The release date for Book 2—Even in the Dark—is officially three days away.
That’s still such an odd thing to say.
I’ve written and published two novels now, and my third—the final book of the trilogy—is getting close to that point as well.
My first Author Meet was postponed because a sudden emergency left a loved one in critical condition, and I needed to be there for my family that weekend. Blessedly, his care team saved his life, and he is now recovering well. This person has been a walking miracle his entire life, and our family so, so loves him.
I haven’t officially rescheduled the meet yet, but it’s another #authorlife thing I’ll get around to… eventually.
This morning, I’m just reflecting on the goodness around me.
My husband is no stranger to amazing accomplishments either.
He just recently completed an incredibly difficult and strenuous training program and is set to graduate tomorrow.
I genuinely couldn’t be any prouder than I am right now, but then again—I say that about him almost daily.
He’s one of the few good ones: a kind and gentle heart; strong beyond limits most could imagine; so creative and can fix almost anything he touches; stubborn in a way that makes me laugh; quick-tempered, but quick to humble himself; and an unwavering love I never thought I’d find in a husband.
One of my favorite things about him is how often he prays.
For his gratitude, for our family, and over every meal we share in our living room together.
His love for Jesus nurtures the goodness in me and inspires me each day to strive to be the person I was created to be.
Speaking of Jesus, I’ve had some complicated thoughts about the upcoming holidays.
My family and I don’t celebrate—or even really acknowledge—Halloween, but we do normally gather for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Recently, I’ve been conflicted about Christmas.
At worst, it’s an outright pagan tradition inspired by ancient Roman festivities—at best, it is a ”holiday” unironically consumed by consumerism.
And the Bible never says Jesus was born in December, nor does Jesus teach us to celebrate his birth.
The more I study scripture, the more convicted I feel in not participating in Christmas festivities.
In fact, I’d be more comfortable recognizing and celebrating the Jewish holidays that Jesus celebrated.
Passover. Shavuot. Unleavened Bread. The Tabernacles… to name a few from Leviticus 23.
As Land of Honey put it in a 2024 blog post:
“These are holidays that God created and then commanded believers to celebrate "for all generations." These holidays have the spiritual depth and meaning that many of us have so longingly looked for in Christmas and Easter.”
Honestly, I think they’re right.
And it really is difficult to imagine withdrawing from family gatherings that are centered around Christmas festivities, so that’s where the conflict comes in.
But that’s also where Scripture teaches us about the desires of the flesh and discernment in Galatians 5 and Romans 8.
It would be a tough decision because we are mere human beings with fleshly desires. But human beings who follow Christ can either decide to be led by the flesh or be led by the Spirit, and I—for one—would rather have peace and eternal life over death.
Sorry to get so heavy on you here, but it’s a heavily important topic, too, and one that I felt compelled to share.
Yes, I write fiction and make up stories and narrate the lives of imaginary and imperfect people, but at my core, I believe in and follow Christ.
And that’s more important for you to know about me.
Nothing comes before that.
Guess I just needed you to hear what’s been on my mind.
With love,
- H
