We’re told over and over from the
pulpit that Christianity means joy. And when things are going well, that’s easy
to believe. But some days it’s hard to find the joy that we so desperately want
to experience. Jason Hague had day after day that seemed devoid of joy, but
finally there was a breakthrough moment, and even in the midst of difficult
times, he is now able to experience joy.
Aching Joy: Following God through the Land
of Unanswered Prayer (NavPress, 2018) is the story of seeming unanswered prayers
after the author’s world took a sharp turn when his son was diagnosed with
moderate, and then severe, autism. Shattered dreams, difficult moments, and
lots of questions, including a lot of “why me?”
But in
this case there was faith, a caring pastor, and loving friends willing to stand
by and walk through the dark times. They celebrated the successes, and were supportive
during the regressions. The author goes through the stages of grief, as he
mourns what might have been, but he also grows in his faith, and learns to
trust God.
There are
a couple of main stories here, along with several supporting ones. On one hand,
we have the story of Jackson, the son who one day is different, and with that
difference brings a whole new set of trials. On the other hand is Jason, the
author, the dad, now a pastor, who learns about autism, and himself as he learns
what it means to parent an autistic child.
There
is a quote on the cover of this book which says it all: “This book will help
you see that God is still in your story—and that your circumstances don’t get
to decide you level of joy.” ~ September Vaudrey.
A tender
story, full of love, laughter and tears. Have the tissues ready. 4/5
I
received a copy of this book as a member of Tyndale House’s bloggers’ program.
I was not required to write a positive review.
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