Through the Eye of the Needle

Devastated by his father's death, Yoseph has now inherited a large balsam grove--the source of his family's wealth for many generations. But when this young man, who is also a ruler among the Jews, hears the words of John the Baptist, he is suddenly plagued with doubt regarding his eternal security. His internal turmoil only worsens when he finally talks with Jesus, who tells him to sell his goods and give the proceeds to the poor. Unable to accept this answer, he goes away, sad. But he continues to ponder what Jesus said to him, even after Jesus is killed. At Pentecost, he at last believes in Jesus and is baptized. He then gladly sells his balsam grove.

Through all this, Yoseph has trouble with his betrothed, who lives in the port city of Tyre and is the daughter of the man who buys the balm oil from him. Even after she breaks trust with Yoseph, he tries to work out the problem, but eventually, the betrothal is dissolved. Yet God has chosen an unlikely woman to be his wife--a poor widow with a young son. Together, Yoseph and his wife and son start a new life following Jesus, their risen Lord.

-- Jill Eva Deal