Author Heather Grannum shares her favorite character from the Biblical historical novel “Where is Matthias?“
Nathan arrives in Jerusalem in time for the annual Passover celebration and looks forward to spending it with his childhood friend Yaron, whose sister, Abigail he is hoping to marry, except that difficult family finances have diminished the dowry he is able to offer.
As the city of Jerusalem welcomes its worldwide visitors, Nathan finds out that his sister, Eliza, and her husband, who are also guests, are excited about the strange rabbi who rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. Could he be the Messiah?
Their outspoken belief causes some discomfort in the home, especially when there is another distinguished guest who denounces Jesus and whose son happens to have all the necessary attributes as the perfect choice for Abigail.
As Jerusalem turns against Jesus, and amidst complicated family relationships which bring tragedy, it is Nathan who, in the face of his own suffering, provides a steadying hand.
Nathan is a balanced young man, well respected by the family who have invited his family for Passover. Matthias likes him because he chats with him like a fellow adult, unlike Yaron, who teases him.
Yaron is very outspoken about the state of affairs in Jerusalem, and his condemnation of the corruption he sees in the authorities tends to upset those around him, especially in the family. Nathan is the one who keeps him in check.
He is down to earth and accepts that his diminished financial resources might place him out of the running as a suitable husband for Abigail. Yet he is able to retain his
composure in an uncomfortable situation. He can also play the flute.
Where is Matthias? is available from Dove Christian Publishers