“Someday I hope to write a book where the royalties will pay for the copies I give away.”
Clarence Darrow
Yesterday, Saturday, I completed two or three more chapters in my latest book-length project. This is especially exciting because the manuscript is the fulfillment of an idea that has been several years in the making. And – so far – I have every confidence that this is going to be my best book yet.
What I am working on is a year-long collection of daily readings, designed as a day by day devotional companion. Each day features a key passage of scripture along with a meditation.
As of today, I have 418 pages – or 127,000 words – completed, all the way through September 6th. That’s two-thirds of the book, and if I can keep my momentum going, the final product should be ready, edited and in print in time for Christmas.
Gotta find a title:
I am still working on finding the right title. If I were to go with the essential theme, or the thread that runs through the entire manuscript, it would probably be the idea that each and every day is something brand new, a gift bursting with possibilities and promise. There is a phrase from a section I edited yesterday that goes like this: “All through our life together, Rebekah and I have interfaced with the raw materials of uncharted possibility.”
This phrase makes me think about the 1996 book Undaunted Courage, the story of Lewis and Clark. Each and every day of the epic expedition held the prospect of unprecedented discovery.
This is the singular truth that runs true through the rhythm and the cadence and the flow of this adventure called life. If I can capture the promise of it in a single phrase then that will likely be the title to the book.
“Uncharted Waters: navigating by faith” – maybe? “Search me, God, and know my heart” – possibly. “Lead me in the Way Everlasting…” (Psalm 139:24) – now that resonates.
Regardless, this is my word for us today, August 16. Another opportunity to interface with the raw materials of unchartered possibility.
Let’s go! – DEREK