This week’s book review is ‘Now: Refuse to let the moment pass‘ which was authored by local writer Delme Linscott. Delme is a minister in the Methodist Church and leads a church called Wesley in Pietermartizburg. We at ‘So What’ thought this would be a good opportunity for you to get to know some of our local writers a little better so we asked Delme a few questions about himself and his book.
SW: Delme, please give us a little background about yourself and your latest book.
Delme: I am married to Kim and we have 3 sons, Declan, Nathan and Joshua. I am currently a Methodist Minister and I am serving a community in Pietermaritzburg.
This book was born out of two decisive moments in my life. Firstly, we tragically lost a good friend of ours and I felt I wanted to respond to his death in a positive way. Secondly, every time I lead a memorial service I wonder whether people have taken the opportunity to ‘say the important things’ to their loved ones before it’s too late.
SW: If people were to remember one thing from your book, what would you want it to be?
Delme: I would want people to remember these thoughts – “SAY IT. DREAM IT. OVERCOME IT.” We need to say the important things to the special people in our lives, while we have time (Seize the Day), we need to live the Dreams God gives us and we need to overcome the fears that stop us from fulfilling our God-given potential.
SW: What role does writing play in your busy life? Has it always been an essential part of your calling, or is just something that developed out of the blue?
Delme: I have made a commitment to blog everyday – even if that means I write one or two lines. Knowing that people are reading my thoughts and devotions everyday keeps me accountable to this practise.
Writing developed out of the blue really. Years ago, through ministry, a few people had encouraged me to think about writing, but I didn’t have the time, energy or focus for it then. When I felt God prompting me to write my first book, “Living Oceans Apart” I sensed a new urgency and desire to write. The journey has been amazing so far, but I feel that I am only starting out.
SW: Since the book was published, what has the general response from the public been? Has it achieved all you hoped it would?
Delme: The response from people has been awesome. People have enjoyed reading this book and these are some of their reasons. It’s motivational and inspiring. It’s challenging and thought-provoking. It’s God centred and practical. It’s also short!!
I would like to get this little book into the hands of as many as possible, to get people to see that life is short and we need to embrace it 100%. We can’t let defining moments pass us by.
SW: Do you have any writing projects you are currently working on? Without giving too much away, can you give us a general idea what to look forward to?
Yes I do have a few thoughts going around my head. Look out for something that will be relevant to our faith in this generation, as well as leaning on the wisdom of the past. That should keep you guessing
[‘Now’ is Delme’s second book. His first was called 'Living Oceans Apart’ and dealt with the topic of how to deal with living far apart from loved ones. You can find out more and also sign up to follow Delme’s daily blog on www.livingingrace.co.za].