So you want to self-publish a book?

Jess Spurgin and I worked together for years in the radio broadcasting business.  When I returned to Phoenix in 2005 to serve as pastor of Life in Christ in Peoria, Jess offered me a time slot to write and record a weekly devotional program.  It was called "Wake Up With the Word," and since the program aired at 7:25 am the title was spot on.

Over a period of five years I wrote several hundred devotions.  Even after the program ended I continued to use the devotions to open Bible classes, ministry organizations meetings, and incorporating them into sermons.  The feedback I received was positive and it led me to consider putting some of them into book form for others to read.

First, with the help of my Administrative Assistant, Connie Kanzler, we put a simple book together.  It was fun to give them away and many folks said they found the devotions to be very encouraging.  

Now, in retirement I decided to take the next step and have the devotions self-published and I signed the contract this week.

Westbow Press is a subsidiary of Thomas Nelson/Zondervan which assists authors to self-publish their works.  There is much more involved in publishing a book than I imagined but I have a contact who has promised to walk me through the process every step of the way (I wonder if the guy knows what he's gotten himself into?)

I've set a deadline of October 1st to have the book completed.  Lots of decisions to be made in the meantime - Book title, cover design, page layout to name just a few.  

For years I've wanted to write a book.  These devotions are the perfect vehicle for such an idea.  From time to time I'll keep you posted on my progress.  Now it's time to get to work!

What really matters

If Christ is risen, nothing else matters.  And if Christ is not risen, nothing else matters.

Jaroslav Pelikan in "Unparalleled" page 160

The Meaning of the Cross

If one follows the New Testament, we will come to recognize that the cross is actually a revelation of the depth of human sin and the depth of divine love.

"Martin Luther-In His Own Words"

We will share with Christ's sufferings and glory

As a pastor (Paul Gerhardt) who suffered persecution for his faith and endured the death of his wife and even some of his children, he understood the tenson of the life of the Christian that having been baptized into Christ's death and resurrection, we will share both in His suffering and His  glory.

"The Choir Immortal" page 194

All our needs are important to Jesus

Let that miracle at Cana remind us! Jesus' first miracle was not to stop a pain or heal a disease but to make wine at a wedding, as a reminder that our needs, big and little, are seen and satisfied by Him.

Richard Lauersdorf 

Fishing with Luther

Philip Melancthon, the  great reformation theologian, once said to his friend, Martin Luther, "This day you and I will discuss the governance of the universe."  What Luther said in reply was unexpected: "This day you and I will go fishing and leave the governance of the universe to God."

"Our Daily Bread" March-May 1996

Top Ten Signs the Organist is Off His Rocker

10) Plays Beatles tunes for the postlude

9) Expects the sermon to last at least 20 minutes so he can make a Starbucks run

8) Thinks if the organ sounds like a calliope it would liven up the service

7) Won't play any hymn that starts with the letter "L"

6) "Pianos are for sissies!"

5) Complains that he isn't paid enough

4) Plays while playing in top hat and tails

3) Insists on being shown on the big screen in the sanctuary while playing so he "gets his due"

2) Stood on the organ bench and shouted "I am the king of the world!"

1) Still complaining that he isn't paid enough