Redeeming Love is a story that can be understood on many different levels. First there is the fictional story, set in the California gold-mining era of 1850, in which Michael Hosea senses a call from God to marry a prostitute. It is grand love story in which patience, grace, and forgiveness are key. Very well-written and never a dull moment!
But this is more than simply fiction. The main plot is taken from the story of Hosea and Gomer in the Bible. Adding the fictional elements to the true account allow the reader to think through what that call of God truly meant. What kind of faith would it require for a man to follow through on God's command to marry a prostitute? What other issues may have arisen? What could God's purpose have been for including that story in His Word?
The life-changing aspect of this story occurs when the reader understands that the love Michael has for Angel (or that Hosea has for Gomer) is a reflection of God's heart toward us. It can open our eyes to the consuming, grace-filled, redeeming love God has for us. A love that sees what we've done and still pursues us, wanting to give us a full and greater life, and also desiring to be loved in return.
If you are looking for a book that will captivate your heart and mind, while speaking God's truth at the same time...give this one a try!
There is also a reading group guide included in this anniversary edition. While it's nice to have some discussion questions to draw from, I wasn't impressed with the way it was organized. There are 6 sessions to the guide, but no clear directions as to which chapters each section refers to. It seems like the book should be read completely first, and then the group would meet for discussion. But, if that's the case, 6 sessions seems a bit long to stretch it out.
*I received this complimentary book from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
No comments:
Post a Comment