Author Archives
Derek has published seven books in the past decade (you can find them at https://www.amazon.com/Derek-Maul/e/B001JS9WC4), and there's always something new in the works.
Before becoming a full-time writer, Derek taught public school in Florida for eighteen years, including cutting-edge work with autistic children. He holds bachelor's degrees in psychology and education from Stetson University and the University of West Florida.
Derek is active in teaching at his church: adult Sunday school, and a men's Bible study/spiritual formation group. He enjoys the outdoors, traveling, photography, reading, cooking, playing guitar, and golf.
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Defining success in terms of authentic witness rather than numbers (even though they are huge!)
It’s Monday morning and I am exhausted! But in a good way. This weekend’s “all-in” emphasis on telling the Good News story to our community was a resounding success. And by that I mean in ways far beyond raw numbers…. Read More ›
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The story of our (just a little bit dead) Christmas Tree – 2nd Sunday in Advent
it’s not a decoration so much as an archaeological exhibit
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Just follow the star – and find your way home (50 photographs from Walk Through Bethlehem 2019)
Today’s blog post is ambitious. However, my theme for the month is that of “following a photographic trail to Bethlehem” (and the real meaning of Christmas), so including a collection of images this extensive was always a possibility. Yesterday evening… Read More ›
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There is no other story: (8 manger scenes – one act of humility and vulnerability)
They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. All who… Read More ›
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Children and Advent – won’t you join the party??
Children are a non-stop party!
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We must follow the star or we will lose our way to Christmas in the dark
When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” – John 8:12 I am fascinated with light, especially… Read More ›
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It’s all fine – it’s a “Jesus Tree” regardless!
Whatever the symbol – it’s Jesus who adds the Holy
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Protestants may not worship Mary – but we must not forget to respect her
Mary is a messenger and also a guide
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The meaning, the message, the manger, and the Messiah: a photographic journey toward Christmas
it came upon a midnight clear
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What chance do we have of a real Christmas unless we first bring an open heart?
“Come, Thou long expected Jesus Born to set Thy people free; From our fears and sins release us, Let us find our rest in Thee.” – Charles Wesley Today I want to share some writing around three thoughts that have… Read More ›
