Unique and intriguing, Famous but Nameless focuses on the Bible's anonymous supporting cast, highlighting important character strengths expressed in their words and deeds. Author Mark Hendrickson's studies of lesser-known individuals from the Old and New Testaments offer tales rich with lessons that can instruct, inspire, or guide. Optional questions for discussion follow each story, suitable for Sunday school classes, Bible study groups, or personal reflection. Including figures as diverse as Samson's mother, the crew on Jonah's boat, Pilate's wife, and Paul's jailer, this collection revisits forty-five Bible episodes from a fresh, insightful perspective. Although written from a Christian perspective, Famous but Nameless highlights character attributes that anyone can admire. "What a great expression of love! [It] will bring blessings to each one who reads it." Rev. Larry Bernard, O.F.M. ". . . inspiring stories with lessons in moral character to teach our children." Cheri Hollenbaugh, veteran home-schooling mom. ". . . understandable. . . engaging . . . Mark has lifted up the unnamed of long ago and in so doing helps to lift us up as well." Rev. Dr. Gary F. Lewis FAMOUS BUT NAMELESS Lessons and Inspiration from the Bible's Anonymous Characters By Mark W. Hendrickson iUniverse, Inc. Copyright © 2011 Mark W. Hendrickson All right reserved. ISBN: 978-1-4620-5509-8 Contents Preface.......................................................................................................ix1. Abraham's Eldest Servant A story of devotion..............................................................12. The Pharaoh Who Promoted Joseph A study in wise leadership................................................53. Pharaoh's Daughter A compassionate heart..................................................................94. Joshua's Troops at Jericho The genius of discipline.......................................................125. Samson's Mother An illustration of spiritual receptivity..................................................166. The Servant of Kish and Saul The importance of being prepared.............................................197. The Woman Who Hid Jonathan A tale of great courage........................................................228. The Man Who Discovered Absalom Hanging in a Tree A paragon of integrity...................................269. The Quick-Thinking Woman from Abel Executive ability in the clutch........................................2910. The True Mother The essence of mother-love...............................................................3211. The Man of God from Judah and the Old Prophet from Bethel A hard lesson in obedience.....................3512. The Widow at Zarephath Taking the leap of faith..........................................................4013. King Ahaziah's Messengers and Captains Knowing who holds the aces........................................4414. The Indebted Widow Tapping into hidden resources.........................................................4815. The Shunammite Woman The greatness of a big heart........................................................5116. Naaman's Friends Lessons in love and loyalty.............................................................5517. A Humble King of Israel Deferring to a higher authority..................................................5918. "A Poor Wise Man" The priceless power of wisdom..........................................................6219. The Crew on Jonah's Boat The noble code of public service................................................6520. The Reformed Ninevites Mending one's ways before it's too late...........................................6921 The Shepherds at the Nativity Ready and willing...........................................................7222. The Faithful Leper When faith becomes conviction.........................................................7623. The Confident Centurion Understanding who's in charge....................................................7924. The Gadarene Madman Goodness behind the mask of madness..................................................8325. The Woman with the Issue of Blood "... faith as a grain of mustard seed".................................8626. The Greek Syro-Phoenician Woman from Canaan The importance of persistence................................8927. The Father of the Lunatic Son Never give up!.............................................................9228. The Two Blind Men Insisting on good......................................................................9529. The "Sick of the Palsy" and His Four Bed-Bearers The power of perseverance...............................9830. The Wise Scribe Valuing truth above popularity...........................................................10131. The Widow Who Gave Two Mites A most generous giver.......................................................10432. The Samaritan Woman and the Men o