If you were to ask our two middle girls what story is their favorite, they would probably say, “The Basket of Flowers.”

They have listened to Lamplighter Theatre’s recording of this classic story from the early 1800s dozens of times and nearly have it memorized.

God never promised an easy life of wealth and prosperity to those who trust in Him for their salvation. Instead, He tells us that this life is a vale of tears, and to expect injustice, persecution, and suffering for His sake (Romans 8:17; Phillippians 3:10; 1 Peter 2:20).

The Basket Of Flowers is a deeply moving story that illustrates what it means to remain faithful to God, even in the midst of great trials, like being falsely accused and suffering persecution for crimes you didn’t commit.

The main character in the story is a young girl named Mary. Her gardener father, James, teaches her principles of godliness using flowers as object lessons.

It is a good thing to know doctrine in theory, but it’s quite another to put it into practice, especially at an enormous penalty to self.

Mary is falsely accused of theft, and circumstantial evidence seems to secure the case against her. It is not until she has greatly suffered through insurmountable obstacles that evidence is finally discovered to vindicate her.

With great skill and tenderness, Christoph Von Schmid weaves the nature of man and the sweet humility of a new creation in Christ throughout the story. The reward of Mary’s integrity in spite of immense suffering is not one you will find touted by the prosperity gospel; her reward is growing in nearness to God, which is far, far better.

This story is packed with Scriptural truths and an absolute treasure for young and old alike. I’d recommend it as a family read aloud or for young ladies.