Being 70 years old now, I have experienced A LOT of loss in my life. Many losses I have not yet healed from . . . and this book really helped with the process of letting go and trusting that all will weave together. In time. Through grace. Through the gift of the precious Word.

And now, as I am moving through a new process that does include apparent loss (the process of letting go of worldly things through the progression of aging), I am guided by this gentle and hopeful book that tells me that there is no reason for fear . . . fears that I didn’t do it right . . . fears of the unknown that lies ahead. Oh, how I needed this guidance of how to begin the process of healing my understanding through taking the scriptures deep into my heart, and also simply by asking. These words from the author of “Praying the Word of Grace” are so comforting. . .

“If there is any way, Father, that I have believed your grace is limited, or that I have to earn it . . . if there is any way what I have been leaning on my own self-righteousness, or have forgotten the joy of my salvation in Christ . . . if there is any way I am not experiencing the boldness to come before Your throne of grace which You have given me freely, if I am afraid to ask you for help or mercy when I need it most . . . I ask for You to reveal these places in my heart, and heal my understanding, so that I may walk in the fullness of life in Christ Jesus, by Your amazing grace.” ( )

This is a powerful and uplifting book for anyone who has suffered loss or trauma, and that is all of us in one way or another. The author tells his story with such vulnerability and candor that it opens unexplored places in the heart and soul. I found myself led to memories that needed the healing message of love and grace, experiencing them with new awareness. Friends who have read the book tell me that the author’s touching way of sharing his own journey of loss reminded them of their own, or of that of a friend or family member.

The author starts with a narrative in Part I about the life of his son, born in critical condition, and loved unconditionally throughout his earthly journey of 20 months. Part II is a collection of scriptures and prayers that remind us all that Jesus longs to extend His love and grace to us, at all times, in all places, and especially when we experience loss and heartbreak.

The book affirms that the Table of Grace is always set, and that Jesus welcomes us to it, waiting for us, in fact, longing for us to join Him. Scriptures are offered from a variety of translations, adding interest to each chapter’s focus on an aspect of grace, followed by prayer and reflection on their meaning. It’s a book that can be picked up again and again, as each chapter in Part II is its own meditation in scripture and prayer. ( )