Desert Reflections Blog

When I first sat down to write the opening words of Lighthouse in the Desert, I had no idea how much of myself would end up on the page. Writing a memoir is unlike writing anything else—it’s not just putting words together, it’s revisiting moments that have shaped you, scarred you, and transformed you.

This book is not just a story. It’s a testimony. It’s about how God met me in the middle of fear, loss, and desperation, and showed me that His light can break through even in the darkest desert.

The Calling

What began as an ordinary holiday trip turned into something I could never have imagined. I was taken away in handcuffs, thrown into the back of a police wagon, and plunged into a world of fear and uncertainty. What should have been a time of rest and discovery became a time of trial.

It was in that crucible that I realized this wasn’t just my story—it was a story I had been entrusted with. God pressed upon my heart the responsibility to share it, to take what I experienced and offer it as a beacon of hope for others walking through their own deserts.

The Writing Journey

Today, I’m over 90,000 words into the manuscript, with the final book expected to reach about 110,000 words. That’s a lot of story. And to be honest, it hasn’t been easy.

Every chapter has forced me to relive moments I thought I had left behind. Nights when fear was overwhelming. Days when I felt completely abandoned. But also, the small miracles—the unexpected kindness of strangers, the quiet strength of prayer, and the unshakable presence of God.

Putting those memories into words has been both painful and healing. And while the manuscript is nearing completion, the journey is far from over.

Why GiveSendGo?

Publishing a book—especially as a first-time author—isn’t simple or inexpensive. Editing, cover design, typesetting, printing, marketing… every step requires resources. And while I’ve poured my heart and soul into writing, I can’t do the rest alone.

That’s why I’ve launched a campaign on GiveSendGo. It’s not just about raising funds—it’s about inviting others into the mission. This isn’t a project to make money. My prayer is to simply break even. The real goal is to spread the Gospel through this book and bring encouragement to those who need to hear it.

How You Can Help

I’m asking you to come alongside me in three simple ways:

Pray. Cover this project in prayer so that it remains faithful to the calling God placed on me.
Share. Spread the word about the campaign. Share it with your church, your friends, or anyone who might resonate with the story.
Give. If God puts it on your heart, any financial support will go directly toward the costs of publishing and promotion.

Every prayer, every share, every gift matters.

A Taste of What’s Inside

Here’s a raw small snippet from my journal while I was still in the throes of fear and uncertainty:

"I was taken away in handcuffs and transported by a police wagon. The handcuffs were very tight, inflexible and uncomfortable behind my back. The police wagon was filled with about 10-12 others all cuffed. It was pitch black, not a speck of light and the ride was terrifying. The driver was 'reckless' and we were getting tossed around the back, falling over one another as he jerked and turned. After about 30 minutes of driving we arrived at the 'new' central jail."

This isn’t the whole story, but it gives a glimpse of the journey that shaped the pages of Lighthouse in the Desert.

Looking Ahead

Lighthouse in the Desert is set to release in 2026. With your help, it will be professionally edited, beautifully designed, and widely distributed so that its message can reach as many people as possible.

My prayer is that this book will not only inspire but also remind readers that they are never alone in their deserts. God’s light is always near, no matter how dark the night.

Join the Journey

Launching this campaign feels like opening a new chapter—not in the book, but in my life. It’s humbling to ask for help, but I believe God works through community. And I believe He has already prepared the hearts of those who will walk alongside me.

If this story speaks to you, I’d love for you to be part of it. You can find the campaign https://www.givesendgo.com/lighthouseinthedesert, where you can learn more, contribute, or share it with others.

Thank you for reading, thank you for your prayers, and thank you for believing in this project.

Blessings,
James