One of the comments people make about RELENTLESS GRACE is that they like the title. I agree that the title perfectly captures the heart of the story, and I wish I could trace the precise process that created it.

Frankly, I wanted to use Amaging Grace, but someone told me that idea was already taken.

I hate to even recall some of the crazy ideas I considered. Discovering just the right title involves brainstorming, prayer, and listening for inspiration. I knew the final title would have something to do with "grace" because the story centered on that concept.

I made several lists, scoured a thesaurus, and fussed with a number of web searches. Then one Sunday our pastor said the God pursues His people relentlessly, and I immediately knew I had the perfect title.

God is relentless. He refused to give up on me even when I wanted to quit, and He offered abundance and forgiveness I never earned and don't deserve. Relentless. Grace. That's who He is and what He did in my life.

Finally! It's election day. Choices will be made, leaders chosen, and the rhetoric can subside a bit.

This political season has been difficult for me. I've tried to listen, especially to opposing views. I've tried, not entirely successfully, to avoid arguments and debates that only alienate and divide. But that's not what's been hard.

It's disconcerting to confront so much divisive rhetoric from "Christian" sources. Each time I hear the truth distorted, opponents demonized, or tragedy predicted, I feel as if I've been slapped in the face. I expect such tactics from the general culture, but I find such attacks distressing when they come from "brothers and sisters."

I don't want Relentless Grace to be merely a story about an injury. My sincere desire is that the story reminds all of us of God's wonderous mercy and inspires readers to demonstrate His grace and mercy to others.

God's at work in each life, each circumstance, each moment. Let's celebrate and be grateful that He doesn't discard us when we fall short. And let's reflect that same spirit of grace and forgiveness in a conflicted world--even toward those who hold different political views.

Question: Where's one small place where you can reflect grace and tolerance today?

Here begins my official journey as author of a published book. It's taken nearly four years to navigate the unfamiliar maze of the publishing world, proving mostly that I'm a slow learner.

Relentless Grace is due to be released in mid-November. I'm excited and a little nervous as I contemplate this next stage of the process. I truly want this story to touch hearts and portray a small part of the incredible faithfulness God has demonstrated in my life. I hope I've communicated my gratitude for riches unearned but gratefully received.

Please leave a comment, visit my website, and/or send me an email.

Keep hope alive.