Always Taking Aim

Jan Karon has blessed me again! For the last few years, right before Advent, Karon has released a book that is precisely the medicine I need. In Home to Holly Springs, Father Tim returns home to Mississippi for the first time in almost 40 years. As one would expect, there's a lot to confront and resolve from his childhood and young adult years.

Jan Karon wonderfully depicts a God whose love is always taking aim. Father Tim has been mystified by some things from the past, and misunderstood others. God brings Timothy home to Mississippi at just the right time (its fullness) for healing - his and others.

Central to Father Tim's woundedness are his mother, father, and second mother (Peggy). As Father Tim discovers truths and achieves a measure of understanding, he finds peace and healing.

Home to Mississippi reminds us that our lives are interconnected by God's grace and mercy. When we're privileged to get a glimpse of the tapestry that God's weaving, we're taken aback by the breathtaking beauty of His plan and the depth of His love and care for us.

Father Tim's an apt pupil. He's learned in his old age to surf the waves that God sends. It's a lesson we can all benefit from learning, isn't it? When we trust God and His plans and purposes for us, we can not only surf the waves He sends, but have a fine time doing it!