A Daring Sacrifice

  “You take my heart with you,” I whispered in a choked voice as he spurred his horse away. “Godspeed.”

  Discussion Questions

  1. What are some of the characteristics that drew Juliana and Collin to each other? What are some of the qualities that they had in common? What made them a good fit for each other?

  2. While physical attractions can be strong, why do you think it’s important to be drawn to someone for more than their outward appearance?

  3. Juliana and Collin spent time getting to know each other by immersing themselves in each other’s world. Why do you think it’s important for couples to spend time really getting to see the other person in their daily life (rather than always prettied-up on dates)?

  4. Juliana was honest with Collin about his shortcomings. She challenged him to become a better and more caring ruler. How can couples be honest with one another without being hurtful?

  5. Juliana and Collin first kiss was on the tower after she opened up about her past suffering. Why do you think we crave intimacy when we’re hurting? Why is it even more important during those painful times to be careful about putting ourselves in risky situations?

  6. When Juliana sees Collin’s bare chest in the cave, the sight affects her. Usually, we think visual stimulation only affects men—but visual images can also stir up lust in women. Why is modesty so important for both men and women? And what does modesty mean for you?

  7. Feeling physical reactions to the opposite sex is completely normal. However, it’s what we do with those reactions that counts. Why is it important to set boundaries ahead of a situation, rather than waiting until you’re faced with the temptation?

  8. Juliana and Collin had chaperones most of the time, due to the historical time period. Should couples today ever be alone? When can being alone become dangerous?

  9. Collin literally gave up everything in order to save Juliana from burning at the stake. In what ways did his sacrifice for Juliana resemble Christ’s sacrifice for us? Would you have made the same decisions?

  10. In the end, Juliana, too, realizes that she can sacrifice for the greater good of her people, and for Collin. How important is sacrifice in a relationship? What does the Bible say about relational sacrifices? How does that contradict the current me-first philosophy of the world?