They Also Serve...

For several years now, circumstances have required me to pull back from activities that make me feel like I’m contributing. God whispers, “If my purpose is for you to wait, will you trust I love you no less?”

 







John Milton explored that struggle.

On Blindness

When I consider how my light is spent
Ere half my days in this dark world and wide,
And that one Talent which is death to hide
Lodged with me useless, though my soul more bent
To serve therewith my Maker, and present
My true account, lest He returning chide,
"Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?"
I fondly ask. But Patience, to prevent
That murmur, soon replies, "God doth not need
Either man's work or his own gifts. Who best
Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best. His state
Is kingly: thousands at his bidding speed,
And post o'er land and ocean without rest;
They also serve who only stand and wait."
Advent is a wonderful time to ponder waiting. Has a life situation caused you to feel like you can’t contribute as much as you’d like? Have you felt God's call to "wait," in some area?

Let's celebrate that our thoughts, our praise, our trust in the place of waiting can all be our service to Him. Let's also celebrate that He is faithful to love us and never leave us.

Blessed Advent Season!
His,
Sharon Hinck 

Book Launch Thanks

I'm still feeling the warm glow of gratitude--a good state to be in as Thanksgiving approaches!

This Saturday, friends stopped by to help celebrate that the entire Sword of Lyric series is back in print, with extra material, and new devotions guides included in the back of each book. The work has been grueling for me -- in part because of the health challenges that made the project feel impossible each and every day of the last several years. That's why seeing the books stacked on the table was a visual reminder of God's generous and tender grace.

He did it!

The day was also special, because I was so touched that friends, family, and readers of the books, took time in a gorgeous weekend to stop by and visit. I soaked in the wonderful chance to catch up with people, hear what they are up to, and share joy (and relief) that this project is now completed.

I'm also feeling thankful as I think of the various friends who helped. Some spread the word, some brought treats, some brought friends, some prayed for me consistently these last few years. The people at the open house were a small representation of all the people whose love and support went into this work.

Here's one example. My friend Joyce created these fun "book cover chocolates":

She printed labels with book covers and wrapped those around small candy bars. One of the children who came said "Restorer's Journey" tasted the best. I haven't decided my favorite yet. Each book has a unique flavor. Hmm... guess I'll need to do more research on the leftovers. :-)

(I realize most of my readers don't live in my neighborhood, and can't drop by to have a book autographed. But I can still sign and personalize your book at Signed by the Author. Check it out! It's a super fun concept.)

Have you faced some long projects recently? Building a house, remodeling a kitchen, writing a novel, teaching a class, fighting an illness? Has God comforted and strengthened you in the midst of the work through the encouragement of friends?

He's so good that way.

Let's give thanks!

Blessings
Sharon

Trusting Him to Multiply

"We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish," they answered.
"Bring them here to me," he (Jesus) said. (Matthew 14:17-18 NIV)
 
I sit in my little office, sighing over my two small fish and rather dry loaves of barley bread, feeling the futility of the offering in the face of the world's needs. Do you ever feel that way? 

We do the work in front of us, 
love the people around us, 
stay alert for tiny ways to help someone, 
sing an off-key melody of praise . . . 

. . . and wonder if we are making a difference.
 
We often don't glimpse the results. All the better. We walk by faith. Called to serve--not necessarily to succeed. God is producing fruit, "fruit that will last," but it is often growing in secret. It's not for us to tally.

I like to imagine there will be a time in heaven when God will page through a scrapbook with us, and He will trace the impact of some of the simple acts of love we offered. Remind us of the hours of closet prayer we weren't sure He heard. Show us the second act of the story. How He breathed power and life into a word, a prayer, a gift - and multiplied it until baskets were needed for the leftovers.

It's a recurring theme in all my novels. God can make a difference through our lives. Not because of our greatness--relying on our own resources would lead to stinky fish and moldy bread. But because of His ability to multiply. To imbue our simple lives with His grace so that we can tear off a piece of barley loaf and pass it to a friend. And they can break the bread and hand it to another. And somehow it doesn't run out.

Can you sing Him a chorus of praise today, even if your throat is hoarse from tears?

Can you listen to a friend, even if you can't solve her problem?

Can you pray one more time over a need, even when it seems your prayers bounce off the ceiling?

Can you do the simple act of love that no one sees and no one appreciates?

"We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish," they answered.
"Bring them here to me," he (Jesus) said. (Matthew 14:17-18 NIV)

Jesus may be planning a miracle. Let's trust Him to multiply.

(adapted from Sharon's Book Buddy Newsletter, 10/07)

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck

---

Congratulations to the Winners!

Thank you to everyone who visited my blog during the Scavenger Hunt!

The grand prize of a Kindle and 31 books goes to: Jennifer Friedley

The 2nd and 3rd prize $50 gift certificates go to: Laura McEwen and Gretchen Michels Garrison

The BONUS prize of four of my contemporary fiction titles goes to: Betti Mace

But EVERYONE who participated is a winner because we all got to find out about new releases by terrific Christian authors in a variety of genres.

Thanks for participating!

Blessings,
Sharon Hinck
...stories for the hero in all of us

SCAVENGER HUNT STOP #24

Welcome to the Fall Christian Fiction Scavenger Hunt!

Follow the clues in red on each post, beginning from Stop #1. Along the way you’ll have the fun of getting to know the 31 participating Christian authors, and reading unique articles found nowhere else. And I’m offering a SHARON'S BLOG BONUS PRIZE, as well – with details at the end of this blog post.

When you reach the final stop, you can enter for a grand prize: the featured new novels from each of the 31 authors! PLUS a new Kindle Fire! 2^nd & 3^rd Prizes: $50 Amazon, B&N, CBD or BookDepository.com gift certificate.

3 vital details:

·       * Contest is open to international entrants. If the winner lives outside the United States, they shall win the equivalent in gift certificate funds to the prize in US dollars.

·      * The Hunt begins 10/25 at noon MDT and ends 10/28 at midnight MDT
     * Be ready to provide the completed clue quote, gathered from all 31 stops, within 24 hours of email notification or another winner will be randomly drawn. No need to email/submit it, unless you are notified on 10/29/12.

My guest - Mary Lu Tyndall:

I’m delighted to be hosting the lovely Mary Lu Tyndall. A Christy Award finalist and best-selling author, MaryLu Tyndall dreamt of tall ships and swashbuckling pirates during her childhood years on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. She holds a degree in Math and worked as a software engineer for fifteen years before testing the waters as a writer. Now, while writing her twelfth novel, she manages a home, husband, and six kids while battling three cats who have decided that her keyboard is the best place to sleep!  She believes that without popcorn and chocolate, life would not be worth living, and her sole motivation in life is to bring others closer to God.

 About Veil of Pearls:

 

 She thought she could outrun her past. . .

It is 1811, and the prosperous port city of Charleston is bustling with plantation owners, slaves, and immigrants. Immigrants such as the raven-haired Adalia Winston. But Adalia has a secret: her light skin belies that she is part black and a runaway slave from Barbados. Skilled in herbal remedies, Adalia finds employment with a local doctor and settles into a quiet life, thankful for her freedom but still fearful that her owner will find her.

Born into one of Charleston's prominent families, Morgan Rutledge is handsome, bored—and enamored of the beautiful Adalia, who spurns his advances. Morgan's persistence, however, finally wins, and Adalia is swept into the glamorous world of Charleston high society.

But Adalia's new life comes at a high price—that of denying her heritage and her zeal for God. How far is she willing to go to win the heart of the man she loves? And when her secret is revealed, will that love be enough, or will the truth ruin Morgan and send Adalia back into slavery?

(A note from Sharon: When I get lost in a novel, I love learning more about the actual history of the period. Mary is here today to share Ten Fascinating Facts about Charleston, South Carolina.)

An Exclusive from Mary Lu Tyndall:

The entire city of Colonial Charleston (then known as Charles Town) was surrounded by a wall  like a castle, complete with a moat and draw bridges, until 1718 when the town grew too big.

On September 14^th, 1752, a powerful hurricane struck Charleston, flooding it with a 17 foot storm surge that left most of down town under 9 feet of water.

 The notorious pirate, Blackbeard, held the city hostage for 3 days by blockading the port, forbidding ships to go in or out. What did he want? Gold, Silver? No. A chest of medical supplies!

In 1886, a magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck Charleston, killing 60 people and costing the city 6 million dollars’ worth of damage.

During the first 25 years of Charleston’s existence, pirates were welcome in the city!

Charleston changed its name from Charles Town to Charleston after the Revolutionary War in order to rid the name of any reference to the British monarchy.

Charleston was dubbed “The Holy City” due to the vast number of churches lining its streets as well as its long tolerance of all types of religions, including Roman Catholic and Judaism.

George Washington visited Charleston in 1791 and commended the city for its commitment to institutional care of city’s orphans through the “The Orphan House” designed by Thomas Bennet.

The bloodiest slave revolt in Colonial America occurred in 1739 at the Stono River Bridge twenty miles south of Charles Town. A group of slaves murdered  over a dozen whites, looted a store, burned houses and set out for Spanish Florida.

One of the most famous women pirates, Anne Bonny, came from Charleston where she married a local sailor and set sail for the Caribbean. Once there, she abandoned her husband and took up with the famous pirate, Calico Jack Rackam.

You can find Mary Lu’s Veil of Pearls at

Her Website
Purchase at
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
ChristianBook

THE SCAVENGER HUNT BASICS:

Before you go, write down this STOP #24 clue: FINISH BY

Your next stop is Mary Lu’s own blog!

BEFORE YOU GO:

SHARON'S BONUS PRIZE - FOUR BOOKS !!!

I’m excited about my new release, TheRestorer’s Journey-Expanded Edition. I’m asking for help in letting people know that the book has released. EVEN IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE BOOK YET, YOU CAN HELP LET PEOPLE KNOW IT EXISTS. If you let others know about The Restorer’s Journey-ExpandedEdition in some way ("like" the book page at amazon, "like" a post about RJEE on facebook, email a friend to tell them to check out the book, mention it on Goodreads, tweet, request your local library to order the book, blogging, etc.) leave a note in the comments telling me how you spread the word, along with an email where I can reach you if you win. At the end of the scavenger hunt, I’ll draw one name and the winner will receive ALL my general fiction novels (The Secret Life of Becky Miller, Renovating Becky Miller, Symphony of Secrets and Stepping into Sunlight). Feel free to look at past blog posts about The Restorer’sJourney-Expanded Edition to help you share the info. Have fun!

The Restorer's Journey-Expanded Edition Now Available

My copies arrived! I love the smell of ink and the feel of crisp new pages. Holding a new release is always an exciting day, but especially for this book. You see, the past several years, working on the new expanded editions of the Sword of Lyric series has been my labor of love.

It's been a gift to have this project to work on, and a true miracle of God's provision as each of the three has been completed and put back into print. I put my heart into the new devotional guide (included in the back of each book), and put my love into each bonus scene. Much like my characters experience, the road has felt difficult, but the One has revealed His goodness in many ways along this adventure.

Places to find The Restorer's Journey-Expanded Edition (Book 3 of the Sword of Lyric series):

Marcher Lord Press (paperback and ebook)
Barnes and Noble Nook
Amazon Kindle
Kobo ebook

About the book:

The Restorer’s Journey-Expanded Edition

His choices have the power to save or destroy.

With a loved one’s life at stake, Jake charges through the portal into Lyric to stage a dramatic rescue, trusting that the signs that mark him as Restorer will guarantee success. But everything familiar in Lyric has vanished, swept away by deadly lies and a corrupt king. As inexorable forces conspire to turn him from his purpose, Jake finds his path leading to places beyond his courage.

While he confronts the temptation to flee his calling, Susan struggles in brutal captivity. Can she gain freedom before the enemy destroys her spirit, and will Jake choose to follow his destiny before everything is lost?

(Book three in the groundbreaking Sword of Lyric series, The Restorer’s Journey won a Carol Award for speculative fiction. This new expanded edition includes bonus scenes, a ten week devotional guide, and links to audio and video extras.) 

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck

Scavenger Hunt!

Hooray! The Fall Christian Fiction Scavenger Hunt begins at noon on October 25th. I'm jazzed to be participating again. You can read about the hunt here, and mark your calendar. We did this event last spring and it was a blast.

As a BONUS treat, I'm giving away a set of ALL my general fiction paperback novels (The Secret Life of Becky Miller, Renovating Becky Miller, Symphony of Secrets, and Stepping Into Sunlight) with a drawing from THIS post.

Here's how to enter for my personal bonus prize.

I'm looking for folks to help create Book Buzz for my new release, The Restorer's Journey-Expanded Edition. You can tweet to let your friends know about the book's release, or post on facebook, or blog, or ask your local library to order the book. OR you can get extra creative and think of other fun ways to let your friends know about the book's release.

Just leave a comment to this post from now until the scavenger hunt ends on October 28, telling me how you created buzz for The Restorer's Journey-Expanded Edition, and you'll be entered in the drawing. Extra creative and enthusiastic ideas will be entered twice - doubling your odds. Please also leave an email where I can reach you if you win. Thanks!

I hope you'll have fun with both these contests, and enjoy discovering new Christian fiction!

Blessings,
Sharon Hinck

Bookshelf Wednesday: Raft, River, Robot

Normally on Bookshelf Wednesday, I share a favorite treasure sitting on my shelf. I'm cheating a bit this week, since I don't have this one yet - but I know this will one I'll WANT on my shelf.

Some of you will remember that I've done some book tours with other Christian fantasy authors. One of the wonderful writers I was privileged to get to know on a west coast tour was L. B. Graham. Here's some info about his new release.

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“The Raft, The River, and The Robot”

Travel for two young groundlings is dangerous. Hunters from the hives patrol the skies and sadistic packs roam the cities and the roads. But Jim, compelled by his father’s mysterious dying words to go to the Caretaker and find Florence sets out anyway, taking with him HF, his friend and companion since childhood. Their hope lies on the river, and the raft that will carry them through the long nights ahead and toward their destiny.

While ‘The Raft, The River, and The Robot’ pays homage to Twain's immortal classic, ‘The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,’ it is original and compelling in its own right. So come along, the future awaits.

Hi, L.B.! It's fun to catch up with you. Thanks for visiting my blog today.

 You’ve referred to R3 (“The Raft, The River, and The Robot”) elsewhere as a ‘futuristic Huck Finn story,’ and yet Huck Finn seems so rooted in our past – where did you get the idea for this?

I always find questions about where ideas come from really hard. Creativity can be such a difficult thing to explain. Somewhere, somehow, I got the image of a boy and a robot on a raft stuck in my head. So, I went in search of a story to explain that image, and R3 is what I found.

The description of R3 makes the future sound pretty frightening, would it be fair to call this book dystopian?

Literally, no, but kind of. A typical dystopian book envisions a bleak world for most, while some are usually living large at their expense (see for instance, “The Hunger Games.”) In R3, the future is actually pretty good for the vast majority of people who live in cities that stretch ‘up’ into the sky called Hives, rather than ‘out’ across the landscape. Those who live outside the Hives, called groundlings – well, they can face some pretty terrifying circumstances.

That doesn’t sound a whole lot like Huck Finn. Is the raft/river motif the only connection?

Not at all. I’m a huge fan of Twain’s story, and there are names, characters, plot events, even images, lines and word choices that draw upon the original. I’ve taken great pains to connect the stories in ways that are distinct and creative. I think any reader familiar with “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” will be able to see the connections and appreciate them, while also appreciating that R3 is very much its own story.

What would you say the story is about – other than a raft and a river and a robot?

At the most basic level of plot, the story is a quest to fulfill a dying father’s last request. On a thematic level, I would say it is about friendship and identity, much like the original that inspired it. One of the really beautiful things about Huck Finn is the friendship forged between Huck and Jim on the river, and I’d say that definitely influenced me as I conceived of R3. And also like the original, my main character goes on both a literal journey and a journey of discovery to figure out who he is.

Where can interested readers get the book?

Paperback and Kindle at Amazon

Thanks so much for visiting, L.B. and blessings on your new release!

Sharon Hinck

"The long passage stretched into a forever of lines, diminishing to a point in the future that could never be reached."

(The Restorer's Journey-Expanded Edition by Sharon Hinck, Marcher Lord Press, 2012)

Hmmm. That's how my "To Do" list makes me feel some days. :-)

Hope your journey today is eased by God's grace!

Blessings,
Sharon

Devotional Classics

Bookshelf Wednesday: Devotional Classics

 What could Christians of the 1100's, 1300's, 1600's, or even 1930's have to share that would be relevant to our current daily challenges of living for Christ in modern society? Turns out they have quite a bit to say.

I'm constantly amazed when I find my own questions, journeys and struggles reflected in the writing of Christians whose era and life situations are so different from my own.

This volume of Devotional Classics edited by Richard Foster and James Smith gives a rich sampling of Christian thinkers through the ages. The chapters create groupings by themes such as "The Prayer-Filled Life" or "The Word-Centered Life." In addition to selections from the writings of great men and women of faith, each section includes Scripture, reflection questions, and suggested exercises.

The copy from my shelf is a bit dog-eared, but as I paged through it today to write my recommendation, I decided I'd like to dog-ear it even more. As much as I love the work of contemporary authors, there is a wealth of blessing to be discovered from Christian writers of past generations.

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck

Book Release Day

Hooray!
The Restorer's Journey-Expanded Edition releases today in paperback.
(Kindle/Nook/Kobo versions to follow soon)

Creating the expanded editions of the first three Sword of Lyric books has been a labor of love for me over the last several years...love for the stories, the characters, and love for the readers who have told me how much the books have meant to them.

But until I was proofreading the galleys last week, I didn't even realize there were over 60 pages of new content in RJEE. Wow! Deleted scenes, an alternate opening, bonus scenes, a devotion guide, links to a professional audio interview, bonus articles, music, and more. I hope you enjoy returning to Lyric with Jake and Susan!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The Restorer’s Journey-Expanded Edition

  by Sharon Hinck

His choices have the power to save or destroy.

With a loved one’s life at stake, Jake charges through the portal into Lyric to stage a dramatic rescue, trusting that the signs that mark him as Restorer will guarantee success. But everything familiar in Lyric has vanished, swept away by deadly lies and a corrupt king. As inexorable forces conspire to turn him from his purpose, Jake finds his path leading to places beyond his courage.

While he confronts the temptation to flee his calling, Susan struggles in brutal captivity. Can she gain freedom before the enemy destroys her spirit, and will Jake choose to follow his destiny before everything is lost?

(Book three in the groundbreaking Sword of Lyric series, The Restorer’s Journey won a Carol Award for speculative fiction. This new expanded edition includes bonus scenes, a ten week devotional guide, and links to audio and video extras.) 

Blessings!

Sharon Hinck

This photo shows why I love hiking so much. We caught the sun breaking through on a recent amble on the Superior Hiking Trail.

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck

A Morning Thought

A photo from sunrise up north, and an opening line of a scene from The Restorer's Journey-Expanded Edition (which releases next week).

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck

Glimpses of Glory

"Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth." (Psalm 57)

My hubby and I recently spent a week up north. The beauties of Lake Superior, of ridgelines covered with fall color, and secluded trails through pine forests all gave us glimpses of God's glory and refreshed our hearts.

Good timing for me, as I returned to the intense work of proofreading the galleys for The Restorer's Journey-Expanded Edition, which is about to release. I'm so excited to have the third book of the series back in print, and the new expanded version has over 60 pages of new material. I'll be visiting some blogs, doing a special contest, and other fun things throughout October as the book releases. Stay tuned!

And as I prepare for the release of RJEE, I'm continued to feel blessed as people discover the first and second books, as well. The Christian Manifesto recently posted an indepth review of The Restorer-Expanded Edition (book one in the Sword of Lyric series) which you can read here.

It's tempting to get swept into the work of a book release and lose perspective on other aspects of life. While we were enjoying fall color, I kept meditating on Psalm 127. "Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain."

Whatever projects are requiring our attention, let's take time to step aside, look up, and catch some glimpses of God's glory over all the earth.

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck

Celtic Prayer

One of my favorite authors, Calvin Miller, recently graduated to heaven. His poetic The Singer trilogy enlivened my imagination when I was in high school. His non-fiction book Into the Depths of God challenged my Christian walk. But the volume I treasure most has a personal story behind it.

Several years ago, I was at the International Christian Retail convention, doing a book signing for The Restorer when it was first released. As I was meeting people and signing books, a sweet woman greeted me and said, "My husband has written some fantasy, too."

"Oh, what's his name?" I was familiar with many Christian fantasy authors and wondered if I'd heard of him.

"Calvin," she answered.

I stared at her name tag, with the last name of Miller. "Calvin Miller?" I sputtered. "THE Calvin Miller?" I became incoherent as I stammered out how much his work had meant to me over the years. I attended my first writer's conference in part because he was the keynote speaker. She was gracious as I was a babbling basket case of enthusiasm.

That alone would be a cherished memory of the convention. But a few minutes later she was back, slipping me a book. "Since Calvin is signing at the same time as you, and you won't be able to get over to his booth, I had him sign a copy for you."

I will always treasure my autographed copy of The Path of Celtic Prayer.

The book is a celebration of a life where prayer is as integral to each day as breathing.

I'm so grateful for God's gift of language, for the printed word, and for writers like Calvin Miller whose books can mentor us from afar.

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck

Breakthroughs

“Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love
and his wonderful deeds  for mankind,
for he breaks down gates of bronze
and cuts through bars of iron.” – Psalm 107:15-16 (NIV)

As a writer, there are days when the story gets stuck, when finding words is like fishing in oatmeal, when our own doubts become a bully holding us under the water as we choke and gasp for air. What a gift it is to run to Jesus, to know that He has the power to free us and give us the breakthroughs we need.

Lord, we need Your breakthroughs. Break down the bars of iron that hold us captive, whether in relationships with You, others, our work, or ourselves. Free us by Your love. Amen.

Looking for Restorer Fans

Are you a fan of the Restorer books? I'm looking for a few enthusiastic readers to be "influencers" for The Restorer's Journey-Expanded Edition. You'll receive an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) and then you get to help spread the word when the book releases in October. Email me through the contact page at my website if you are interested!

Fruit that Lasts

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.” John 15:16 (NIV)

I think it’s a longing in every heart to make a difference, to accomplish something each day, to allow God to create something of worth from our lives. We can distract ourselves with chasing activities that feel important in the moment, but Jesus has appointed us for more. He invites us to bear fruit that will last.

Lord, show us where You want us to serve today. Direct us, so that we use our time in ways that will enable You to grow fruit that will last into eternity. When we can’t yet see the fruit that You are creating through our lives, help us walk in faith. Amen

Sharon Hinck

Another New Arrival

Symphony of Secrets is now available on Kindle!

Talented flutist Amy Johnson’s dreams come true when she wins a spot with the Minneapolis Symphony. But this armchair detective has trouble concentrating on the notes as she begins to see devious motives behind her fellow musicians’ mishaps. Meanwhile, her musically talented daughter is forsaking the arts for cheerleading. Amy has to confront questions of faith, challenges of being the single mom of a teen daughter, and the secrets of her past – all while solving the mystery of the symphony before it’s forced to close and she loses not only her dream job but her promising new relationship with its conductor.

ENDORSEMENTS:
“It’s official—if the book says Sharon Hinck on the spine, I’m buying it! Symphony of Secrets hits just the right tone, weaving harmonies of mystery, family, and the life of a symphonic musician—a topic I’ve not experienced in fiction before. The melody is God’s love, subtle yet persistent and so perfectly pitched that I’ll be humming that tune for a long time to come. This is a great read and a perfect gift for anyone who finds joy in music.” - Kathryn Mackel, author of Vanished

“What a delightful story! I fell in love with the characters on the first page and didn’t want to let them go. If you love music, as I do, you’ll especially enjoy this engaging tale of lost dreams and second chances. Like a Haydn serenade, your mind will dance along the story line at an engaging pace, allowing your imagination and sense of humor to absorb the melody of its plot. With Symphony of Secrets, Sharon Hinck makes beautiful music with her words!” - Mindy Starns Clark, author of The Million Dollar Mysteries series

Welcome to the Family

Our first grandchild arrived yesterday!

While we waited for news yesterday morning, we pulled out a song that we sang at each of our children's baptisms:

Welcome to the Family
by Debby Kerner

Welcome to the family, we're glad that you have come
to share your life with us, as we grow in love, and
May we always be to you what God would have us be,
a family always there, to be strong and to lean on.

May we learn to love each other more with each new day
May words of love be on our lips in everything we say
May the Spirit melt our hearts and teach us how to pray,
that we might be, a true family.

....

That's our prayer... along with a huge praise for our sweetie-girl's safe arrival.

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck

Extravagance

“While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table. When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. ‘Why this waste?’ they asked. ‘This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.’” Matthew 26:6-9 (NIV)

In a world full of real human need, art is sometimes seen as an extravagant gesture. Artists spend hours, years, decades, honing their craft and producing their work. Time that could be spent in more “practical” pursuits. Yet when we see our life purpose as worship – as a pouring out of praise at the feet of Jesus – we know that bringing Him our best is never a waste.

Lord, let our creative efforts be our lavish gift to You – but also to the needs of the world. Help us bring out our very best treasures, break them open, and pour them freely, and trust that You are pleased. Amen

Variety

“Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet,
praise him with the harp and lyre,
praise him with timbrel and dancing,
praise him with the strings and pipe,
praise him with the clash of cymbals,
praise him with resounding cymbals.” Psalm 150:3-5 (NIV)

What strikes me about Psalm 150 is the variety of tones, sounds, and instruments. There are so many things to praise God for – so much to convey – that we need a variety of means to express it all.

That’s also why I’m grateful for the variety of genres that Christian writers are using to communicate about our Savior. Each writer can use their unique voice and style to add to the orchestra of praise.

Lord, forgive us for sometimes trying to drown out the other instruments. We humbly acknowledge that artists who love You may convey their praise in ways that are different from our own. Please use all our various skills, preferences, and styles to glorify You. Amen.

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck

Here's a project I worked on last spring. It's so fun seeing the cover, and I'm so honored to be included with these warm, wise, and witty other authors!

It will be available only through Guideposts. You can get more info at their site.

Seeking Him

^“God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’”  Acts. 17:27-28 (NIV1984)

God delights in “being found” by us – in revealing Himself to us. He is so awesome and multifaceted that we will never stop discovering new aspects of His mercy, grace, strength, and holiness. I love the moments in writing where a scene, a character, or an event in the story reveal something new about His nature, or deepen my understanding.

Lord, thank You for seeking us out, and inviting us to constantly seek You more. Reveal the places we’ve misunderstood Your nature by our own distortions. Help us see You more clearly. Amen.

Beauty

“And the Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground–trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food.” Genesis 2:9a (NIV1984)

Reading this verse, I realized God could have created a food source that was a little gray box that popped out fruit as needed. Instead He made a lush variety of shapes, colors, and types of trees–trees that stir as the wind tickles them, trees that change color. In short, He designed trees that are not only utilitarian, but beautiful.

Lord, thank You for creating beauty. Help us go beyond utilitarian uses of art and enjoy the beauty You’ve invited us to celebrate. Amen.

Let My Words Be More Than Clanging

“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.” I Corinthians 13:1

When writing a novel, there are zillions of concepts to keep in mind. Craft, creativity, diligence and skill are vital, but I’m glad for this reminder of our key focus. Our writing is an overflow of God’s love for us. If I’m not motivated by love for Him and for the readers of the book, the words are just more noise in a world already full of clamoring.

Lord, thank You for loving us. As we write, or serve You in any other way, let the core of our work center on loving You and others. Let Your heart of love shine through our work. Amen.

Why I love Bezalel and Oholiab

“So Bezalel, Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the Lord has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the Lord has commanded.” Exodus 36:1 (NIV1984)

When I first stumbled across the euphonious names of Bezalel and Oholiab, I felt an instant kinship. I’ve worked in various arts most of my life. I was delighted to see that as early on as the construction of the tabernacle, God valued the talents of artists and craftsmen and gave them a way to use their gifts for Him.

Lord, thank You for Your gift of the arts. Whether we are writers or sculptors or dancers or actors or musicians or painters or use any other creative gift, please help us develop our skills and offer our abilities to You! Amen.

Congratulations!

Cheers and confetti-from-the-ceiling for the two winners!

The grand prize winner of the Christian Fiction Scavenger Hunt (who will receive 23 autographed novels from all the authors who participated) is:

Elisabeth Scherer

And the winner of the Restorer book bag drawn randomly from those who signed up for my free Book Buddy newsletter is:

Sherri (aka soccerkidsmom)

Hooray!!!! I hope you all had as much fun as I did, in getting to know other authors and discovering their featured content at the various blogs.

Blessings,
Sharon Hinck

Scavenger Hunt - Stop #19

This is STOP # 19 on the Hunt!

Welcome to the first ever Christian Fiction Scavenger Hunt! Make the loop to discover 23 new or upcoming novels, and write down the clue at each stop (clue #19 will be somewhere in this post). When you know what the clues say, fill out the Rafflecopter form by June 4, 2012 (midnight EST) at www.LisaBergren.com, and you could be in the running for the grand prize of 23 new, autographed books (if you live in the USA; unsigned if international). Note: if you're the winner, you must email the complete statement within 24 hours of notification in order to claim the Grand Prize...so don't miss a stop! Be ready with your answer if you're the lucky winner! No need to email it unless you receive the good word on June 5, 2012.

My guest for the Scavenger Hunt is lovely author

Yvonne Lehman.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

YVONNE LEHMAN is an award-winning, best-selling author of novels in many genres such as historical, contemporary, romance, mystery, women’s fiction, mainstream.  She earned her Master’s Degree in English Literature at Western Carolina University and has taught English and Creative Writing on the college level. She founded and directed the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference for 25 years and now directs the Blue Ridge “Autumn in the Mountains” Novelist Retreat held at Ridgecrest NC in October. She is a mentor with the Jerry Jenkins’ Christian Writers Guild. 

Other novels to be released in 2012 are A Knight to Remember in April (Heartsong, second in a series set in Washington DC) and Let it Snow in December (Heartsong, third in the DC series). 

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Hearts that Survive – A Novel of the Titanic (Abingdon) is her 50^th novel, released in time for the 100^th anniversary of the ship’s sinking.

Is Love more powerful than the pain of loss?

Lydia Beaumont and her new friend Caroline Chadwick plan Lydia's wedding aboard the "grandest ship ever built." Yet their lives take a tragic turn when the "unsinkable" Titanic goes down. This epic tale of faith and perseverance follows their lives and the lives of their descendants as they struggle with all that was lost on that fateful night and what the future holds for those brave enough to face it. 

Of all the unbelievable things that occurred, the strangest thing took place. The floating half of the ship began to melt like a dollop of butter on a hot roll. It just melted smoothly into the ocean and the hoard of people were in the water. Their hair didn’t get wet. No water splashed on their faces. For an instant they didn’t scream. They couldn’t. A communal gasp went out over the sea, produced by hundreds and hundreds of terrified people who unexpectedly stepped into icy water up to their necks.

The ship of dreams vanished, disappeared as it sank into the sea.

In its place emerged a nightmare.

The sinking of the “unsinkable” Titanic was not the end of the story for the 2207 passengers, plus the crew. It was the beginning of an unforgettable event that changed history, changed culture. There were only a few hundred saved in the 20 lifeboats. Not only were hundreds and hundreds of souls lost that night, but the event touched people throughout the world. Each person had family, friends, acquaintances and their lives too were touched and changed. Being saved was not the end, but the beginning for those who struggled not just to survive, but to live again.

Read this incredible story of

ONE SHIP… TWO FAMILIES… THREE GENERATIONS.

EXCLUSIVE MATERIAL FROM YVONNE FOR THE SCAVENGER HUNT:

 

Interview with the heroine of Hearts that Survive – A Novel of the Titanic

1. My name is Lydia Beaumont. Others behave and speak as if the most interesting thing about me is that I’m heiress to the Beaumont Railroad Company and my father is fabulously rich. However, I think the most interesting is that I’m sailing on the Titanic, the greatest ship ever built and am on my way to America where I expect my life to really begin. And yet, if anyone else knew the secret known only to me, I suspect that would be of incredible interest.

2.  What do you do for fun?

Before John, I was escorted by Craven to the finest establishments in cities like London and Paris. After John, fun was escaping from those who watched my every move, and sneaking out to run around town with friends as if I were a commoner. Now that I’ve matured considerably in the past few weeks, nothing is more fun than exploring this ship with John or just talking and laughing with him.

3.  What do you put off doing because you dread it?

I dread revealing my secret because if it were something that would not cause distress, decisions, and uncertainty to many, then it would not be a secret.

4.  What are you afraid of most in life?

Never being free to live and love the way I want, but having my life dictated by others.

5.  What do you want out of life?

What I want most is to marry John and live happily ever after.

6.  What is the most important thing to you?

            Marrying John.

7.  Do you read? If so, what is your favorite type of book to read?

Oh yes, my favorite book is a best-selling one titled Once Upon an English Garden. The author is aboard this ship, in second-class unfortunately but that doesn’t bother John. The two of them have become friends.

8.  If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

If I could change one thing about me it would be my former naïveté about my own susceptibility to temptation which led to indiscretion.

9.  Do you have a pet? If so, what is it and why that pet?

Why have a pet when you, yourself, are a pet to your own father, eligible and ineligible bachelors, friends of the family, servants, governesses, tutors, and guards. In a sense, I feel like a pet who is pampered and trained and has every moment scheduled. If I want something fetched I simply speak to a servant and I never fear any disobedience. Were I to have a pet however, I think it would be a little songbird in a cage, so I could set him free.

10. If you could travel back in time, where would you go and why?

Oh, when one is in a palace on the sea, aboard the grandest ship ever built, one simply could not desire to travel elsewhere. We sail on a glassy smooth sea, with only hope and beauty ahead of us and my dear love is walking toward me. The grandeur of this ship is a world of its own. I cannot imagine traveling back from this or being more fortunate than to be aboard this magnificent “unsinkable” ship of dreams.

You can pick up a copy of Yvonne’s book at
Amazon,
Barnes & Noble,
ChristianBook.com
or your local bookstore.
Find out more about Yvonne at her website.

THE SCAVENGER HUNT SKINNY:

Now mosey along, Hunters, to STOP #20 Sibella Giorello, (sibellagiorello.blogspot.com), to pick up your next clue.

But before you go, write down this STOP #19 clue: enough

BONUS: As an added treat, subscribe to my free "Book Buddy" newsletter to be entered to win a free Restorer book bag. To subscribe, visit the first page of my website, and enter your name and email in the Book Buddy sign-up in the right hand column. Then leave a comment here so I know you entered! Have fun!

Blessings,
Sharon Hinck

Clash of the Titles

The Restorer's Son-Expanded Edition was selected to be featured at "Clash of the Titles," a site that highlights new Christian fiction titles. Please stop by to see the various titles and vote for your favorite.

Today is the last day for voting.

Blessings!
Sharon Hinck