An earthquake traps Bree, Carl, and Andy beneath their three story office building. Buried in the rubble and struggling with their injuries, the three Christians take another look at life. After spending the night in the hospital, all three are not only miraculously healed, but spiritually gifted. Bree finds herself able to see into peoples hearts. Carls feet carry him to those in need. And shy Andy cant stop talking about the blessings of the Lord. The three of them combine their gifts and embark on a weekend of spreading Gods love and inviting people to come unto Christ. They touch hearts and lives. But what happens when the gifts vanish? Once again, they find themselves plain, ordinary Christians. They struggle briefly with life without their gifts before resolving to continue on with His work. Having seen the work they can do with the help of the Holy Ghost, the three vow to keep on being Gods hands. In The Gifted, Terri Blackstock illustrates the blessings and responsibilities we as Christians have to share the gospel with those who need it. Even as the three characters stretch themselves outside of their comfort zone, Blackstock challenges readers to do the same. I was amazed how well developed the characters were in such a brief story. All three stand strong and clear. They were realistic and responded to their situations in a believable manner. Each sentence is strongly crafted to deliver the most meaning, starting with the very first paragraph. The challenge to the readers is delivered subtly, without heavy-handedness, crafted to mesh well with the story. The best part, of course, wasnt what Bree, Carl, and Andy did with their magnificent gifts. Watching the other members of the church draw close together and minister to those who were in need touched my heart. But even better was watching the joy and the Christlike spirit of those the evangelical dream team brought to the Lord. Each of them almost immediately reach out and touch the lives of those around them. Each of them showed the hand of God in their lives from the beginning, reminding us of our responsibility as long-time followers of Christ. In a well-crafted and enjoyable story, Blackstock reminds us each of our responsibility to live and serve. Although a well-led life makes an excellent missionary tool, a sincere and well-born testimony goes even further. And an outpouring of love, shining in our deeds and actions, will truly bring others to our Savior. |
