Our son Caleb made a surprise visit to Townsville on Sunday. He lives in Bali, and we hadn’t seen him for 15 months, so it was a wonderful surprise. We went to Magnetic Island for a day and spent a lot of time catching up on life over good food.
Our daughter Carleah was also able to join us, so it was the first time we’d all been together in over two years. After a few days, we bid him au revoir, with only a touch of sadness, as we know God will orchestrate another meeting in His timing.
In other news, as I shared with you several weeks back, my current book writing is taking a different route than my previous two books—a way that’s much more in-depth in the foundational work with characters, their internal struggles, and backstories. I’m also deep-diving into the locations in the book and some relevant history tied to the story.
I’ve also spent significant time on the craft of writing and the writer’s voice.
For full-time professional writers, the average time to finish a book for publication is between 12–18 months. My previous 3–6 month sprints for book writing were definitely anomalies, so part of my current writing journey is looking at what it takes to build a long-term, sustainable career in writing as a ministry.
As a result, what was initially going to be a three-month writing practicum at YWAM Townsville is being extended. Renee and I spoke with Robyn, one of the base leaders here, and we agreed to a more open-ended arrangement. We’ll continue to live on base and serve in different ministry areas for part of each day, and for me, I’ll continue to devote most of my time to writing.
In a (recent) previous life, I would have absolutely become frustrated with this perceived slowdown in timeframe. However, as you’ve read during the last six months, it’s been a recurring theme that God has slowed me down and asked me to live in the moment for Him and His voice, rather than being laser-focused on my schedule and goals.
Renee and I have had many opportunities for obedience, service, and encouragement of others since we arrived back in Townsville—both here at YWAM and through our local church. Opportunities I may have otherwise missed if my tunnel vision hadn’t been challenged.
Stay fresh, my friends, and be open to God interrupting your plans.
It’s worth it.
“Many are the plans in a person’s heart,
but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
Proverbs 19:21
Oh my! I remember babysitting Caleb when you all went to Shreveport for a concert or something. Time has flown by. God bless!