"I would like to withdraw the money from my trust fund, Momma -- all of it," she announced rather tentatively. She wasn't too concerned what her mother would say, but she knew her sister would once again act the role of stern maiden aunt. She was right.
-- from "A Woman Had Two Daughters..."
Parallel Parable: The Prodigal Son

This collection of 12 short stories tells the parables of Jesus again in other words.

The intent highlights the same point or moral carried by the scriptural version of the parable.

Merle G. Franke places each story in a 1990s setting with characters and situations familiar to all. Each parable has a contemporary title. Each has a scriptural reference for easy identification.

Four stories are based on parables from Matthew and eight from Luke. This collection is useful for sermon preparation, group Bible study or for reading enjoyment.

Parables include:
Impatient Planter -- Matthew 13:1-23
The Contractor's Choice -- Matthew 20:1-16
Which Ones Were Lost? -- Luke 15:1-10
Blind In One Eye ... -- Luke 16:19-31

Merle G. Franke, Austin, Texas, is a graduate of Carthage College (Illinois), and Northwestern Lutheran Seminary. He is author of many books and has held pastorates in the Virgin Islands, Minnesota, and Texas. In addition, he has been active in many Lutheran church-wide committees.