Recently I previewed a novel, a thrilling novel of a former military, FBI operative combating a plot to “ruin” the world. Here’s an excerpt from my review:
We also get a glimpse of the protagonist’s, Redd’s, devotional life as he tries to live up to what he learned from his adoptive father, JB. Unfortunately, Redd is not an aspirational character when it comes to his faith. Like most of us, we don’t see our beliefs impacting our vocations. I’ve seen it with customer service people, CEOs, everyone, myself included. Redd behaves in his work no differently than his colleagues. His faith is not in evidence. There’s one quick sentence or two, where Redd contemplates “turn the other cheek” (from Christ’s Sermon on the Mount). But it’s not a deep dive as he dismisses it because of an attack on his family. There’s no consideration that as followers of Christ, His teachings and His living example, we do not seek personal vengeance. We can seek justice for others. We are called to exhibit the fruit of the Spirit at all times—if we believe He’s dwelling within us—of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness… Also Christ calls us to love our enemies, not just our neighbors (family, friends). Scripture also tells us that “perfect love casts out all fear.” And the Ten Commandments say, “Do not murder” which Christ expands in His famous sermon to be equivalent when we hate. Perhaps as Steck’s [the author’s] series expands, we’ll see Redd transform into being more Christ-like. What Redd is doing is not different from typical “Christians” but I hope Steck gives us some hints to a greater life of faith, that can be shown in what we think, decide and do.
We also have to take to heart the call: “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think…” (Romans 12.2) Transformation is more than just identity—we can call ourselves Christian—it’s our character and values which influence our decisions and actions (i.e. our behaviors and customs).
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