Barry tossed him a saddened expression, and Nolan was surprised to see a tear roll down the other man’s cheek. “Because I know from personal experience what you need. And the only place you’ll find it is in that book you’re holding.”
Nolan watched in stunned silence as Barry exited, leaving him there alone, the jail cell door still open.
In his hand rested a well-worn small black Bible.
He opened it and saw writing in the margins. It was Alice’s handwriting. And it wasn’t on just this page, but almost every page he turned to. This was a precious gift, one for which he was wholly unworthy.
An ancient bookmark peeked out at him, a strip of fabric woven like a tiny doily. He flipped to that page and looked down at a passage that Alice had underlined and highlighted in yellow.
Tears rolled down Nolan’s cheeks, and he couldn’t remember the last time that had happened. The words stepped out of the page and spoke as if they’d been written just for him. He hoped they could become true for him once more. The better way he’d lost.
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
To my family: my wife, Karen, my kids, Evan and Emma, my mom, my brother, Ross, his wife, Melissa, and their two girls, Kara and Kaylee, and my in-laws, Larry & Evelyn, and Karen’s brother, Scott. Thank you all so, so much. I could not do what I do without your love and support.
To my friends at Bethany House Publishers, most especially my editor, David Long, who has the patience of a saint, and the incomparable Paul Higdon, whose incredible designs for my book covers have managed to blow my mind every single time. Thanks for everything. It’s been a fun ride and I enjoyed every minute of it!
The crew at Alive Communications, Beth Jusino and Andrea Heinecke in particular, for their advice, help, and hard work.
To Jesus: I exist, I breathe, and I love all because of you. You are everything. I am your servant forever.
To you, dear reader: this book you are reading would not be possible without your loyalty, enthusiasm, and support. Thank you so much for taking this ride with me. Let’s take another one soon!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
R obin Parrish has written for over a decade as a journalist on the cutting edge of Christian culture, from books and music to film. Robin, his wife, and their children live in High Point, North Carolina.
BOOK LIST
THE DOMINION TRILOGY
Relentless
Fearless
Merciless
Offworld
Nightmare
Resources: bethanyhouse.com/AnOpenBook
Website: www.bethanyhouse.com
Facebook: Bethany House
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