Welcome to your blog!

If you're at this site it probably means you're reading "THE UNMAKING OF A PART-TIME CHRISTIAN." Welcome! Now you're here there are several things you can do:

First, leave a comment (click on "comments" below). We want to know how you are responding to the book and how God is challenging you to re-evaluate your life of faith. Scroll through the comments and see what others are saying, too. Periodically, I plan to sample the comments and use them in a new blog entry.

Next, you can link to my daily blog, "A Life Examined." New entries are posted six days a week. It's a great way to crawl in to the author's mind. Click this photo if you want to take a look at what's new.

Then, you can purchase additional copies of "THE UNMAKING OF A PART-TIME CHRISTIAN" or any other Derek Maul title by clicking on the link above right.

There's also a link to my website, DerekMaul.net. Click on the blue-toned photo at right. You can read a more complete bio, check my schedule, and even begin a conversation about bringing me in for a conference, or to visit your church or other organization.

It's a privilege to be in this ongoing conversation with other pilgrims in progress. God's rich blessings be with you all - DEREK

Great moments in publishing... The book is here!

LAKE JUNALUSKA, NC - Today (Sunday, July 12) I am holding the first copy of "The Unmaking of a Part-Time Christian" in my hand and - I've got to tell you - it feels very very good!

One of my editors, Janice Neely, carried it with her to Soulfeast2009, the Upper Room's annual spiritual renewal conference. We were talking at a reception and she said, "Don't go anywhere - I have a copy of your new book in my room."

This is my third book. But the thrill hasn't diminished one bit. Tomorrow I teach the first 75 minutes of a three-day class on the idea. The class is titled, "The Unmaking of a Part-Time Christian: A Conversation about Following Jesus."

I'm also excited about the potential for feedback. If you've stumbled on this site, let me know what you think. Use the comments section below. Then buy the book too, and enter into this ongoing conversation (an honest conversation, from the heart) about what it means to be a 21st Century Disciple.

Many blessings - DEREK

Available for pre-order at Upper Room and Amazon

"The Unmaking of a Part Time Christian" may not be released until September, but the book is now available for pre-order at Amazon.com.

In fact, Amazon have tidied up their "Author Page" settings to make browsing much simpler. Check out this link to see how they have books, blogs, and author profiles all on the same page. AMAZON.COM AUTHOR PAGE

In the meantime, I'm looking forward to some teaching opportunities at Nashville with the United Methodist Men, and in Lake Junaluska, North Carolina, with the Upper Room conference - Soulfeast.

Love and blessings - DEREK

First Editorial Review

I was excited this weekend to discover a well-crafted endorsement for "The Unmaking of a Part Time Christian" at Amazon.com. The words come from Eva Stimson, Editor of Presbyterians Today. Stimson's publication is a perennial award-winner, and positive words from her desk always ring true. Here it is:

• Editorial Reviews: With the skill of a gifted storyteller, Derek Maul weaves his own life experiences into a practical and engaging guidebook for Christians seeking a deeper level of commitment. Scripture, prayers and questions for reflection in each chapter reinforce the author s challenge to live as if you mean it. --Eva Stimson Editor, Presbyterians Today
  

Final Edit Underway

This week I'm completing the final edit of the galley for "The Unmaking of a Part Time Christian". We've also picked up (potentially) a couple of key endorsements - but I can't divulge any details until something comes through in writing.

Then I've been invited to teach a class on the book at Soulfeast, the annual spiritual formation conference sponsored by The Upper Room. The setting is Lake Junaluska in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. I'm looking forward to talking about what it means to be a Jesus-follower and making the critical distinction between part-time and full-time when it comes to being a disciple.

I've had a busy speaking schedule so far this year, and a lot of the content has influenced the direction of this new project. My prayer is that this book will serve as a catalyst for those who are looking to take some serious steps forward in terms of their faith.

Love and blessings - DEREK

Schedule coming together - and COVER revealed!

Well I have the cover design, and the presentation is very inviting. Book title, too, is firm. It's official, now: THE UNMAKING OF A PART TIME CHRISTIAN will be released for publication in September, just a few months away.

Next step is nit-pick detail editing, both in Nashville and the here at my desk. To be honest I really enjoy the editing process; it's one more chance to fine-tune before giving birth.

• "For of his fullness have we all received grace upon grace." (John 1:16)

As always, stay tuned and watch this space.
Love and blessings - DEREK

Happy New Year

Just checking in!

January is under way with news that my new book (the reason for this blog) is in the "design phase" and close to a fabulous cover. We're still looking at a fall release.

I re-read a few chapters over Christmas and - consequently - am more excited about this project than ever before!

Watch this space... keep your eyes on the Pilgrim path... turn your heart toward home.

Love and blessings - DEREK