As Sure as the Dawn

I just finished reading the third book in the Mark of the Lion Series, As Sure As the Dawn. My heart is so full right now, I hope I do this book justice as I tell you about it.

Rizpah, a young widow and new Christian, has adopted a son that was cast out to die by his mother. His father, Atretes, is a gladiator in the Ephesus arena. He has recently won his freedom and has learned that his son is alive. God brings their two lives together and they will never be the same.

I started reading this book about 6 months ago after I finished books 1 & 2 in the series. Into chapter 3, I gave up on it. The story just wasn't what I wanted. I wanted more of Haddassah (from books 1 & 2). So, I set the book down and walked away.

At our last Shabby Souls gathering, I made the decision to try reading it again. I was thrilled to find that the story had so much more to offer me than even the first two did. While I loved the first two books, it was hard to ever imagine myself living up to the kind of faith and life that Haddassah represented.

Rizpah, however, was someone I could relate to. She isn't perfect. She has a sharp tongue and quick temper. This is a person much like me. Although, she is a fictional character (as is Haddassah), her love and faith in the Lord is one that I can aspire to be like.

I am so thankful that the Lord gave the gift of writing to Francine Rivers. She is extremely gifted. I know that God has given these books to me at just the times in my life that I needed them. If you haven't read a Francine Rivers book, you must!!