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!
