I’ve just finished reading Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers and I LOVED it. If you haven’t already read it, I’d really recommend it. It’s the first Christian novel I’ve read, and it’s amazing! Not only do you get completely caught up in the beautiful characters and story, but you learn so much more about God and the way He seeks us, heals us and never ever gives up on us.

It’s based on the story of Hosea in the Bible, where God asks Hosea to marry Gomer who is a prostitute. Gomer repeatedly turns her back on Hosea, going back to a life of prostitution, but in spite of her unfaithfulness, and his pain, Hosea rescues Gomer from this life, takes her home, and loves her. It is a picture of God’s unconditional love for us - even when we betray Him, He is always faithful and merciful to us. No matter what we have done, we can always have a fresh start with Him.

I loved the way the characters of Angel and Michael made this story and message come alive. I just felt so much compassion for Angel who had never known anything but abuse and pain since her mother died as a child, and she was sold into prostitution. And Michael was just this amazing, beautiful example of someone who was so solid in God. So uncompromising in his obedience to God, and in his love for Angel. It was such a beautiful, powerful picture of love. How loving someone by God’s grace and never giving up on them, has the power to heal and redeem and free. Definitely read it, if you haven’t already .

Reference - Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers, Monarch Books (first Published 1997 by Multnomah).