BRANSON, Missouri — The Evangelical Press Association (EPA) annual convention kicked off with an inspiring keynote from author and literary agent Mary DeMuth, who urged Christian writers and communicators to embrace their calling, even amid challenges and setbacks. Addressing a crowd of around two hundred attendees at the Hilton Branson Convention Center, DeMuth shared insights from her three-decade journey in writing and mentoring, emphasizing the importance of viewing creative work as a spiritual act of obedience.
“Writing and proclaiming the truth is its own reward,” DeMuth declared. “Stay the course. Don’t give up. Keep writing the truth. Keep shining your light in dark places.” Her words resonated deeply with those present, many of whom are grappling with the pressures and expectations that come with Christian journalism and publishing.
The EPA convention, which runs from May 4 to May 6, serves as a gathering for editors, reporters, publishers, and communicators across the Evangelical landscape, fostering collaboration and inspiration.
Writing in Obscurity and Faith
DeMuth candidly recalled her early career, which was characterized not by immediate success but by perseverance in obscurity. “I spent 10 years writing in obscurity,” she revealed. “Millions of unpublished words. But that hidden work was part of my calling.” She encouraged attendees to recognize how God often uses small moments and faithful relationships to cultivate long-term fruit in their lives and work.
One pivotal moment in DeMuth’s journey came when an older woman asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up. Hesitant at first, she replied, “I want to be a writer.” That woman, Sandra Glahn, who is now the president of EPA’s Board of Directors, took DeMuth under her wing, demonstrating how mentorship can change the trajectory of a writer’s life.
From Parenting Books to Pain-Fueled Prose
While DeMuth initially gained attention through magazine articles, her literary career took an unexpected turn when she was encouraged to write a parenting book. “I said, ‘You’re crazy. I cried all the time as a parent. I can’t write a parenting book,’” she recalled. However, that book resonated with readers and marked a significant turning point in her publishing journey.
DeMuth’s experience as a church planter in France presented new challenges that made her question her publishing dreams. “Everything I’ve written since then came from the seedbed of death,” she remarked. “The place where dreams die is where God often does His most beautiful work.”
Lament as a Tool for Writers
During her keynote, DeMuth introduced the concept of lament as both a biblical practice and a crucial spiritual habit for writers facing burnout, rejection, or feelings of invisibility. Quoting Psalm 13, she outlined the structure of lament: expressing pain, asking for help, declaring trust, and choosing praise.
Many Christian writers carry what DeMuth termed “publishing grief,” stemming from unmet expectations, low sales, or harsh critiques. “You can’t progress past what you haven’t grieved,” she emphasized, encouraging writers to acknowledge their losses through lament.
In a poignant moment, DeMuth shared that some of her most impactful writing was never published. A simple note of gratitude to her in-laws, who initially opposed her marriage, became a cherished family keepsake. “My most significant piece of writing may have been that little card,” she said, underscoring the importance of the Holy Spirit’s prompting to write, even in small ways.
Perseverance Redefined
DeMuth challenged conventional notions of perseverance, sharing wisdom from a friend: “God is persevering me.” Instead of relying solely on willpower, she encouraged Christian creatives to lean into the Spirit’s sustaining presence. She reminded attendees that their worth does not come from publishing success but from their identity in Christ. “Publishing doesn’t validate your life. Jesus validates your life,” she asserted.
A Charge to Truth-Tellers
Concluding her keynote, DeMuth issued a call to action for Christian communicators. Citing Isaiah 59:14, she highlighted the essential role of truth-telling in a world where honesty is often sidelined. “We are not peddlers of truth,” she stated. “We are purveyors of truth. It is a risk to tell the truth in a world like this. But it is worth it.”
As she wrapped up her address, DeMuth led a prayer for writers pursuing their calling: “Lord, thank you for every story in this room. May we be faithful, even when no one sees. May we write in obedience, not for acclaim. And may we hear those words one day: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’”
For more insights on faith and writing, consider exploring resources from The Gospel Coalition and Christianity Today. These platforms offer a wealth of information for those looking to deepen their understanding of Christian communication and creativity.