Book Review - Mile Marker 825

In the spirit of full disclosure, let me say this: Jason Mirikitani is a friend of mine. Last month I mentioned him and his new book a couple times here and here. Were Jason not a friend though, I am quite certain that I would find his story no less amazing, no less compelling, no less inspiring.

Mile Marker 825 is the story of how Jason survived and recovered from an automobile accident that took the life of his wife.  Jason writes in a down-to-earth, conversational manner.  Therefore, as you read the book, it feels more like you're sitting across the table from him, listening to him tell his story.  And as you hear him speak, he tells you of how his recovery was not only physical, but also emotional and spiritual as well.

Jason shares how everything he has endured has been a small part of God's larger plan.  Part of that plan was that he might learn some lessons along the way for the purpose of sharing them with others.  Among these are the fact that Christ's power reaches its perfection in our acknowledged personal weakness and a realization that far too often churches fail to be "suffering-safe" places.

Among the most meaningful passages of the book for me was when Jason points out, "Throughout all of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, the most often asked inquiry is, 'How long, O Lord, how long?'...Ironically, though, the most repeated command from God is 'Do not fear' or 'Do not be afraid.'  God does not give a direct answer to the 'How long' question.  Instead, he responds with His own imperative which, in essence says, 'Trust me.  I've got everything under control.'"

This seems to be the heartbeat of Jason's message -- not that bad things won't happen, but that even when they do, our loving God is still in control.  Jason speaks of how he was "scarred by grace" and is convinced that he is called to be "a wounded healer."  Read Mile Marker 825 and you're likely to be convinced as well.