Love And The Power Of Prayer

Where It All Began by Lorana Hoopes is a powerful contemporary Christian family novel. At its heart is a God who loves us no matter what we have done. “God meets you where you are and changes you from there.”

God is the God of restoration. He can restore the lost years and give us new hopes and dreams for our futures.

The novel surrounds the painful subject of abortion and its aftermath. The trauma may well have long reaching arms.

Guilt links in. “Would I ever be able to forgive him?… Would I ever be able to forgive myself?” Consumed by guilt, life may spiral downwards. “Will this massive guilt ever go away?” We need to face our guilt and surrender it to the One who can heal us. God can heal via the medical professionals too. We must never be afraid to seek professional help.

In our guilt, we may try to dull it by turning to alcohol. “Maybe I could just drink the pain away.” Alcohol is not the answer as our problems are still there when we wake up.

Prayer is powerful. It builds our relationship with God. “I know you probably don’t listen to prayers from people like me.” God hears the prayers of everyone. Whatever we have done, we can always have a fresh start in God.

Children are at the heart. Children deserve to be loved and cared for. There are the themes of fostering and families too.

I found Where It All Began a really powerful read. Written in the first person, I really ‘felt’ the emotions of the lead character. She was young and vulnerable, pressured into doing something she regretted. No one should ever be pressured into ending life. “Our reputation is not worth a child’s life.” Everyone should be given love, care and support.

A powerful read that will have you reaching for the tissues.

I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

JULIA WILSON