Pearl in the Sand: Check!

Author: Tessa Afshar

Recommended Audience: Women over 20 (some intimate scenes with her husband, but nothing graphic)

Brief Synopsis: At just 15 years old, Rahab is sold into prostitution by her father, the man she loves most. Years later, she hears of the Israelites and of their God, who brings both judgment and mercy. She longs for this God and, when she spots two Hebrews come to spy on Jericho, she takes her opportunity to learn more about this God and to secure her safety when the Israelites destroy Jericho. Rahab goes on to join the Israelites out of both her need and her hunger for their Lord. She also marries Salmone, a leader of the tribe of Judah.

But how can one who was a prostitute cope with marriage to a single man?

When she has trained her heart to be cold, how can she accept both her husband's and God's love?

When she has been trampled on, as a pearl in the sand beneatch careless heels, is there anything left of her to love?

My Review: Wow. More than anything, this is a story of relationships. I've been inspired to fight for my relationships, even to the point of annoying or irritating the person I love, so all sin is exposed and all isues are resolved.

It's also a story of miracles. God proves Himself faithful to both the large Israelite nation at large and the lone individual's heart. I have been inspired to see God in everything, even in an unanswered prayer. He is forever working miracles.

And then there's the Hebrew wedding. It SO reflects Christ and the church. To give you an idea, there is a scene where Salmone meets with Rahab's parents to ask for permission to marry her and to agree on the bridal price. As he leaves, he tells Rahab [and this will not be verbatim]: "I go to prepare a place for you. I will return for you." Sound familiar?

In a way, I think that every woman is Rahab, so, more than anything, this story is a journey for each of us to take with the Lord, taking Rahab's revelations as our own and believing God's words to her to be for us.

If you get the chance and your local library carries it, I would definitely recommend this book for all us ladies.

"He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities."

Psalm 103:10

"...as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you."

Isaiah 62:5