When I Lay My Isaac Down -- Unshakable Faith in Unthinkable Circumstances

by Carol Kent

Navpress Publishing Group 2004

176 pp. $18.99

Carol presents the true story of her (and her husband's journey) in needing to accept the fact that their only son had murdered his wife's ex-husband. 

Being a staunch Christian, Carol struggled to understand what she might have done wrong, how she had failed her son, how she could go on with her life.  Her faith gave her strength.  Her reflections on the Scriptures gave her some guidance, especially the story of Abraham being asked by God to "lay his son Isaac down" on the altar of sacrifice. 

Carol provides eight themes for reflection in times when life's circumstances require us to "lay (our) Isaac(s) down:" 

            the Power of Unthinkable Circumstances,

            the Power of Relinquishment,

            the Power of Heartache,

            the Power of Community,

            the Power of Community,

            the Power of Hope,

            the Power of Faith,

            the Power of Joy,

            and the Power of Speaking Up. 

Each chapter ends with questions to direct reflection, and perhaps, discussion.

Marcy Keefe-Slager

Jackson, Michigan