I just finished reading the novel, The Shack, by Wm. Paul Young. It is a spiritual book, one I will be recommending to many. The story starts with one family’s sadness. Because of it, there is a learning how God is with us at all times, not against us, when something terrible happens. The father in the story is in anger, which anyone of us would be, if we experienced a similar tragedy. Taking on human images, God, His Son and the Holy Spirit go through the process of talking to the father, all taking place at a mountain shack, close to the place where the sadness began.
This is a beautifully written book. I read it in two days, not wanting to stop. One feels as if God is actually speaking. In a way He is, using the author to have His words expressed. It makes sense in all that is said, in this 248 page book. I was surprised to see it had this many pages when I put the book down, as it seemed less than 100, with one page flowing to the next. I sound as if I am writing a review for the author. It is more I am writing a review of how wonderful God is, even in times of terror and agony. It helps me understand what those who have passed away unexpectedly are saying to us, and gives the reason for forgiveness so one may continue a wondrous life with God. It is written in ‘down to earth’ terminology on what we are to do and how it can help those left behind.
I just finished it, but I would not mind picking it up and reading it again, right at this very moment. There are endless words of wisdom told to the father of the story, ones we can easily and readily apply in our own lives.
It is a book apropos to this very day, Good Friday. Here is an innocent person, Jesus Christ, going through agony, ridicule, betrayal, torture and death. Jesus prays for forgiveness of those who tormented Him. We wonder how He could do this. Yet, it is explained with such tenderness, love and beauty in this book. It makes me love Christ more than I already do. For those who know me, you are aware how much I love our God. What a huge impact this simple book can leave on the soul.
As I read the book, I could feel my cheeks begin to feel a bit sensitive; it was because I was smiling all the while because of the words written. I feel myself still smiling at this very moment! You will think of those you love, having much more acceptance of all of God’s children, no matter where they are in their lives, whether good or evil.
The Shack has a website, http://www.theshack.com, where you can read a few excerpts from the book. This is a different kind of blog I have written today. But, oh, what a difference this read can make in your life. You will not forget it. You will look at life, nature and everything in between in a whole new way.
God Bless all of you, as we feel the passion of Christ today, praising his love, acceptance and forgiveness for all. We thank our Lord for His abundance of caring, ever-so bountiful kindness and gentleness. We proclaim our love for Him, as He fulfills our spirit and souls with his Spirit, making us face whatever is given to us, no matter how hard it is. We understand that being divine, He is with us wherever we are. We cannot shield ourselves from Him. He will find us, because of His love for us, never wanting us to face anything alone. We are part of His grace. How joyous it is!
