So, with my pinch of salt and willing heart I delved into the poetic introduction. It was read to me at the book launch and I read it again. Like much creative writing it didn't make much sense but I was spurred on with deeper questions added to my previous sense of ignorance about the only person called 'evangelist' within the canon.
The early chapters are fun and silly. I am unsure as to how the two main characters were allowed to get away with even meeting let alone the plot we see unfold. I felt continually reminded of a 1960s children's book about some kids on an adventure and almost forget what century we're supposed to be in. I do wonder whether we have slipped into some auto-biographical symbolism, and why not? In art and music there is always something personal in artists' work, why should a novel be considered any different?
Things are tough for our hero and I start to get wearied as the story goes from oppressive to bleak. It deserves a sigh, readers like me wonder if they want to go on. The hopelessness on these pages is all too real, even nearly 2 millennia later. As a reader I come to this wall at just the perfect time. The author has successfully set us up and caught this kipper.
Either I was unclear on the dates or chronology of the loose biblical landmarks or we were meant to experience the God-event with complete surprise. For me, the Lord arrived as he did in my life, He makes a way for Philip where there was no way. Identifying with various characters; feeling their fellowship, family interactions; empathising with the betrayal and anguish. What leads people like me and Philip to Jesus is exhausting, what we face as we follow Him is exhilarating, daunting and exasperating. I feel I know Philip. Maybe it's Chris that I know?
As the Lord enters the plot, I recall what is so wonderful about the my God and why He is a such refreshing to dusty dirty hearts long overdue a cuddle and a kiss. He brings laughter to confusion and cuts straight to the chase about the most unbearable private hurts. He isn't afraid to go there. There are no illustrations in this book but we clearly see Jesus.Much of Philip- a Novel especially the pain of its characters has such an impression on me that I am carrying it in my heart between instalments, hurried to find out what happens next, I love this kind of book. I can no longer ignore my sadness for friends and acquaintances maimed by life on this earth. I can't make them better and I can't change their circumstances. But to finally connect with my feelings seems to bring a sweetness. The consoling of God in my very heart allows me to feel more deeply as the hope simultaneously deepens within this pit.
Chris warns us that this book is designed to prod at evangelists, I had little idea that I would feel this recommissioning. I thought I was already there. I guess my feet were. In my case, I found his means to be by prompting emotional healing and a reawakening in my heart for the lost. In the days to follow I discover the freeing draw of giving myself to the tears and sorrow. I cry and laugh in one, is that possible?
This is the truth for God's people there will be suffering but He promises Joy. If the evangelist does not feel compassion then why on earth would they bother to go to difficult places and people to share the wonderful hope we bask in in Jesus? With Joy this call becomes an adventure, it's exciting and seeing your new friend or random acquaintance connect with Him is the only thing that beats your first encounter with the living God, it is the cherry on the top of the best relationship you can ever know. What beats knowing Jesus and embracing a full life in Him? Inviting others to dance with you.
Who would choose the bun without the cherry?
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