Im A Writer

Have you ever experienced a moment when you shake your head and wonder in disbelief,

Did that really happen?

I’m back from the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Lots of shaking my head and wondering throughout the week. Lots of “really?” Lots of shocked and happy humbled tears. Lots of staring up into the redwood trees whispering,

God is big. And great. And GRAND…

I met with some of the most respected literary agents and authors in the industry and with representatives from publishing houses. The feedback was positive. Very positive. Unexpected. I tossed and turned night after night.

Can this really be happening? Maybe they’re just being nice. Maybe they aren’t really saying what I think they’re saying.

But they were. Those agents and authors validated and confirmed what so many of you have tried to tell me these past few years. I am a writer. Multiple agents have expressed interest in representing me. I actually have to prayerfully chose one.

I struggled when I had my business cards printed. Under my name I was able to type in “conference/retreat speaker” because speaking was my main ministry contribution. Then I would type in “writer,” look at the word, sigh, then push delete. Get up, run around the table, retype…then delete. Over and over. Finally I closed my eyes and just hit the “accept” button before I could change my mind.

The non-fiction mentoring clinic I participated in was exactly what I needed. Jan Kern, author and amazing mentor extraordinaire taught, encouraged, helped and advised me. I’m excited to show you my book:

I sat in the dark and cold of early, early morning after a mostly sleepless night. I could hear my cabin mates breathing the rhythm of deep sleep. I turned on the lamp by my bed and talked with God about all the going-ons of the week. My reading plan had me in John 21. Peter was walking along the beach with Jesus. He turned around and saw John following behind and asked,

“Lord, and what about this man?”

Jesus said to him, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!”

God tenderly reminded me through this verse the truth that everyone has a different path. No two paths look the same. What is happening in others lives is not my responsibility. God’s plan and purposes will be accomplished. His timing is perfect. He has prepared good works before hand that we should walk in (Eph. 2:10). He causes all things to work together for good (Rom.8:28).

But here in the dark, He was calling me to simply follow Him.

Yes, Lord, I will follow.

Yes, Lord, I am a writer.

May my words bring hope and lift You high.

May my life bring honor to Your name.