A gay son comes out to his parents. His mother responds by planning to kill herself.
The drama starts high and never stops in Christopher Yuan and Angela Yuan’s “Out of a Far Country.” It is the true story of Christopher’s life of homosexuality, promiscuity and drugs and Angela’s unconditional love and faithfulness toward a son who rejected her.
The journey isn’t pretty — in fact, it’s heart-wrenching at times — but the outcome is praise-worthy. And somewhat surprising.
This is not a gay-guy-turns-straight kind of story, but one that offers a godly and biblical perspective on sexuality in general. It’s a challenging concept but necessary if Christians want to be heard in the homosexual community.
I was also moved by Angela’s faith and commitment to Christ. She prayed daily and fasted weekly for her son. She loved him when he rejected and insulted her. I was particularly moved by the compassion she and her husband exhibited at the bedside of one of Christopher’s gay friends.
Her love in action was personally convicting for me.
Overall, this is a great and quick read. If you’re looking for help in ministering to homosexuals, or for hope for a son or daughter who has lost their way, or for encouragement that God indeed brings people back from the brink of death, then get a copy of this book. (Keep reading to find out how you can win one FREE on this blog!)
For a sample, click here to download chapter 1.
Or listen in below as mother and son talk about the journey.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnnVSfBlhro&feature=player_embedded]
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For posting this review, WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group sent me a free copy of the book. Actually, due to a warehouse error, they sent me two copies. So, leave a comment on the blog, and on Sunday, June 12, I’ll use Random.org to pick a winner of a FREE copy of this book.
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Would you take a moment to rate my review? Click the graphic below and give me 1-5 stars. Thanks!
I love that you reviewed this book. I also recommend Nancy Heche’s book, When the Truth Comes Out. Excellent piece about her journey through her husband’s homosexuality and death from AIDS, further complicated by her daughter, Anne’s public affair with Ellen DeGeneres.
It is so important that the Christian community act as Christ would … not with condemnation, but with love. It is not our job to change people. We can only pray and let God do His work. But, people are not going to listen to the precious truth of His Gospel if we are spending our time spewing hatred, condemnation and judgment.
He who has no sin, go ahead … throw the first stone.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this book. I have enjoyed reading your other reviews as well, you seem to have a very open minded approach to the books you read and you share your thoughts so honestly!
I really enjoyed this review, and I read the first two chapters of the book that you linked also. Then I went to his website and watched some movies and read his bio. What a NEAT family and an awesome story of God’s grace. Thanks for bringing this book to my attention.
I think this would be an interesting read after reading your review, too often Christians are seen as haters of homosexual. Thanks for bringing attention to this book.
I’m so intrigued by this book! Redemption, Christianity and homosexuality. Might send some Christians running away. 🙂
I think it’s facinating. Love wins—if we could all love this deeply and fully—what a lovely reflection of Christ we would be to the world.
I AM TRUELY INTERESTED IN READING THIS BOOK, NOW THAT YOU HAVE GIVEN IT SUCH A GREAT REVIEW. IT TRUELY SOUNDS LIKE I COULD USE THIS TO GET THROUGH TO MY DAUGHTER. GOD WILL WORK MIRACLES IN MY LIFE AS WELL. THANK YOU.
Sounds like a good read! Just had a conversation on this topic this week, thank you for suggesting this book, I will definitely read it.
Definitely adding this to my list, Lisa. I’m tired of hearing so much hate, and this sounds like it tackles a really polarizing topic with love and grace. Thanks for the review.