Throughout the past few years I have had to read a lot of books. Most of then had been assigned to me by the University, but a few of I have just read on my own accord. But it seems like, out of most of the books I have read lately, none of them have been fiction. I have read biographies and autobiographies, and many books to help with my studies, but there is just something about a good fiction book. This book, Peace Like A River, is a great example of a good piece of fiction.
I am loving the characters in this book. I feel so attached to the family. I love Swede and her courageous fun loving free-spirit that is not afraid to speak her mind, I love Davy and his convictions, and I even like Reuben the character with whom we see the story unfold. I love his point of view, and believe is is very sincere.
This book is about life, suffering, healing and of course miracles. The theme of miracles are scattered throughout the text. We see a mighty miracle in the first chapter that sets up the whole story. Rueben was a still born and had lied there 12 minutes before breath ever entered his lungs, and yet he is still not brain dead, but a happy rambunctious kid for the most part who loses his breath every now and again. We see miracles of food being multiplied so it is able to feed guests. We see the miracle of Reuben's Dad not being injured in a tornado, though he was carried miles down the road. And the most impactful of all miracles so far was when Dad healed the Principle, Mr Holgren with a slap as he was being fired by the very same man.
This spoke to me so much. I see the Father as a figure of Jesus. He is constantly persecuted and yet never responds in anger, he is always gracious, and forgiving even when his former friends desert him. He is always prayerful and never raises his voice to defend himself. I see the evil Principle Holgen as myself. The undeserving soul, festering with blisters and soars.
The bible often makes the analogy of comparing leprosy and sin. It is something painful and serious. Something we cannot cure ourselves. Something that isolates us from relationship with God Almighty, and yet Jesus is willing to touch the lepers and heal them of their condition, just as he is willing to do with us in our filthy sin.
Reuben who of course despises Principle Holgren and can't help but wonder why God would heal such a wicked man who persecuted his Father so. He even says in the book, "What right had Holgren had to cross paths with the Great God Almighty?" This reminds me of the prophet Jonah who despised God's mercy for his enemies. Why would God have mercy on them? I feel the same way sometimes. I wonder why would God have mercy on a sinner like me? Yet He dies for me while I was still disease infested in my sins. I am the despicable Mr. Holgren in the story who so unfairly treated Reuben's Dad, and yet all I got back in return was grace, love, and healing. What a beautiful picture of the gospel and a representation of the uunmerited favor God gives each one of us. I can't wait to see what happens in the next few chapters.
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