As I mentioned in my last post, I spent last weekend soaking up years worth of information and decades worth of hugs at the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Conference. And I got a tiny glimpse of how God is and has used Christian fiction to touch hearts and change the world. I’m kind of a newbie in this arena. I was first introduced to Christian fiction maybe ten years ago with Francine Rivers‘ Mark of the Lion Series. Wow. A must read. I heard the buzz of Tim LaHaye’s Left Behind series, but to be honest, I never thought much about it. I was too busy devouring the books to analyze their impact. I didn’t see God’s bigger–like much bigger–plan. Until I listened to Chip MacGreggor, Janet Oak, and Tim Downs. These pioneers in the writing industry get it. They see the bigger picture, from the very first brush stroke to the soon to be completed masterpiece filled with vibrant colors. And they shared their vision with all of us. They invited us to pick up our keyboards and join in God’s creative, loving, victorious plan.
Christian fiction has a new face–an ever-expanding, alluring, innovative face. Christian fantasy? Yep, it’s here. Christian horror? You betchya. Sound like an oxymoron? Maybe even a tad non-Christian? And yet, through various stories, plots, and creative twists, God’s message of redeeming love is penetrating deep into the hearts and minds of people around the world. Those books that used to be hidden in the far back corner of a tiny, unknown bookstore can now be seen on the front shelves–face forward. In most stores, they’ve even got their own section. Sometimes even an entire room.
And we thought it was all about entertaining and selling a book or two.
But God had bigger plans. He always does. And His creativity knows no bounds.
That’s why I’m so excited about our new website, Clash of the Titles. By uniting readers with new authors and introducing them to knew genres, we’re partnering with God in the expansion of Christian fiction. God’s message never changes. He came to seek and save the lost and to heal the broken. His method, however, will always change as He translates His message to our worldly, ever-changing, confused ears.
What’s your part in God’s big-picture plan?
Visit Katie Johnson’s website and Nike Chillemi’s Crime Fictionista to find out more.
The possibilities are exciting. I’ve never read Christian horror, but I might as well check it out while I’m waiting on God’s timing.
I’m intrigued by Christian horror, as well. I might just have to read one. I want to read some of the new speculative fiction that’s out there, too. Waiting on God’s timing can be tough at times. Blessings.
You are right Jen.
Looking at GOD with a bright bigger picture in our lives is what we need to focus on because when we think big is how we also archieve big.
Have a blessed week end and may the Spirit of the Lord be with you now and always.
Thank you, bagataya. May God be with you as well. And I like your focus–to think big so we can achieve big. 🙂