The prophet Elihu said, “For I am full of words, and the spirit within me compels me; inside I am like bottled-up wine, like new wineskins ready to burst. I must speak and find relief; I must open my lips and reply. I will show partiality to no one, nor will I flatter any man; for if I were skilled in flattery, my Maker would soon take me away” (Job 32:18-22).
Writing a book is probably among the greatest tests of patience I have ever known. It is a journey defined by ongoing learning and discovery, reflection and introspection, and reconsideration and revision. Like an extended pregnancy, writing can be a prolonged vocation without daily relief. It is to live with full sensory perception and intellect intact—while being denied the ability to be heard. Therefore, I thank my heavenly Father for putting such a spirit of compulsion within me, along with this opportunity to truly “speak” and find relief.
I would also like to express my gratitude to my father and mother for their steadfast support, and to Angie and Julie for their ongoing encouragement. I also thank Johan for colorful comments, Sarah for her voice of reason, Jordan for original inspiration, Henneke for articulate advice, Mark for insightful dialogue, Baruch for kind words of wisdom, Brian for tireless patience, Joe for passion, Jacob for candor, Kay for prompt participation, Sylvie for thoughtful inquiry, Avram for a spirit of reconciliation, Aubrey for her enthusiasm, and Nathan for his sobering remarks. I thank Ken and Mac for engaging despite their disagreement, and for every pastor along the way willing to entertain my opposition. Finally, I must acknowledge Barb for her insight, and Eric, Marty, Mike, and John for their thoughtful remarks. I beg forgiveness of any friends, family members, and random strangers who have been willing to consider my positions and endure my arguments over the course of the years, whose names I have failed to mention.