A Voice Heard in Ramah

Book excerpt: In a Palestinian town called Ramah, during the reign of King Herod, Amahl decided to leave home in search of power. Unlike the prodigal son, he finds himself in unfamiliar territory when it comes to worshipping Greek gods to quench his thirst for riches and power. His excessive thirst for power manifested itself into greed, selfishness, and tragedy! Amahl's parents were massacred. He and his siblings were being raised by their grandfather, Father Asa. Father Asa was a worshipper of the true God Jehovah, and he believed God would send the Messiah soon. Father Asa was getting older in age, and he wanted Amahl to settle down and take on this heritage. However, Amahl, being the oldest, had his own agenda and was instead becoming restless, angry, and disrespectful""hungry for power! Amahl became intrigued by Odessa, who introduced him to Greek gods that promise, not only gold, but wealth, success, and opportunities. Even though Amahl's heart belonged to another woman, he married Odessa in search for the gods of wealth. His long love for power became a reality when he became an innkeeper, and he fathered a son with Odessa. As greed began to overtake Amahl, he praised the gods because they had given him his heart's desire. While waiting for more wealth and full favor from the gods, tragedy struck!