Readability
Original Sources
Devotional Quality
Avoids Hagiography
Biblical Clarity
| Field | Lebanon |
| Missionary | Bonnie Witherall |
| Author | Gary Witherall |
| Era | 1990s–2000s |
Overview
Why would a young Christian couple move to Lebanon in the 1990s? Why would they stay in the Middle East after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001? Could they not recognize the danger around them? Gary Witherall answers these questions as he tells the story leading up to his wife’s martyrdom.
Bonnie Witherall was an ordinary Christian woman from the 1990s. She seems like just one of hundreds of young Christians of her decade who chose to serve God overseas on short term missions assignments. She did not seek out danger but followed the Lord as He led to Lebanon. She built relationships, served pregnant women, and carefully witnessed for Christ. Yet, her life ended abruptly on the doorstep of the pregnancy center where she worked.
At less than 150 pages, this biography is an easy read. While the cover and interior typography date the book firmly to its era, the artistic elements suits Gary’s storytelling style. In addition, the glossy pictures at the book’s center help the reader picture Bonnie and her work. Any Christian would benefit from Bonnie’s testimony. Martyrs are neither relics of the past nor superheroes of the faith. God uses ordinary people like Bonnie and those who read her story, emulate simple her faith, and follow her God.
Highlights
- How God led the Witheralls to Lebanon.
- Why they stayed after 9/11.
- How Gary grappled with why God allowed his wife to be killed.
Quotes
- “I don’t know what God has for us, but I want to be available to go . . . I feel like God has me blindfolded and is leading me along a path I don’t quite understand. But I will follow Him” (p.55).
- “Go to the Middle East and eat sand” (p. 56).
- “If it’s not worth dying for, is it worth living for?” (p. 117).
Other Sources
Bonnie Witherall is highlighted in Daring Decision on Day 3.