What might happen if we stop doubting in God and simply trusted Him to provide for our needs? Amazing things! All Saints is the story of a small Episcopal church in Smyrna, TN, that learned just how amazing God's provision can be. The folks at Bethany House Publishing sent me a copy of the book to read for this review. I am so glad they did!
Perhaps you are like I was, having seen the previews for the movie All Saints and wondering more about the story behind it. This 200 page paperback book delves deeper into the history of the church, it's Pastor Michael Spurlock, and the faithful members who prayed for God to save their small congregation. It tells much about the background of the Karen refugees from Burma who became one of God's answers to those prayers. I especially appreciated learning about how God taught both cultures more about His love by combining them into one congregation that lived, worked and loved as God led them.
All Saints was co-written by the Reverend Michael Spurlock and journalist Jeanette Windle. The combination gives a heart-wrenching and heartwarming personal look at all the trials the people of All Saints endured while learning to trust God, as well as holding the reader's attention. While this is not a fast read, it is a good one! I was reminded of stories I have heard of George Mueller and his reliance upon God to feed the English orphans in his care during the 1800's. Prayer and reliance upon God were his tools, and God always provided.
The story of All Saints is about the community that God built within His people, and how He taught them trust. Real trust, that went deeper than just Sunday mornings, trust that wound through their entire lives, drawing them to Him in deeper relationship and giving them the strength necessary to be His hands and feet in the community.
After finishing the book, now I want even more to see the movie. This book would make a great read-aloud for families, or a terrific gift for a friend or co-worker, especially those who have wandered away from the faith of their upbringing. This book includes real stories of God changing people's hearts, and drawing those who had no desire to know Him into a relationship where they now serve Him with joy. You can pick up a copy at your local bookstore or on Bethany House Publishing's website.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book for the review. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are mine. No further compensation was provided.
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