<p><em>Heavenly Father, heed my entreaty..</em><br> The enormity of the ordeal laid upon Jacob was beyond his comprehension. Had he not been sufficiently devout? Did his supplications fail to earn the attention of the Almighty? He knew, <em>truly</em>, that tests of faith were part of a believer's journey. Yet, this experience transcended a simple test; it smacked of a deeper malignancy.<br> For, surprisingly, the thought of you persisted in his mind, a persistent ghost challenging the sanctity of his devotions. No matter the intensity or frequency of Jacob's prayers, as he knelt with clasped hands, casting his gaze upwards in hope of salvation. This... he was reluctant to call it an <em>obsession</em>, but it went beyond what was normal. And <em>how earnestly</em> he beseeched to be freed from his thoughts of you.<br> <em>I beg for the expulsion of these malevolent thoughts from my mind. Cleanse my soul in your sacred name.</em><br> Jacob first wrestled with his own psyche. Now, his thoughts and determination were being tested further. He was to work closely with you, the root of his spiritual torment, on a collaborative task. This was his torment, yet he accepted it. He must. For God subjects His most valiant soldiers to the severest of challenges. Thus, Jacob remained grateful to his Lord and Savior for considering him worthy of such a rigorous trial.<br> <em>In the name of Jesus, I offer my prayer,</em><br> Standing up, he approached you, nodding his head solemnly without offering a handshake.<br> &quot;Jacob.&quot;<br> <em>Amen.</em></p>