Write2Ignite

I was twenty years old the first time I traveled by airplane. (Yes, I know, I had a deprived childhood. 🙂 ). Not only was it my first plane trip, it was also my honeymoon. I should mention my husband was a veteran traveler.

You can imagine the scene. I had a window seat and as we soared above the clouds my squealing voice echoed through the cabin. “Look at the clouds! Oh, how beautiful! Honey, look! Look!” My honey did look, but not at the clouds. He looked at the surrounding passengers who were also not looking at the clouds. They were looking at me with amusement (and some annoyance) at my childlike wonder.

Thirty-eight years later, I’m married to the same patient man. And I still give in to childlike wonder. Christmas brings it out in me every time. I become a child at Christmas. The lights, decorations, aromas, and Christmas trees awaken in me a childlike delight. But it’s not just about the decorations.

I am in continual wonder at the amazing truth that the eternal, infinite God became man in order to restore our relationship with Him. The baby in the manger who we celebrate with carols and gifts is the One who created the universe. How can we not respond with wonder?

You and I have the privilege of using words to share this wonder all year round. Even if we don’t write for the Christian market, we still have the opportunity to honor God with the way we write. The tone we use, the subject matter we choose, the values we express, all work together to communicate our wonder at who God is and what He has done for us.

I refuse to allow the cynicism of our sin-sick world to influence the words I place on the page. Whether I’m writing for children, teens, or adults, I want my writing to convey the wonder of our amazing God. Most of all, I don’t ever want to lose my childlike wonder at the miracle of the undeserved salvation Jesus Christ purchased for me.

How about you?

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Ava Pennington is a writer, Bible teacher, and speaker. Her newest book, Daily Reflections on the Names of God: A Devotional, is endorsed by Precepts founder Kay Arthur. Additionally, Ava is co-author of Faith Basics for Kids. The first two books in the series are Do You Love Me More? and Will I See You Today? She has also written numerous articles for magazines such as Focus on the Family’s Clubhouse, Today’s Christian Woman, Power for Living, and Called.

In addition to her writing, Ava also teaches a weekly, Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) class. She is a passionate speaker and teacher, and delights in challenging audiences with the truth of God’s word in relevant, enjoyable presentations. For more information, visit her at www.AvaWrites.com.