Title: Paper Angels
Author: Jimmy Wayne & Travis Thrasher
Pages: 304
Year: 2012
Publisher: Howard Books
Paper
Angels is a unique story that reminds us to see how we can be a blessing to
others instead of consumed with ourselves during the holidays. At the end of the novel, Jimmy Wayne shares a
little bit about his experience as a receiver of the blessings that come from
others’ generosity. I believe it, in
part, to be a testimony of how lives are changed through giving.
There are two stories in this novel
that you will perhaps in some way be able to identify with. One of the stories is about a woman who
braves leaving her abusive husband in order to take her two children to
safety. She has to work a lot of hours
and rely on her older son to take care of his younger sister as well as other
situations. During these hard times,
Thomas is reminded about prayer, leaning on the Lord, and what really matters
in life. The other story is about an
infertile couple, who has had one son with medical help, and is now expecting
twins. Kevin began his own business a
decade earlier and now it is struggling because of the downturn in the
economy. Kevin dreams of having time
with his wife and son before the twins come, yet he is always working. Not only is the family being pushed aside, so
is his faith. On top of that, even
finding time to have a conversation with his wife is being pushed aside as the business
takes over. Kevin misses the earlier
years of marriage when they had time together. With the expected
arrival of twins any day, he can’t find the words to be honest with his wife.
There are some truths about God
that we forget when we get struck down or discouraged by something or
someone. The world looks at the major
events in life and people learn about them, and sometimes the news gives a
glimpse into the faces of people who are part of that story. We are God’s story and we all have something
to give even though it may not be something that can be packaged and
wrapped. During the holiday season, we
tend to try to bring happiness to others through giving as well as going to
some get-together to celebrate the holidays.
In this small novel, these real-life experiences are mirrored in the
lives of the characters.
I am glad to see that the story is
about more than just giving or giving to strangers. It is about faith and remembering the One who
gave the most costly gift of all.
Another theme in the book is living day-to-day through good and bad with
a view towards heaven and to be reminded that what happens here is temporary. Time is of the essence and we need to reach
out and into the lives of others to show them what is eternal. The authors didn’t write a story that will
make you feel in any way that you have to do something, but there is
encouragement to be a mirror, reflecting the glory of God.
Wherever you are during this
holiday season, stop and look to the heavens and thank God for the most
precious gift of all, Jesus Christ. Many
times has the holiday season approached with all of the festivities, but once
they are gone, the one remaining will be Him.
With hope in your heart, bless the life of another person not just today
or during the holidays, but any time you have the opportunity.
My rating is 4 stars.
Note: I received a
complimentary copy for an honest review of this book. The opinions shared in this review are solely
my responsibility. Other reviews can be
read at http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspot.com/
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