Seeds Planted Long Ago
Has a book ever changed your life?
In retirement, I discovered biblical fiction through Tessa Afshar’s Pearl in the Sand. So enamored of the book, I invited women from my church to discuss it. With its success, I started Seeds of Faith For Women, Inc., and at my first retreat, Tessa was the keynote speaker.
In between her incredible talks, I told the Old Testament story of the Daughters of Zelophehad and how it encouraged me over 35 years of working in Corporate America. She approached me afterwards and said, “You must write this story.” I laughed and replied, “No, you’re the writer.” But she encouraged me. And so, I did. So thankful that she planted this seed that took root.
I first encountered the daughter’s bold request through the Network of Biblical Storytellers, where I am now President. We learn the stories by heart and then tell them as they were originally spoken.
Their story continued to inspire me at work. As I opened the door to the executive board meetings—often the only woman in the room— I would say to myself, “The daughters of Zelophehad came forward.”
While researching the book, I attended many writers’ and Bible seminars, including one at our local synagogue about “Forgotten women of the Torah.” That experience led to unexpected friendships and the founding of Daughters of Abraham, where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish women share faith stories and learn from one another. In listening deeply to others, I have found my own faith strengthened and deepened.
I’m so grateful for the seeds planted long ago and for the ways God continues to direct our path, surprising us in more ways than we could have dreamed.
I’d love for you to be part of this journey as we continue to share stories, grow in faith, and encourage one another along the way.
