This Steadfast Heart

Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, 
you did for me.
~Matthew 25:40~
 

Several years ago, a news report mentioned that a woman and two children had gone missing from our local area, and they were last sighted boarding a train heading north. I’m not sure if they were ever found, but snippets of information released at a later date indicated that they’d escaped a domestic violence situation. The story struck a chord with me, and made me wonder what life was like for that woman. How fearful she must have been for her life. It broke my heart that she and her children were subject to such circumstances, but I was also filled with awe at her courage to leave and seek a better life for herself and her children.

This scenario was the inspiration behind This Steadfast Heart. The opening scene shows Nicola, with her daughter, fleeing her partner on a northbound train to a town called Willoughby Beach. The story unfolds with Nicola’s past coming to the surface – the hurts, the fears, and the ugliness - as she tries to make a new start for herself and her daughter. 
 
Zac Bains is an ex-missionary, whose overseas work was cut short due to a motorcycle accident. He has a strong faith, and also holds his relationships to a high standard. When Nicola and Zac’s lives intertwine, Zac is left questioning his staunch view on what it means to serve others, and is challenged by his pride. Is someone more deserving of help because they live in a third-world country, or does God want us to love and serve everyone, no matter their demographic or social standing? 
 
The main themes for This Steadfast Heart are about challenging our own ideals, and looking beyond the boxes we create for ourselves to really see those in need, to love others as Jesus did.
 
I enjoyed bringing Zac and Nicola’s story to life, and at times it made me question my own beliefs. How do I treat others who are different to me? 
 
This is my third book in The Potter's House Books Two series, and I pray that you will be encouraged by Zac and Nicola's journey.

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