There ai n't no such thing as love ! I 've never found it on earth , and I do n't believe it 's to be found in God . '' `` Naomi , God loves us like a father . '' `` Like MY father ? '' Naomi 's shrill laughter , pealing through the still room , was hideous to hear . The old minister shuddered . `` No -- no ! As a kind , tender , all-wise father , Naomi -- as you would have loved your little child if it had lived . '' Naomi cowered and moaned . `` Oh , I wish I could believe THAT . I would n't be frightened if I could believe that . MAKE me believe it . Surely you can make me believe that there 's love and forgiveness in God if you believe it yourself . '' `` Jesus Christ forgave and loved the Magdalen , Naomi . '' `` Jesus Christ ? Oh , I ai n't afraid of HIM . Yes , HE could understand and forgive . He was half human . I tell you , it 's God I 'm skeered of . '' `` They are one and the same , '' said Mr. Leonard helplessly .
He knew he could not make XXXXX realize it .
Christ Leonard Magdalen Naomi child father kind love room tender