More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.
Love Reunited by Renee Andrews -- A soldier returns home to find the love of his life is single again, but he also learns that she's blind...and that his confession of love may have cost her a marriage and her sight. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired).
Avenir Eclectia, Volume 1 by Grace Bridges, Pauline Creeden, Kat Heckenbach, Keven Newsome, H.A. Titus, Fred Warren and more -- A human colony in the constellation of the Whale struggles to survive on an aging orbital station peopled with bureaucrats, wizards, beggars and cyborgs, and a violently unstable planet overrun with giant bugs and telepathic sea creatures. (Speculative Fiction from Splashdown Books).
Christmas Roses by Amanda Cabot -- Can an itinerant carpenter searching for his father and a young widow who seeks only her daughter's well-being find happiness in a small Wyoming mining town in the fall of 1882? (Historical Romance from Revell).
To Write a Wrong by Robin Caroll -- In Angola State Penitentiary, a man is serving time for a crime he didn't commit. Riley Baxter is an eager reporter desperate for a story to make a name for herself. When she stumbles upon the daughter of the incarcerated man, Riley sees a little too much of herself in the teen, and vows to help prove her father's innocence. At the same time, Hayden Simpson has his hands full with keeping his little sister in line, worrying about his job as Police Commissioner, and dealing with his past emotional baggage. The last thing he needs is someone blowing the lid off his emotional bucket. (Romantic Suspense from B & H Publishing).
Material Witness (A Shipshewana Amish Mystery) by Vannetta Chapman -- Masked identities, antique quilts with hidden messages, an Amish boy whose handicap makes him stronger, one brave dog, and a possible hidden treasure. This time it's nonstop action, danger, and a dash of romance. (Cozy Mystery from Zondervan).
A Mom's New Start by Margaret Daley -- Single mom, Maggie Sommerfield, is having trouble with her son and turns to Cody Weston, a counselor, but although he brings comfort and support to her, he has a few secrets of his own. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired).
A Cascade Christmas by Mary Davis, Mildred Colvin, Debby Lee, and Gina Welborn -- While Artisan Sela Fox runs her gift shop, she creates rare and beautiful guitars from redwood burl just as her husband had until his death. When land developer Evan Black shows up on her doorstep, using his humor and good looks to try and persuade her to sell the small slice of heaven she owns, she refuses to give up the only reminder she has left of her husband. But Evan is even more stubborn than the lovely Sela, and he has plans of his own. When he shares his talent for classical guitar using one of Sela's creations, he'd not intended to woo her, but she responds to his serenade. (Romance Novella from Barbour).
Mother of Pearl by Kellie Coates Gilbert -- The football coach went too far with her daughter . . . now this mother will risk everything she holds dear to bring him to justice. (General Contemporary from Abingdon Press).
The Road to Mercy by Kathy Harris -- Josh Harrison, a contemporary Christian singer, and his wife Bethany face a difficult decision that also tests their faith. A rupture in Beth's carotid artery leaves her on the brink of death even as she's pregnant with their first child. While Dr. Ben Abrams urges her to terminate the pregnancy to save her own life, she and Josh step out on faith and decide to carry the baby to full term. During the next few months, Josh struggles with his faith, Beth hides a secret that may destroy their marriage. She also discovers a decades-old connection to Dr. Abrams that could change his life forever. (General Contemporary from Abingdon Press).
Seeking Unseen by Kat Heckenbach -- It may be Angel's wish...but it's Melinda's journey. Angel's foster brother Zack needs help, but on the way she runs into her old friend Melinda, who demands to go along for the return to Toch Island. Melinda is more of an outsider than ever. A secret world surrounds her where even the bugs have magic. So when ex-con Doran Ashe offers her powers of her own, Melinda follows him despite - or maybe because of - everyone's warnings. (Speculative Contemporary Fantasy from Splashdown Books).
Healing Love by Laura V. Hilton -- What happens when an Amish midwife falls in love with an Englisch vet? (Contemporary Romance from Whitaker House).
Survive the Night by Vicki Hinze -- Veteran and now Private Investigator Della Jackson is mourning the loss of her child and subsequent breakup of her marriage and now a stalker is determined to kill her, but she teams up with Paul Mason, the head of Florida Vet Net, to reclaim her life and discovers redemption and forgiveness and finally love. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired).
Trinity: Military War Dog by Ronie Kendig -- With his military war dog, a former Green Beret embarks on the greatest mission of his life-but will it also be his last? (Romantic Suspense from Barbour).
Cedar Creek Seasons by Eileen Key, Becky Melby, Rachael Phillips, and Cynthia Ruchti -- Romantic in every season of the calendar, charming, touristy Cedarburg, Wisconsin, with its last standing original Wisconsin covered bridge, works its magic on everyone. . .From a driven young twenty-something to a recently retired woman, each finds love when she least expects it. (Romance Novella from Barbour).
Sandwich, with a Side of Romance by Krista Phillips -- She moved to Sandwich, Illinois, in search of a new life, but ended up in a giant pickle. (General Contemporary from Abingdon Press).
Stealing Hearts by Amber Stockton -- Grace Baxton struggles to forgive a thief who took precious family heirlooms, yet threatens to steal her heart. (Contemporary Romance from Barbour).
With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin -- World War II flight nurse Lt. Mellie Blake begins an anonymous correspondence with Army engineer Lt. Tom MacGilliver - when they're both transferred to North Africa, will their future be held hostage by the past, or will they reveal their identities? (Historical Romance from Revell).
The Reunion by Dan Walsh -- The Reunion is an emotionally charged story about a forgotten war hero who discovers that the love he lost can be restored. (General Contemporary from Revell).
The Shadow on the Quilt by Stephanie Grace Whitson -- Juliana Sutton's life looks perfect-from the outside. Until her husband's untimely death reveals a devastating truth. (Contemporary Romance from Barbour).
Friday, August 31, 2012
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
WELCOME AUTHOR DEANNA KLINGEL
Deanna Klingel lives in the moutains of western NC. She shares their log home with her husband and until recently, their two golden retrievers. The house is empty without them and they will soon be adopting a new furry BFF. Deanna enjoys golf, visiting with their seven children and eleven grandchildren, and volunteering with therapy dogs.She runs a community dog park. She enjoys school visits and book signings.
Q and A Time
Q:What was the first book you had published, and what did it mean to you?
A: My first book was Just for the Moment: The Remarkable Gift of the Therapy Dog. It's a collection of moments when my two therapy dogs made a difference in other people's lives. They were both senior dogs and I was desperate to have it published while they were still alive so we could share it together. There is a thrill assigned to seeing that first book that will always be cherished.
Q: How many books have you published, and which is your favorite and why?
A:The therapy dog book was first. Avery's Battlefield followed close behind and a few months later Avery's Crossroad. Bread Upon the Water came out last month and Cracks in the Ice will be released in October. I've just finished writing Blue-Eyed Dolls. The Avery and Gunner books are book one and book two, published by Journey Forth. Bread was published by Rafka and Ice is published by Write Integrity. This has surprised many folks. The reason is because the books are all very different and the publishing criteria is different for every publisher. I enjoyed working on all of them and love all the characters for different reasons, for who they are; like my children. My favorite book is probably always the one I'm working on at the time I'm asked. It's the one that eats away at my heart and keeps me awake at night. Like the troublesome child who happens to need more attention than the others at a particular time, it needs me 24-7 while I grow to love it more every day.
Q: Why did you choose to write kids books?
A: Actually, I'm not sure I did choose it. I wrote the Avery and Gunner books, originally one huge saga, and the editor I was working with at the time told me it was for young adults. I was delighted because that's what I enjoy reading. But I didn't set out to write it for kids.
Q: What have you found most challenging in writing?
A: The biggest challenge for me is probably the challenge a lot of people have who are doing what they love most, and that is making time for other things, taking a healthy break now and then for physical exercise, talk to someone, refresh. When you're doing what you love, it's hard to stop!
Q: What advice would you give aspiring authors?
A: Write. Write everyday. Even if it's just a to-do list, write it. That's what it takes. There are no short cuts.
DEANNA'S BOOKS
Avery's Crossroad is "the rest of the story" 1863-65. I have a lot of fun marketing these books at Civil War reenactments and school days.
Avery's Battlefield received the bronze medal for excellence in children's literature from Stars and Flags National Book Award on Veteran's Day 2011. This book covers 1861-1862. 
Just for the Moment: The Remarkable Gift of the Therapy Dog is a series of short stories about Lily and Jessie and the lives they touched. I do a Therapy Dog Seminar as part of book signings for this book. I've spoken to Rotary, Red Hats, assisted living, dog training clubs, 4-H clubs, OLLI at UGA, book stores, and libraries. I've just loved being able to bring the dogs to share their story and inspire others to train and work with their own dogs. I still do the seminars, if anyone is interested. This book has received the Seal of Approval of the Catholic Writers Guild.
Cracks in the Ice, coming in October, is pure fiction. The story of Gina takes us from her childhood of privilege as the niece of a mafia don, to her dreams for Olympic gold on the ice as a young adult. When a series of crisis and bad decisions destroy everything important to her, she spirals into self destructive habits and depression. It is her own daughter with her own dreams of stardom that finally restores Gina's hope and rebuilds their family. 
Now for a chance to win a copy of one of Deanna’s books, your choice.
1) Leave a comment with your email address or check back later for the winner. If you won, you’ll need to email me your information.
2) Become a follower on this blog.
3) Leave a comment on my Youtube video.
Make sure to let me know with your comment what you’ve done.
I can only ship in the US. Drawing will be done on August 28th. Please check back to see if you've won if you didn't leave your email address. If I don't have your email address and haven't heard from you by the September 2nd, I'll draw another name
Visit Deanna's personal website at www.booksbydeanna.com.
Monday, August 20, 2012
CAN'T READ THEM FAST ENOUGHT
Title: Her Homecoming Cowboy
Author: Debra Clopton
Publisher: Love Inspired (July 24, 2012)
Pages: 224
Wow, what a great story. One would think a person could only read so many of what I like to call “Cowboy stories”. I don’t know if I’d ever tire of them…as long as they are well written, with a fresh plot and characters, and that is exactly what DEBRA CLOPTON has accomplished in HER HOMECOMING COYBOY.
Annie Ridgeway has wrestled with the idea long enough. Now she needs to act on it, even if it goes against her sisters dying wish. Even if it means picking up what little she has and moving near the cowboy in question.
When a woman with a kid shows up in Colt Holden’s life, the last thing he expects is to discover he’s the kid’s father. The kid may think of him as his bull riding hero, but Colt isn’t worthy to be call his daddy. Not when he’d committed such a horrible act. One he couldn’t forgive himself for.
I’ve read every single book by MS CLOPTON. Each is just as good as the next. Her characters are unique, with well thought-out situations. She always has that right amount of tension between the hero and heroine. I marvel at the great lines she delivers.
Page 144:
“When Annie stepped into view, her silken golden hair glistening, his stomach tightened, his heart suddenly plunged to his boots, and his hands dampened. He knew without calling the doctor that he had a major aliment.
Oh yeah, he was sick all right. Sick in the head. What had he been thinking? That she was beautiful, full of fire and coals, and spunk.”
Okay, I’m ready for the next one. Bring it on.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
WELCOME AUTHOR STACI STALLINGS
Welcome, Staci Stallings!
Tell us a little about yourself.
Well, I'm a mom and a wife, a daughter and a sister and a friend and in my spare time, I write. I also own two businesses, write three blogs, have founded an online writers' group. I edit for friends, market as much as possible and try to keep up with a house, three kids, two schools, eight cats, and a dog.
Q&A Time
Q: Wow! Busy woman. Besides writing, what do you do in your "spare" or off time?
I love playing on the Wii, but not sit down kinds of games--the active kind. I love Walk It Out and snowboarding and skateboarding. I love how my Mii character can crash, jump back up again, and here we go. It's much better than being incapacitated in the hospital for the foreseeable future.
Q: People always say you should read what you want to write. Do you read much?
I do read and what most people would consider a lot. I just don't have nearly as much time as I would like to have to read. When I read, I mostly choose Christian nonfiction. I consider myself as much of a counselor as a writer. My characters are often stuck in situations, with a past and baggage that they just don't want to put down. I have to help them, or counsel them, through how to do that as they are living through whatever is going on. It's a lot like real people actually.
So I love reading books that help me do that, especially things that touch on God's Grace and healing mercy. Titles I've read in the last year or that I'm reading include "How People Change," "Instruments in the Master's Hand," and "Midwife for the Soul." They all give great insights into the journey through life and how we all go through trials and triumphs that change us and form us into God's handiwork.
Q: What is your all-time favorite story and why?
All time, hands down favorite is Cinderella. I love how the fairy godmother didn't so much change her as she showed her what could be. I think too often we get stuck in our little worlds, doing our daily chores which seem so overwhelming, and we stop believing in the dream. Oh, we have the dreams, but we stop believing we could ever get there. Then when we try, the world (stepsisters) knocks us down to size. But I truly believe that underneath us all is a princess, a beautiful woman who would captivate the prince so much that he would lose all track of time. I also think it's cool that when the prince lost her, he was willing to move heaven and earth and smell some really stinky feet just to find this one of a kind girl.
Ah, romantic AND inspiring! Who could ask for more?
Q: How do you come up with your stories?
Most of mine come in dreams or snippets of dreams. For as long as I can remember, I have put myself to sleep by playing "movies" in my head. They would start as a dream I really liked. Then I would fill in the details backward and forward from the part I had dreamed about, until I'd told myself the whole story. Now, I just write what I see on the "movie" in my head.
Q: Do you do anything special when you write to "get you in the mood" or "inspire creativity"?
Honestly, I could get lost in doing just that. I love to find pictures of my characters on the 'net and then put them together on documents. Him. Her. Him with her. Her and her best friend. The villain. Etc. I have even made videos with them.
I also put together a soundtrack for each book. I love music and love writing to music--whether it has words or not. I find songs that fit the mood of the book, or the characters, and I put those songs together. Then I play them as I write. It makes writing and getting into the characters' heads so much easier.
Q: So did you do that with this latest book?
Actually, that's how this latest book came about. I was writing another book, and I was getting pictures of the main character for it and finding songs. Well, the main character was a guy in a 90's boy band. I had a young lady working here with my kids at the time, and she had gotten interested in my writing process. So she would come in here each day to see what I had going. I started showing her the pictures I had of this guy. However, instead of being fascinated with him, she "fell in love" with another guy in the band.
She kept asking, "Yeah, but what's his story? I want to know what his story is." I finally got so frustrated that one day I said to God, "Okay, if I was going to tell his story, what would it be?" I honestly did not expect an answer. But with no pause at all, "To Protect & Serve" sprang to life on my movie screen in my head. Within a week, I was at a fire house asking about the best way to cut a vent hole in a roof. God truly does work in mysterious ways!
Q: It sounds like this one is about fires. Did you know a lot about fires and firefighting before you started?
If you saw me with a firestarter, you would laugh about that! I nearly burned down my church one time trying to light a candle with a match. So the first thing you have to know is I'm TERRIFIED of fire. I hate it and would not get close to one voluntarily if you paid me a million dollars. So how did I write about firefighters? Well, first I spent a couple of hours following a rookie firefighter around the fire station as he showed me every button and box and compartment on the whole fire truck.
Then he and about five of his friends walked me through every scenario I could think of. House fire. Someone trapped. Apartment fire. Getting into the gear. Getting out of the gear. Sleeping at the firehouse. And on and on. Thank goodness they were patient! When I sat down to write, I just had to rely a lot on the movie in my head (God) telling me what would happen and how.
After I wrote it, I sent it to a friend of mine who is an actual firefighter. One night I get this phone call and it's him, and he's mad that my husband let me go to a fire! "What was he thinking letting you do that? Don't you know how dangerous that can be?" It took me awhile to get him to calm down and awhile longer to convince him that I didn't actually GO to a real fire... though I'm not sure he even still believes me on that count because "I just don't know how you got that many details right without actually being there."
Q: So this book is about Christian firefighters?
This book is about firefighters who because of the danger of the job and because of past mistakes and present difficulties learn about God's grace and mercy and love. I think it really is our story maybe in a little more dramatic setting. But we're all trying to find our way--feeling quite lost and alone at some points. But God is always right there, waiting for us to give up trying to do it on our own and let Him give us a place of rest and comfort. It just so happens this is Jeff and Lisa's story of doing that.
For two days only (Aug. 15 & 16), you can get Staci's book, "To Protect & Serve" free on Kindle! Here's how...
Staci Stallings, the author of this article, is a Contemporary Christian author and the founder of Grace & Faith Author Connection. Staci has a special surprise for you today and tomorrow only...
FREE ON KINDLE TWO DAYS ONLY!
August 15 & 16
Staci's "Amazing!" novel:
To Protect & Serve
"Reading To Protect & Serve, I'm taken away to another world, a world I want to be a part of and never leave. Staci's characters are real with real everyday problems. I love that.
Oh, and the firemen in this story, they're smokin' hot! Especially the hero!"
--Debra, Amazon Reviewer
When control freak Lisa Matheson falls for handsome but shy firefighter, Jeff Taylor, it's possible that life might just be going her way for a change. The only problem is she can't control Jeff or the death wish he seems to have...
Available as a free download from Amazon!
Where you can find Staci, http://stacistallings.wordpress.com/
Monday, August 13, 2012
YEE HAW, ANOTHER BRENDA MINTON STORY
Author: Brenda Minton
Publisher: Steeple Hill (2009)
Pages: 277
I started reading BRENDA MINTON’S books after she’d been writing for several years. I’ve enjoyed her writing and stories so much, I’ve gone back in time, purchasing her older ones.
When former football player, Adam Mackenzie arrives in Oklahoma, after having a camp for underprivileged kids placed in his hands after the death of his cousin, the last thing he expects is to meet an independent mother of two, whom happens to be a war vet.
Jenna Cameron is doing just fine on her own. The last thing she needs is a man in her life. But here he is. Big, and strong, and not at all what the media made him out to be. She has a five year, and beyond plan, which doesn’t include marriage. No. She’s been down that road. Well, almost. She isn’t about to let another man hurt her.
JENNA’S COWBOY HERO by BRENDA MINTON is well written (like all of her books) with wonderful characters. I just love both Jenna and Adam. In many of the books I’ve read with a ranch setting, the hero typically works on the ranch or a rodeo. In JENNA’S COWBOY HERO, Adam was born in the county, but soon moved on to “bigger and better things”, to peruse a football career.
I loved Jenna’s character, the uniqueness of her situation, but loved Adam’s, more. Their falling in love was subtle and sweet. That Adam was placed into a situation he never would have put himself in was a wonderful storyline. So many things that he didn’t think was him, turned out to be just what he needed.
I enjoyed having Clint and Willow, Jenna’s brother and sister-in-laws, in the story. I enjoyed their story in A COWBOY’S HEART, and it was fun to see Clint interact in his sister’s life.
Impatiently waiting for BRENDA MIINTON’S next release.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
GODS BEAUTY SURROUNDS US
Friday, August 10, 2012
SOMETHING DIFFERENT
Author: Lissa Price
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers (March 13, 2012)
Pages: 352
The main character in STARTERS by LISSA PRICE has the same name as of my oldest daughter. That’s what first drew me to the book. My daughter later received the first chapter while exiting the movie theater. It intrigued her enough to ask me to purchase it for her. She didn’t get very far before putting it down. She expressed that she was confused by what was going on.
Every book my daughter has asked me to read after her doing so, I’ve enjoyed. So when she didn’t take to STARTERS, I let it sit in my pile of books to be read for some time before finally gave it a try.
Callie Woodland is on a quest to keep her brother safe, clothes on his back, and food in his stomach. They lost their parents years ago, and have been on their own ever since. In an attempt to make a life for the two of them, Callie decides to rent out her body to Prime Destination.
After Callie completes her rental time, she’ll walk away with enough money to purchase a house and necessities. Yet all is not what it seems at Prime Destination, and soon Callie finds herself in the middle of a mysterious plot. It’s no longer about her brother and her survival, but the lives of every teen.
STARTERS drew me in right away with wonderful writing in first person. In the beginning it’s hard to grasp what’s going on, but stick with it. The outcome will be worth it. I found it hard to put down, never a dull moment. STARTERS is packed full of mystery, suspense, and even a little romance. What a unique plot, with a surprise ending. I definitely see movie written all over it.
I was surprised to discover this is the first book in a series, and look forward to reading the others.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
WELCOME AUTHOR ADA BROWNELL
ADA (NICHOLSON) BROWNELL was born in Colorado's peach country, the youngest of eight. A retired reporter for The Pueblo Chieftain, she won the Colorado Psychiatric Society's 1998 media awareness award; nominated for the American Psychiatric Society's media writing award in 1995 and in 1996; nominated for the American Cancer Society's public health reporter award in 1994; Colorado Associated Press Editors and Reporters, first place, environment, 1994. She has sold 275 free lance pieces to 45 Christian publications. Author of Swallowed by Life: Mysteries of Death, Resurrection and the Eternal, released in 2011; and Confessions of a Pentecostal, 1978; and chapters in five other books, including 50 Tough Questions.
Swallowed by Life: Mysteries of Death, Resurrection and the Eternal
Do you know you are more than a physical body? An award-winning medical and religion writer, Ada Brownell—through her research after the death of her daughter—shows why we have hope for eternal life, not only from a Christian point of view, but because of physical evidence.
Of her 17 years as a journalist, the author spent seven on the medical beat at The Pueblo Chieftain in Colorado, reporting on discoveries about the human genome, neurology, mental illness, cancer, disease prevention, treatments, medications, and more. She also is a religion writer.
Where Can You Find Ada:
Ada’s blog: http://www.inkfromanearthenvessel.blogspot.com
Her book: Swallowed by Life on Amazon at: http://amzn.to/Jnc1rW
Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/JnbKVL
Booksamillion.com http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Swallowed-Life/Ada-Brownell/9781466200937?id=5334036325360
Reviews on GoodReads http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13627644-swallowed-by-life and http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1654534.Ada_Brownell
Should Christians be involved in Politics?
My Christian education teacher is doing a series about Christians and politics, so I started thinking about my point of view.
Some Evangelicals question whether we should be involved. After all, our future lies in the hands of God, not a politician. Others jump in, believing God expects us to do what we can to improve our nation.
On the other hand, I don’t think Christians can avoid politics. If you vote, you’re political. No matter where we live, politics affects us.
Government touched Jesus, too. After an angel appeared to Joseph to tell him King Herod wanted to kill the baby, they escaped into Egypt. Herod killed so many babies trying to find The Christ women wept everywhere in Bethlehem and beyond (Matthew 2:18).
Yet, Jesus told his disciples not to rebel against government. On paying taxes, Jesus said, “Give unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Mark 12:17).
Despite doing good and miracles, Christ’s life was at risk. He warned his disciples, “You will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me” (Matthew 24:9). One of the first of his associates to die was John the Baptist, beheaded for speaking against Herod Antipas’s adultery.
The Roman government, at the urging of religious leaders, finally arrested and killed Jesus. They tried to keep him in the tomb, but couldn’t.
Later, Jesus appeared in a vision to Saul, who persecuted the church in the name of the Sanhedrin, and held the killers’ coats. Saul repented and became the Apostle Paul.
Some people might question what Paul wrote after his conversion: “Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God” (Romans 13:1).
By looking at what Jesus and others in the Bible said and did, I understand we are not to become violent in resisting government. At his trial Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight,” and he could have called 10,000 angels.
Yet, we have Moses who went head-to-head with Pharaoh. Then there was Joseph who interpreted Pharaoh’s dream and prevented widespread famine. Finally we have Paul standing in chains before King Agrippa, almost persuading him to be a Christian.
Followers of Jesus kept preaching that Jesus Christ had risen from the dead even though it was outlawed; kept healing the sick, and working miracles. They were jailed, but when they got out they continued to preach. All of Jesus’s 12 disciples but Judas and John were executed for preaching the gospel. John died imprisoned on Patmos. Judas committed suicide after he betrayed Jesus.
Even now, around the world Christians are killed by government every day. Death is not a worry for most U.S. Christians. The greatest risk is legislation incompatible with our beliefs. Like propaganda, it often contains some truth. A number are morality issues and others could envelop our society such as the “social justice” and “collective salvation” of liberation theology, where you redistribute wealth through the government. Jesus taught “individual justice,” “individual salvation,” and for Christians to “tithe; give to the poor and come, follow him,” (Matthew 19:21) instead of leaving charity to political parties to distribute. We’re also taught “if a man will not work, he shall not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10).
Since the First Century Christians have fed the hungry, bound up the wounded and ill, cared for the homeless, widows and orphans without government help around the world— and they’re still doing it: Convoy of Hope, Operation Blessing, Samaritans Purse, multiple Catholic charities, the Salvation Army, Rescue Missions, and others.
Missionaries also hand out medical care, food, and give homes to orphans. A number combine ministry with AIDS education. Project Rescue and Homes of Hope work to rescue women and children from human-sex-slave trafficking.
Although we can do many things ourselves, we do need government to keep the peace and invoke common justice.
We’re told to pray for kings and those in authority that we might live a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness (1 Timothy 2:1-2) When I pray for elected officials and believe God answers, I’m involved in politics.
Apparently that’s the way God wants it.
My Christian education teacher is doing a series about Christians and politics, so I started thinking about my point of view.
Some Evangelicals question whether we should be involved. After all, our future lies in the hands of God, not a politician. Others jump in, believing God expects us to do what we can to improve our nation.
On the other hand, I don’t think Christians can avoid politics. If you vote, you’re political. No matter where we live, politics affects us.
Government touched Jesus, too. After an angel appeared to Joseph to tell him King Herod wanted to kill the baby, they escaped into Egypt. Herod killed so many babies trying to find The Christ women wept everywhere in Bethlehem and beyond (Matthew 2:18).
Yet, Jesus told his disciples not to rebel against government. On paying taxes, Jesus said, “Give unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Mark 12:17).
Despite doing good and miracles, Christ’s life was at risk. He warned his disciples, “You will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me” (Matthew 24:9). One of the first of his associates to die was John the Baptist, beheaded for speaking against Herod Antipas’s adultery.
The Roman government, at the urging of religious leaders, finally arrested and killed Jesus. They tried to keep him in the tomb, but couldn’t.
Later, Jesus appeared in a vision to Saul, who persecuted the church in the name of the Sanhedrin, and held the killers’ coats. Saul repented and became the Apostle Paul.
Some people might question what Paul wrote after his conversion: “Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God” (Romans 13:1).
By looking at what Jesus and others in the Bible said and did, I understand we are not to become violent in resisting government. At his trial Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight,” and he could have called 10,000 angels.
Yet, we have Moses who went head-to-head with Pharaoh. Then there was Joseph who interpreted Pharaoh’s dream and prevented widespread famine. Finally we have Paul standing in chains before King Agrippa, almost persuading him to be a Christian.
Followers of Jesus kept preaching that Jesus Christ had risen from the dead even though it was outlawed; kept healing the sick, and working miracles. They were jailed, but when they got out they continued to preach. All of Jesus’s 12 disciples but Judas and John were executed for preaching the gospel. John died imprisoned on Patmos. Judas committed suicide after he betrayed Jesus.
Even now, around the world Christians are killed by government every day. Death is not a worry for most U.S. Christians. The greatest risk is legislation incompatible with our beliefs. Like propaganda, it often contains some truth. A number are morality issues and others could envelop our society such as the “social justice” and “collective salvation” of liberation theology, where you redistribute wealth through the government. Jesus taught “individual justice,” “individual salvation,” and for Christians to “tithe; give to the poor and come, follow him,” (Matthew 19:21) instead of leaving charity to political parties to distribute. We’re also taught “if a man will not work, he shall not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10).
Since the First Century Christians have fed the hungry, bound up the wounded and ill, cared for the homeless, widows and orphans without government help around the world— and they’re still doing it: Convoy of Hope, Operation Blessing, Samaritans Purse, multiple Catholic charities, the Salvation Army, Rescue Missions, and others.
Missionaries also hand out medical care, food, and give homes to orphans. A number combine ministry with AIDS education. Project Rescue and Homes of Hope work to rescue women and children from human-sex-slave trafficking.
Although we can do many things ourselves, we do need government to keep the peace and invoke common justice.
We’re told to pray for kings and those in authority that we might live a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness (1 Timothy 2:1-2) When I pray for elected officials and believe God answers, I’m involved in politics.
Apparently that’s the way God wants it.
©Ada Brownell 2012
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Friday, August 3, 2012
ACCIDENTAL OR NOT, I LOVED IT
Author: Denise Hunter
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 3, 2012)
Pages: 304
THE ACCIDENTAL BRIDE is the first book I’ve read by DENISE HUNTER, and it won’t be the last. I spotted the cover of this book sometime ago, and instantly wanted to read it. The title was intriguing, as well as the blurb on the back cover. Sadly, it sat on my bookshelf for some time before I was able to get to it, having other books I was committed to reading first.
Shay Brandenberger is struggling to raise her daughter on her family ranch after her husband up and left, then late succumbed to an early death. Despite her determination and prayers, she’s about to lose the only home she’s ever known.
Travis McCoy is back in Moose Creek, Montana after more than a decade. Little did he know he’d be roped into being the groom for the Founders’ Day wedding reenactment. And the bride is no other then Shay, the woman he ran out on the day he was to be married back when they were teens.
Thrown together, Shay and Travis make the best of a bad situation. At least that’s how Shay sees it. Travis is hoping for something entirely different. A lifetime with the woman he never stopped loving.
Right from the first page I was sunk. DENISE HUNTER is an amazing writer, with a talent for weaving together a remarkable story with a unique plot. I read THE ACCIDENTAL BRIDE in only a few shot days, not able to put it down. What a great twist on the convenient bride scenario.
I took forward to reading more of MS HUNTER’S books in the future. Next on my list of books to purchase is A COWBOY’S TOUCH. The first story in A BIG SKY ROMANCE.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
ACFW AUGUST 2012 NEW RELEASES
More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.
Words in the Wind (Gateway to Gannah #2) by Yvonne Anderson -- Marooned in a desolate canyon half a planet from home, a lone survivor struggles to separate reality from illusion. (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy from Risen Books).
Her Good Name by Ruth Axtell -- When a girl from the other side of the tracks does everything to get the attention of the town's leading citizen, she finds out too late it means little if she doesn't have his heart. (Historical Romance from River North (Moody).
Avenir Eclectia, Volume 1 by Grace Bridges, Pauline Creeden, Kat Heckenbach, Keven Newsome, H.A. Titus, Fred Warren and more -- A human colony in the constellation of the Whale struggles to survive on an aging orbital station peopled with bureaucrats, wizards, beggars and cyborgs, and a violently unstable planet overrun with giant bugs and telepathic sea creatures. (Speculative Fiction from Splashdown Books).
Something Blue by Dianne Christner -- Life is going well for Megan Weaver. She has the job of her dreams working with Chance Campbell, a charming and daring missionary pilot. Then Micah Zimmerman moves into her parents' home as a pastoral candidate for the Big Darby Conservative Mennonite church. It wouldn't be so bad, except Megan remembers her unkindness to Micah as a gawky young man who once had a crush on her in college. But even though Micah has improved, he's nothing compared to Chance. Micah finds that his heart for Megan hasn't changed, but he's having to battle to keep the single… (Romance from Barbour).
Over the Edge by Mary Connealy -- Seth Kincaid survived a fire in a cave, but he's never been the same. He was always a reckless youth, but now he's gone over the edge. He ran off to the Civil War and came back crazier than ever. Seth Kincaid survived a fire in a cave, but he's never been the same. He was always a reckless youth, but now he's gone over the edge. He ran off to the Civil War and came back crazier than ever. After the war, nearly dead from his injuries, it appears Seth got married. Oh, he's got a lot of excuses, but his wife isn't happy to find out Seth doesn't remember her. Callie has searched, prayed, and worried. Now she's come to the Kincaid family's ranch in Colorado to find her lost husband. (Historical Romance from Bethany House).
Living in Harmony by Mary Ellis -- Amy King must reconcile her past relationship with a shunned aunt before she can become any man's wife and take her place in a new and alien community. (Contemporary Romance from Harvest House).
Hearts in the Mist by Elizabeth Goddard -- While Artisan Sela Fox runs her gift shop, she creates rare and beautiful guitars from redwood burl just as her husband had until his death. When land developer Evan Black shows up on her doorstep, using his humor and good looks to try and persuade her to sell the small slice of heaven she owns, she refuses to give up the only reminder she has left of her husband. But Evan is even more stubborn than the lovely Sela, and he has plans of his own. When he shares his talent for classical guitar using one of Sela's creations, he'd not intended to woo her, but she responds to his serenade. (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents (Barbour).
Walks Alone by Sandi G. Rog -- A Cheyenne warrior bent on vengeance. A pioneer woman bent on fulfilling a dream. Until their paths collide. (Romance from White-Fire Publishing).
Lethal Legacy by Irene Hannon -- When Kelly Warren discovers a new piece of evidence that she believes proves her father's "suicide" was really murder, she takes it to Detective Cole Taylor. He doesn't put much credence in her claim, and nothing in his review of the case suggests foul play. Yet when he digs deeper, he discovers a startling secret that links her to a long-ago crime-and a deadly killer. Is history repeating itself? And if not, then who wants her silenced? (Romantic Suspense from Revell).
Lakeside Family by Lisa Jordan -- The one man she never wanted to see again is the only one who can save her daughter's life. (Romance from Love Inspired).
Central Park Rendevous by Dineen Miller, Ronie Kendig, MaryLu Tyndall and Kim Sawyer -- Experience the beauty of Central Park where four heroes dare to risk their hearts once more for a timeless love. (A romance novella from Barbour).
Angel of the Cove by Sandra Robbins -- In 1894 a young woman spends the summer apprenticing to a mountain midwife in Cades Cove, a remote valley deep in the Smoky Mountains. (Historical Romance from Harvest House).
Rodeo Ashes by Shannon Taylor Vanatter -- A young rodeo widow must overcome grief for her husband and find new love. (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents (Barbour).
Words in the Wind (Gateway to Gannah #2) by Yvonne Anderson -- Marooned in a desolate canyon half a planet from home, a lone survivor struggles to separate reality from illusion. (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy from Risen Books).
Her Good Name by Ruth Axtell -- When a girl from the other side of the tracks does everything to get the attention of the town's leading citizen, she finds out too late it means little if she doesn't have his heart. (Historical Romance from River North (Moody).
Avenir Eclectia, Volume 1 by Grace Bridges, Pauline Creeden, Kat Heckenbach, Keven Newsome, H.A. Titus, Fred Warren and more -- A human colony in the constellation of the Whale struggles to survive on an aging orbital station peopled with bureaucrats, wizards, beggars and cyborgs, and a violently unstable planet overrun with giant bugs and telepathic sea creatures. (Speculative Fiction from Splashdown Books).
Something Blue by Dianne Christner -- Life is going well for Megan Weaver. She has the job of her dreams working with Chance Campbell, a charming and daring missionary pilot. Then Micah Zimmerman moves into her parents' home as a pastoral candidate for the Big Darby Conservative Mennonite church. It wouldn't be so bad, except Megan remembers her unkindness to Micah as a gawky young man who once had a crush on her in college. But even though Micah has improved, he's nothing compared to Chance. Micah finds that his heart for Megan hasn't changed, but he's having to battle to keep the single… (Romance from Barbour).
Over the Edge by Mary Connealy -- Seth Kincaid survived a fire in a cave, but he's never been the same. He was always a reckless youth, but now he's gone over the edge. He ran off to the Civil War and came back crazier than ever. Seth Kincaid survived a fire in a cave, but he's never been the same. He was always a reckless youth, but now he's gone over the edge. He ran off to the Civil War and came back crazier than ever. After the war, nearly dead from his injuries, it appears Seth got married. Oh, he's got a lot of excuses, but his wife isn't happy to find out Seth doesn't remember her. Callie has searched, prayed, and worried. Now she's come to the Kincaid family's ranch in Colorado to find her lost husband. (Historical Romance from Bethany House).
Living in Harmony by Mary Ellis -- Amy King must reconcile her past relationship with a shunned aunt before she can become any man's wife and take her place in a new and alien community. (Contemporary Romance from Harvest House).
Hearts in the Mist by Elizabeth Goddard -- While Artisan Sela Fox runs her gift shop, she creates rare and beautiful guitars from redwood burl just as her husband had until his death. When land developer Evan Black shows up on her doorstep, using his humor and good looks to try and persuade her to sell the small slice of heaven she owns, she refuses to give up the only reminder she has left of her husband. But Evan is even more stubborn than the lovely Sela, and he has plans of his own. When he shares his talent for classical guitar using one of Sela's creations, he'd not intended to woo her, but she responds to his serenade. (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents (Barbour).
Walks Alone by Sandi G. Rog -- A Cheyenne warrior bent on vengeance. A pioneer woman bent on fulfilling a dream. Until their paths collide. (Romance from White-Fire Publishing).
Lethal Legacy by Irene Hannon -- When Kelly Warren discovers a new piece of evidence that she believes proves her father's "suicide" was really murder, she takes it to Detective Cole Taylor. He doesn't put much credence in her claim, and nothing in his review of the case suggests foul play. Yet when he digs deeper, he discovers a startling secret that links her to a long-ago crime-and a deadly killer. Is history repeating itself? And if not, then who wants her silenced? (Romantic Suspense from Revell).
Lakeside Family by Lisa Jordan -- The one man she never wanted to see again is the only one who can save her daughter's life. (Romance from Love Inspired).
Central Park Rendevous by Dineen Miller, Ronie Kendig, MaryLu Tyndall and Kim Sawyer -- Experience the beauty of Central Park where four heroes dare to risk their hearts once more for a timeless love. (A romance novella from Barbour).
Angel of the Cove by Sandra Robbins -- In 1894 a young woman spends the summer apprenticing to a mountain midwife in Cades Cove, a remote valley deep in the Smoky Mountains. (Historical Romance from Harvest House).
Rodeo Ashes by Shannon Taylor Vanatter -- A young rodeo widow must overcome grief for her husband and find new love. (Contemporary Romance from Heartsong Presents (Barbour).
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