And the Shofar Blew by Francine Rivers
Reviewed by Darlene ‘Dee’ Bishop, Radiant Lit
Genre: Drama, Christianity, Church Life
Publisher: Tyndale House
Publication Dates: February 1, 2004

And the Shofar Blew is the story of Paul Hudson, a young pastor who is on fire for the Lord and determined to build his church. The issue becomes his methods and the price he is willing to pay for ministerial success.

Paul is a happy, young husband and father of a lively three-year-old when he accepts the call to pastor the Centerville Christian Church with his wife, Eunice, by his side.

The church, filled with older members, is struggling to survive and Paul isn’t sure of what he’ll face. But before long, things begin to change. New people are joining the church, ministries seem to be growing, and all appears right with his world, according to Paul. Eunice isn’t as convinced.

Refusing to listen to the voice of wisdom as it comes through an elderly parishioner and even his wife, Paul stubbornly follows in the footsteps of his successful father who is renowned for building a mega-church empire from a similarly small church. And it’s well understood that he expects Paul to do the same.

As she quietly watches her husband distance himself from her, his son and his faith, Eunice cries out to the only one she can… the Lord. And as the book climaxes in the expected crisis of faith, Paul must decide what’s really important. Is it his ministry, or his relationship with God and his family?

And the Shofar Blew is an emotionally-packed look at the problems that can arise when the Church and its leaders lose sight of their purpose and focus instead on personal successes and goals.

As always Francine Rivers writes a gripping story with intense scenes of struggle and decision. Her characters are open, honest and relatable, giving you wonderful examples of the way to do things and sometimes, how you shouldn’t. Yet through it all is the hope that God is able to bring His people through even the most difficult times.

Rated: G