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Truth from Taerna #5
Memory’s Mind
Kingdoms both heavenly and earthly demand his mind.
No wonder he disappears for two hours each day.
Nothing escapes Kelton’s notice, and nothing leaves his memory. Yet behind his big brown eyes lurk a lifetime of soul-struggles. At nineteen, Kelton receives Adon Olam’s call to leave everything behind and seek Him in solitude upon a hill belonging to a local hermit. Somehow, the more he fixes his mind upon Adon Olam, the more it wanders. During his years with the hermit, countless lessons and revelations shape his character. Over time, the answer to his biggest dilemma becomes both more clear and more impossible.
Then the sudden death of co-king Daemien throws all Taerna into turmoil, and in the ensuing chaos, Kelton’s memories prove crucial and his hyper-analytical skills essential. But will his quiet, home-loving soul crumble under the pressure of public scrutiny? Will countless but seemingly harmless distractions inevitably win the battle for his thoughts? And will he ever feel like he knows Adon Olam?
Truth from Taerna Book Five
No wonder he disappears for two hours each day.
Nothing escapes Kelton’s notice, and nothing leaves his memory. Yet behind his big brown eyes lurk a lifetime of soul-struggles. At nineteen, Kelton receives Adon Olam’s call to leave everything behind and seek Him in solitude upon a hill belonging to a local hermit. Somehow, the more he fixes his mind upon Adon Olam, the more it wanders. During his years with the hermit, countless lessons and revelations shape his character. Over time, the answer to his biggest dilemma becomes both more clear and more impossible.
Then the sudden death of co-king Daemien throws all Taerna into turmoil, and in the ensuing chaos, Kelton’s memories prove crucial and his hyper-analytical skills essential. But will his quiet, home-loving soul crumble under the pressure of public scrutiny? Will countless but seemingly harmless distractions inevitably win the battle for his thoughts? And will he ever feel like he knows Adon Olam?
Truth from Taerna Book Five
- GenresFantasyChristian Fiction
306 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 21, 2022
2 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
February 28, 2022
4.5 stars
I'm not sure I've ever read a book quite like this one. Having read the fourth book in the series, Sustainer's Smile, I knew the setting and characters, but I wasn't expecting everything that was in this book!
Characters: Kelton was a pretty chill dude - I loved that he was shy and reserved. His desire to obey the Lord and draw close to Him was so admirable. I wish I could be like him all the time! Haeward and Philip were good side characters, full of lots of wisdom, and I liked that Philip had parts in the first and second parts of the book. The rest of Kelton's family made brief appearances, and it was good to see Liliora again after reading her book last. All the royal people weren't my favorite (I think I got a little confused about who was a goodguy and who wasn't,) but Ruemyr was interesting, and I enjoyed seeing her character arc.
Plot/Setting/Writing Style: The setting mainly existed of two places - Haeward's Hill, where Kelton went to meditate and seek the Lord for extended time, and his normal house back in the village. Haeward's Hill sounded like a really amazing place to be! The writing style was well done - not too over-dramatic or dry, but steady, calm, and well-edited. It matched the book. As for the plot ... okay, if you read this (which I think you should!), don't expect some a grand adventure plot. Yes, there was a plot about the passing of the crown to someone else in Taerna, but the rest of the book was by far my favorite. Another reviewer mentioned that this book reminded her of a devotional - and I totally agree with the sentiment. It was a lovely devotional with a gentle story behind it.
Romance: I loved that Kelton didn't have a romance. He didn't feel as if he had to get married to be satisfied or make his life better. I loved that one of the final scenes was Kelton praying - there just seems to be such an emphasis on romance in Christian fiction, and it was beautiful to see a character delighting in the Lord and finding his utmost joy in God. Definitely a great part of this book! However, the one romance thing I wasn't a huge fan of was However, the very minimal romance was extremely clean and a tiny part of the plot.
Theme/Moral: So this is where I was blown out of the water. I love books that make me think, and this author really excels with that. This is one of those fiction books that you can actually learn and profit from. The importance of God's Word, loving Him supremely, obeying Him in all ways, and so many other massively important truths were contained in this book. I was very challenged by the ideas presented in here, and it was so amazing to see the emphasis on the importance of the Bible in every moment of our lives. This was so good!
Overall, this was a thought-provoking, challenging read. No, this isn't some crazy exciting fantasy novel, but it will make you think and consider your own Christian walk. And in my book, that's exactly what a story should do.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I'm not sure I've ever read a book quite like this one. Having read the fourth book in the series, Sustainer's Smile, I knew the setting and characters, but I wasn't expecting everything that was in this book!
Characters: Kelton was a pretty chill dude - I loved that he was shy and reserved. His desire to obey the Lord and draw close to Him was so admirable. I wish I could be like him all the time! Haeward and Philip were good side characters, full of lots of wisdom, and I liked that Philip had parts in the first and second parts of the book. The rest of Kelton's family made brief appearances, and it was good to see Liliora again after reading her book last. All the royal people weren't my favorite (I think I got a little confused about who was a goodguy and who wasn't,) but Ruemyr was interesting, and I enjoyed seeing her character arc.
Plot/Setting/Writing Style: The setting mainly existed of two places - Haeward's Hill, where Kelton went to meditate and seek the Lord for extended time, and his normal house back in the village. Haeward's Hill sounded like a really amazing place to be! The writing style was well done - not too over-dramatic or dry, but steady, calm, and well-edited. It matched the book. As for the plot ... okay, if you read this (which I think you should!), don't expect some a grand adventure plot. Yes, there was a plot about the passing of the crown to someone else in Taerna, but the rest of the book was by far my favorite. Another reviewer mentioned that this book reminded her of a devotional - and I totally agree with the sentiment. It was a lovely devotional with a gentle story behind it.
Romance: I loved that Kelton didn't have a romance. He didn't feel as if he had to get married to be satisfied or make his life better. I loved that one of the final scenes was Kelton praying - there just seems to be such an emphasis on romance in Christian fiction, and it was beautiful to see a character delighting in the Lord and finding his utmost joy in God. Definitely a great part of this book! However, the one romance thing I wasn't a huge fan of was However, the very minimal romance was extremely clean and a tiny part of the plot.
Theme/Moral: So this is where I was blown out of the water. I love books that make me think, and this author really excels with that. This is one of those fiction books that you can actually learn and profit from. The importance of God's Word, loving Him supremely, obeying Him in all ways, and so many other massively important truths were contained in this book. I was very challenged by the ideas presented in here, and it was so amazing to see the emphasis on the importance of the Bible in every moment of our lives. This was so good!
Overall, this was a thought-provoking, challenging read. No, this isn't some crazy exciting fantasy novel, but it will make you think and consider your own Christian walk. And in my book, that's exactly what a story should do.
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
November 14, 2021
If I could leave you with only one message from any of my books, the message of Memory’s Mind would be the one.
Not because it’s any more true or more Biblical than the message of my other books, but because if you, reader, can truly grasp and internalize the message of Memory’s Mind, you will—I guarantee it—find every other Scriptural and spiritual truth in a far deeper and more meaningful way than I could ever convey to you.
For if you will choose to meditate upon the God’s Word day and night, filling your mind and heart with Scripture to the exclusion of focus on earthly things, God will reveal
Himself to you in ways far beyond my ability to express. He will prove Himself to be your perfect Teacher. He will fulfill the promises of Psalm 1 and Joshua 1 in your life.
And that, dear reader, is my heartfelt prayer for you.
Not because it’s any more true or more Biblical than the message of my other books, but because if you, reader, can truly grasp and internalize the message of Memory’s Mind, you will—I guarantee it—find every other Scriptural and spiritual truth in a far deeper and more meaningful way than I could ever convey to you.
For if you will choose to meditate upon the God’s Word day and night, filling your mind and heart with Scripture to the exclusion of focus on earthly things, God will reveal
Himself to you in ways far beyond my ability to express. He will prove Himself to be your perfect Teacher. He will fulfill the promises of Psalm 1 and Joshua 1 in your life.
And that, dear reader, is my heartfelt prayer for you.
August 18, 2022
5 stars & 5/10 hearts. Wow. I wasn’t sure what to expect of this book, but it blew me away.
It was fun to have a story set partly in Frydael/the Ellith home, and partly in Syorien/the palace. And I loved the autumn feel of the story!! That was just delightful. The writing style is so descriptive, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I also really liked the characters. Kelton was such a relatable person for me. I am not only in a similar position (helping at home + seeking to know God more) but I also related to his feelings of inferiority and his struggles with distraction and letting go of himself/letting God fill him. His arc was very encouraging. I loved seeing his family again, and I also enjoyed being able to hop into the heads of the princes & princesses! Watt was very amusing, & Ruemyr fascinating, and the other minor characters were all enjoyable.
Although the first 60% of the story was deeper/heavier than I expected, being mostly Kelton’s spiritual journey, there was enough of a storyline to keep me interested, even if the spiritual aspect hadn’t—which they did; I was hooked! I loved the plot, and found it extremely relevant in this time of national unrest and uncertainty. I would have a hard time to express everything I learned from this book, but it really challenged me in my relationship with God, and taught me so much about meditation and prayer and just BEING IN CHRIST.
Overall, this was a fantastic addition to the series, and a book I need to reread frequently, and I am sooo excited for Kethin’s story and the last book of the series!
Content: frequent mentions of illegitimacy and concubines.
A Favourite Quote: “You know how we had to listen over and over to the bird calls so we could recognize the sound of each one? … That’s what I want to do with Adon Olam. Close my ears to all the other calls and sounds and incline them only to His voice, so I may hear and recognize the least little sounds of Him in my life.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: The soft rustling of the birches, as their golden-toned leaves deepened, loosened, and glided gently towards the brown-carpeted underbrush, soothed his soul[.]
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Tae opened the window in his room last night. It can’t be that cold. That, or he’s secretly a cold-blooded lizard.”
“Lizard, eh? Now that I wouldn’t doubt[.] Short neck. Active legs. Runs from perceived threats. Sounds like he could be a lizard.”
...“No worries. Tae isn’t hiding any lizard characteristics. He’s not feeling well today and won’t be down for breakfast.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
It was fun to have a story set partly in Frydael/the Ellith home, and partly in Syorien/the palace. And I loved the autumn feel of the story!! That was just delightful. The writing style is so descriptive, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I also really liked the characters. Kelton was such a relatable person for me. I am not only in a similar position (helping at home + seeking to know God more) but I also related to his feelings of inferiority and his struggles with distraction and letting go of himself/letting God fill him. His arc was very encouraging. I loved seeing his family again, and I also enjoyed being able to hop into the heads of the princes & princesses! Watt was very amusing, & Ruemyr fascinating, and the other minor characters were all enjoyable.
Although the first 60% of the story was deeper/heavier than I expected, being mostly Kelton’s spiritual journey, there was enough of a storyline to keep me interested, even if the spiritual aspect hadn’t—which they did; I was hooked! I loved the plot, and found it extremely relevant in this time of national unrest and uncertainty. I would have a hard time to express everything I learned from this book, but it really challenged me in my relationship with God, and taught me so much about meditation and prayer and just BEING IN CHRIST.
Overall, this was a fantastic addition to the series, and a book I need to reread frequently, and I am sooo excited for Kethin’s story and the last book of the series!
Content: frequent mentions of illegitimacy and concubines.
A Favourite Quote: “You know how we had to listen over and over to the bird calls so we could recognize the sound of each one? … That’s what I want to do with Adon Olam. Close my ears to all the other calls and sounds and incline them only to His voice, so I may hear and recognize the least little sounds of Him in my life.”
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: The soft rustling of the birches, as their golden-toned leaves deepened, loosened, and glided gently towards the brown-carpeted underbrush, soothed his soul[.]
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Tae opened the window in his room last night. It can’t be that cold. That, or he’s secretly a cold-blooded lizard.”
“Lizard, eh? Now that I wouldn’t doubt[.] Short neck. Active legs. Runs from perceived threats. Sounds like he could be a lizard.”
...“No worries. Tae isn’t hiding any lizard characteristics. He’s not feeling well today and won’t be down for breakfast.”
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
August 8, 2023
This was an excellent installment in the Truth from Taerna series. Kelton was probably my favorite character in the series so far. The royal subplot added a layer of suspense and intrigue, with Ruemyr, Watt, Yulie, and others as mildly interesting new side characters. The theme, though, was the best part. It deeply reminded me of the importance of studying and meditating on Scripture.
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January 16, 2022Beta Read. Review to come upon publication
February 16, 2022
For my blog review AND a giveaway opportunity, please click here here
Scripture Connection
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.
Rom. 8:26
Spiritual Themes
This book has a strong, beautiful emphasis on meditation and intimacy with Jesus. The main character, Kelton, has a deep desire to truly know God. In the process, he does a lot of striving but also experiences moments of richness and rest. (How realistic is that?!) Throughout, he is learning to “empty” himself to be filled with Christ. There is a lot of struggling and a lot of sinking into the Lord, returning to Him moment by moment. And it’s wonderful.
With meditation at its core, the novel also deals with some important nuanced questions: What takes precedence– meditation or the immediate and urgent needs of day-to-day life? What if your parent needs you when you have been called to a time of intense meditation? How can I stay focused for more than two seconds at a time?
I chose the Romans verse because so much of Kelton’s eperience, as he attempts to meditate, is a struggle. He has the strong desire to pursue Christ, but no idea how to do it. But, God reveals to him that He is the One– not Kelton– to bridge that disconnect.
Mathews also does an excellent job of exemplifying the “quiet life” (1 Thess. 4:11), through Kelton’s life, as he walks with Yeshua in what he has been called to.
Series
Truth from Taerna is a six book series, and Memory’s Mind is book five of six. So far, I have read books four and five and I know that each book works well as a standalone. From what I can tell, each book is (largely) from the POV of one sibling of the Ellith family. I think there are also some chronology shifts between books (with timelines overlapping between stories).
In both of my experiences reading the series, I have found myself delighted within the early pages. Author Erika Matthews maintains a website called “The Resting Life” and her Twitter handle is AtRestinChrist. And that beautiful sense of rest and peace flows through her words. I praise the Holy Spirit for the ways He is using these books in my life.
What I Liked
I was delighted with the novel’s release in proximity to Valentine’s Day. In past posts, I have spoken about the ways the Lord has ministered His tenderness to me in a romantic way. Valentine’s Day has long been a very weird holiday for me, with lots of feelings of disappointment. In recent years, the Lord has called me to look to Him in this holiday, in light of the beautiful relationship I have with Him. He is truly the bridegroom!
I bring this up because Memory’s Mind is all about meditation and drawing near to the Lord, in a distinct and separate way. As I have been looing to the Lord with the approach of Valentine’s Day, He ministered to me so strongly through the first few chapters of the book. I had paused reading another book so I could review this one in time, and those first few chapters were SUCH a confirmation that the Lord was calling me to read this book.
Having said that, here are some of the specific things I appreciated:
I feel that Erika’s writing is a testament to her walk with the Lord. Her books minister God’s grace, love and peace. Honestly, so much peace. Yes, it’s the writing, but I also believe that it’s the Lord’s anointing of her words. There is a sweet simplicity to her stories– a wholesome earnestness that draws the reader into deeper fellowship with the Lord.
Message is at the forefront of Memory’s Mind. Like Kelton, himself, the novel isn’t at all flashy. In fact, the plotline could be described as “meandering,” but that is so fitting for the subject matter. None of the events of the book detract from its central theme, which is so clearly meditation. We are CONSTANTLY reminded that Kelton is seeking Adon Olam— and his determination is beautiful.
BUT, that same determination is not, ultimately, what’s lauded. Instead, Kelton is learning that his efforts at meditation aren’t enough to sustain him. Throughout the novel, he learns more about “emptying” himself and allowing Yeshua to perform the work of meditation and delighting in His words.
The meditation scenes offer a realistic picture of time with the Lord. They convey the frustration of not even knowing how to spend time with the Lord, paired with a resounding message of grace in our need. There are so many passages I bookmarked, throughout the novel, because of their truths. Honestly, the book read more like a devotional, a lot of the time, but I really appreciated the story format used to convey these messages. (As a note, I use the word “devotional” in a positive sense, as the Lord often uses devotionals to minister His truths to me.)
This is the first book I have read where meditation, in the context of separation and retreat, furnishes the central plotline of the novel. Typically, we may see a character meditate before, say, making a decision. In this case, though, meditation becomes a central rhythm of Kelton’s life, so that he is much more equipped to hear Adon Olam‘s voice, even when he has returned to “regular” life.
Content
There’s really not a lot of content to flag. Romance is minimal and only involves secondary characters. Below content notes are about things that I, peronally, feel the need to flag. (Many reviewers would not).
This is super nitpicky, but one line, about the country “returning” to its former prosperity caught my attention. I’m not sure if this was in any way an allusion to our “Christian” nation returning to its roots. I’m sensitive toward that kind of reasoning, because of the wickedness that “Christian” settlers used religion to justify. It is very possible that this had nothing to do with America and I am referencing a single line.
SPOILER BELOW
Scripture Connection
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.
Rom. 8:26
Spiritual Themes
This book has a strong, beautiful emphasis on meditation and intimacy with Jesus. The main character, Kelton, has a deep desire to truly know God. In the process, he does a lot of striving but also experiences moments of richness and rest. (How realistic is that?!) Throughout, he is learning to “empty” himself to be filled with Christ. There is a lot of struggling and a lot of sinking into the Lord, returning to Him moment by moment. And it’s wonderful.
With meditation at its core, the novel also deals with some important nuanced questions: What takes precedence– meditation or the immediate and urgent needs of day-to-day life? What if your parent needs you when you have been called to a time of intense meditation? How can I stay focused for more than two seconds at a time?
I chose the Romans verse because so much of Kelton’s eperience, as he attempts to meditate, is a struggle. He has the strong desire to pursue Christ, but no idea how to do it. But, God reveals to him that He is the One– not Kelton– to bridge that disconnect.
Mathews also does an excellent job of exemplifying the “quiet life” (1 Thess. 4:11), through Kelton’s life, as he walks with Yeshua in what he has been called to.
Series
Truth from Taerna is a six book series, and Memory’s Mind is book five of six. So far, I have read books four and five and I know that each book works well as a standalone. From what I can tell, each book is (largely) from the POV of one sibling of the Ellith family. I think there are also some chronology shifts between books (with timelines overlapping between stories).
In both of my experiences reading the series, I have found myself delighted within the early pages. Author Erika Matthews maintains a website called “The Resting Life” and her Twitter handle is AtRestinChrist. And that beautiful sense of rest and peace flows through her words. I praise the Holy Spirit for the ways He is using these books in my life.
What I Liked
I was delighted with the novel’s release in proximity to Valentine’s Day. In past posts, I have spoken about the ways the Lord has ministered His tenderness to me in a romantic way. Valentine’s Day has long been a very weird holiday for me, with lots of feelings of disappointment. In recent years, the Lord has called me to look to Him in this holiday, in light of the beautiful relationship I have with Him. He is truly the bridegroom!
I bring this up because Memory’s Mind is all about meditation and drawing near to the Lord, in a distinct and separate way. As I have been looing to the Lord with the approach of Valentine’s Day, He ministered to me so strongly through the first few chapters of the book. I had paused reading another book so I could review this one in time, and those first few chapters were SUCH a confirmation that the Lord was calling me to read this book.
Having said that, here are some of the specific things I appreciated:
I feel that Erika’s writing is a testament to her walk with the Lord. Her books minister God’s grace, love and peace. Honestly, so much peace. Yes, it’s the writing, but I also believe that it’s the Lord’s anointing of her words. There is a sweet simplicity to her stories– a wholesome earnestness that draws the reader into deeper fellowship with the Lord.
Message is at the forefront of Memory’s Mind. Like Kelton, himself, the novel isn’t at all flashy. In fact, the plotline could be described as “meandering,” but that is so fitting for the subject matter. None of the events of the book detract from its central theme, which is so clearly meditation. We are CONSTANTLY reminded that Kelton is seeking Adon Olam— and his determination is beautiful.
BUT, that same determination is not, ultimately, what’s lauded. Instead, Kelton is learning that his efforts at meditation aren’t enough to sustain him. Throughout the novel, he learns more about “emptying” himself and allowing Yeshua to perform the work of meditation and delighting in His words.
The meditation scenes offer a realistic picture of time with the Lord. They convey the frustration of not even knowing how to spend time with the Lord, paired with a resounding message of grace in our need. There are so many passages I bookmarked, throughout the novel, because of their truths. Honestly, the book read more like a devotional, a lot of the time, but I really appreciated the story format used to convey these messages. (As a note, I use the word “devotional” in a positive sense, as the Lord often uses devotionals to minister His truths to me.)
This is the first book I have read where meditation, in the context of separation and retreat, furnishes the central plotline of the novel. Typically, we may see a character meditate before, say, making a decision. In this case, though, meditation becomes a central rhythm of Kelton’s life, so that he is much more equipped to hear Adon Olam‘s voice, even when he has returned to “regular” life.
Content
There’s really not a lot of content to flag. Romance is minimal and only involves secondary characters. Below content notes are about things that I, peronally, feel the need to flag. (Many reviewers would not).
This is super nitpicky, but one line, about the country “returning” to its former prosperity caught my attention. I’m not sure if this was in any way an allusion to our “Christian” nation returning to its roots. I’m sensitive toward that kind of reasoning, because of the wickedness that “Christian” settlers used religion to justify. It is very possible that this had nothing to do with America and I am referencing a single line.
SPOILER BELOW
February 26, 2022
4.5 Stars
It’s been days since I finished this book, but I can’t stop thinking about it. And I’ve been having trouble summing up all my thoughts for a review. ;)
In short, I loved it! The message and the character (particularly Kelton) struck a deep chord with me.
The first part of the book is theme driven and sets the stage for the more plot-driven second half. I loved the dual POV of Kelton and then an insight in palace life.
In terms of characters, Kelton is a sweet, sensitive young man who is struggling with his purpose and keeping his mind focused, and I really related to him. His heart is in the right place, and he wants to honour Adon Olam with his mind and meditate on Truth. Kelton tends to wallow in guilt when he fails to keep his mind from wandering during his mediation time, without accepting grace. We are human, and we won’t always get it right, but God knows it. He didn’t choose us because we are holy but because we would become holy in Jesus. What He is looking for is willing, obedient hearts - Are we earnestly pursuing a desire to know Him better? Kelton comes to understand this better by the end. Also, Philip and Kelton are the perfect balance of great friendship, and they’re interactions are both comical and encouraging!
Throughout the book, Mathews highlights that there are seasons in life, and how we are called to serve God looks different for each of us. For Haeward, it was being a hermit and teaching other young men the Truth and how to meditate. For Philip, it was marriage, children, and becoming a travelling preacher. For Liliora, it was saving unwanted babies. For Kelton, it was housekeeping, cooking, and long walks. While we shouldn’t be distracted by the cares of the world, we are to be stewards of what we’ve been given. (For example, Martha’s sin wasn’t that she was serving but that she prioritized serving over a relationship with Jesus. We need both.)
Summary: In a world full of voices, make sure you’re listening to the right One.
This message is so important, and I will definitely be rereading this book again!
It’s been days since I finished this book, but I can’t stop thinking about it. And I’ve been having trouble summing up all my thoughts for a review. ;)
In short, I loved it! The message and the character (particularly Kelton) struck a deep chord with me.
The first part of the book is theme driven and sets the stage for the more plot-driven second half. I loved the dual POV of Kelton and then an insight in palace life.
In terms of characters, Kelton is a sweet, sensitive young man who is struggling with his purpose and keeping his mind focused, and I really related to him. His heart is in the right place, and he wants to honour Adon Olam with his mind and meditate on Truth. Kelton tends to wallow in guilt when he fails to keep his mind from wandering during his mediation time, without accepting grace. We are human, and we won’t always get it right, but God knows it. He didn’t choose us because we are holy but because we would become holy in Jesus. What He is looking for is willing, obedient hearts - Are we earnestly pursuing a desire to know Him better? Kelton comes to understand this better by the end. Also, Philip and Kelton are the perfect balance of great friendship, and they’re interactions are both comical and encouraging!
Throughout the book, Mathews highlights that there are seasons in life, and how we are called to serve God looks different for each of us. For Haeward, it was being a hermit and teaching other young men the Truth and how to meditate. For Philip, it was marriage, children, and becoming a travelling preacher. For Liliora, it was saving unwanted babies. For Kelton, it was housekeeping, cooking, and long walks. While we shouldn’t be distracted by the cares of the world, we are to be stewards of what we’ve been given. (For example, Martha’s sin wasn’t that she was serving but that she prioritized serving over a relationship with Jesus. We need both.)
Summary: In a world full of voices, make sure you’re listening to the right One.
This message is so important, and I will definitely be rereading this book again!
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews