acknowledgments

The beginning of a new calendar year is a natural time for a person to look back, take stock, and give thanks. It turns out that writing an acknowledgement for a book is another one. Where to begin?

Some authors cast a wide net of thanks that include neighbors, childhood friends, and elementary school teachers. Other authors narrow the field, nodding to the fact that every person who has made a significant contribution to their life cannot be listed. At least not here. I choose to follow their example with the sure hope that one day, I will have the opportunity to thank everyone in leisurely depth. I look forward to that day, but in the meantime, I must at least name a few.

My agent, Curtis Yates, believed in this book before I even did. His encouragement, guidance, and faith have been a huge gift to me. Agent extraordinaire, Curtis, thank you for all your skill and hard work. I count you not only an ally but also a friend.

My editor, Karen Lee Thorp, is everything an excellent editor should be. She fine-tuned my writing with her questions, her gentle honing, and her vast experience. I am so grateful.

The entire team at David C Cook is a group of people I am honored, blessed, and privileged to partner with. I am so happy to join you in your mission and pray that with Jesus we are indeed “transforming lives together.”

These many years, a great company of saints has surrounded me. Worshippers and warriors who love me gracefully, encourage me deeply, and share the journey with me—Lori, Craig, Carrie, Sue, Sallie, Rie, Julie (x2), Abbey, Susie, Becky, Cherie, Morgan, Lisa, Amanda, Sam, and all the noble team of Ransomed Heart, I thank you, dear friends. I couldn’t do it without you. I treasure you.

My sons. Oh, my sons. Sam, Blaine, and Luke, I have learned far more from you than I have taught. You have my heart always.

And then there is my husband. John has loved me, guided me, journeyed with me, and shown me the face of Jesus for more than thirty years. He has been my sounding board for this writing project, and I trust him with my words, my thoughts, my dreams, and most importantly, my heart.

Now to acknowledge my King. He deserves much more than a nod, even much more than a wide blanket of awed thanksgiving. The truth is that every worthy and good thing I have come to know and enjoy, I have received from him. Oh thank you, Jesus. I love you so.