Los Angeles in the early 20th century was a city on the rise, teeming with opportunity and a blend of cultures. Among the waves of new arrivals was McPherson, a fiery preacher with a unique gift. She claimed to have been personally healed through faith in 1909 when her broken foot was miraculously mended. This experience, she said, opened her eyes to the healing power of God.

By 1916, her reputation was growing. During a revival in New York, she prayed over a woman in advanced stages of rheumatoid arthritis, and the woman reportedly walked out of the church without crutches. These moments cemented McPherson as a leading figure in faith healing. By 1919, she had moved her ministry to Los Angeles, drawing tens of thousands to her services. Her mother joined her on tour after her husband Harold left, unwilling to endure the nomadic lifestyle.

McPherson’s Los Angeles revivals became legendary, combining heartfelt sermons with dramatic healings. One attendee remarked that the power in the room was “like nothing this city’s ever seen.” Over time, she transitioned away from regular faith-healing events but still scheduled monthly sessions that remained popular until her death.

Los Angeles, already buzzing with ambition and creativity, embraced McPherson’s blend of showmanship and spiritual fervor. The city became the perfect backdrop for her ministry and, later, the home of writers Kevin and Tania.

Kevin, Tania, and Daisy

Kevin and Tania, a married couple from Brisbane, had recently moved to Los Angeles. Kevin was writing a novel set in the 1920s, inspired by McPherson’s larger-than-life presence, while Tania was working on a mystery novel. They lived near Echo Park, where McPherson had once preached to overflowing crowds at Angelus Temple.

The couple often spent afternoons with Daisy, a local healer with a ministry reminiscent of McPherson’s early days. Daisy’s calm demeanor and sharp insights made her a beloved figure in the community. She believed deeply in the power of faith and often cited McPherson as an inspiration.

One sunny afternoon, Daisy met with two curious locals, Trent and Lisa, at a café in Echo Park. Lisa was a quick thinker, always asking probing questions, while Trent took longer to process ideas.

“So, healing,” Lisa said, leaning forward. “You really believe it works?”

Daisy nodded. “It’s not about what I believe. It’s about what God can do. Faith is the connection.”

Lisa tilted her head. “But what if someone doesn’t have faith?”

“Faith can start small,” Daisy said. “Like a mustard seed. Even doubt can be the beginning of belief.”

Trent frowned. “I’ve got plenty of doubt. Does that count?”

“It’s a start,” Daisy replied with a smile. “Doubt means you’re thinking, and that’s better than giving up.”

Lisa leaned back in her chair, considering Daisy’s words. “What about people who aren’t healed? Doesn’t that mean it doesn’t work?”

Daisy shook her head. “Not at all. Sometimes healing isn’t what we expect. And sometimes it’s about timing. The gardener knows when the fruit is ripe, even if we don’t.”

An Unexpected Call

As the conversation unfolded, Daisy’s phone buzzed. She excused herself and stepped outside.

The call was from her sister, who had news about Roberta, a young woman Daisy had been praying for. Roberta had been battling a serious illness, but her condition had taken an unexpected turn.

“She’s improving,” her sister said. “The doctors don’t understand it, but she’s getting better every day.”

Daisy closed her eyes, a smile spreading across her face. “That’s wonderful news. Sometimes, faith does what medicine can’t explain.”

Returning to the table, Daisy shared the update. Lisa smiled, genuinely pleased, while Trent looked skeptical.

“Sounds like luck,” Trent said.

“Maybe,” Daisy replied calmly. “Or maybe it’s something more.”

Kevin and Tania, sitting nearby, overheard the exchange. Tania looked at Kevin, her eyes sparkling with an idea.

“Sounds like the kind of story your novel needs,” she said.

Kevin grinned. “Maybe Daisy can be my historical consultant.”

Daisy laughed. “Only if I get royalties.”

As the group settled back into their conversation, the energy of Los Angeles swirled around them. The city, like faith itself, was a place of endless possibilities, where even skeptics like Trent could find themselves believing in something greater than luck.