Return to Me~ Robin Lee Hatcher

"I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you."

~Isaiah 44:22

This scripture was written in the beginning of this book. Not only is it perfect for because it is the title of the book is in it, but it also speaks perfectly of the theme in this book. Return to Me is a modern day telling of one of the most famous stories in the Bible, The Prodigal Son. This tells the story of a woman named Roxy who leaves home for Nashville to become a country music star. Armed with her dream and her Grandmother's inheritance she strikes out on her own severing all ties with her father and older sister. After squandering her inheritance and any opportunities she had to make her dream a reality Roxy returns home out of desperation, her dreams replaced by the haunting memories of all her mistakes and bad choices. Her father who has constantly prayed for her return offers her love and forgiveness that shocks her. Her sister Elena who is now engaged to Wyatt, the boyfriend Roxy left behind, finds herself feeling unsure and resentful at her younger sisters easy acceptance back into the family.

I just started this book yesterday and am already gripped by the story. The story of the prodigal son is a great illustration of God's unconditional love for us, and the grace he offers us if we are willing to accept it. Well, I haven't finished the book, but I will post my thoughts after I finish.

UPDATE: I finished the book a coupled days ago. They story really makes you think. I found that I could relate a little to each of the characters. Roxy was haunted by her mistakes. God says that when we truly repent he forgives us and chooses to remember the sin no more. But as we go through life there are the mistakes we have made playing on repeat in our heads. I once heard a sermon on this the pastor said that satan does this to try and put a wedge between us and God. By reminding us of our repented sins we feel like frauds and hypocrites which causes us to distance ourselves. We need to remember that we are forgiven and strive to have a closer relationship with God. On the other had I related to Elena as well. I think we all at times can feel self-righteous and judgemental and we have no right to. As the bible said all of our good deeds are as filthy rags. We all need to remember that we are saved by grace and extend that same grace to others. Needless to say I enjoyed this book, but what I liked most about it was how it made me think about my relationship with God and the people in my life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robin is the author of over fifty novels. including Catching Katie, named one of the Best Books of 2004 by Library Journal.

Winner of the Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, two RITA Awards for Best Inspirational Romance, and the RWA Lifetime Achievement Award.

Robin, who is also one of our CFBA members, lives in Boise, Idaho.