To continue with our series on missions, here is a review of a book that I think presents a poignant picture of biblical missionary activity. Even though the story is set in nineteenth-century London, the principals hold true today. The following thoughts are taken from my “Book Journal”.
Yesterday, I started reading one of Lamplighter’s books that came in the mail with our September package. Today I finished it! Yes, Jessica’s First Prayer by Hesba Stretton is a small book (less than 100 pages), but it also is such a sweet story that this afternoon I had to get to the end.
Little large-eyed Jessica has no one who cares for her in all of London until one day
when a grave man begrudgingly gives her a
cup of coffee from his stand. Her friendship will then lead her to a church where her bare feet are eventually led not only down to the pulpit but also down the Way of her Savior. Jessica’s sweet confidence that the Lord will hear her prayers “for Jesus’ sake” transforms the heart of her friend.
Firstly, I like how Hesba Stretton deals with the hard reality of mid-nineteenth century London life yet still keeps the story sweet. I would feel all right reading this story to an eight-year-old. Secondly, I love the minister. He is so gentle and kind to his two daughters and to Jessica. Most importantly, he sees beyond Jessica’s raggedness - he sees her as one of Christ’s lambs to be fed. Also, he actively seeks to help her not only by explaining God’s truth, but also helping to meet her physical needs. He is a good example for me in all these ways and seemed like a minister I would like to know.
Lastly, on a more technical note, I love how Lamplighter has put in footnotes for the Scripture references. It is so nice to be able to see what passage is being referred to, and I am really trying to pay attention since one of my goals is to memorize more verses!
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