Through Rushing Waters

Through Rushing Water by Catherine Richmond

The best book I’ve read in a long time, Through Rushing Water is a thoroughly engaging story that combines history with romance and adventure. Christian fiction writer Catherine Richmond has crafted an excellent, must-read novel that shines with genuine yet unique characters in a colorful, old West setting.

After being jilted by her intended fiancé, Sophia Makinoff takes the first offer to leave her college town. She signs up with the Mission Board to teach Ponca Indian children in the American West of the 1800s. Sophia’s sophisticated manners are definitely out of place in this rough, uncharted  territory. She quickly discovers that the Indians suffer from a lack of food and basic farming implements.  Sophia lives in the Indian Agency house with Preacher Henry, his mother, Nettie, agent James and carpenter Will.  Teaching in a one-room schoolhouse, Sophia has experiences with the children that begin to change them and her.  Along with light-hearted, funny classroom moments, there is the disturbing backdrop of the historical movement of all tribes to the “Indian Territory.”  

This is a masterful story filled with compassion, history and just plain fun. It’s a love story of Sophia and the man she can’t seem to understand even as he protects her from gun runners and a devastating snowstorm.  It’s a commentary on the sometimes cruel treatment of the proud Native Americans forced to leave the land they love.  It’s a tribute to God’s grace as Sophia’s faith grows day by day.

Making the story even more engaging, the author has penned events and characters from historical research; the “Author’s Note” appendix is quite enlightening.  Kudos to a professional writer who keeps the reader wondering what will happen next and does not bore us with unnecessary detail. I highly recommend this book.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.

The Truth About Grace

John MacArthur’s The Truth About Grace should be on the “must read” list for every Christian, especially those who have questions about the awesome, but somewhat mysterious quality of God’s grace.  Beginning with the definitions of grace and ending with the “ongoing work of grace in the Christian’s rebellious life,” MacArthur emphasizes God’s great love for humanity.

God’s saving grace frees people from sin; we cannot accomplish this by our own efforts. Although this concept is difficult for many to comprehend, Pastor MacArthur clearly explains the plan of salvation: “by faith alone, through grace alone, in Christ alone.”  His discussion includes many scriptural examples such as Jesus’ feeding the five thousand and Naaman’s leprosy cure.  The life and teachings of Paul are also described.  MacArthur additionally has a message for the church of today:  beware of false teachers who “often deliberately conceal themselves within the heart of the evangelical mainstream.”

This relatively short, easily read paperback book is easy to carry in briefcase or purse for a few free moments of meditation.  It can also be an excellent devotional study with an open Bible handy to look up the many verses cited by MacArthur.

Written by a noted and well-respected pastor and author, this book is part of “The Truth About” series. It is highly recommended as a Biblically based and straightforward explanation of salvation.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book to read and  review. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions expressed here are my own.