Book Review: The Angel of Bastogne

The Angel of Bastogne is the story of Chicago newspaper reporter Ben Raines. Ben was cynical, bitter and disillusioned with God and life in general. He particularly disliked Christmas time but he was assigned to write the annual front page holiday story for the paper. While struggling to decide what to write about, he visited his father, Willy, in the nursing home. Willy shared with Ben the Christmas he was fighting in the Battle of Bastogne, France in World War II. The Germans had surrounded Bastogne and there was no relief in sight. When all seemed lost, Willy was joined in his foxhole by an unnaturally calm Lieutenant who told him where the weapons-fire was coming from and how to get there. He told him his men would not make it unless somebody got the enemy. When asked if he was being ordered to go, the Lieutenant said no – it was up to him. Knowing it was a suicide mission, Willy put down his rifle, followed the Lieutenant's directions and took out that enemy crew with a grenade, saving the lives of his squad. Willy told Ben he never heard of or saw that Lieutenant again – he knew it had been an angel. Although embarrassed by his father's belief in angels, Ben decided to write this story, cynically hoping to debunk it. His research took him cross-country to interview the other 5 veterans who were with Willy and witnessed this so-called angel. Ben's fact finding journey became his spiritual journey. This is such a delightful read of hope, transformation and the power of prayer. It reminded me of how God has provided each of us with unique gifts and talents and how we utilize those gifts through our decisions and actions. I can guarantee that once you finish this story, you will think of at least one person you'd like to pass it on to, or someone you’d like to give it to as a special Christmas gift.

Beth Moore is coming to Toronto!

Contact Laurie LeFave for more details:
905-898-1089

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