Looking Back and Looking Forward
As 2023 draws to a close and 2024 begins, it's a moment of reflection and gratitude for the milestones achieved and the challenges overcome. This past year has been particularly significant for me, marking the culmination of a long-held aspiration: the completion of my book "Embracing Gethsemane: Navigating Life’s Darkest Moments." This project, which holds great personal significance, is slated for publication on Amazon KDP in early 2024.
The journey of writing this book has been enriched by the contributions of eight friends who graciously served as readers. Their insights and feedback have been instrumental in enhancing the content, ensuring that the book resonates more deeply with its intended audience. Additionally, the latter part of the year brought an invaluable collaboration with Dr. Sandy Haney, a Ph.D. in New Testament, whose editorial expertise has been especially helpful in refining the book. Her meticulous approach to rewriting, grammar correction, and fact-checking has lent the book a level of rigor and depth that I deeply appreciate.
Reflecting on the process, I'm reminded of Lawrence Kasdan's words: “Being a writer is like having homework every night for the rest of your life.” However, this 'homework' has been a joy, thanks to the engaging interactions with my readers and the guidance from my editor. Their support has transformed what could have been a solitary endeavor into a collaborative and enjoyable journey.
2023 also witnessed the birth of The Chaplain Writer, an extension of my writing journey, encapsulated in my blog (thechaplainwriter.com ). The reception and engagement from readers have been incredibly encouraging. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who visited, especially those who frequented the blog. Your involvement fuels my passion for writing, and I invite you to share the blog with others who might find inspiration in its content.
Looking ahead to 2024, there's a sense of anticipation for the new ventures on the horizon. While the exact launch date for "Embracing Gethsemane" is yet to be confirmed, I am eager to share it with you as soon as it's finalized. Additionally, the upcoming year promises exciting projects including a podcast, an online course, and the publication of two more ebooks.
My overarching theme for 2024 is "Gethsemane Moments." My writing will center around this concept, exploring pivotal points in one's spiritual journey. These moments, akin to Jesus' experience in the Garden of Gethsemane, signify profound inner struggle, intense surrender, and a conscious choice to forsake personal desires in favor of God's will. This theme is not just a literary focus but a lens through which to view and interpret life's challenges and decisions.
I have a limited number of dates available if you are interested in having me speak your church or organization about Gethsemane moments. You can reach me at Jimleary05@gmail.com and we can set up a time to talk about possible dates and a format that fits your needs.
As we step into the new year, I invite you to reflect on your own Gethsemane moments. Whether you're currently navigating one or have experienced them in the past, I welcome your thoughts and insights. If you find yourself in the midst of such a moment, know that I am here to offer prayer and support. I am committed to assisting in any way I can so feel free to reach out via email address listed in the previous paragraph.
In closing, my prayer for you in this new year is that you experience God's rich blessings as we strive to serve and honor Him in all our endeavors. May this year bring growth, insight, and a deeper alignment with God's purpose for our lives.
Jim