In July, I had the opportunity to attend my first ever ICRS convention – a place where both new and veteran artists in the Christian music and publishing world converge to visit vendor booths, meet with agents and editors, and hang out with new friends who share their love for writing and music. Promoting The 7 Hardest Things book for Shepherd Press, my mother and I had the privilege of signing over 300 books for some eager readers, both men and women who we got to meet and visit with, face-to-face. What an exciting event that was for both of us! It took us a few minutes to fully realize that people were actually standing in line…waiting to talk to US! Very humbling...and somewhat strange.
It was even more humbling when I looked over and noticed another, much longer line forming to our left at the Thomas Nelson booth. (Incidentally -- my new publishing home for my next book.) Curious, I craned my neck to see what (or who) the line was all about. That’s when I saw a new book cover, 3:16, with Max Lucado’s name on it. I got so excited, I nearly jumped out of my skin! Max Lucado was signing books right next to me, and I could get in line and meet him!
Let me explain my excitement…although to most readers of Christian non-fiction, the excitement over the name Max Lucado needs no real explanation. When I was a sophomore in college, I felt the call of God on my life to be in His service for the rest of my life. At the time, I didn’t know what that would look like or where it would take me, but I was so excited to serve Him, regardless of the particulars. During those years, I read every “Max” book I could get my hands on to inspire, motivate and nurture this call on my life, often re-reading books right after I finished them. I loved his writing then, and I still love his writing today. He is one of the most inspirational writers of this time, and he can paint a picture of Christ like few others are able to do.
So when I was finally able to meet him for the first time at ICRS, I was both amazed and inspired, anew. God had used so many of his words to confirm my call and point me to Him over the years, and then, at this convention to see the manifestation of that call happen in some ways, was…well…incredible for me. It held such sweet meaning for this girl who, like many others, finally found her real significance in the arms of Jesus Christ, and now has the privilege of writing about it.
I pray that my writing will inspire hearts and touch lives in some way, just as Max Lucado’s writing has done for me and countless others over the years. It was a high privilege to meet Max Lucado this summer, and when I did, it was clear to me how he could write the way he does. The sincerity and humility of his heart was ever evident in his countenance and words. God has used him in a big way because he has allowed Him to. And what a powerful team they are!
As for me, getting to meet Max was like a big ‘ole hug from God! Too cool for words! :)
Lisa
