Lynne Farrell was introduced to my Community Bible Study
large group gathering last week. We
happen to attend the same church where she teaches. Given the size of our church, we had never
crossed paths. What intrigued me about
Lynne was the journey surrounding this book.
The contents of 40 pages had taken years to complete and had ultimately
become a lesson in obedience to God. The
obedience, more than being published, had become the focal point. Motives were constantly evaluated and self
erased from the pages at every appearance.
As a reward for the obedience Lynne’s father’s initials form the name of
a main character. One could also say
that the publishing of the book is also a reward for obedience and diligence.
Through circumstances that could not have been
orchestrated by man, Lynne mentioned to her friend Kathy Dache’ that she needed
to find someone to do the pictures to make the book come alive. Kathy then replied that she was, in fact, an
artist. The collaboration resulted in
the charming and beautifully illustrated Bennie’s Forever Gift.
Bennie and his grandfather, Eldee (L.D. being Lynne’s
father’s initial), are bikes in the town of Spokesville. Bennie tells the story as a loving memorial to
the knowledge he gained from the relationship with his beloved grandfather who
was “the wisest bike I ever knew.” Eldee
is described as smart, kind and generous.
He was the Mr. Fix-it for the whole town. His dream had been to be a parade bike, but
his talents where for making things and others better. This was all the design of The Great One who
had made each bike unique.
On a ride through the forest Eldee marvels at the
wildflowers he picks. These are gifts! The world all-around showed the ways The
Great One offers gifts. Gifts are given
freely as a sign of love. But there is a
better gift - The Great One wants to be your friend.
Bennie’s 8th birthday and the gifts he received
become the analogy for grace and the forever gift – accepting a friendship
freely offered. All Bennie needs to do
is choose to accept this gift. The
forever gift is not just for this lifetime and Eldee explains that as he wears
out he has nothing to fear. When his
time in this world is over he will get to live with The Great One in His home.
My almost 4 year old son who loves his bike and loves
books was entranced. And so begins the
conversation with your child all from the story of a tricycle and his loving
grandfather. The message is simple, yet
so clear. Included in the message from the author is a website to learn more
about The Forever Gift - www.benniesforevergift.com.
I want to leave you with Lynne’s own words: I
encourage you to consider your own calling. What is the Lord asking you
to do to further His Kingdom? If you are saying, "I can't do that!",
ask Him to soften your heart so that you can be part of His work. You will truly be blessed by your obedience.
Just in time for Christmas, you can also purchase the
book from this website. The print and e-book versions of Bennie's Forever Gift are also available at Amazon.com.
This is an affiliate link if you
feel like helping a sister out a little. J
BUT…. Lynne has graciously offered a signed copy of her
book to one of my readers. “Offered”
seems a little innocent. I actually went
over to her, told her that I loved her story and wanted to share it with
you. I asked outright if she would give
me a copy to review and pass along. It’s a win-win in my book. So here’s the deal. Just leave me a comment so I know you were
here and that you want a chance to win.
All comments must be received by 9PM Eastern Time on Friday,
December 14. Unfortunately, this is open
to the US only. Good Luck.
All images are courtesy of Lynne Farrell
Yes, this looks awesome!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing!!
ReplyDeleteI would love to add this to my library
ReplyDeleteThat looks like a great book. Thanks for reviewing it and putting some of the pictures in. They are wonderful. Enter me for sure!!! Miss you!
ReplyDelete