Review of Veiled Freedom by J.M. Windle
Aug0
Recommended: An insightful and beautifully written piece of fiction.
This novel reveals modern day Afghanistan realistically and astutely. Windle juxtaposes the perspectives of three characters: 1) a slightly naive Christian woman, in Afghanistan to start a relief project, 2) an intelligent but rough-on-the edges American security chief to the MOI, and 3) an Afghan native with a tragic past who only wants to please Allah.
Veiled Freedom mixes Western and Middle Eastern culture, politics, and Christian and Islamic spirituality; it has action and mystery while still being a lighthearted, easy read.
The novel’s strongest theme is quite relevant: change has to happen from the inside out. No country can force freedom or lifestyle on another country, nor can anyone spiritually ‘convert’ those who are content as they are–our personal and corporate freedoms must be taken from the inside out.
The only downside was the superficial way in which Christian character, Amy’s, faith was portrayed. I felt the novel worked much harder to reveal Islam than Christianity, yet, in this day where not all ‘Christianities’ are alike, I would have liked to feel that Amy was deeply and desperately connected to God–especially as she’s made to be the story’s ‘model’ Christian.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and educational read, deepening my understanding of Afghanistan and its people.
Feeding the Poor
Jul0
Tonight, Ben and I went to Target, and in the parking lot met a homeless women and her son.
I wouldn’t say I’ve ever been particularly moved to give to or talk with homeless people, but in the last few months, God has really given me His heart for the poor. And the Bible makes it quite clear that we are not to neglect the poor, the widows and the orphans.
When this couple approached us, without hesitation we talked to them, gave them money and a Bible, and told them that the Lord loves them–and they were very excited. The young boy, especially, said, “A Bible! Is that where it talks about God and stuff?!” And when I told him that yes, and God loves you as much as He can possibly love, his face was glowing with joy.
Afterward, I felt so deeply for them that we prayed on their behalf in the store, and I wished I could have spent more time talking with them and sharing the good news of the gospel in its full depth. Lately, it seems, I am often moved to weeping when the Spirit shows me glimpses of His love for the poor. It is so important to me that everyone know that the Lord is enough to sustain us–physically, emotionally, and spiritually, no matter how poor or rich or what our circumstance. He really is all we need.
This blog addresses the 'sticky' topics of Western Christianity in an attempt to shake, refocus, and unite the body of Christ, and to reveal the true gospel message to unbelievers.
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