This is something I am learning well.  I have received positive and negative feedback from having published this book.  Some people who know me think that I’m being a little ‘self-righteous’ in publishing this book.  I never really understand people who think this about me because I know I am not perfect and am in need of the Lord’s strength, grace, love, forgiveness and power – I know I’m a sinner in need of the Lord.  This book in no way points to my ‘righteousness’ or that of any other person than Jesus.

When I first started hearing things like:  I wish she’d change her name.  Which family is she related to?  What made her think she should publish this book? 

I was hurt, I thought people thought I was egotistical and self-righteous and I began doubting my own reasons for publishing this book.  The reason wasn’t for my own edification or glorification.  The reasons were multiple.

First, I was compelled by the Holy Spirit to publish this book.

I finally submitted to publishing this book first because of that and these were and still are my hopes for the book.

I want to help people learn more about Jesus in hopes they would want to become more like him.

I want to help break the stigma against mental, emotional and spiritual counseling.

I want businesses to begin to understand the importance of budgeting for Staff Chaplains.  (Ie:  healthcare, education, corrections, media  –  The military has staff chaplains – why shouldn’t other industries?)

When people read the book I hope they will lose fear in seeking the love and grace, forgiveness and power of God through Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

When people read the book I hope they will begin to have more compassion for people they see suffering from the manifestations of unresolved stress.

When people read the book I hope they begin to have more compassion on themselves as well.

When people read the book I hope they begin to pay attention to how they pray and what they are praying for.

When people read the book I hope they will ask for a filling or re-filling of the Holy Spirit.  In hopes they would come to see God as more loving and caring than wrathful and distant.

When people read the book I hope they will get comfortable asking questions about the Scriptures and seeking answers.

When people read the book I hope they recognize where they fit in the Sermon on the Mount and receive their blessing and direction.

When people read the book I hope their faith will increase.

When people read the book I hope they gain a renewed sense of direction from The Lord’s Prayer.

When people read the book I hope they will use the songs and prayers. (I hope I hear some of the renditions some day.)

I know I can’t please everyone – neither could Jesus – the Author and Finisher (refiner) of our faith – He wanted to please God and that’s ultimately who I want to please with my writings, prayers, thoughts and life.