God’s Best

Josephine’s Story: A Place To Belong by Heidi Gray McGill is a powerful Christian historical tale that I read in just one sitting. It is a tale that warms your heart as you hear about a God who rescues us from our situations.

The tale is set in 1878 at Christmas. It is told in alternating voices between the two lead characters. These characters are both broken in different ways. They have to learn that they are both good enough. “I don’t know how to be anything but broken.” They need to be mended with love. “I needed somewhere quiet. A place where people cared.” When people care, they are balm to our souls.

We see the value of kindness to help heal. “Kindness wrapped in callous fingers” speaks of a life that has spread kindness and caring.

We witness the damage of gossiping as uninformed women huddle and talk in whispers, spreading lies. “I listen when the whispers are loud”…”Make sure you are listening to the right voice.” We need to tune in to those who speak life and love.

We are called to take care of widows and orphans. The orphans in the story have nothing materially, but they have everything because they are loved. “These children aren’t gossip. They’re God’s masterpieces.” The children are pearls of great price. “I won’t let them believe they’re less than because of where they come from. And certainly not because someone else measured their worth in whispers.” Their true worth is seen in hearts by those who love them.

Josephine’s Story: A Place To Belong is a powerful, heartfelt tale with lessons for us all. We need to know that we are God’s best and we are loved.

I will end with a quote from the Christmas sermon which was so powerful in its’ entirety:

“God didn’t come when the world was ready. He came when it wasn’t… He wasn’t born to a queen, but to a girl no-one believed. A girl no-one made space for.”

I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON