“The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money.” (Mt 25:16-18)

This week, I received print copies of my devotional book, Echoes of Joy: 30 Days of Experiencing God’s Grace, currently available on Amazon. I started blogging almost seven years ago at the encouragement of a friend. When I decided to write my first book, I wanted to base it on my current devotional blog. Earlier this year, I finished my devotional book and released it as an ebook. I had so many requests for a paperback book that I decided to have print copies made.

Now that the print book is available, I have been overwhelmed by the response of my friends and family, not to mention people I have never met. I have an extensive network of writer friends based on my work as the Oklahoma Writers Federation, Inc., (OWFI) conference chair over the last few months. I also have a large network of church friends. So many of you have supported me through this journey, and I want you to know how very much I appreciate you!

For many years, I felt called to write, but I struggled to produce material. I knew what I wanted to say, but unless conditions were perfect I wouldn’t try to write. The laundry had to be folded and put away, the dishes washed, and everything put in its place. Because it’s impossible to catch up on housework for more than fifteen minutes, I seldom accomplished anything. I allowed life’s distractions to get in the way of what I really wanted to do, which was write.

In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus told his followers the parable of the talents. In this parable, we see three people who receive money, or talents, from their employer. The amount they received was based on their ability, and the first two men used the money their employer gave them to earn more. The last man buried his talent and did not try to earn more. He was condemned, not because he had fewer talents than the others, but because he did not use this time to work and prepare for the employer to come home.

Through this parable, we see that those of us who profess to follow Jesus Christ are to prepare for his return, not by sitting idly by, but by working in his kingdom here on earth. For me, that means using my talent of writing to direct people to God. I want people to see God in my life and through my work. I wrote my devotional book, along with a sequel for Christmas that will be released this fall, to encourage others to endure, persevere, and pursue joy. Each devotional message is told from my point of view and focuses on the lessons I have learned – and am still learning today.

Dear Jesus, thank you for helping me pursue my dream and use my talent to show your love to others. I pray that others will see you in my life and be encouraged in their walk with you. I pray you will be glorified through the work I produce. Amen.