Two Doors: Making Good Choices

By Tim Cole

On their tenth birthday, Markus and Junias are presented with two gifts by their father, the King - swords to learn to use, and keys to learn not to use. Each following year the boys are given additional instructions about their swords, their keys, and about two mysterious doors in the castle wall. Little do they realize how their choices today will determine the course of their lives. This beautifully illustrated book teaches children the importance of making wise decisions, the need to choose life-long blessing over immediate gratification, and the value of purity in relationships. A surprising twist to the conclusion of the story also introduces children to the hope of a new beginning through God's forgiveness. Each chapter ends with related Bible verses and discussion questions to help adults initiate thoughtful conversations with children and to apply the lessons of the story to life.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Apr 20, 2014
• ISBN: 9781483524269

Tim Cole

Professor Tim Cole is Professor of Social History at Bristol University and Director of the Brigstow Institute, conducting research into what it means to be human in the twenty-first century. His first book Images of the Holocaust (Duckworth and Routledge US) was shortlisted for the Longman/History Today Book Award. In 2003 he published Holocaust City:The Making of a Jewish Ghetto with Routledge and in 2011 Traces of the Holocaust: Journeying In and Out of the Ghettos (Continuum) which was commended by the jury of the Fraenkel Prize.

Book preview

9781483524269

Chapter 1

Once upon a time, a certain king had twin sons whose names were Junias and Markus. When they became 10 years old, the King gave each boy two gifts and told them, From now on you are starting on the road to adulthood, and some day you will likely become a king. You must learn to fight the battles of a king. So listen to me carefully.

First, I’m giving you each a sword, and you must learn how to use your swords. Practice and keep your swords sharp every day, and go see your Uncle Leo once a week so he can teach you the skills you will need to have. You must remember to do this yourself. We will not remind you nor force you. It’s up to you.

Second, I’m giving you each a key. It goes on a chain around your neck. Guard it carefully until the day when you are ready to use it.

When will that be, Father? asked the boys.

When the time comes, you will know.

"But how will we know?

Each year on your birthday, I will give you a special message about the key. If you listen to my words carefully, and take them to heart, you will know when the time comes. I promise you.

So the boys took their swords, and hung their keys from chains around their necks, and began diligently practicing, caring for their swords, and attending lessons with their uncle, who was a devoted and skillful teacher. The year went by swiftly and soon it was their 11th birthday.

What message do you have for us, Father?, the boys asked eagerly.

"Take your swords and go out the North Gate of the castle. As you walk along outside the castle wall,