Chapter 22 - Page 318 - Shanha Talks To Jesus

   They talked a while, then went to the dining hall to eat. While they were eating, Shanha told her mother how excited she was to be a Christian. Francis smiled, proud of her daughter. She said, "You have really grown since the last time I saw you."

   Shanha looked puzzled. "I'm seven years old," she said, as if to say, "I'm a big girl now."

   "I know you are," Francis said, "and you're so pretty."

   Shanha's confused look turned into a smile.

   Francis had great respect for Rhasha, and wanted to talk with her, but didn't really know what to say. "Rhasha," Francis finally said, "how long have you been a Christian?" The way Rhasha sang Christian music, Francis had assumed Rhasha believed in Jesus.

   Rhasha hung her head. "I love God with all my heart," she replied, "but I don't understand how Jesus can be the savior of the whole world."

   "Oh, I'm sorry," Francis replied. "You sing religious music so beautifully. I thought you were a Christian."

   Rhasha's face fell. Everyone at the table knew Jesus except her. "I want to believe in Jesus," she said, "and I believe he was a real person, but it just doesn't make sense to me."

   Jim thought he knew why Jesus hadn't revealed himself to Rhasha. "Francis, I don't think Jesus has spoken to Rhasha's heart yet. I believe he's waiting, so when he does speak to her, Rhasha will influence many more people to walk down the aisle with her." Jim paused as an idea occurred to him. "I pray for Rhasha every day. If you and Shanha would pray for her too, maybe God will help her to understand."

   Shanha smiled and locked her fingers together. She stood beside her chair and wiggled back and forth. "Papa, I pray for you and Mama every time I pray."