The Shiny Coin (Mrs C. E. Bowen)

The Shiny Coin

Another victim of intemperance and poverty, Dick Nason grew up in a home bereft of affection and the fear of God. Though poor and left to himself, his was a life of relative ease and freedom from care, except when his stomach was empty. If there was anything to be enjoyed it was the beauty of the flowers in the market. He would often wonder at their beauty amidst the dingy, dirty circumstances of his home life. Who could have created such beautiful flowers as these?

Little did Dick know that the God who created the flowers also created him and was drawing him to Himself through circumstances unseen.

One day, faced with a most difficult decision to either conceal or tell the truth, Dick is forced to make a choice—one that could forever change the course of his life (as many seemingly small choices do). It is at this crossroads that the Providential meeting with John Walters takes place. Street children rarely respond to his good graces or his warnings. Why would this child be any different? But John loved his God and loved his Bible, so he couldn’t leave the curly-headed boy to blunder through life without guidance. God had done no less for him, so why should not he do the same?

Follow along with Dick, and you’ll relate to the ups and downs that every boy and girl must face. Your children will be challenged and inspired as they learn with Dick that those who trust in the Lord are never alone. As you read this story as a family, may the truth of 2 Chronicles 16:9 be forever etched into your memories:

“For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the behalf of those whose heart is perfect toward him.”

Recommended Reading Level:

Grades: 3-9