FIRST BLOG IN THE PAST WEEK?! WHAT'S GOING ON?

Painted dogs at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden. They look as awake as I feel.

Yes, I had been posting three blogs a week for a while, and the past few weeks have me missing some, a trend that doesn't look like it will change.

I've had twice as many interviews from January to April '24 than that same period last year (6 compared to 3), and if I post one interview between May and December this year, I will have posted more than I did in the last 8 months of '23. I have I believe three interviews waiting for completion, and I have a list of others I want to interview, but it will be at least a week before I'm ready to post it.

Another common type of blog are my book and music reviews. As far as book reviews, I'm crawling through several books, so again, I won't be ready to review any until at least next week, maybe longer. When I do a music review, I listen to the project and then write a review, and that takes less time. However, currently I just want music on in the background instead of listening to something to review. Also (if I'm wrong, correct me), I always feel I do a better job reviewing books than music. 

Yes, I have other blogs too. I just have to take the time to write them. (This is a quick off the cuff).

The fourth type of blog I want to have are guest blogs. If someone wants to join in, I'd be happy. Not the first time I've suggested it. But none yet.

Please pray for me. I do have health problems (I have a new doctor to see in a couple of days), and not a lot of energy. There are things I'm doing (being a beta reader for one of my favorite authors, preparing prayer prompts for all the Kingdom Come Festival '24 artists and hoping to finish before the festival starts, cleaning out an e-mail box that I'm getting close to being in the 4 digit range, work, leading a Bible study, being in a D-Group at church, and running sound, and probably more). Pray that I have wisdom to know what to do and what not to worry about. Maybe the time for this blog is over. Maybe not. Please pray.

Thank you for reading this. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll follow the example of the painted dogs above and take a nap.
 

INTERVIEW WITH MUSICIAN DAVID DIXON, AKA RIDDLE ME THIS?

 

JR: My all-time favorite fictional villain - be it of movies, TV, comic books, or novels - is Frank Gorshin's Riddler on Batman, so of course I’m intrigued by your name. How did you choose that name, and what is the relation between the moniker and your music?

DD: Im a Big Batman Villains Fan and the Riddler is one of my favorites. He even becomes a good guy in one storyline. So Riddle Me This came from my own salvation story. Asking the important questions instead of relying on my own intellect and reasoning. Is there really a God? Who is He? Parables are also a kind of Riddle but one in which Jesus gives us the answers to.

JR: How did you come to know Christ, and what got you into music?

DD: I grew up Baptist and went to church off and on throughout my life. I didn’t really care one way or the other for Jesus but I absolutely hated Christians. I believed in a God just didn’t care too much about Him. Then I discovered the world of Lucifer: Mild Devil Worshipping, Ouija Boards, Ghost Hunting, etc. During that time and completely unbeknown to me I became a Minister for Satan, ordained and sent out to the world just like a Disciple of Christ is. I wasn’t aware that I had become a Satanic Minister, but that’s how it works. People most of the time have no idea the work they do for Satan. At the bar where I worked, I was a DJ so I got paid to party and go home with women. I had a great life. I was a celebrity, a small town Rockstar. Go to Church? Why? They were all bigots and hateful self righteous jerks. Why would I ever want to go there? 

So I’d be at the bar and hear someone mention going to Church or talking about Christianity or Jesus and Bam! I was all on them, “Hey let me tell you about real freedom”. “Come with me, I'm fun, we’ll have a great time. Jesus isn’t real let me tell you why. etc.” I had no idea that this is exactly what a Satanic Evangelist does, but there I was out there ministering. 

Long story short I met a girl, Wanted to break up with her, she was way too good for me. Good also meant very boring to me as well. Ended up staying (that's a whole story too lol); I knew she was a Christian and always told her why that was wrong. I was going to prove that Christianity isn’t real and it's the worst religion. I get on You Tube and see some Bible prophecies that I remember coming true. I did something I never thought of before and simply asked God who He is and if He’s real. I told Him if He’d tell me in a way that HAD to be Him and couldn’t be explained away by anything rational, then I’d follow Him forever. 

Next thing I know I leave my living room and I am in the presence of Jesus Christ. It’s just black I can’t see anything, but I know I am in the presence of God. He showed me who I was, all the wicked vile and evil things I had done against Him and His Children. I'm crying, I see it. I feel what I've done but then I feel something I can't even describe just Love. I tell Him I’m so sorry I didn’t know. I tell Him I’ll follow Him. He tells me I'm forgiven and that I'm gonna minister for Him now. I never even had to ask “Who are You?” I didn’t know the verse correctly then but It just hit me as all this is happening, “My Children know My voice.” The actual verse is “My sheep hear My voice and I know them.” 

That entire encounter felt like a really long time but it probably was only about 30 seconds to a couple minutes. When I felt myself kind of come to back to my living room I’m a Christian. Its so surreal how 30 seconds prior to that I hated all Christians and now I am one. Truly the old man was put to death and I arose in Christ a new creature. If people would only seek Him out, just ask Him. One simple question was all it took. He will reveal and prove Himself, and after that surrendering your life to following His will doesn’t seem so crazy. In fact just the opposite, you realize that there really isn't any other way. 

As for the Music. I have been playing music since I was a kid. I have always loved music. Singing came later on but once I realized I can sing it started to turn me into an arrogant egotistical rockstar in my own head. Now that I write and sing songs for Jesus it makes it more fulfilling and purposeful. Following Him and learning to be more like him and less like me puts the ego to bed. Its not about me, never has been, never will be. Everything is His and for Him. 

I will say the Music journey for me as a Christian has been hard, emotionally stressful and draining at times, it's not been easy. Having to step down from platforms that would catapult my fame and career. Going from touring the USA in a Tour Bus and playing on stage with some of the bigger names in Christian Music, to being the cleaning guy at a tiny church. It was like going from Green Day to Janitor. I have to follow HIS will though and not my own. Thats what I’m being taught and it's been painful at times, but this is the life of a Follower of Christ. Just because the world says you can have all the money and fame, it's right there for the taking. It’s been offered over and over, but you don’t want it. Not like that. Christians don’t need money, clothing, food, etc. We need God’s favor and blessing, we need HIM. If we follow HIM he will provide everything we need and more, but that my friends is easier said than done. READ YOUR BIBLE!!

JR: Could you tell us about your latest release?

DD: Sure. The latest release is "Go Out and Tell Them" and can be found on my youtube RiddleMeThis?BandOfficial or find me on facebook Riddle Me This Band.

JR: It’s not often I ask an interviewee about other organizations, but on your Facebook pages, I’ve seen a mention of two different items I’ve heard of else where: Broadhead Music group from several artists on Glenn Remsen’s Lithoscry Podcast and the Whosoever Church, which Amy and Seth Olsen from the band Counter mentioned. Would you be interested in letting us know more about them?

DD: Sure!! Broadhead Music Group is the record label I am signed to. There are I think 10 artists signed, maybe more, maybe less not really sure how many. Whosoever Church probably shares its name with several Churches and Organizations, but the Whosoever that I am affiliated with is just my very small Hometown Church located in Nahunta, GA. Although it does have a rather big online following.

JR: What are some of the biggest concerns you have for today’s world and/or today’s American Church, and how do you think God may use you for his glory in times like this?

DD: I think there are a lot of concerns happening within the American Church. I think the biggest problem is that the Gospel is not being Preached or Taught in the vast majority of American Churches. Apostasy is rampant everywhere with a lot of Churches ignoring scripture to accommodate sin and sinful lifestyles. We all like the salvation, forgiveness, love, and Heaven side of the Gospel; we start talking about Sin and Hell, though, and feathers start to get ruffled. Gotta be the WHOLE Gospel though otherwise Salvation makes no sense, What are we being saved from? I could go on for days about the lack of TRUTH and The Gospel in churches but this about sums it up along with Teaching what True love is and how to love like Jesus. I’m not saying we need more inflated religious Bible Bashers or Hell spewers and fear mongers either. Love like Jesus. Stand firm in Biblical Truth, but be gentle. Show love and compassion, the fruits of the spirit. 

JR: Thank you for your time. How can we keep in touch with you and your music? Any final thoughts you’d like to share?

DD: You can follow me on Facebook either David Dixon or Riddle Me This Band. We are living in serious times. It’s time to be serious about our walk with Christ. We won’t make it without him. It’s a dangerous and cold dark world out there. It’s getting colder, darker, and more dangerous; especially for us. There is only one light to follow and it’s up to us to follow HIM as close as we can, so that we can lead others to HIM as well. Hatred, Emptiness, Violence, and Death is all the world has to offer. There’s a lot of fun in Sin, but it’s not for us and it’s not worth it. When you sin, Repent and lean on him more. We are so weak, but being in fellowship with God is worth more than all the gold in the world. My Encouragement to everyone…READ 1 John it’s a short book but it helps in our walk with him, it also helps us to really understand why as well. 

Thank You, Jeff, for taking the time to interview me and thank all of you readers for the support and love!! For those that I am meeting for the first time, Hi I’m David Dixon Singer/Songwriter of Riddle Me This Music Ministry. Thank you and nice to meet you!! Thanks again Everyone!! I love you guys!! Keep your eyes on Jesus!!

MY FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE, AND WHY I'M 100% SURE IT TEACHES SECURITY OF THE BELIEVER

From Live Nativity, Castleton United Methodist Church, Indianapolis, Dec. 5, 2016

"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand." John 10:27-28, NKJV

What was the first Bible passage I memorized? Good question, but sometime between when I moved to the booming metropolis of Skull Valley, Arizona (15 people in my classroom: that was 4th, 5th, AND 6th grade) and a little over a year and a half later when we moved to Prescott I memorized John 10:27-28, quoted above.

This verse is regularly used to defend "Eternal Security," which some term "OSAS" (Once Saved Always Saved), usually to insult their brothers and sisters in Christ (Boo! Hiss!) True, there are some who disagree, but there are others who despise this teaching with an attitude that makes me think there could be hatred of Christians who hold this view (see 1 John 3:14-15).

Let's look at why people oppose "eternal security." First, we need to realize that people who don't believe in eternal security come to that conclusion from diligent Bible study, just like those who do believe in eternal security.

Second, there is the free will/Sovereignty debate. If free will is involved in us believing on Christ getting saved, why would God forbid us the free will to stop believing and renounce our salvation. For the record, there are those who believe in free will who also believe in eternal security.

Third, there's the righteous indignation of those who claim to be Christ's and willfully live like an unbeliever. They feel God's grace in muddied by a life of sin, an attitude that they can do what they want and still be saved.

Let me start by the most frequent argument I've heard against eternal security in looking at this verse: "No one can snatch us from Christ's hand, but that doesn't mean we can't crawl out." Actually, that's the only real argument. The only other objection is "This verse doesn't deal with security of the believer," with the reason why being "Because I said it doesn't." Sorry, but that latter one is a cop out. 

So why do I consider this verse definitely teaches eternal security? I'm glad you asked!

The first word is "My." What kind of word is "My?" A possessive pronoun. Who's speaking? Jesus. Thus, He's talking about His sheep, that is, the sheep that belong to Him. What can make one of His sheep become not one of His sheep? Theft? No, legal ownership is the same. Can His sheep decide to change owners? We're not talking about cats! No, the sheep have no voice in who owns them. Thus, we're talking about those who are Jesus' possession.

His sheep hear His voice. In the context of John 10, Jesus was telling the Pharisees they did not believe because they weren't Jesus' sheep (vv. 25-26). In 1 John 4:6, the Apostle states those who were of God heard them, and those who weren't did not hear them.

His sheep follow Him. This answers the complaint of those who are worried about ungodly Christians - true Christians follow Christ. It also counters the objection to eternal security mentioned above - if we're following Christ, we're not simultaneously trying to crawl out of His hand.

Let's define three words. 1) Perish - means dying, and in context it obviously isn't saying we won't physically die, so it must mean spiritually. 2) Eternal. Means everlasting, neverending, but also refers to a character of life. But eternal life does not end. 3) Never. Is it possible never means never? If we lose our salvation, we perish, and that means Christ's words are false.  That is not an option.

No, this is not the only verse that teaches eternal security. There is a strong Biblical base for it, which is the reason many believe it. But this blog is long enough - not enough space to go through others.

I do want to end with this blog with two questions: 1) Is God ABLE to keep us saved? 2) Is God WILLING to keep us saved? Am I wrong for thinking that believing we can lose our salvation requires God to either be unable or unwilling to keep us, both options contrary to Scripture and God's character?

INTERVIEW WITH GLENN REMSEN, HOST OF LITHOSCRY PODCAST AND AUTHOR OF STONES THAT CRY

You all know I'm a Divine Martyr fan, right? Well, early last year (2023 for those who might be reading this in the 23rd century), they mentioned they were being interviewed on Lithoscry podcast, promoting their video of my favorite song by them ("Truth"). I watched it, and I became an immediate fan of the program. I'm now binge listening to earlier podcasts.

I also found out about his book "Stones That Cry: God's Precious Metal." While there were a few things I disagreed with, I found myself having a similar mindset on several of his points. 

JR: Welcome to the blog, Glenn. My normal first question would be “How did you come to Christ and what interested you in music?” However, since you answered those questions in the first chapter of your book, and I want to encourage them to read it, let me instead ask: What inspired you to write “Stones That Cry?”

GR:   In many ways “Stones That Cry” is my testimony of how God used metal and hard rock to help heal me physically after having a brain tumor removed.  God also used metal and hard rock to help me cope through the very dark and trying recovery process. 

In writing  “Stones That Cry” there were certain artists I wanted to personally reach to let them know that even though they may not know Jesus, He used them in my life in a profound way. Writing “Stones That Cry” was my first step in an attempt to share my testimony with them. My hope, and it still is, is that many of the artists who God used to help me will be introduced to Jesus through this testimony they were a part of so they too can be saved eternally by Him.   

I also wanted to introduce the church to understand that all too often we stuff God into a “religious box.”  Many Christians have come to believe that God cannot work outside of the church or use things considered to be “secular” to glorify Himself.  However, Jesus said in Luke 19:40 that stones will glorify God if His people are silent  “... I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.” (Luke 19:40).

JR: I’m going to give you a hybrid question. Can you tell us the origins of your podcast and how it morphed from “Get Real” to “Lithoscry,” with the information that the person asking this question is asking himself if starting a podcast himself is either something he’s called to or whether it’s a busyness that unless I feel God speaking clearly, it’s something I shouldn’t worry about?

GR: Absolutely! the podcast I currently host is not my first media rodeo.  In 1999, I hosted a local cable television program “Arise & Shine!”  This show would consist of a Bible study and music from the worship team at the church I was an assistant pastor at.  In 2001, one of the other pastors and I had a door open for us on radio as well.  The Program Director of the  flagship AM Newstalk Station in Charleston, SC allowed us to host, at no cost to us,  a Christian call-in show that was intended for those who did not go to church. We were made a part of the regular line-up on Saturday Nights.

This was not a preaching or teaching show but a celebration of free speech where callers could voice their concerns, opinions, and questions, and we would share our Christian world view.  The radio show's name was “Get Real.”  The show was intended to premiere in late September 2001.  However, one day after the tragedy of 9/11, the Program Director called me and said, we need you on this weekend, we need your show due to what has happened.  So, for the first several weeks, we found ourselves ministering on the most influential radio station in Charleston, SC to people who were deeply scared, confused, and concerned. 

Just as I was completing “Stones That Cry” God pressed upon me to once again enter the realm of media and to start a podcast that would complement the book.  I decided to go with the Get Real! name that had been established many years prior as a starting point.

As I got further into the project, God gave me more clarity on the direction He wanted the podcast to go and gave me the title “Raven’s Heart.”

Lithoscry, which is means stones or rocks (lithos) that cry is the name for the broad spectrum of outreach which includes the Raven’s Heart Podcast, the book and hopefully future publications, the Lithosbytes podcast which focuses on Bible teaching and prophetic insight, and the Get Revelation Rockfest music festival. 

JR: I have thoroughly enjoyed your interviews on Lithoscry, including former interviewees I’ve had on this blog like Divine Martyr, Reclaim The Day, DeadSin, Crystoria, Worhol, and others I can’t think of right away. Are there any interviews that either surprised you or completely changed your life in some way? 

GR: Yes!  In fact the first interview that surprised me was an interview with Richard Morrill, the former lead singer of the band L.A.P.D. that is today known as KORN.  When I was working on the overall idea of a rock music podcast from a Christian perspective, I shared the idea with a coworker of mine.  I told my coworker that he might think what I am thinking of doing is kind of crazy and shared the idea with him.  He not only told me he thought it was a great idea but that Richard Morrill from L.A.P.D. was his uncle and that he would introduce me to him to get him on the show.  I was very quickly introduced to Richard and we were able to bring him on the show for our one year anniversary.  All of this was a confirmation that I was moving in the right direction.

Other interviews that have surprised me include an interview with Dallas Jenkins, director of “The Chosen” and the late Dr. Michael Heiser.  Each of these interviews were the result of divinely arranged meetings and acquaintances. 

The interview most special to me was with Justin Elswick who goes by the name “Sleepthief.”  Though his music is not rock or metal, he was one of the artists who God used to help me heal physically and emotionally during the darkest time in my life. I was blessed to be able to share with him publicly how God used him in my life.

The interview that had the most impact on me was a recent interview with Lara Landon.  There is a lot of behind the scenes with each show.  We had some scheduling challenges prior to the show and at the end of the show (I can’t remember if it was included in the broadcast), she prayed for me and the Lithoscry ministry.  Within minutes of her praying, we experienced a major breakthrough in the ministry.  The next day she messaged me and told me that she had turned down an opportunity to sing at a major event because she sensed Holy Spirit telling her she needed to do the interview.  This was a very humbling experience that has given us a greater opportunity to minister to many who would not consider going to church and helped remind me of the sphere of influence God has called me to.

JR: One thing that caught my attention in some of those interviews is in dealing with names. Could you tell us how you got interested in that, and how it applies to life?

GR: I have always been interested in what people’s names mean.  Even before I came to know Jesus, when I would meet someone who became significant in my life I would look their name up in Webster’s Dictionary.  Nobody taught me how to do this.  It was just something I did.  In growing in my walk with Jesus I have come to learn that there are no such things as coincidences or random happenings.  I believe this applies to people’s names as well.  To test this I once again began researching the names of people who have ministered to and taken care of me and sure enough their names matched how they ministered to me. 

This is also true as one studies Scripture.  The names of the individuals spoken of in the Bible describe their function in the Kingdom of God. 

As a podcast host, I am a servant of those whom I am interviewing and often times I will be led by Holy Spirit to encourage a guest with how their name fits what God has called them to do for His Kingdom. 

JR: One question that your book deals with is whether God can use the unsaved to glorify His name, further His Kingdom, and minister to His people. Would you be interested in elaborating on this?

GR:  Yes.  There was a time in my walk with Jesus that I believed that only those who have been saved are of use to the Kingdom of God.  However, it was through my experiences with metal and hard rock that this view was not correct.  I searched the Scriptures to see if someone who is not a believer can be used by God for His purposes.  Not only did I find one example but found several.  King Cyrus who blessed Israel and made the rebuilding of the Temple after the Babylonian Captivity was not a believer,  Balaam the wizard who set out to curse Israel was used to bless Israel and actually prophesied of the coming Messiah was not a believer.  The one that is most astonishing, the Magi who sought the Messiah after His birth were men were not men that would be welcomed today in many churches because prior to their arrival to the feet of Jesus, they were practitioners of the mystery religions of Babylon. In the commentaries I have read on the Magi, some theologians struggle with the Magi because of their backgrounds.  

However, we must remember though God may use a person who is not a believer, someone who is not saved may do some things that glorify God; this does not guarantee eternal life.  This is what Jesus meant when He said, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (Mathew 7:21-23).

No matter how great a work any person does, the only way to enter the Kingdom of Heaven is by receiving the gift of eternal life through Jesus. 

JR: Thank you for your time. How can we keep up with Lithoscry and any other ministries you have? Any final thoughts?

GR: The best way that you can keep up with all things Lithoscry is through our website at lithoscry.com  Of course, watch Raven’s Heart every week on Thrusday night’s at 8p EST on our YouTube channel The best way to support the ministry of Lithoscry is to like and share our YouTube content!  Thank you so much for this opportunity. 

  

EASTER CAROLING, ANYBODY? AND FAVORITE RESURRECTION SONGS.

Young Martin Luther and Carolers Sing For Mrs. Cotta in Eisenach by Ferdinand Pauwels

I will never forget one suggestion made by Leah Libresco in her book Building The Benedict Option: A Guide To Gathering Two Or Three Together In His Name: Easter caroling.

Why not? After all, we go Christmas caroling. Why not Easter Caroling? 

Now, while there are many great Resurrection Day songs (more on those later), I can only think of three that I'd use for Easter caroling. But do we need a long list? After all, we'd only sing at the most two or three songs at each place.

Plus, when we sing at shut-ins and the like, wouldn't they not only enjoy hearing familiar songs but being reminded that Christ has conquered sin and death?

Reminder - the blog title mentions two parts. Often in a two subject blog, you do one and then the other. In this case, though, I'll combine the topics, and start with three songs that are favorites on the resurrection and that would be great for caroling:

• "Christ Arose" (aka "Low In The Grave He Lay"). Isn't that a triumphant song for the season?
• "Christ The Lord Is Risen Today." Excellent and theologically deep and sound lyrics by Charles Wesley, as you'd expect. I did hear someone mention, though, that John Wesley did not include this song in early Methodist Hymnals. 
• To the more contemporary, how about "The Easter Song," written by Annie Herring, originally recorded by the 2nd Chapter of Acts (which includes Annie), and recorded by several others like Keith Green, Glad, and Jess Ray.

Now, there are other great songs for that time of year that I would not consider material for caroling, but other great resurrection songs. Pardon me for putting them in random order.

• "Tell The Whole World" by Becky Ugartechea. My all time favorite song. Upbeat, and the ending is enough to get you excited to tell the world. Unfortunately, I don't know how to access it if you don't have the project: not on Spotify, not on YouTube, not anyplace either. :( 
• "Star Of The Morning" by Leon Patillo. Great, powerful keyboards, great singing. It's also been covered by Shirley Ceasar.
  
• "The Victor" by Jamie Owens-Collins. This classic has been covered by the Green brothers: Keith and Steve. 
• "He Lives" by Erick Nelson. Yes, this is a more obscure one, but definitely a great song on the resurrection.
• "Love Crucified Arose" by Michael Card.
• "The King Is Alive" by Function. And you thought Erick Nelson was obscure? But you can find it on Spotify.
• "The Holy City" by Mahalia Jackson (and probably others). A classic.
• "The Roar of Love"/"I Heard The Stars Sing Before" by 2nd Chapter of Acts. This pair, back to back on their "Roar of Love" album based on C.S.Lewis' "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" refers to Aslan the Lion, but is the meaning different?
• "He Came, He Saw, He Conquered" by Petra. Energetic song with John Schlitt's exciting singing.
• "Graverobber" by Petra. This one is from the Greg Volx era, focusing not just on Christ's resurrection but ours as well.
• "What A Day" by Alisa Turner. A newer one.
• "Christ is Risen" by Mia Fieldes. Another newby. Check both her and Alisa out on Spotify.
• "Living Hope" by Phil Wickham; still another contemporary one, but I think it's better known. For example, we sang it this morning (Easter) at my church.
• "The Garden Tomb" by the Isaacs. Yep, it's time to get into Southern Gospel.
• "She Found Jesus Alive" by Carroll Roberson. This is a song I could never stay depressed listening to.
• "Last Night" by Karen Peck and New River. Very solid song.
• "Russian Easter Festival Overture" by Rimski-Korsokov. Okay, it's instrumental. Is it dealing with the Resurrection, or with festivals celebrated that time? After all, the composer was an Agnostic. But it makes me think of Christ's being raised. Very energetic, and I have a tradition of listening to it on Easter. I like it better than Mahler's Resurrection Symphony (I've never been able to get into Mahler.)

One last thought: Don't worry. I'm not going to suggest Good Friday caroling.

BOOK REVIEW: COLD THREAT (RYLAND & ST. CLAIR BOOK 2) BY NANCY MEHL

Can the recent arsons in small town Burlington be connected to the three Des Moines fires twenty years ago, where they caught the killer after the third house? Is the psycopath who almost killed River Ryland years ago and is currently stalking her going to achieve his goal? And was Ryland responsible for her co-worker and friend Tony St. Clair getting shot when Ryland was nearly drowned?

"Cold Threat," the second part of Nancy Mehl's Ryland & St. James series, turns up the heat in excitement, plot twists, nail-biting suspense, and excellent character development. You learn to love the main characters and Tony's family, as well as have a hard time figuring out what will happen next.

Yes, this is part two. Do you need to read part one first to enjoy the two books? Definitely. "Cold Pursuit" deals more with River's family, which is hinted at in the second though not a major part of this installment, and there's a few things that will make more sense in this book. when you read the books in order. Additionally, both books end with a cliff-hanger, connected with the person who almost killed the main characters before this series started!

I have enjoyed Nancy Mehl for years, and I highly recommend this to any suspense lover.

 

BOOK REVIEW - FIVE TRAITS OF A DISCIPLEMAKER, EDITED BY DOUG NUENKE (US PRESIDENT OF THE NAVIGATORS)

 Would you be interested in a short devotional where each installment is two short pages? Do you enjoy having the devotionals written by different authors so you have different perspectives? Are you motivated when the devotional includes two or three questions for you to think about? 

And how many want this book just because of the title and subject?

"Five Traits of a Disciplemaker," edited by US PreDoug Nuenke with a foreward by Jerry Bridges, author of "The Pursuit of Holiness" fits that description. This 30 day devotional is divided into five six-devotional segments, each written by a different author (including Gary Thomas, author of one of my favorite books "Sacred Pathways").

Some devotionals are those you read, and that you put down encouraged, but are not challenged to transfer it to day to day life. Not so here. Each one has two or three questions at the end to encourage you to put what's read into practice.

I appreciated this devotional, and I'm definitely going to be using it again.

SAINTS IN ACTS, APOSTATES IN REVELATION? REALLY? - "LET'S STOP BEING SO CRITICAL" (PART 6 OF 6)

The Ninth Wave by Ivan Aivazovsky

Can you name the first European convert to Christianity? You say Lydia, the seller of purple from Thyatira? Very good.

Where else is Thyatira mentioned in Scripture? You say it sounds like one of the seven churches of Asia Christ gave letters to in Revelation? Again, correct answer. And you may remember that in that letter, Jesus condemns them for allowing an apostate woman called "Jezebel" in their midst.

Who is this "Jezebel?" Most don't consider that to be her real name. The leading views is the pastor's wife (based on the reading of some manuscripts) and an unknown false teacher. 

Yet some say that woman is Lydia, the first European convert, is that Jezebel. Any Biblical proof she fell away from the truth? Ab. So. Lute. Lee. None! 

I don't have to hide the identity of the minority who smear Lydia's reputation because I never have read that view - rather, I read another book that mentioned this theory and dismissed it.

However, there's another person mentioned in Acts that is associated with false teaching, even though it isn't clearly stated. That is Nicolas, one of the seven deacons, a proselyte from Antioch. Should we be leery of him? I see NO hints of that from the text.

But let's return to Revelation. In the letter to Ephesus, they're praised for hating the deeds of the Nicolatians, which Jesus hates. A few verses later, the church in Pergamum is condemned for allowing those who teach the doctrine of the Nicolatians, which Jesus hates.

What do we know for sure about the Nicolatians? Basically, nothing outside of these two mentions. They're not mentioned anyplace else in Scripture. There is no mention of that sect in any writings except commentaries of Revelation.

One question I have. Is this word supposed to be transliterated and treated as a proper noun? Or should it be translated and treated as a common noun? If you take the second view, you'd come up with "Controlling the People." If that is what Nicolatianism is, it should be condemned, though it is practiced both religiously and politically. 

But others - unfortunately a majority - assume that this was a Gnostic group formed by Nicolas. This is an ancient view, going back to the 2nd Century, and held by some of the Church Fathers. But is there Biblical proof that this Deacon went astray? Not a shred of evidence. Could it be named by somebody else named Nicolas? After all, later there was St. Nicolas - obviously not him, since he wasn't born yet, but still a sign others had that name? But no. They mimick the unprovable theory of the past and say this person had to be an apostate.

Does it make you mad when people jump to negative conclusions like this? It makes me mad. After all, we're commanded to love, and Paul says love thinks no evil (1 Corinthians 13:5). 

Why do we assume negative things when there are other options that are not negative? That's not Christian love. And we should be slow to make such assumptions of our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
 

INTERVIEW WITH BRYAN BROWN AND KENNY POOVEY OF DEADSIN

 

DeadSin, left to right: Cameron Murrell (Guitar and vocals), Bryan Brown (Bass and Lead Vocals), and Kenny Poovey (Guitar and vocals). Photo by my friend Chad Fenner of Concert Fotos.

JR: Welcome to the blog. How did the band get started? Who all are the members, and how did you choose your name?

BB: We got started around May/June of 2020. It was myself (bass, Lead Vocals) Keagan (drums) and Cameron (guitars). We wanted our name to mean something or be a conversation starter. We took a couple verses that talk about being dead in sins and dead to sin and just really liked DeadSin as a whole. 

Since we began we’ve gone through a couple line up changes. Keagan has left the band, he was a founding member. We currently have Bryan (me) and Cameron and Kenny Poovey (guitar, vocals)

JR: Would you like to tell us about your latest project(s)? Especially about "Sovereign."

BB: Our latest release was a song called “Don’t You Know” which is pretty much a pop song which talks about how much we care about our loved ones and friends. I had been wanting to write a song about my sons for years and this was it. 

Our song “Sovereign” is a banger. Keagan wrote most of it and I wrote the lyrics. We made a music video for it producing it ourselves with some help. We are big believers in the sovereignty of God and that all things happen for a reason and that He is control of every single thing. The chorus is based off or Romans 8 and 9. God saves us. He is the author and finisher of our faith. 

JR: I would like to know the story of your 3 song EP "The Protest," including the awesome artwork.

BB: Our EP “The Protest” was our first release. We had a handful of songs but picked these 3 cause they had some variousness in styles. We tracked the music ourselves but then flew to Nashville and had Josiah Prince of Disciple track all the vocals and later mix it. Was a great experience and he was awesome to work with. We may go back there in the future. Each song was picked for a specific reason. “Wrath” was a groover and we wanted to talk about an attribute of God most do not, His justice and wrath against the wicked. Next was “Recreate” a personal song of my walk and fall and return to Jesus. Last was “Elevate” a very pop passive aggressive song about false teachers. The video actually got us kicked off a show once. The artwork was Keagan’s idea and we for the boys in The Protest who also do graphic work as Quiet strength design to make it. They’ve done "Vapor" as well, my favorite. 

JR: I love that each of the members mention their favorite Bible passage on the website. What is the church background of the band? What are your sources (in person, favorite musicians, mentoring preachers via books, radio, etc.)?

BB: I grew up in an Assemblies of God church. Around my late 20’s I discovered RC Sproul and it led me down the path to where I am today in Reformed theology. I attend a Presbyterian church, in the CREC. I’m a fan of pastors and apologists like Jeff Durbin, James White, Voddie Baucham, Doug Wilson. As an older man, I’ve got so many favorite bands and artists to name. I think we do a good job of mixing in old and new styles in our music. 

Kenny Poovey was raised Catholic as a child and chose in adult hood to follow the non-denominational Christian faith.  Still growing every day in faith and his walk with Jesus.  DeadSin is actually a big influence on his journey. 

KP: I enjoy listening to scripture via the audio book and YouVersion app and get a lot of his lessons and teachings of scripture from my church, The Quest, located in Royse City, TX as well as from the amazing R.C. Sproul along with fellowship with my friends such as Chad Fenner who is a prolific professional photographer but also a major influence on myself along with  Bryan Brown from DeadSin and Shelby Steineger from my church. 

My favorite Bible verse, which is not easy to choose as there are many that resonate is "Romans 8:38-39: Nothing can separate you from the unconditional love of God!"   This verse is special to me because I can seek comfort in the thought of unconditional Agape Love.  I love "love" and I feel it is important to not only Christian faith as God has shown the proof that unconditional love exists but also for me, it is an important concept for my marriage.  I feel God should be at the center of my marriage and that we are to love each other unconditionally.  It is also something that the world truly needs, which is the unconditional love we receive from God but also that as humans, we should be leading by example each and every day to love one another.

JR: What do you think is the greatest danger facing the church, and what is DeadSin's role in dealing with that danger?

KP: I think the greatest fear or danger for the church is when folks twist the narrative or meaning of the Bible at its teaching for their own personal gain or personal agenda.  I think DeadSin does a good job by facing this head on in our song, "Elevate".  DeadSin is committed to speaking the truth and shining the light on this sickening trend taking place in our churches. 

BB: Greatest danger is the lack of discernment and not knowing who God really is. We’ve made a God that conforms to who we want him to be more than reading and understanding what scripture has said. God is holy, holy, holy. We can’t comprehend that in our human minds. The theology in main stream American churches is very watered down and frankly weak. I also fear the church’s are full of false converts too. 

JR: Thank you for your time. What projects are you working on? How can we keep in contact with y'all (how's that for a little Texan?)?

Photo courtesy of Chad Fenner of Concert Fotos

BB: Thank you so much for doing this with us. We’ve had a brief lull in the band for a few really good reasons but we are still writing. Got a couple songs in the works and hope to drop something by summer. We are looking at this as DeadSin 2.0 with Kenny joining us. You can keep up with us on our webpage and on Facebook.  We are excited about the future and pray God uses us for His glory. God bless!

INTERVIEW WITH AMY AND SETH OLSEN OF THE BAND COUNTER

Counter, left to right: Travis Whisnant (bass), Michael Fox (lead guitar), Amy Olsen (vocals), Seth Olsen (rhythm guitars), and Eli Roscoe (drums).

Late winter/early spring is the time of year that I get acquainted with new-to-me bands. I have the honor of interviewing Amy and Seth Olsen (referred to as A&S in the interview) of the band Counter. 

JR: Welcome to the blog! How did the band get started, who's all in it, and why the name "Counter?"

A&S: Hi, Jeff - thanks for having us. The initial band concept started a few years back (around early 2020/2021) when Seth started messing around with some initial song ideas/demos. Initially, Seth was working on more worship songs for my church band that I play with once in a while - but soon realized he was driven more to write heavier songs - for people who may never come to church.

As far as the name - Counter's name means "go against" which comes across lyrically in our music as we highlight upbeat/positive themes through down tuned heavy riffs, pounding drums and soaring catchy vocals hooks that lyrically go against the hate and derision in today’s world. We believe in going into the darkest places and bringing light and hope to others. 

JR: Would you like to tell us about your latest single? 

A&S: Our latest track is titled "The Darkness." This song was produced by Ricky Rodriguez and initial song structure was a collaboration we did with Colt Crevar - the guitarist of the band Forever May Fall (Charlotte metal core band) who works with many bands in the region. This song has done really well on streaming - one of our most popular - we are really proud of how it all came together in the final mix. The song’s message is that no matter how dark of a place you either end up in (or try to put yourself in on purpose) you can never hide from the Light, that the shadows still shine because the Light is near so you are never alone, and when you open yourself to that Light and accept it, you can begin to move out of that dark place and towards where (and who) you were meant to be.

JR: Looking at your web-page, you got your start during the middle of COVID. What were the challenges of trying to get established in that era, and how did you see God use that situation?

A&S: Covid was an interesting time: good in some ways to start a band who really had no original music. Venues were pretty much shut down - so we really had time to work on music and try to develop the sound and style along with finding the right members and work on a set list. We are focused on playing original music in our sets, so sometimes that is a challenge as many places are still more into cover type bands that will play the “hits” of a certain style and genre.

We still have challenges in setting up shows, but we have worked to partner with other bands to play shows with them which makes a difference. We really enjoying making new connections both with bands and venues. We think God is still using us in many ways including helping us create powerful music that people enjoy and in reaching out to new audiences and new bands - we are happy to offer hope and a helping hand to anyone.

JR: What would you say is the vision of the band?

A&S: We would say the vision or the mission is really the great commission and reaching out to others with love and mercy and showing them the Way. We are very much aligned with The Whosoever’s movement (same as Lacey Sturm, P.O.D. [Sonny Sandoval], Life & Death [Brian Head Welch] etc.) in reaching out to those in need - let them know they matter and that the Lord wants to meet them where they are and make their lives better.

JR: How can we pray for Counter? And are there any praise reports?

A&S: We are hoping to put together a large music fundraiser event this summer with bands on a similar mission to us. Be praying that it can all come together as we would like so that we can meet unexpected people in an unexpected place with an unexpected message of hope and mercy, especially those suffering under strongholds of addiction. Also pray that this show is something not where we may want to play and perform, but rather it is something the Lord wants that can be used to reach those looking for answers  but in the wrong places. Praise reports for us really are that the Lord has put the right people in our path to form the band (and all on the same mission) - the band initially was just us. Especially since we are based in a small town - not typically where a hard rock band may typically start from.

JR: What's on the agenda as far as touring and recording? How can we keep up with what's going on with the band?

A&S: As far as keeping up with us - really easy to follow us on Facebook or Instagram (where we are active) along with our website, www.counter.rocks For 2024 - we are playing around 1 show per month which can be found on our Bandsintown page and for recording we are going into the studio soon to work on our next single which is already fully developed. We are more into releasing singles (versus albums or EPs) and hope to put out a few this year but don’t have an exact timetable on that - plus we are self funded - not on any label - so takes some time to put funds together. Thanks again for having us - be sure to follow us on our Main Link Page, Instagram and Spotify!!

JR: Thank you for your time. Are there any other final thoughts you’d like to share?

A&S: One of the main things is we want people to know this is all real: Christ is real and He has real plans for their lives; that is is not about Churchianity or keep up with others expectations, but rather a true connection with a Savior who loves them and only wants the best for each person's lives. He is the one that can break chains of addiction - both things like drugs & alcohol - as well as things like social media comparitiveness where people are continually judging themselves to others and becoming more despondent and divisive, chained down by a vanity cycle loop that is all imaginary.

BARNABAS - "LET'S STOP BEING SO CRITICAL" (PART 5 OF 6)

San Barnaba by Anonimo Lombardo

What? Am I saying that people are being critical of the "Son of Encouragement?" Are they opposed to people encouraging others?

Take a deep breath. No, it isn't about his being encouraging, though it does affect one's thinking of his encouragement. And I can think of only one person who mentioned this criticism, and I won't mention his name because it might take away deserved respect from that pastor.

The root issue is similar to Matthias. How many apostles are there? If one limits it to 12, then that would either be the eleven and Paul or the eleven and Matthias. No place would exist for Barnabas being an apostle, and that is the basis of the criticism. 

Remember when Paul and Barnabas had a disagreement on taking Mark for the second missionary journey, resulting in the two going different directions? I have always thought (and I have the impression that I'm in the majority) that both sides have a point. Also, looking ahead, Paul mentions Mark in one place as someone to receive and in another as being profitable for the ministry (Colossians 4:10, 2 Timothy 4:11). 

Nevertheless, the critic believes that Barnabas was wrong for not going along with Paul because Paul was an apostle and he wasn't. But even if that was true, didn't Barnabas' encouragement and loyalty help move Mark from being a cowardly liability when he left Paul and Barnabas on the first missionary journey to being valuable for the ministry? The critic doesn't give him any credit, instead saying that working with Peter was what what made the difference (most people consider the Gospel of Mark to be more accurately the Gospel of Peter as told to Mark). 

Back to the issue of apostleship: are there portions that include others as apostles other than the twelve and Paul? We dealt with Matthias and why he should be considered part of the Twelve last week. James the brother of Jesus is also referred to as an apostle by Paul in Galatians 1. And there are portions that state that Barnabas also was an apostle.

• Barnabas brought Paul into the fellowship of the Jerusalem Church (Acts 9:26-28).
• Barnabas was chosen by the apostles to see what was happening in Antioch (Acts 11:22); in contrast, they sent Peter and John to the earlier revival in Samaria (Acts 8:14-15).
• When it listed the five leaders in Antioch (Acts 13:1), Barnabas was first, and Saul (i.e. Paul) was fifth. Lists often are mentioned in order of importance. Likewise, when they went to Cyprus, they were referred to as "Barnabas and Saul," and when they left Cyprus, they were called "Paul and Barnabas."
• When Paul healed the lame man in Lystra, and the people tried to worship to them, Acts 14:14 says, "But when the apostles Paul and Barnabas..." This should by itself end the theory that Barnabas was not an apostle, but the critic responds by saying they're two different types of apostles, a concept that might have shown up in Fifth Timothy or some book following Revelation.
• In Galatians 2:1-10, Paul implies that Barnabas was on the same level. Similar in his defense of his apostleship, putting himself and Barnabas on the same level in not using privileges other Apostles used (1 Corinthinans 9:3-6).

True, history follows Paul after he and Barnabas parted ways. But keep in mind - Paul and Barnabas both agreed to go visit the believers from the first missionary trip. When Paul went to Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra and Derbe with Silas, Barnabas and Mark went to Cyprus. Yes, Barnabas' home country, but also the first place of work, including the salvation of the procounsul. I heard one person say that the result of Paul and Barnabas' division meant there were twice as many mission teams going out.
 

BOOK REVIEW - EXPLOSIVE TRAIL (PACIFIC NORTHWEST K-9 UNIT, BOOK 3) BY TERRI REED

 

Who is exploding trail markers at the National Park and why? And who is more dangerous to K-9 Officer Willow Bates: the unpredictable, vengeful bomber, or her soon-to-be-ex-husband, FBI Officer Theo Bates?

"Explosive Trail" by Terri Reed is the third book of the Pacific Northwest K-9 Unit series from Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense series. As usual with the multi-author K-9 series, each book has threads that extend the whole series, but also has its own story. Thus, it is written where if you miss a story or start with a book other than the first one, you'll neither feel lost with references to earlier stories nor spoil the previous installments if you want to catch up. (In this case, I have read the opening book "Shielding the Baby" by Laura Scott, but I've yet to read book 2, "Scent of Truth" by Valerie Hansen.)

I've read Love Inspired Suspense stories where the lead characters were formerly married and fall in love again (am I spoiling a Harlequin to say there's a happily ever after ending?), but this is the first I've read where the characters are on the verge of divorce. Reed tells a compelling story about the ups and downs of the relationship. Personally, I found that aside from the first scene, more focus is on the romance side than the suspense angle, but it felt natural to the story.

I highly recommend this book and the series (at least, as far as I've read so far).

BOOK REVIEW - RELIGHTING THE TORCH BY ANDREW HORNING

 

Is this country the Constitutional Republic the Founding Fathers gave us? If not, is that an improvement, or is it endangering the freedoms the Constitution was meant to preserve?

In "Relighting The Torch," Andrew Horning deals with these issues. He points out how, almost while the ink on the Constitution was still wet, we moved toward a centralized government. He then includes an annotated Declaration of Independence and Constitution with all the Amendments, concluding with ways to get our country back on track.

I found this book informative, which did not surprise me the least. Horning has run for office as both a Libertarian and a Republican. During one debate, one blogger commented that he would make an excellent teacher on the Constitution and government. I fully agree.

There are few books I can objectively say that I think everyone should read. This is a good example. I wish our leaders would read this and try to get this country back in shape. 

Thank you, Andrew Horning, for writing this book.

MATTHIAS - "LET'S STOP BEING SO CRITICAL" (PART 4 OF 6)

St. Mathias by Peter Paul Rubens from his Twelve Apostles series at the Museo del Prado, Madrid, c. 1611

Sometimes, a person gets criticized because of someone else's actions. Matthias is in this point. The sole criticism of Matthias was not anything he did or said, but just that he wasn't God's choice as Judas' replacement. Nor was the other man on the ballot. Obviously, Paul was God's choice. At least, that's what they say, criticizing Peter for rushing ahead before the Holy Spirit came down.

Sigh. What is the real root of that theory? Simple. Paul is a prominent figure in Acts and the New Testament, and Matthias isn't. They add that there are references to the twelve apostles like "you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel" (Matthew 19:28) and "Now the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb" (Revelation 21:14). So doesn't mean there are only twelve apostles?

Let me deal with these issues.

• Matthias is not an apostle because he's not mentioned as much as Paul? Let's see - give me all the references in Acts to Thomas and Andrew and Simon the Zealot. Matthias fits in the mix with them. Never mind that the view that prominence shows God's blessing is of the flesh; God saves by few as by many.
• What is the significance of twelve? Well, duh, it relates to the 12 Tribes of Israel. Matthew 19:28 talks about the Apostles judging the 12 tribes. Revelation 21:14 follows 21:12, which talks about the 12 tribes. Could the 12 Apostles be a signal of a rebirth of Israel, starting the day of Pentecost? Then why wasn't Paul there?
• Let's look at instances when Post-Judas the disciples are referred to as "The Twelve." First, Luke mentions them in Acts 6:2. Second, there is the reference of Jesus appearing to the twelve after the Resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15:5. We know who 11 of the 12 are, and we know Judas wasn't there. Who was the 12th in both cases? Paul? No, not converted yet. Could the 12th be Matthias? Of course, it could. By the way, Paul considered Matthias to be one of the twelve; he did not consider himself one of the twelve.
• Again, the ministry of the 12 was to the 12 tribes. Paul's ministry was to the Gentiles. There is no indication that he ever was a part of the 11 in his ministry. 
• Of course, we're not saying that Paul's not an apostle. But is it possible that the references of the 12 apostles were connected to Israel, meaning apostles to the Gentiles could be apostles but not of the 12, like Paul?
• Also, who said Peter was jumping the gun? Jesus spent 40 days with the Apostles. There was no record that He spoke about replacing Judas... and no record that He didn't. He told them to wait in Jerusalem, but He didn't tell them what to do or not to do while in Jerusalem waiting. One friend made fun of casting lots - hey, God commanded lots be used in calling out Achan's sin and His choice of King Saul, as well as using that means in other instances. The qualifications? For a person to be a witness of Christ's life and resurrection? Not commanded. Not. Condemned.

Yes, this is an issue for me. After all, the text nowhere suggests Peter was jumping the gun or that they were to wait for Paul to be saved. Again, it's looking down on Matthias because of a lack of prominence. But all the references that say he wasn't God's choice are located either preceding Genesis or following Revelation.

 

ALBUM REVIEW - ARE YOU READY BY MCKENNA

 

Anybody like me in looking for new rock? I discovered "Are You Ready" by the rock band McKenna. This is a good, high energy band. They also have long, well developed songs - most are over five minutes in length, one of which is 6:20 and the last track is listed as being 12:23. More on the final track.

My favorite tracks on this project are the title track, "Love Remains," "Time To Go," "Push The World Out," and "Homecoming." 

Is there such a thing as a spoiler in album reviews? Have you ever listened to a CD where after the last track on the list the player continues for a minute or more before another unlisted song pops up? This one does that. I was prepared for a real long, YES type song, but the song ended after six and a half minutes and then a new one came on a minute later.

I really enjoyed this album and highly recommend it.

INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR DONNA FLETCHER CROW

Author Donna Fletcher Crow on the Riviera. 

So far, I've had several interviews on this blog (especially in '21 and '22, nowhere near as many last year), but I've only had one repeat interviewee. Well, the only twice-interviewed is now my first thrice-interviewed.

I've invited Donna Fletcher Crow, who I interviewed in '20 and '21 (links highlighted if you want to see them) to discuss her latest book "Going There: Tales From The Riviera and Beyond" (click here for book review).

Donna has just reached into the rarified air of authors I've read at least 20 books by (a state that she shares with only Agatha Christy, though Nancy Mehl is knocking at the door with me about to start on my 19th novel by her). The 22 books I've read by Donna include her 6 Monastery Mysteries featuring Father Antony and Felicia, the five part Lord Danvers Investigates, and the five Elizabeth and Richard Literary Suspense.

JR: Welcome back to the blog! Though you've been a guest here a couple of times, it's the first since COVID is more of a nuisance hanging around than the dreaded monster it was in '20 and '21. What is new with you, your family, your church, etc. since then?

DFC: Hello, Jeff! What an honor to be here with you again. Oh, goodness, what a question—I could write a novel. If only I had time. With 4 married children and 15 grandchildren, life is always intense, but it does seem to be more so now than ever. My husband once told our children it was their job to keep us from getting bored. Bad mistake—boredom would be a welcome break. Thankfully, it’s mostly good things. Job changes, some desired and some not, including my husband’s desire to retire, but not yet finding a good exit strategy from his business, and several grandchildren getting to the age that boyfriend/girlfriend relationships are serious prayer topics. Also, the grandson who returned from Afghanistan with PTSD and is now in rehab.

And thank you for asking about our church. The building project we were ready to launch before the Covid lockdowns struck is finally underway. Phase 1, the new parish hall and library are in progress. That’s a huge “Thanks be to God!” but also a major involvement in planning for future ministry to our neighborhood now that we will actually have the space for new programs.

And, yes, along with all of that I am plodding along with my writing. 

JR: Of course, one thing I want to talk about here is your latest book, I believe. (It wouldn't surprise me if you released a book or two or twelve since then.) Tell us all about "Going There: Tales From The Riviera and Beyond." What's the inspiration of the book? What was it like combining non-fiction with fiction in this story collection? 

DFC: Oh, Jeff—in my prime I did, indeed release 3 books a year. Now I struggle to keep up with one. Going There, though, was a fun project that just surprised me by turning up. In the summer of 2021 my daughter-in-law Kelly and I managed to slip through a narrow window of sanity between Covid lockdowns to chaperone my granddaughter Jane in a break between her ballet schools in Monaco and Basel. I was relaxing and reveling in the beauty of the Riviera when I realized characters from several of my series had tagged along. I kept seeing places Felicity was likely to find a body or visiting a church Father Antony would love. Then the home of a writer that Elizabeth and Richard would be certain to want to visit… Another factor grew as and Kelly and I became overwhelmed with the realization of what an extraordinary adventure we were having in the midst of a worldwide pandemic. My love of sharing my experiences with my readers took over as I wrote in my journal.

Combining fiction with non-fiction is really what I do all the time. I always try to use as much actual history and real experiences in my novels as I can. I’m not really very good at making stuff up—that’s one of the reasons I love using historical characters so much. And that’s why Father Antony is such a good character for me to work with—He loves recounting the stories of the saints as factually as he can. Of course, writing actual short stories between my travel memoir events was a new experience for me—which I enjoyed very much.

JR: Another project that was finished relatively recently was the completion of the Celtic Cross series. Was concluding that series a celebration, a relief, an appetizer for another similar endeavor, or some of each?

DFC: I would say it was a great satisfaction, Jeff. The Celtic Cross series was a project I had kept in mind for years. Covid was the perfect opportunity. I had written The Fields of Bannockburn and The Banks of the Boyne, epic histories of Scotland and Ireland in the 1990s. They had been out of print for many years and, of course, eBooks hadn’t even been thought of when they were published. I wanted to make these stories—which I still felt were wonderful, not because of my telling, but because of what the historic people did—deserved a modern audience. I felt rewriting them into a series, rather than 2 massive volumes made them more accessible to readers, and possible for eBook format, since they are limited as to length. Of course, it turned out to be one of those projects I would never have had the courage to launch if I’d had any idea how much work it would be, but I felt the end product, with the help of my wonderful editor and cover artist, was worth the journey.

JR: Okay, I'll ask you to take off your author hat and take your seat at the news desk. Has your time on the Riviera affected how you see things here in the USA? Are you optimistic, pessimistic, or some of both about the coming election and the world situation?

DFC: The thing that amazing trip to the Riviera and beyond most underscored for me was the necessity of grabbing the moment when the door is open. It was an incredible three-generation family time and an opportunity I had never dreamed of and is very unlikely to come again. There were many inconveniences and nerve-wracking moments caused by the world situation—but aren’t there always? I’m so thankful I seized the opportunity. 

Oh, my—the plight of the world… Well, at the end of the day, A Christian has to be optimistic, don’t we? We’ve read the Book—we know how it will end. In the meantime, however, we must face the fact that we live in a fallen world. Without getting into politics, I will have to say, though, that it does seem to be falling faster and further than I have experienced in my very long lifetime. (If you’re curious, I was born 3 weeks before Pearl Harbor.) Which is all to say my advice is to get on your knees, but keep looking up.

JR: Back to writing. What's your WIP ("Work in Progress " in case any reader's not used to writer lingo)? When shall we look for it?

DFC: At this moment I am writing a 4-part series on “The Landscape of Pride and Prejudice” for the “Jane Austen’s Regency World Magazine.” When that is done, I will get back to a project I did the onsite research for in 2001 when I went to the Outer Hebrides right after 9/11. It’s the story of the Hebrides Awakening—an account I’ve wanted to relate ever since I first heard about it. This will be Book 7 in the Monastery Murders—quite a departure for Felicity and Antony because it doesn’t involve old Celtic saints. Well, not very much, anyway. I hope to have it out by the end of the year, but we’ll have to see about that.

JR: Thank you for your time. Would you like to remind us how to keep in touch with you?

DFC: Thank you so much for this fun visit, Jeff! Readers can follow me on Facebook, subscribe to my newsletter (and get a free book), write to me through my website, follow my blog, see my YouTube videos, or find all my books on Amazon. Oh, and some might want to check out my brand new offerings on Audible.