Today, That Jesus Podcast shares a podcast discussion between host Dru Lattin, author Emily Smucker, and me. Themes discussed include boundaries and sacrifice in ministry, genuine relationships, and not being a jerk about racism.
Over at Kingdom Outpost, Abram Martin shares a review of Turtle Heart which you can read here. Because of Abram’s own experience with same-sex desires, he relates to that part of my friend. “My heart broke for Charlene as she danced around the topic and tested the waters before broaching the subject… unsure whether this revelation would change their friendship forever.” Back in May, Abram was also featured on That Jesus Podcast, sharing his experience.
And Nicole Troyer of thedailymrst hosts a review and giveaway of Turtle Heart on Instagram. Follow her account if you are interested. Among other things, Nicole writes on faith, womanhood, and thrift hauls. I have been encouraged by her posts more than once. Nicole and I grew up together. You can check her story for a photo of us back in our school days.
In other news, THIS happened outside my window this morning. An updated sidewalk coming up.
I read the book Turtle Heart last week and it was a book I’d highly recommend. I could hardly put it down! I love how Lucinda is real about the relationship struggles and always went back and poured on more love. She truely showed Jesus’ love.
I am working my way through your new book. Thank you for your autographed copy!
In a little insert into the drama – you ask dad, all ready to argue as a young girl: “Will God judge people to hell that never were told and taught the gospel?” and his response: “I don’t know.”
I am also like, Wow. Yes. that is a stepping stone in life to love others and love God especially, even when we don’t have all the answers. and just to be ok with that.
Yes. A large thing to learn in life.
The other insert into the drama – you record getting sharp with Charlene for “praying to Mary”. Some Catholic thing going in. And you took offense at the idolatry. And she quietly remarks a little story of being cruel to an animal, kicking the animal hard, and she understands that is wrong.
And you end up agreeing with her – her sin in the animal story was real. Her sin in praying to Mary as a child was no sin, in God’s eyes, in her background.
Another wow moment. What we think is black and white is not always black and white. Other attitudes and actions we might condone in our own life at times, is really wrong.
What difficult theology for a Mennonite to learn! I know because it took a lot for me to learn the same thing. And I still need the reminder. And we struggle with others who are still learning :)
Thanks so much for writing. The drama of the story is engaging. And I will be finishing the book.
Don’t be hard on yourself, it is a very good book! It was hard to lay down, when duties pressed. I finished it tonight. Is Satan trying to discourage you because there are several times in the story where you laid out the way of salvation? The word of God will not be bound!