Written by Larry & Jean Johnson

We had just finished grilled steaks with all the trimmings and were relaxing with a coffee in the sunroom of our longtime friends, Craig and Karen Vote, when out of the blue, Karen looked at both of us and in a serious, I’m not kidding tone, says, “How’s the book coming along?”

We were amazed at her question because we were still contemplating whether we should attempt writing it!  Over the years, many people had said, “You should write a book!” We thought they were kidding or trying to be nice or that it was meant more as a cliché’. But could it have been God?  Was He trying to get His Story told?

“Well Karen, we’ve decided to try,” Larry said. And then, as if the dam had suddenly broken loose, all the fears and reservations in our hearts spilled out:

Who would want to read a story from farmers in Iowa?

There are so many good writers out there already.

Our story is too ordinary.

We’re over 75 years old!  We could die before we finish it!

And publishing with a bonafide company is so expensive – well over 10,000 dollars!

There was an awkward silence; Pastor Craig stood up and left the room. In a few short minutes he was back and handed Larry a personal check for five thousand dollars. We’ll never forget his words, “We believe in you and the impact your story will have on all who read it. We’re behind you to the finish.” Tears flowed down our cheeks.  Thank you seemed so inadequate! We couldn’t find the words to express the gratefulness in our hearts.

Year one passed. The book was endlessly being edited and re-edited. There were emails, Zooms, long hours at the computer, and doses of Tylenol for achy shoulders.

Year two passed. Chapters arranged, pre-chapter summaries submitted, Ollie’s forty digital drawings for the China section finished, permissions obtained from those whose stories we would retell, endorsements obtained, copyrights finished, appendix researched, and still no book was published.

It became an embarrassment when people would ask, “Is your book done yet?” Discouragement threatened to derail it all.  How could there be so many glitches, so many delays? And what about the large financial endorsement? Then we would again hear Pastor Craig’s words in our hearts, “We’re behind you to the finish!” God’s words in Ecclesiastes became an anchor: To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven! 

God had the launching date ready – we had to stay in the race until we crossed the finish line.

Year three began. ONLY GOD, a memoir by Larry and Jean Johnson, was becoming a reality.  The cover, binding, and back cover chosen, marketing strategies considered, and final approvals signed. On May 16, 2023, God’s stories were finally joyfully launched to the world.  But it would not have happened without other people – precious relationships working hand in hand. As stated in our book, Chapter 18 -Ministry Partners, “We need each other!  This simple truth was evidenced over and over. Some were called to pray, others gave finances, some donated goods, and still others joined hands to do the work. Together, we fulfilled the Will Go Mandate: Find a need and fill it; preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.”

– Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

I Corinthians 12:27 NIV

Brothers and Sisters – we need each other. Your encouraging words and actions make a difference. You may be just the catalyst to bring a work across the finish line. Hallelujah!