The Amazing Crab Alley Revival

The year is 1897 and wealthy widow Lydia Culpepper is evaluating her mundane existence. For sixty-three years, she’s faithfully gone through the motions of fulfilling everyone else’s expectations for her life, but nothing she does is ever enough. She longs for something more.

When a young boy comes to her house in search of his missing coon dog, she gets her wish. She meets Emily Reed, a young finishing school instructor, and Opal Jackson, an Irish single mother, and the three women join together on a mission that turns the First Baptist Church on its head.

Suddenly, the town is in an uproar as lives are being changed. When Yellow Fever hits, it looks like their efforts may have been in vain, but the epidemic isn’t enough to thwart the fruits of the Crab Alley Revival.

My Review: The Amazing Crab Alley Revival by Sharon Wilharm has become my favorite book for the 2020s! The characters are so richly developed that I feel like they are people I know. It was easy to become engrossed in what was happening in their lives and care about what happened to them. I could identify more with Lydia since I am an older woman, often reflecting on what I am still able to do for God. But, I also felt a connection to Opal and Emily. The rest of the characters were more than just background, especially the children. As their lives are interwoven, the reader can visualize each person and see the good, bad, concern, and indifference. Some are well-meaning, but blind to the needs around them. The Crab Alley children, especially Sam, are filled with an eagerness that made me smile. This is definitely a 5 star book, especially for fans of historical fiction. While I hated for the book to end because I want to know what happens next with these people, it was also a satisfying ending. I know Sharon's love of history and details, eagerly look forward to her next book!

The Amazing Crab Alley Revival will be available hard copy and ebook on July 7, 2026.

Preorder Kindle copy - Amazon

SharonWilharm.com

Interviews and Reviews

Sharon Wilharm - Storyteller

SharonWilharmStoryteller

Through the years, Sharon Wilharm has worn many hats--author, speaker, Bible teacher, podcaster, radio host, and filmmaker. The common thread of all her activities is women and storytelling. She loves to tell stories that inspire and encourage women in their walk with the Lord.

Sharon is the author of Women of Prayer, a 10-week Bible study about praying women in the Bible, and The Amazing Crab Alley Revival, a Southern historical retelling of Lydia in the Bible. She’s also the host of All God’s Women podcast and internationally syndicated radio show heard daily on Moody Radio Network and Faith Radio Network.

Something Needs To Change - David Platt

Something Needs to Change by David Platt is the mesmerizing story of the dangerous journey Platt made with several companions through some of the highest mountains in the world. Platt shares the details of the people he met, the experiences of eating and drinking local cuisine and sleeping in frigid altitudes, and of the emotions he felt and how the entire trek fit in with his daily, personal Bible study. Most of all, he shares the challenge he feels on what God wants him to do with all he encountered... and suggests that the reader prays about how God wants to use us to help make needed changes to make a difference...

Perhaps God wants to use you in a way you never imagined. The bland description above does not touch on the raw emotions as Platt describes the abject poverty and harsh conditions of the people living in remote villages. The lack of medical care, the isolation, and the drastic measures some take (or put on their children) to try for a better life; human trafficking is firmly entrenched as promises are made to people desperate for hope. Christianity is unknown in some areas and those who do turn to faith in Jesus when missionaries present the gospel are often treated with suspicion or scorn. The story Platt told about the honor of preaching in one village was touching and we are shown the tremendous faith that believers there have. But Platt also tells the stories of people, both local and abroad, who have given up all to care for these villages simply because they observed that something needs to change and they felt God equipped them to take on the challenge.

My attention was not fully engaged at times, but still, a very good read... and definitely left with something to think about.

Something Needs to Change releases September 17. You can learn more on Wednesday, September 18 when David Platt is offering a FREE SIMULCAST, giving a first-hand account of what he experienced and his prayers for the future.

Social Corner:

David Platt's Website

David Platt on Facebook

David Platt on Twitter

Disclaimer: As a member of the Waterbrook launch team, I was provided a complimentary copy of the book. Opinions expressed are my own.

Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9

Buck Denver has a simple dream - to save the galaxy.  Working for the Galactic Mission Board, Buck dreams of carrying God's love to every corner of the Milky Way!  Except he doesn't have a starship.  Or a crew.  Or even a captain's license.  He just needs a chance.  But when that chance comes and Buck finds himself leading a real mission into deep space, things don't go at ALL like he imagined!  If he's doing what God wants him to do, why is everything going wrong?  From VeggieTales® and What's in the Bible? creator Phil Vischer, Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9 is a wild, galactic adventure that teaches kids a powerful lesson about trusting God with everything - even our dreams!

My Review: From Phil Vischer, creator of VeggieTales, Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9 is the latest adventure from Buck Denver and pals from the What's In The Bible series. This time, Buck leaves behind his dreary life answering phone calls at the "Galaxy Mission Board" when his daydreams of doing big things for God have a chance to come true. As he races to help repair a transmitter in Section 9, adults are treated to reminders of Star Wars, Star Trek, Buck Rogers, and even the title pays a homage to one of the worst films ever made (and a personal favorite of mine!)... Plan 9 From Outer Space. However, the heart of the story is a lesson that every child should learn and that grown-ups frequently need reminded of too. Perfect timing for me to watch this right now. God is not as concerned as much with what you are doing for Him, God just wants YOU! Trusting Him with your life, even when things aren't the way you had hoped is a matter of you leaning more into God, learning His Voice, and knowing that you may have to give up your dreams---especially when they can come more about YOU than HIM. In time, God may fulfill your dream or He might have a plan you never expected. But nothing is greater than simply walking with Him.

Thank you to Propeller and FlyBy Promotions for letting me watch an advanced screening of this DVD. This is definitely one you will want to own! And see below how you can win a copy.GIVEAWAY!! Enter to win a copy of "Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9" by leaving a comment no later than October 27, 2015 at 6pm Central. Winner will be chosen randomly. Read rules below:

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

 Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

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No Longer a Slumdog by K.P. Yohannan

No Longer A Slumdog: Bringing Hope to Children in Crisis, is written by Gospel For Asia founder K.P. Yohannan. While many people are aware of the poverty that is widespread throughout India, it is hard to even imagine just how full of despair many of the citizens are. Despite being officially illegal, the caste system is alive and thriving. Your socio-economic level is determined and birth and there is no changing it. Within the pages of this book, Yohannan gives a voice to the voiceless with both tales of unmitigated horror, but also with the hope than can be found.

Hopelessness seems predominant through many of the stories shared, yet the stories of hope through lives transformed through the Bridge of Hope Centers sponsored by Gospel For Asia. The stories of abject poverty, human trafficking, illiteracy, and early deaths are heartbreaking and seem insurmountable, yet Yohannnan also presents happy endings that are triumphant and show you ways that can make a profound difference. Ignoring the problems will not make them go away and it is true that the numbers of those trapped in this vicious cycle are overwhelming, but he presents solutions that you may contribute to help alleviate. You may not be able to save all, but perhaps you may help save one child.

** Get your FREE copy of "No Longer A Slumdog"

Gospel For Asia website

Gospel For Asia FB

@GospelforAsia on Twitter

 K. P. Yohannan on FB

Dr. K.P. Yohannan, founder and international director for Gospel of Asia, has authored more than 200 books. He is on the board of the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), and his Road to Reality radio program airs on more than 900 stations worldwide.


I received a copy of this book from Gospel For Asia in conjunction with FlyBy Promotions. All opinions are my own.

Overrated by Eugene Cho

Overrated by Eugene Cho asks if we are more in love with changing the world than we are in actually changing it. Many people want to change the world, but Eugene Cho found out that it takes more than a simple desire to change it. You need a plan of action, and you need to put thought into that plan. We live in a world where people think they have made a tremendous impact if they share something as a Facebook status or as their profile picture. And, we can't forget the power and promise of the #hashtag.

Eugene Cho talks about first seeing what changes you need to make within yourself. There are many who choose short term mission trips, but not always for the right reason. Did you do it to make yourself feel better or out of love for others. Feel-goodism may make you feel good about yourself, but be sure that more was accomplished. Sometimes our acts do more harm than good. We want to give and make life easier for others who are under tremendous burdens, but showing someone how to find methods of helping themselves is more important. You also want to point people to a relationship with Jesus. As Cho pointed out, too many of us have a "Messiah complex" and think we are supposed to save others (rather than pointing them to the only One who can save them) instead of showing them a way to keep dignity intact.

There was quite a bit in the book that I agreed with, especially in terms of many mission trips. I am in favor of them, and have seen lives impacted, but I have also seen too many instances of when the money could have been spent in a wiser way. Cho's views also resonated with thoughts I have had more and more about a food ministry I am involved with. We meet genuine needs, but we also set up a pattern of entitlement with some. Is helping others to break a cycle of poverty not showing the love of Jesus than simply letting people care only about a handout? I want to show my love for Jesus, and to love the people with whom I come in contact with. When they become merely numbers on a report, it is time for a heart check. Really good book that gives you some things to think about. Also, check out more of the work Eugene and others do at One Day's Wages.

About the author:

Eugene is the founder and visionary of One Day’s Wages, a grassroots movement of people, stories, and actions to alleviate extreme global poverty. He is the founder and senior pastor of Quest Church, an urban, multicultural, and multigenerational church in Seattle, Washington. Eugene and his wife, Minhee, have three children.

“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): I received a copy of this book from Propeller Consulting, LLC in exchange for an honest review.

#OverratedBook

Veil Of Tears

Narrated by Natalie Grant, Veil of Tears tells the untold story of millions of women in India who are culturally oppressed simply because they are women. Their value is only in their ability to produce sons and to provide for the needs of their men. Once her husband dies (which is ALWAYS the fault of the wife), the widow has no value. This film was shot on-location across various regions of India spanning from the majesty of the Taj Mahal to remote tribal villages to some of the worst slums imaginable.

This documentary, produced and directed by Kenny and Kyle Saylors, gives a glimpse of the heart-breaking tragedy that these women face, but also shows the resilience and ability to survive the persecution, rejection, and poverty they face daily.
The film brings an overall view of darker side of life, but also shares the stories of a few women to personalize the anguish they face. But, there is Hope and the film leads to ways that millions of women are now receiving hope through the efforts of Dr. KP Yohannan and Gospel For Asia. Their Bridge of Hope program cares for tens of thousands of children, helping them break out of the generational curses of poverty and hopelessness. Women minister to women to teach them a skill to be used to support themselves and their families, and to teach them their value to Jesus Christ. 

The film starts out with a colorful, fairy tale type story about the Taj Mahal and the love and honor Shah Jahan had for his 3rd wife, Mumtaz Mahal. But the storybook quickly changes to the stark reality of the plight of many Indian women today. Instead of being cherished by their husbands, we learn of the despair. The Saylor Brothers skillfully pull you into the the stories of these women.

The cinematography is outstanding, and I love the way the story moves from various regions of India, clearly demonstrating that this dehumanizing of females is not merely a few isolated instances. The viewer is moved by the despair these women and their children face daily, but we are led to the hope that can be found. Follow-ups on some of the stories that were so heart-wrenching are now colorful and joyous as these women have learned that they are loved and that there are people who are willing to help. The colorful saris and beautiful smiles the women are wearing by the end as they work and worship together is a joy to behold.

Erica Lane's music was another favorite part, and the songs stayed with me long after the credits had ended. You will also want to check out the Special Features section to find out more behind-the-scenes stuff and a couple of more stories. Obviously, this is not a film made to entertain, but it is one you will want to share with others. Perhaps you will be led to find a way to help other women and children realize the hope these women now have.
Proceeds of this film will be donated toward continued efforts to change lives on a social, educational, health and spiritual level. Take a moment to learn more about the mission of GFA and how you can be a part of our movement to rescue generations of women from persecution and rejection and into the hope of Jesus Christ.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this DVD from EDIFY/MEDIA as part of the movie's promotion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC 16 CFR, Part 255 'Guides concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. I was not asked to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Veil of Tears website
Gospel For Asia website
Veil of Tears FB page

Erica Lane - "For Those Who Love Him" music video

GIVEAWAY!! Edify Media is prepared to give 1 of my readers a copy of Veil of Tears. International Widows Day is June 23, so in honor of these women, the winner will be selected at 7pm (CDT) that day.  Just leave a comment on the blog to be entered.  (Also, keep in mind that I have to approve comments. Just leave one...I will post it ASAP!!) *US and Canada only.

'Corners Of Your Field' Program

“When you harvest the crops of your land, do not harvest the grain along the edges of your fields, and do not pick up what the harvesters drop.  It is the same with your grape crop—do not strip every last bunch of grapes from the vines, and do not pick up the grapes that fall to the ground. Leave them for the poor and the foreigners living among you. I am the Lord your God." - Leviticus 19:9-10 

 It is time for the end of the year, cleaning out the closets routine. Out with the old and make room for the new!! Don't know what to do with the items that you no longer need? Here is a fantastic idea!! I just recently heard about this excellent program that is founded on Biblical principles of provision for the poor, but updated into a modern, practical approach for those of us who do not have fields. I am going to be personalizing it for my own area, but check to see if there is a program near you.
 

  

When you donate your gently used items to the local Mission Possible Bargain Center, tell them the name of your church, and the church then receives a credit that is given in the form of gifts cards. Reminder: Share this info with your pastor and request that your church signs up to be a part of this program. This is a win-win for everyone. When you give, you not only are helping some on a tighter budget buy needed items, but the money spent also goes to aid others through The Jimmie Hale Mission and Jessie's Place. Plus, part your donation is monetized into a gift card for your church to use for those in need in  your community!! 

Mission Possible Bargain Centers: Corners Of Your Field Program 
 You can drop off your items at the store or schedule a FREE donation pick-up 205-323-5878 or 1-855-693-4353

Jimmie Hale Mission 

 Mission Possible Bargain Center - Cullman County
306 Main Street SE
 Hanceville, AL 35077 -
Hwy. 31 near City Hall, one mile south of Wallace State
Open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information, please call 256-352-6068.

REMINDER; TELL YOUR PASTOR TO SIGN-UP FOR THIS PROGRAM BY CALLING MR. TERRY PRESTON AT 256-323-5878.

Great For God

 "Great for God", by David Shibley shares short biographies of 23 missionaries who faithfully served on the mission field, both abroad and through media. The individual stories demonstrate the way an individual can make a profound impact on the lives of others when they make themselves available to God's service. Many had spouses and children working along side them, but others chose to step out alone. Some are names that are well-known through-out the Christian community, and others are unfamiliar...but their ministries have reached the world for Christ.

This is a fairly short (144 pages), and easily read book and would be perfect for anyone wanting to do a brief study on missionaries. Included are the names of the missionaries, date and places of their births and deaths, country/place of service, their legacy, a quote by them, a Scripture that illustrates their ministry or viewpoint, and ends with a short bio of their life and ministry.

I hate to highlight just a few of of the ones who stood out to me (but you need to get a copy of this book anyway.), but I did want to make special mention of the following quotes:
1. William Carey ~ "Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God."
2. Jim Elliot ~ "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."
3. Lottie Moon ~ "How many there are . . . who imagine that because Jesus paid it all, they need pay nothing, forgetting that the prime objective of their salvation was that they should follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ in bringing back a lost world to God."
4. Dawson Trotman ~ "We’ve got the truth to dispel this darkness. We’ve got to get it out, out, out."
5. Bob Pierce ~ "Let my heart be broken by the things that break the heart of God."


Personally, I have to admit that Bob Pierce is a particular favorite inspiration of mine, but he was behind the roots of 2 areas near and dear to me: World Vision, and Samaritan's Purse. He was also a pioneer in making Christian films.

While this was not one of the missionary's quotes, one from the book that really stood out to me is, “The object of reading biography…is not imitation but inspiration.” - Phillips Brooks. The people I read about in this book are an inspiration, and even more importantly, the God whom they devoted their lives to is the One I want to imitate.  "Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with Him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn't love in order to get something from us but to give everything of Himself to us. Love like that." ~ Ephesians 5:1-2 (The Message)

Like Great For God facebook page.

 New Leaf Publishing  graciously provide me with a download of this book, and I do want to thank them for that. I was not required to give a positive review.

A 'Radical' Challenge

Am I a follower of Christ...or a follower of the American Dream Christ? This is the question I asked myself as I began reading "Radical" by David Platt. Most of my adult life I have had much interest and concern over both the persecuted believers, and those who have yet to hear the gospel of Jesus. Yet, it has been so easy to slide into the more convenient social club/church lifestyle.

Dr. Platt, pastor of The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, AL, has written a book that challenges me to re-evaluate my own comfortable lifestyle. While it is easy to justify some of the choices we make in how we live out our faith, we can also get too caught up in the perception of that minimal is good enough. He does not say you have to give it all up, but to think about how you do spend your time, your talent, and your money. How much time do you spend reading the Word and praying? Do you reach out to those who don't have as much as you? And, I don't mean just financially. Have you shared the love of Jesus with someone who doesn't know Him? This is an excellent book that I recommend you read for yourself. Dr. Platt challenges the reader to take part in a year long "Radical Experiment", and I know that it has given me much to think about. Am I up to the challenge? Are you?

In compliance with the FTC guidelines of Dec. 9, 2009..."I received
this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review". I was not required to give a favorable review.