Laura Young answers “I am looking for a good book for a...”

Becky Preston asked this question about The Dearly Beloved:

I am looking for a good book for a Christian women's book club. Any thoughts on this one from those of you that have read it?

Laura Young The best supporting character, bossy and wise church secretary Jane Atlas, almost makes "The Dearly Beloved" worth reading, all on her own. However, t…moreThe best supporting character, bossy and wise church secretary Jane Atlas, almost makes "The Dearly Beloved" worth reading, all on her own. However, the four main characters, two ministers and their wives, are also sympathetic and interesting, with backgrounds that have informed their varying approaches to faith. Charles’ rather vague beliefs remind me of the old joke about some Christians being the “chosen frozen.” James provides insight into church-goers with a strong and admirable focus on social justice issues but not much else. Nan finds that a Christianity based on simply being nice and following the rules doesn’t bring fulfillment. Then there is Lily, the resolved atheist with a brokenness from her past. I find myself longing for these characters to discover a living relationship with the God who created them; with Jesus Christ, the author and perfecter of faith; and with the Holy Spirit, who works grace into our lives even before we are aware of it. Instead, whether author Cara Wall intends it or not, their lives from 1953 to 1970 serve as an illustration of how much of today’s mainstream church came to be in its present condition. If all this seems like fruitful topics of discussion for your book club, then this book would be a good fit. For readers who find yourselves in the depictions of faith presented here, I implore you not to be satisfied with that. The Christian faith is so much more. Explore the Bible; find a follower of Jesus to assist you. If you want to read more fiction, try out "Redeeming Love" by Francine Rivers, a Gold Rush-era story based on Hosea, a prophet told by God to marry a prostitute.(less)

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Becky Preston Redeeming Love is in my top ten of all time favorite books. Francine Rivers is a favorite author too. Thanks for your input. Stay well!
Mar 19, 2020 02:03PM · flag

Laura Young You, too! So fun to get your reply!
Mar 19, 2020 05:26PM · flag

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The Dearly Beloved

by Cara Wall (Goodreads Author)

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