Behind Enemy Lines is an evangelical handbook, written in diary form, by a passionate and quite radical Christian soldier. Like all soldiers of faith, Peter Mehl and his family face unbelievable odds and obstacles as they march with their troops through the Ukraine and spread the word of their savior. Neither: KGB, Mafia, snipers, poor living conditions, or armed guards deter them from their progress. Even opposition from fellow Christians serves only to fuel the passion in their hearts for their mission.
Adding an interesting insight to the trials of missionary life, Mehl shares the thoughts and voices of his children with readers. So often in faith communities today, the children are left out. They are marched off to a separate area and taught to recite passages rather than learn to experience their faith. MehlÆs bold inclusion of his children in his work, creates a bridge to the next generation of readers in a language that children will relate to. While the entire work is certainly not suitable for children, perhaps it can be something a family can discuss together?
Behind Enemy Lines is a fundamentalist dream-read. On one hand I found Peter MehlÆs passion and determination admirable. After all, who wouldnÆt admire a man dedicated to his faith and willing to overcome incredible odds to serve community? However, whether intentional or not, there is an undercurrent of self-righteousness and a propensity to label anyone with other beliefs, occasionally even a government worker doing their job, as tools of Satan. I take issue with that type of thinking and find it counter-productive to spreading the Word. On September 11, 2001 the world saw first- hand the danger that stems from any religion believing that its followers alone hold the keys to Heaven and that others are tools of Satan. I caution readers to read critically and approach others with love and compassion rather than righteousness, and am certain that anyone who truly feels the Word of Christ will.