by Jerel Law
Jonah, Eliza, and Jeremiah looked at one another. Jonah saw the same spark of hope in their eyes that he suddenly felt. The angels had somehow survived. They couldn’t die after all.
Jonah raised his hand slowly. “Uh, excuse me.”
The angel Elizabeth leveled her gaze on him. It was almost too much for him to take. “Yes, Jonah Stone?”
“Well, it seems like we only just got here. Do we really have to leave?”
She looked at him thoughtfully. “Only if you want to live.”
Jonah sighed. Exhaustion was about to overwhelm him. But he couldn’t deny the thrill that the words of the angel gave him, and the excitement he felt about the path Elohim had them on. He had no idea what was next. Right now, that didn’t matter.
He stepped toward her, and Eliza and Jeremiah moved with him.
Wherever the road led, they were ready.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
There are so many people to thank, who hold untouchable places in my heart and whose support makes some amazing things possible. Like life. And writing a novel.
To my kids, Bailey, Christopher, and Luke: simply put, you are the reason I write. You inspire me, make me laugh, keep me honest, encourage me, and help me dream bigger and better. You make me want to be a better dad. Your mom and I are so proud of you.
Mom and Dad: your relentless love for me has been overwhelming, tangible, and fuel for my sometimes-weary heart. I don’t have to look far to see a picture of what commitment to a family looks like. Mom, you have shown me what selfless sacrifice to those you love is all about. Dad, your spiritual leadership has made a lifelong impact on me, as has your love of reading, stories, and books.
Bill and Martha: your tireless support of our family has been nothing short of amazing. You’ve cared for the kids countless times so that I could write. More importantly, you have shown us through your example that even in the middle of tragedy, God is still God, and that He is still good.
Amy and James, Jamie and Catherine, Brian and Dianne: you are the epitome of what family should be. Your enthusiasm and genuine excitement over these books have given me more strength than you probably know.
And to Dana, my second sister: there aren’t enough words to express what you have meant to the kids and me this year. You get it, in a way no one else can, and for that I am profoundly grateful. You are irreplaceable.
To all of my family: your support during some of the darkest days of my life has given me hope, reminding me that the One who has begun a good work in us will be faithful to carry it on to completion, and that our trials, while real today, will one day be old stories to tell.
This book would never have happened without the wonderful people I’ve had the pleasure to work with at Thomas Nelson. Molly Hodgin is a brilliant, insightful, and creative editor. I’m grateful we’ve been on the same page with this series from day one. Thanks also to Micah Walker for keeping us on track and providing critical insight of your own. The entire Tommy Nelson team is second to none, and it was a privilege to partner with them on this book.
I also owe a special thank-you to author Robert Whitlow, who is both a friend and a mentor. Without your early encouragement for my writing, your wise advice, and your selfless generosity, these books would never have seen the light of day.
May God use this novel, and my life, for His purposes and glory here on earth.
Jerel Law
May 10, 2012
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jerel Law is a gifted communicator and pastor with eighteen years of full-time ministry experience. He holds a master of divinity degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and began writing fiction as a way to encourage his children’s faith to come alive. Law lives in North Carolina with his family. Learn more at www.jerellaw.com
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