Though known mostly for her full-length biblical novels, Mesu Andrews also enjoys writing biblical short stories. The Edge of Promise is a compilation of three shorter tales dealing with the period of time after Israel’s Exodus from Egypt and before their occupation of the Promised Land. Though this is sometimes referred to as the “wilderness wanderings,” Mesu puts her creative mind to “wondering” what life might have been like for ordinary people who lived in the shadows of the extraordinary biblical characters—Aaron, Moses, and Rahab.
Aaron’s Wife has been angry and afraid for as long as she can remember. Why did God have to choose her men to serve as His priests? Is it possible for her to intervene on their behalf and perhaps keep them safe? If she were to register her complaint to God directly (is that even possible?) would He hear her? Elisheba is teetering on the edge of faith.
Life for The Shepherd Boy is just plain unfair. Why won’t his family consider him a man instead of a boy? What difference does his age make when compared with his ability? And how could a mere boy feel such passion when he’s near his childhood shepherdess friend? Lemuel is perched on the edge of manhood and love.
Rahab’s Sister has always been a victim of circumstance. Why does she have to live in the obscurity of her “famous” older sister? What is it about the men of Jericho and the gods they serve that leaves them all so bleak? Is it possible to live differently, like the strange people encircling her city? Gera is hovering on the edge of hope.
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