God At The Centre
The Last Noel is a collection of three stories by Sarah Hamaker, Jayna Breigh and Kimberley Woodhouse. They are Christian contemporary stories set in the run up to Christmas. The three are similar but different. They all have God at the centre.
We learn about the power of forgiveness. “Forgiveness is the way to healing.” When we forgive, we release ourselves from the prison of bitterness. “Lord, God… Help me to pour out forgiveness. Please help no more bitterness to grow.” Sometimes we cannot forgive in our strength. We need to press into God and forgive in His strength.
Life can be difficult at times. We need to lean on God. “Mummy said you talked to God. How do you do that?” asked a five-year-old. God is literally just a prayer away. He will calm all the storms of life. “She’d had to give it completely over to God so she didn’t worry.” We must worry about nothing, and pray about everything.
In Kimberley Woodhouse’s tale Do You Know What I Know?, there ius a literal storm. We witness the community pulling together.
Within life, we may meet bad people. We know that whatever happens, when we know God, we can know that He is in control.
A character in Sarah Hamaker’s story Do You See What I See?, has little self-worth. “When you come from a bad home life… and… aren’t wanted by anyone, you start to believe no one will want to be with you.” She needs to know that she is loved, and that people will stick around.
All three tales are about faith in God and new beginnings. It is never too late to have a second chance. Prodigals do return, both figuratively and literally.
We learn about what love is. “Committed love protects, trusts, hopes and perseveres.”
There was an eclectic mix of characters who were well drawn, believable and likable.
I thoroughly enjoyed all three stories. Though set in December, they can be enjoyed at any time of year. There are life lessons for us all.
I received a free copy for a promotional tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
JULIA WILSON