich history, but also for its deep-rooted spirituality and faith. The state is dotted with churches that are as much a part of the landscape as the rolling hills and serene rivers. These churches, ranging from quaint small-town chapels to magnificent historic cathedrals, are centers of community life, embodying the strong faith of West Virginians. The people here intertwine their everyday lives with spiritual values, finding solace and strength in their beliefs. Whether it’s the harmonious hymns resonating from a countryside church on a peaceful Sunday morning or the communal gatherings that bring people together in moments of joy and hardship, West Virginia’s churches and the faith they nurture form an integral, cherished part of the state’s identity.
At that moment, the contemplation and tranquility of nature were gently interrupted by the hymn “Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow,” commonly known as the “Doxology,” echoing from the church. This beloved hymn, traditionally sung in worship services, serves as a tribute to the Holy Trinity:
“Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow,
Praise Him, all creatures here below,
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host,
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.”
Drawn in by the sacred chorus of the hymn, the birds in the trees ceased their singing, and the white clouds in the sky paused their drifting.
Inside the church, the enchanting and harmonious voices of the congregation enveloped every sincere soul as they sang two more hymns: “Here I Am, Lord” and “Breathe on Me, Breath of God.”
Just two and a half hours earlier, a critical incident was unfolding in the departure lounge of LaGuardia Airport in New York, an event that would soon have significant repercussions for the church congregation.
In the terminal, the sound of boarding announcements reverberated, stirring a flurry of activity among the passengers. As the call for boarding echoed, passengers swiftly rose and made their way toward the gate. Among them, two passengers, positioned a few meters apart, exchanged knowing glances and subtly coordinated their movements. One, a thirty-something individual with a backpack, quickly joined the boarding line, while the other, a man in his forties, rose slowly, surveying the area before wheeling his suitcase to join the queue. The flight’s destination was Atlanta, the vibrant capital of Georgia. Unnoticed by others, the two men seamlessly merged into the flow of passengers boarding the flight.
Pastor Carson Harris now stands behind the pulpit, ready to deliver his sermon. In his younger years, he was a high school biology teacher before attending theological seminary. A few years ago, he successfully passed his pastoral exams. Now, at the age of 35, Pastor Harris is revered by his congregation for his wealth of knowledge, sharp intellect, and kind-hearted nature.
In smaller churches like this one, there is often no organ or band for musical accompaniment. After the congregation finishes singing the hymn a cappella, they gently close their hymnals and gradually settle into their seats. For most believers, the hymnal is a treasured songbook, holding significant spiritual value. While the Bible remains the cornerstone of their faith, the hymnal is revered for its role in worship. Christianity places great emphasis on singing as a form of spiritual expression. Hymns and music serve to comfort souls, evoke feelings of repentance, and assist believers on their spiritual journeys. The beauty and depth of these songs often move even non-Christians, leading some to join the church or gain a profound respect for the Christian faith. The melodies, both beautiful and poignant, resonate deeply within the listeners.
Inside the church, over 30 attendees were seated, most with hymn books and Bibles resting on their laps. While a few were deeply engrossed in flipping through the pages, others had neatly tucked them into the spaces next to their seats. The church’s decor was modest, but the stained-glass windows imbued the space with a solemn ambiance. Pastor Harris stood behind the pulpit, ready to begin his sermon. In this intimate setting, there was no need for a microphone.
Pastor Harris opened his sermon by inviting the congregation to turn to their Bibles. He then guided them through two selected verses from the Gospel of John. The first passage they eagerly consulted was John 6:47: “I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life.”
Pastor Harris elaborated, “This verse underscores the significance of faith. When Jesus says, ‘he who believes has everlasting life,’ He is highlighting that faith extends beyond mere intellectual acknowledgment. It signifies a transformation of the soul, endowed with the power to grant eternal life. Here, ‘everlasting life’ is not merely about the continuation of existence; it represents a profound meaning, involving one’s relationship with God and the eternal gospel.”
The congregation then turned their attention to the second passage, John 14:6, where Jesus declares, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Pastor Carson Harris explained, “This scripture highlights Jesus’s pivotal role in redemption and in establishing a relationship with God. By declaring, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life,’ Jesus signifies that He is the essential link between humanity and God. It is solely through Him that one can genuinely encounter and nurture a relationship with God. This assertion further emphasizes the central role of Jesus Christ within the Christian faith.” The congregation absorbed his words in a deep and reflective quiet, enveloping the church.
At the very front of the church sat a notable couple, Robert Thomas, aged 28, and Ella Thomas, aged 27. They radiated a sense of anticipation, as Ella was pregnant and just two weeks away from her due date.
Robert works as a plumber, while Ella is a teller at a local bank. The hope of impending parenthood had been a beacon of new life after two years of yearning for a child following their marriage, yet their wish seemed elusive. Medical evaluations revealed challenges – sperm irregularities for Robert and ovulation issues for Ella. Despite numerous treatments, including attempts with traditional Chinese medicine, success remained just out of reach. Then, inspired by a heartwarming story of a similar couple who found joy after embracing Christianity, Robert and Ella turned to faith about a year ago. Miraculously, not long afterward, Ella conceived. Now, with their child almost due, they were filled with gratitude for this divine blessing.
Just past 9 a.m., before heading to church, Ella and Robert were sitting at the kitchen table, chatting. Ella took a sip of her half-full glass of milk while Robert tasted his coffee. Ella had heard from friends that milk was beneficial for fetal development, so she had been drinking it regularly since she became pregnant.
Suddenly, the sky outside grew dark with clouds, and it began to rain, gradually becoming heavier.
Robert frowned and said to his wife, “Dear, let’s skip church today. I’m worried you’ll catch a cold in this weather.”
Ella immediately responded, “Pastor Carson mentioned there would be an important sermon today, and I don’t want to miss it. Don’t worry, I feel fine.”
Robert noticed the rain seemed to be letting up and didn’t think it would last long. Concerned but resigned, he said, “Okay. I know I can’t change your mind. I’ll get you a warm coat, and then we can leave.”
Ella nodded, saying, “I’ll tidy up here.” She stood up and began clearing the table.
A few moments later, Robert returned with a down jacket and an umbrella. After helping Ella put on the coat, they left for church.
As they drove toward the church, the rain gradually lessened. By the time they arrived, the weather had cleared. Robert parked the car and helped Ella out. Feeling the temperature was just right, Ella took off her down jacket and left it in the car.
At that moment, Pastor Carson Harris glanced at the congregation, cleared his throat, and resumed his sermon on a significant topic: “Dear brothers and sisters, today, we delve into the discussion of evolution and creationism.” The congregation fell into a solemn silence, their attention fully on him.
He took a look at the notes before him and continued, “It’s not productive for those who believe in a natural origin of the universe and those who adhere to creationism to be at odds. Instead, we should strive to understand both perspectives. By examining the underlying reasons for both beliefs, we can foster deeper contemplation about the origins of the universe and life. This exploration can strengthen the faith of believers and bring us all closer to the truth. The debate between atheists and believers resembles the age-old question of whether matter or consciousness came first. Often overlooked is that both viewpoints offer insights that cannot be easily dismissed by the other.”
Taking a brief pause, Pastor Harris glanced at his notes again before resuming, “In our quest for truth, tolerance is essential. Tolerance is a significant virtue that the Lord Jesus taught Christians. While our faith is vital, it should be complemented by rationality and evidence. Today, the universe still holds countless unsolved mysteries. Many scientists attribute our gaps in understanding to the current limitations of knowledge and technology. However, I believe that it’s often our own skewed perspectives that divert us from the path of truth.”
The audience began to applaud. Pastor Carson Harris took a sip of water and continued, “When we proclaim the existence of God, we ultimately need some form of scientific support. Just as we oppose the theory of evolution, we must point out its significant lack of archaeological evidence. The fact is that various species appear suddenly in the fossil record, which aligns well with creationism. To this day, countless archaeological excavations have failed to uncover transitional fossils of human evolution. In other words, finding even one fossil of a half-human, half-ape would prove the theory of evolution, but none have been found. Therefore, more and more people are saying that the end of science is theology. However, to be precise, neither atheism nor theism has decisive evidence to defeat the other.” Pastor Harris’s sermon had a scholarly tone, reflecting his background as a former teacher.
Pastor Harris continued, “If humanity evolved, then in certain aspects, our evolutionary progress has not reached the advantages some animals possess today. In these shortcomings, we’ve discovered our differences from other creatures in nature. While human eyes can appreciate the world’s colors and beauty, they fall short of the eagle’s keen vision in spotting distant or minute objects. Our sense of smell seems pedestrian when exploring the world’s fragrances, especially compared to the almost time-traversing olfactory sensitivity of dogs. In terms of strength, we’re no match for lions, and in endurance running, we cannot compare to horses. Not to mention, our adaptability to natural disasters and environmental changes is far inferior to some species considered ‘lower.’”
The audience below was utterly silent, reflecting the weight of his words. Fully engrossed in his speech, Pastor Harris then elaborated: “It’s evident that the extent of human evolution is far from perfect. This imperfection fundamentally challenges the theory of evolution. If evolution views humans and animals of the natural world as equivalent, then upon what physical capabilities did humans rely to ultimately become the dominant species on Earth? Without a doubt, the answer is intelligence. Most scientific research suggests that the basic structure and capacity of the human brain have not changed significantly since the early Homo sapiens era. This implies that, in terms of biological capacity, early humans and modern humans might be quite similar in intelligence. Humans have simply become wiser through continuous learning, summarizing, and reflecting. This phenomenon is better explained by creationism, suggesting that humans, like the plants and animals of Earth, displayed their species’ uniqueness and stability upon their appearance.”
Pastor Carson Harris paused and continued, “Certainly, some studies suggest that the volume of the human brain has increased since prehistoric times, positively impacting our intelligence, learning capacity, creativity, and social adaptability. However, this increase has not led to a fundamental change in human intelligence levels.”
Just as Pastor Harris was emphasizing his point, the overwhelming roar of an airplane flying over the church momentarily drowned out his voice.
Outside the church, dark clouds slowly covered half of the sun, casting a shifting shadow across the landscape. An unfolding tragedy began to disrupt the calm. A Boeing 737-1000, on its way to its intended destination, veered unexpectedly off course. The air traffic controllers watched in horror as their screens showed the aircraft rapidly losing altitude, with their frantic attempts to communicate with the pilots going unanswered.
Suddenly, the rapidly descending plane crashed into the rugged terrain of a small hillside. The impact was shocking and catastrophic, igniting a massive fireball that violently transformed the serene autumn landscape into an orange-red inferno. The explosion’s echo thundered through the valley, sending birds scattering, wildlife fleeing in panic, and setting nearby houses ablaze.
Billowing plumes of thick, black smoke spiraled upwards, casting a shadow over the nearby villages. The once formidable jetliner was reduced to smoldering wreckage scattered across the hillside. Soon, emergency services rushed to the scene, their sirens piercing the solemn quiet that had settled after the explosion. However, the sheer intensity of the blast and the ensuing fire left little hope for survivors. Tragically, all 9 crew members and 120 passengers aboard perished in the accident, with the number of additional casualties among the nearby residents yet to be determined. The once peaceful landscape was now a stark reminder of life’s fragility.
Located approximately 50 meters from the site of the plane explosion, the church bore the brunt of the immense shockwave. The impact of the explosion severely damaged the church’s structure, shattering its beautiful stained-glass windows and sending colorful shards cascading onto the pews. The church interior was filled with dust, and Bibles and hymnals were strewn amidst the debris on the floor. More than twenty individuals, including Pastor Harris, sustained injuries in the ensuing chaos. The church, once a beacon of serenity, was now engulfed in turmoil and confusion.
In the midst of chaos and settling dust, Mr. Thomas, with a look of determination, supported his heavily pregnant wife as they painstakingly navigated their way out of the damaged church. In their panicked escape, their faces were marred with cuts from the flying glass shards, blood trickling down and creating a stark contrast against their pale complexions. Fortunately, their injuries appeared to be superficial.
Mrs. Thomas’s face and right hand were injured by glass shards and broken bricks. The traumatic ordeal had an immediate physical impact on her. Feeling an unexpected wetness between her legs, her eyes widened in realization and alarm. With a voice trembling yet urgent, she implored her husband, “We need to get to a hospital, now.”
The gravity of the situation struck Mr. Thomas as he realized his wife might be going into premature labor. With utmost care, he steadied and comforted her, quickening their pace toward the parking lot, hoping their car was undamaged and accessible.
The congregation supported each other as they walked out of the church, their faces not showing the panic one would usually see. Behind them, the church stood as a testament to the catastrophe. The once-sturdy cross that had adorned the steeple was now toppled on the ground. Parts of the church’s walls had collapsed, its red bricks scattered like pieces of a shattered mosaic, adding to the grim landscape of the disaster’s aftermath.
Yet, it must be said that while the church’s structure had suffered damage, the congregation’s faith remained unshaken. No amount of physical destruction could diminish the steadfast devotion in their hearts. In this unwavering spirit, they clung to the belief that every cherished hope would eventually be realized. Indeed, the power of faith is boundless; it is the very spiritual assurance that humanity relies on for survival.
Some say, “For every Christian gained, a criminal is lost; for every church built, a prison becomes unnecessary.” This statement is a thought-provoking reflection on societal values and governance, aptly highlighting the significance of faith.
Making friends with a Christian is like holding God’s hand. Their faith and way of life often radiate warmth and strength, offering an invisible sense of support and comfort. Through them, we can experience a unique peace and hope, as if God’s grace is flowing around us. This friendship not only enriches our spiritual world but also guides us through difficulties, allowing us to feel the power of love.
As Mr. Thomas navigated their Ford sedan, beads of sweat mixed with streaks of blood on his face. The roads were usually quiet on Sundays, allowing him to push the car to its limits. The autumn beauty along the roadside blurred past in their haste. Beside him, Mrs. Thomas, overwhelmed by anxiety, clung to a single thought: “May God bless and keep the baby safe!”
The rapid pace of the car, coupled with the unevenness of the road, caused Mrs. Thomas to wince intermittently. She felt an increasing sense of wetness and realized with alarm that her water had broken. The amniotic fluid, crucial for the fetus’s nourishment, signified that labor was imminent. She was aware of the risks associated with the prolonged loss of this fluid before birth, including potential oxygen deprivation for the baby.
Meanwhile, a white van appeared in the distance on the opposite side of the road. Upbeat music pulsed from within, yet the driver, visibly exhausted, grappled with bouts of drowsiness. The van swayed erratically, with each lurch hinting at impending danger, as if it might spiral out of control at any moment.
In moments of peril, individuals often struggle to maintain focus. The grip of anxiety and fear can cloud judgment, impeding the ability to make prudent decisions. During such times, instincts and intuition tend to take over, overshadowing calm and rational thinking. In these critical circumstances, the significance of each decision and action is magnified, as they could lead to decisive consequences.
Indeed, Mr. Thomas, who was now urgently driving to the hospital, did not notice the impending danger on the opposite road.
As Mr. Thomas sped in the sedan, he kept casting worried glances at his wife, offering her reassuring words: “We’re almost there! Just hang on!” However, in his concern for her, he remained oblivious to the erratic van approaching from the opposite direction. In a heart-stopping instant, the white van veered sharply, colliding head-on with Mr. Thomas’s car. The harrowing sound of the crash and the piercing screech of brakes merged into a chilling cacophony of destruction. Inside the Ford, Mr. Thomas had only a moment to react, but there was no time for any rescue measures before the vehicle’s structure crumpled and twisted upon impact, the windshield shattering into countless pieces.
When the emergency responders arrived at the scene, they were confronted with a grim reality: Robert Thomas was lifeless. His wife, Ella, although still breathing faintly, was in critical condition — her face streaked with blood, her body trapped in the wreckage, restrained by the seatbelt, and her head resting on the inflated airbag. Whether by luck or divine intervention, the down jacket was protectively draped over her belly.
Using emergency tools, the responders took some time and, with utmost care, extricated her, placed her gently on a stretcher, and quickly transported her into an ambulance, rushing toward the nearest hospital’s emergency department.
Local television station reporters quickly arrived at the scene of the accident. They rapidly set up their cameras, eager to capture the unfolding events. As they interviewed an eyewitness and filmed the chaotic environment and the intense rescue operations, they focused on providing a detailed report on the consequences of the tragic incident.
One eyewitness vividly described the moment to the reporter, speaking directly into the camera, “I was right there, driving by when the accident happened. The collision between the two vehicles was intense. I immediately stopped my car, rushed out to see what had happened, and called emergency services without any delay.” At that point, two American black crows (Corvus brachyrhynchos) flew overhead, cawing as they passed by the scene.
Meanwhile, the driver of the responsible white van, though seriously injured, remained conscious. Trapped within the wreckage of his vehicle, his face was a canvas of panic and pain. The rescue team sprang into action, employing hydraulic cutters to carefully free him from the mangled van. Once extricated, he was quickly placed on a stretcher, loaded into another ambulance, and rushed to the hospital for urgent medical care.
Soon, at the accident scene, the arriving forensic experts and police conducted a thorough investigation. They took photographs, created a site map, and collected all possible evidence. After completing the initial examination, they placed Mr. Thomas’s body in a body bag and transported it to the local morgue using a specialized forensic vehicle for further autopsy and analysis. At the morgue, the forensic team will perform a detailed autopsy to determine the exact cause of death and record all relevant forensic information. These steps not only ensure Mr. Thomas’s dignity is maintained but also provide essential evidence for subsequent legal and insurance procedures.
2
(Birth, Death, and Catastrophes)
The hospital was relatively close to the car accident site, typically a 20-minute drive under normal conditions. Thanks to the swift response of the paramedics, Mrs. Thomas was rushed to the hospital’s emergency room. Upon immediate assessment, the medical team recognized her critical condition, necessitating an emergency cesarean section due to pregnancy complications.
Inside the operating room, a tense atmosphere prevailed; the medical staff’s faces bore deep concern. The safety of both Mrs. Thomas and her unborn child was paramount, with every heartbeat and breath being crucial. Despite her weakened condition, the ECG displayed reassuring rhythms. After a timely blood transfusion, her previously precarious blood pressure began to stabilize. The assistant physician tenderly attended to her needs, while the lead surgeon meticulously performed the cesarean, assisted diligently by attentive nurses. The intense procedure lasted two hours, and by its successful completion, the clock neared 2 p.m.
