God At The Centre
Grace For The Broken by Philippa Cleall is a powerful contemporary Christian novel that I just could not put down.
It is beautifully and sympathetically written whilst dealing with the difficult topics of domestic abuse and judgment; counter balanced by restoration and the goodness of God.
Domestic abuse is not just punches thrown. It is voices raised and words that tear down. We meet characters who have been broken by the very men who were supposed to love them. We witness lives being rebuilt with love and support.
We also meet the men who have been the abusers, who have to learn to repent and to make better choices in the future. “Accountability says: I did this. And now I choose to do and be something else.”
In order to rebuild relationships, trust must be earnt. It starts with baby steps. “God’s grace is free. Trust… is earned.” God’s grace covers us all.
We learn that “our calling is grace, not judgment.” Our job is to extend grace and to reach out in love. It is God’s job to judge.
God never sleeps. “Remember, God is never away on holidays.” God is always just a prayer away.
For those who are broken, we need to provide safe spaces. “This is a place where people learn how to belong.” The church should offer love and care for all.
Forgiveness is a major theme. No one is ever too far from the forgiveness of God. “I think that might be too tall an order for even God.” We must not limit God by placing human characteristics on Him.
We need to be accountable for our actions. If we hurt others, we must make steps to healing them.
Our pasts can help us stand with others who are walking a similar path. “People who’ve been… deceived in the past are often the first to recognise subtle harm. Not because you’re fearful or broken, but because you learned the terrain. Your instincts are tools now, not wounds.” Our experiences help us to stand with the broken.
Children can be very perceptive. “She [Lily aged 7 years] asked me to pray that Evan starts being kind and that he begins listening to God.” Oh, that we had hearts like children. We would be wise to listen to, and learn from, our children.
All the characters were well drawn and believable.
Grace For The Broken is a novel that has realistic situations and offers realistic solutions. It is a powerful read with God at the centre.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
A word: please if you, or anyone you know, has been affected by these themes, please tell someone and seek help.
JULIA WILSON