Book Review: God's Smuggler by Brother Andrew

God's Smuggler by Brother Andrew with John & Elizabeth Sherrill

Brother Andrew started life as a Dutch boy during World War II, hoping to be an adventurer fighting Nazis. By the time he was old enough, the war was over but the Dutch colonies were fighting for freedom. Andrew joined the army and did a lot of bad things he later regretted. He was shot in the ankle and forced to return home. He was in a pit of despair about his life and prospects. Then one day he picked up his mom's Bible, which he had kept only for sentimental reasons (certainly not for reading), and it made sense to him. He turned his life around and became a missionary to what may have been the toughest area at the time--the countries behind the Iron Curtain. He felt the call to bring Bibles and the message of God's love to countries under the heal of Soviet rule. He devoted his life to trusting in God to provide the financial means and the personal safety on his trip. He provided encouragement and brotherhood. Andrew married and eventually had others join his tough mission.

As an adventure story, Brother Andrew's life was full of excitement. He had lots of encounters with police and bureaucrats where prayer, grace, and honesty won the day. As a testimony of Christian faith, it's inspiring. His trust in divine providence paid off time after time, whether he needed more finances for the next trip or some border guard not to see the stack of Bibles in the back seat of his car. The book reads quickly and enjoyably. Andrew's sense of modesty and fervor shine through.

Highly recommended.