thirtySomEthingS

by Sarah Sargent

Francine Rivers’ book Redeeming Love quickly became my favorite when I read it 15 years ago.

It is a fictional story inspired by the Old Testament account of Hosea and his wife Gomer. God used Hosea and his unique story to show His immense and redeeming love for His people, Israel. When I read this book, I often dreamed of (and prayed for) a man to love me the way Michael loves Angel (the main characters in the book). Comparing real people to fictional characters has often led to disappointments.

Driving to work recently, I listened to the audiobook again, and this time my mind and heart heard the story differently. I compared Michael and Angel with my relationship to Christ. Since I was a little girl, God has been pursuing my heart. Even when I was distracted by sin and life, He was faithful. He continually offered me His redeeming love, grace, and mercy.

I no longer pray for a love like Michael’s because God offered that kind of love to me when I was a seven-year-old girl in children’s church. He’s been loving me that way ever since. And He has loved you like that, too. Please take some time and re-read Hosea. Ask God to help you understand and experience more deeply His unconditional, redeeming love.

About the writer: Sarah Sargent is a third-generation member and leader in Free Will Baptist Women’s Ministries. She has been active at all levels of the ministry from an early age. In 2013, she began serving on the WNAC board and has been a member of the Shine team since its inception as both a speaker and writer. She serves as president of the women’s ministry at Reynoldsburg FWB Church and vice president for Ohio Free Will Baptist Women’s Ministries. She is a proud alumna of The Ohio State University, loves all things Disney, and her Labradoodles Regal and Lexi.