“I’m not a man to beat around the bush,” Mr. Reynolds said, “so I’m just going to come right out and say what I’ve wanted to say to the both of you ever since I was told about your situation.” He looked more at Amala for a long moment. “My wife and I spent some time in India ourselves, and we grew to love the people there. I hope that counts for something, Mrs. Beckenridge.”

Amala was taken off guard—first by his kindness, and secondly because no one had ever called her that except members of her family in a mostly teasing manner. She’d not been acknowledged publicly as Henry’s wife by anyone at all in the community, and hearing it now left her slightly choked up. She nodded in response and continued to listen.

“I want to make it very clear that while I’m well aware of how unconventional your marriage is and that many people look down upon it here—as they surely would in India—I am a firm believer that God sees all of His children as equals; He is no respecter of persons, which I have always taken to mean that it is our devotion to Him that matters, and the way we treat others is a means of showing that devotion. It is my most fervent aspiration in my calling to spread the good news of the gospel of Christ by word and deed in the principle that He taught us to love one another—without exception. I hope you will not allow the opinions of my predecessor—or anyone else in this community—to taint your views on that principle.”

Henry exchanged another glance with Amala, and this time she could see that he shared her amazement. He looked at Mr. Reynolds and said, “In spite of our lack of attendance at Sunday meetings, our family has diligently participated in a worship service in our home, and we certainly strive to live by this very principle.”

“I’m so glad to hear it!” Mr. Reynolds said as if he’d just heard the best news of his life. “And if you choose to continue in that manner—given the situation and all that’s happened—I would certainly understand. However, I am sincerely hoping you will agree to at least give me a chance and attend one of our Sunday meetings. I would very much like to help this congregation open their minds and take on a more accurate view of the teachings of our good Lord from the New Testament; some will never change their ideas, but I’m hoping some might come with humility and open hearts. And I would very much like your presence there to help people see the good that can come from living those teachings.”