Now that we’ve observed Epiphany, we can start planning for Lent! And one great way to prepare for the holy season is to order my new book, Prone to Wander: A Lenten Journey with Women in the Wilderness. Today, January 7, is the official release date. You can buy it through the publisher, MennoMedia, and many other online sellers. You even have time to order it through your local bookstore –and maybe ask if they would carry a few extra copies so you can send your friends to buy one.

When I developed the idea for this devotional I had no idea what kind of wilderness lay ahead. I wrote much of the book in a personal wilderness of transition from a beloved congregation to an entirely new town and ministry context. And now the book is being published in a political wilderness following what was, for many of us, a deeply disorienting election.

Yes, wilderness is a common Lenten theme. And yes, wilderness is resonating in a particularly strong way as I look ahead to this coming Lenten season.

Prone to Wander follows the same pattern as my Advent devotional, Expecting Emmanuel. There are daily scripture readings, reflections, questions, and spiritual practices prompts; I’ve written weekly blessings for you all. The book also contains guides for group use: worship, small group, and retreat resources. I’m thrilled to say that my dear friend and amazing artist Michelle Burkholder has again provided original artwork for the book. (And I’m grateful to the people at MennoMedia who worked to make sure the print quality was improved for this new book!)

You can purchase digital resources for Prone to Wander from the MennoMedia web site. These digital files include all of the art Michelle created for the book as well as the worship liturgies I have written. Purchasing the digital files grants you permission to use this art and worship material in any not-for-profit context.

Please reach out to me with any questions and any requests you might have for accompanying resources. I will have some limited availability for leading local (Newton/Lawrence, KS) and online sessions about the book before and during Lent.

Keep scrolling down to read some of the lovely things others have said about Prone to Wander.

And thanks, as always, for your encouragement and support.