Take Heart, We're One Year Closer to the Heavenly Dimension!

Our lives changed forever one year ago today. We were (and are) crushed. But, one cannot know the joy of hope without knowing the depths of sorrow. And so we hope. Jesus said, "In this dimension you will have trouble. But don't be afraid to hope. I have overcome this dimension." (My paraphrase of John 16:33) Just because we cannot see our loved ones doesn't mean they are not alive. They're just in a new dimension! 

Book Comments/Reviews

Where Was God on the Worst Day of My Life is now an Independent Publisher's National Award Winning Book.  

1) "Man, did I love and appreciate this book. There is so much weight to the story but its delivered in such a beautifully honest, artistic way. I really got the sense that every word and photo was carefully considered in how it was presented on the page. I give the author a lot of credit for asking such a universally BIG question and then providing space, simplicity and hope in his response. This is one book that will not leave me anytime soon." JTC

2) "I dare anyone to read this and not experience both sadness and great hope. The story and its message captures the sentiments of many who have experienced loss or anyone who has ever asked where God was on their worst day. This is a story I will read on a regular basis as it speaks to the heart because it comes from the heart." Amazon Customer

3) "Who among us has not asked this question during a personal loss? In this book, the author explores it with such deep honesty, clarity, poignancy and most importantly, hope. The grit of the story and its bittersweet message is balanced with such beautiful imagery in the photographs. I challenge anyone to read this book and not walk away with a sense of peace and purpose, no matter what the circumstances. If you are like me, you will want to read it again and again..." Nancy

4) "This. book. The rawness and transparency given to the emotions and occurrences described is refreshing--and really actually necessary. It helps to organize and guide your thoughts when they seem to be disarranged and completely chaotic. It gives meaning amidst mourning.

The creative images and design further help illustrate the originality and authenticity described as Quincy--and God's creations.

Anyone would benefit from reading/obtaining this book; whether you have experienced grief & loss, are experiencing it now, or have never experienced it...it will become a reality, and you will ask the question: "Where was God?" Quite possibly, you'll reflect back on this message, realizing He was--and is--there all along." PMF

5) "Simple, but freaking PACKED and thick with truth; powerful paradoxical truth!" Mario

Mailing Books!

In line at post office... again... mailed hundreds of these the past couple of days.  (Don't even have time to tie my shoe.)  My favorite part of the process is watching the faces of the people who are walking in with me.  They're mailing one or two packages.  I'm like a pack mule.  No one wants to be behind me.  I am unpopular at the post office.  (Maybe other places as well, but definitely right now at the post office.) 

If you pre-ordered a book, your copy (copies) are on the way.  It's POSSIBLE that a small number of packages were filled with an incorrect amount or product.  FORGIVE ME!  And let me know... I'll send you the right thing.  Thanks.

Hoodies!

The nursing group that's headed to Haiti over spring break, 2016, is selling these to help pay their way.  Order through McKenzie at Mevulgamore@mnu.edu.  If you're in KC, these can also be purchased at the MidAmerica Nazarene bookstore.  I think they're $30.  I don't know about shipping, but McKenzie can give you info.  She's very smart like that. 

Thanksgiving

The scripture/art Quincy finished up Dec 31.  The day before she was promoted.  The words are the challenge she left us with.  But, of course, they aren't from Quincy.  They're from the Apostle Paul inspired by the Holy Spirit.  Life often causes us to ask for God's direction, for His plan or will.  Thessalonians 5:16-18 makes it as plain as possible.  What if your life reflected this verse in every area?  What if everyone's life reflected this verse?  Imagine our world.  With all due respect to John Lennon, this is what we should be imagining... and pursuing.   

If you're interested, order your own prints here.  

The Prayer I Posted on New Years Day

Just hours before we learned of Quincy's promotion I posted this prayer to our church's website... 

A New Years Prayer 
May God bless us with discomfort
At pat answers, partial truths, and
Anemic relationships
So we may live out of depth

May God bless us with challenges
To til the soil of our shallow commitment
So seeds of hope can take hold
And grow into great forests of faith

May He bless us with faith
Faith that keeps us foolish enough to believe
And brave enough to act
Faith is the thing hoped for and the assurance of what is going to happen.

Amen.