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Devotions

Happy Belated New Year!

Happy Belated (because I’ve been taking a break from the blog) New Year!

It’s been a few weeks since I’ve sent you anything. Sorry about that. Or you’re welcome, depending on your point of view.

There are big plans (editor’s note: “big plans” is definitely an exaggeration) for Junkyard Wisdom™ in 2025, and I’d value your suggestions.

First, there will be a traditional Easter devotion. Woohoo! Should Sully show up?

But the Easter series is followed by an untraditional and perhaps uncomfortable devotion series. My imagination gets a little, um, expansive.

Imagine Matthew, Mark, Luke and John walking into a …

Devotions, Junkyard Wisdom Advent,

Halloween and Advent

This is Halloween season, not Advent, so it’s a bit awkward to promote my new book of Advent devotions. But hang with me a bit … there’s a stronger connection than you might think.

Advent is about preparing ourselves for the arrival of Jesus. The traditional focus is on love, joy, hope, and peace. This is especially helpful when we are drowning in hyper activity that pulls us away from personal reflection. Advent calls us to step out of the hustle and bustle of the season and live in the anticipation of something world-changing.

Now, how in the world …

Devotions, Junkyard Wisdom Advent, So you think you're a writer?,

Junkyard Wisdom Advent is Here!

My new book is now available for preorder! You can buy it here on Amazon.

This book, Junkyard Wisdom Advent: Authentic, Daily Devotions About the Human, Humorous, and Sometimes Messy Side of the Advent Story, is largely in print because of your support. I’ll explain why.

A few years ago I was playing around with an idea for a devotion series. What if, I thought, devotions weren’t so wimpy? What if they weren’t so filled with clichés and had more grit? What if they were stories that wrestled with unanswerable questions as they explored the untold portions of the …

Book Reviews, Devotions, So you think you're a writer?,

Book Launch!

Want to be part of a book launch? I’m making a list of people who will help get the word out about my upcoming book of Advent devotions. Let me know if you’d like to help!

Hopefully the book will be available for preorder soon, and it should be ready for shipping on October 1. It’s coming fast!

Somewhere I read, “According to my chocolate Advent calendar, there are two days left before Christmas.” That’s a bit how I feel these days as the weeks fly by.

If you are curious, the book is based on the Advent devotions written …

Devotions, Freestarters™, Generosity, Philanthropy,

Freestarter™ Devotions

I’m happy to announce that next month, starting July 14, I’m releasing a new devotion series based on what I call Freestarters. Or if you ask the trademark office, Freestarters™. More on that in the series.

A few billion people have signed up for these daily email devotions, but if you haven’t you can signup here.

If you are wondering what the heck a freestarter is, check out this brief explanation. And then imagine what bible characters fit the description. There are a lot of them! The series will focus on ten.

Speaking of freestarters, once a year our …

Devotions, So you think you're a writer?,

Surprise to Share

Shhhhh … I have two secrets to share. It’s only for those of you on this blog email list. I’ll share it publicly later.

First, a new devotion series is coming. It’s going to be a fun one! Years ago I had an insight and thought it might make a good book, but it wasn’t expansive enough for a book. Then a few months ago it struck me what a tremendous devotion series it can be. It’s in the final drafting stages now. More to share as the summer arrives.

Second, even bigger news, an actual new book is coming! …

Devotions, Uncategorized,

The Gospel of Mark

In past years the Easter devotions were based on the Gospel of Luke. This year they are based on the Gospel of Mark. It’s a good source for short, simple devotions because the author wrote in a very direct manner.

The brevity of the writing lends itself to what I do well. Namely, make stuff up to fill in the blank spots! I will read a story in Mark and immediately have questions. The book leaves the reader begging for more detail.

Here’s an example. One passage that won’t be in the devotions is Mark 2:18-22. There are several …

Devotions,

Those Silly Devotions

I’ve had a successful four decade long marriage with my high school sweetheart. I’ve grown a significant company. I’ve served on several distinguished boards. I’ve visited so many countries some don’t exist anymore. I’ve saved thousands of acres of rainforest. I’ve been invited to the White House. I co-founded a ministry that was mentioned on the cover of Christianity Today. I’ve written three books. I’ve raised two great kids who are now adults. I’ve been to some of the finest hotels and restaurants in the world. I’ve been in some of the poorest places on the planet.*

And you …