The Copper Scroll by Joel Rosenberg

This is continuation of the end times books by Rosenberg. I think that I have read them in the past - the characters were familiar to me, but it has been awhile. He did a decent job of referring to what had happened before so that new readers would not be completely lost. It might have been annoying if I had read the books in succession.

This book focuses on prophecies in Ezekial and the possible outcomes of those. It would make a great action movie with near misses at every turn. The main characters are pulled in against their will, but believe that God had called them to do all they can. They are searching for the treasures listed on the copper scroll which was discovered during the time of the dead sea scrolls and really exists. It is fascinating to think that we are close to bringing some of these end times prophecies into being - just as God planned.

Something interesting. One of the characters mentions that Satan must have an AntiChrist in position in every generation since only God the Father knows when the second coming is happening. Satan does not know and must be ready to take power at any time. Interesting thought?

Fair is the Rose by Liz Curtis Higgs

This must be the second or third book in a series. I read it first, but it was written is such a way that it did not seem to matter. I enjoyed Higgs writting style. This is also the first time that I have read any of her books - highly recommended by other blog readers.

Higgs did a good job of chronicling the time period of the church and what was happening during that time. It was a very strict time period when the punishment was public and severe. I can see how this would deter people from sinning or at least getting found out.

This book seems to follow the storyline of Jacob with Leah and Rachel. The main character was tricked into marrying the "ugly" daughter. He felt betrayed, yet fell in love with her despite the trickery. In the end, her loved her more than he could have possibly have imagined her could. Because of a recording error of the church, everything that the deceitful father had planned fell apart. I was intrigued by the twist and it kept me interested. I would recommend this book.

Unashamed by Francine Rivers

This is the first book that I have read by Francine Rivers. This is a novella about Rahab and her amazing faith. She is listed in the line of Jesus, even though she started her life as a prostitute, she is given a place a honor is scripture.

Rivers does a great job of adding emotion and context to the old testament story of Jericho. Rahab had to have amazing faith to believe in the God of the Hebrews admist the idolatry of her city. She also had to stand up and explain her faith to an unbelieving family. The spies were also impressed by her faith and vowed to save her. She believed and was saved. Isn't that what our faith is all about?

A great read.