Step Out In Faith

An Awakened Heart by Jody Hedlund is the most delightful Christian historical novella. It is the prequel to the Orphan Train series.

The story is set in 1857 and concerns the plight of the poor in New York City. Packed into overcrowded tenements, the poor did what they had to to feed their families. “Immigrant women should have more choices than prostitution or death.” Their ‘choices’ were forced on them by circumstances.

Churches seemed more concerned with “feeding their souls while allowing their bodies to languish.” However God had other plans.

God’s plans are so much greater than ours. He opens hearts and minds, bringing people together who can orchestrate His vision. When He places a dream in your heart, it cannot fail no matter what men say.

How big is your God? Do we dream big? Or do we limit the size of God? Do not put God in a box.

God sees the desires of our heart. It is never too late to realise those dreams.

The novel is concerned with taking care of widows and orphans. He sees everyone. Not a sparrow falls that God does not see. No matter how dark your life, keep focused on God. “No matter how lost you feel… keep His light burning bright inside you.”

The miracle working God of the Bible is still in the same business today.

We need faith and good works. A fact that is clearly shown in the novel. It is the dawn of philanthropy that works perfectly in partnership with God.

An Awakened Heart is a quick but powerful and delightful read. Jody Hedlund’s characters weave their way into the hearts of the readers. I cannot wait to continue the story.

An absolute delight displaying the mighty power of God working through His people.

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

JULIA WILSON