When I Close My Eyes by Elizabeth Musser

Powerful

When I Close My Eyes by Elizabeth Musser is a powerful contemporary Christian story that will blow your mind as you witness the awesome love of God for His people and their great love for each other.

The novel has forgiveness and grace at its heart. We are all sinners in need of a Saviour. “Help me to leave the guilt and helplessness behind.” Sometimes we think we are so ‘bad’ that we are disqualified from God’s love. Nothing could be further from the truth. God passionately pursues us until we receive Him and His free gift of grace. “Forgiveness… it changes something in your heart.” When we receive forgiveness we exchange a heart of stone for a heart of flesh.

It is beautiful to watch a character seek the truth of who God is. Questions are asked that draw the character closer to the arms and heart of God. No matter what happens to that character, they receive a peace because they know Jesus.

The truth will set us free. The truth has been hidden for years in an effort to protect but the reality is – a burden has been carried that was never meant to be picked up.

The church is a lifeline in times of trouble. They “needed those people at church, needed their prayers and support.” The support, both practical and spiritual lifts up those without the strength to do so themselves.

Much of the novel is set in an ICU. It is a traumatic time with many heartfelt conversations. Characters experiencing despair are injected with faith and hope by others. Some of the most Christ-like actions come, not from those professing to be Christians but from a character who is actively running from Jesus, unaware that He is pursuing them.

There are some difficult topics of mental illness in the form of depression, PTSD and suicidal thoughts. These are sensitively portrayed.

I found When I Close My Eyes an incredibly powerful novel with much godly advice. There were characters who walked in the footsteps of Jesus, revealing the heart of God. I could not put it down. It was a wow, wow, wow read. I will leave you with this powerful quote:

“I breathe in God’s forgiveness each day and breathe out His grace.”

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

JULIA WILSON

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