Many years ago, I had to buy a new dress because The Restorer was a finalist for a Christy Award. I didn’t have dressy shoes with heels, so my hubby kindly took the taps off of my shiny black tap shoes and I wore those. I remember being too excited to eat, sitting in a room filled with authors and editors I admired. I had often looked at the list of Christy finalists to build my “to read” pile, knowing that these stories represented quality Christian fiction. To be a part of that legacy was a huge blessing.
Shortly after that, my life changed dramatically. Health issues shrank my world, affected my memory and word-finding ability, cut my functional minutes of each day by ninety percent. When I was able, I tried writing short devotions, and eventually finished the fourth Sword of Lyric book. But I had little hope of ever writing another fantasy series.
A few years ago, my agent encouraged me to draw from my experience in dance to craft a new fantasy world. My imagination lit up, and slowly, tediously, with huge self-doubt, I began the new series.
That’s why my eyes stung with tears when I learned that the first book in that new series, Hidden Current, was recently named a finalist for a Christy. This year, I won’t need my tap shoes, because the award ceremony will be online. But my feelings of gratitude and appreciation are even huger than the first time, along with feeling so honored to be among the other amazing writers.
Joel 2:25 says, “I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten…” (ESV)
God held me close during the locust years, and still does. And holding Hidden Current in print was like touching a miracle. It could not have happened without friends and family who prayed specifically for my writing life. Not just a quick one-time prayer, but faithful prayer support year after year after year when I wasn’t sure I’d ever see a book in print again.
Are you facing locusts of any kind? Or do you have a friend who is being eaten up by illness or broken relationships or poverty? Pray, pray, and pray some more. Our Savior will not only carry us through, but restore what feels lost. He is amazing that way!
Blessings,
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First of all, congratulations, once again! As Tristan from The Restorer would say,
“Well-met!”
And speaking of restoring, I had forgotten all about beautiful Joel 2:25 and the verses following!
My dearest is a minister in the UK but going through such a season right now!
What an encouragement to read your testimony of how the Lord restores! Thank you for sharing!
Hi, Nina Ruth! You are one of those that I want to thank through this blog – for years and years of faithful and generous encouragement and prayer. He truly is our Restorer, isn’t He??? HUGS!
Congratulations, Sharon! And blessings to you. You’re always an inspiration. Hope all is well.
Congratulations!!! That’s so wonderful! I’m so happy for you!
Congratulations on the nomination! Always praying for you and your family’s health, blessings, and to be uplifted.
Wow, Congratulations on the nomination! I am so happy for you! Have a Great week and stay safe. God Bless you and your family.
Thanks, everyone! David, how is your writing going? I think of you often! Camy, I miss you SO MUCH!!!! You are such an inspiration to me. Thanks, Jay. I have so appreciated your constant support and prayers. Thank you, Alicia! blessings to you, too!!!!
Congratulations, Sharon. So happy for you! I continue to pray for you.
Love, Rosemary Johnson
This was the verse I clung to while we walked the years of our son’s rebellion. Thanks be to God that he is back on the right path and God has restored the relationships that were broken during that time.
Thanks for reminding me of this verse.
I have been a fan of your writing since your first book. SO glad to read this new series as well!
Thanks, Rosemary!
And Carol, thanks for sharing how God was faithful during painful years in your life. SO encouraging when we share our stories of His kindness in our lives!
Congratulations on your nomination for a Christie award! I just finished reading Hidden Current and really enjoyed it. Both my granddaughters have been dancing since they were three. Morgan 16 and Madeline 13 are now dancing with the danceline at the Mound high school, the Hawkettes. I have been to many recitals and competitions. Your book was so inspiring. Some of my favorite phrases were “I am an empty bowl. Fill me with your task”. God replied,”I will fill you with Myself!” Wow. Thank you. Hope some day to be able to look out your window again at your beautiful wildlife. God bless you. Jan Weaver🙏
Thanks so much, Janice! I miss our small group gatherings! I LOVE that favorite line that you mentioned. I’d forgotten about it – but it is such a key theme in my own life (which of course leaks into the character’s issues). I want to fill myself with “service” but He offers much better – HIMSELF! 🙂
So nice to hear from you ! Take care. God bless you and your family. Your mom used to be in Bible classes with me years ago. Give her a hug from me. She was a fun person to have in class! 😁🙏😷
We were finally able to visit her last week! Such a treat. We’ve had them over for backyard visits, but weren’t allowed in their building since March. I will make a point when I talk to her today to pass along your love!