I am often asked to write an endorsement or a forward for a new book, but this time, I begin this endorsement with a “feeling of excitement.” I absolutely loved the idea of linking nature to a devotional. Nature has always been inspiring to me, and I often talk to God as I walk through the beauty of God’s creation around me. How can you possibly see the beauty and wonder of our planet and our universe without being inspired by the God who made it.
So, when I looked at even the very idea of this manuscript I was inspired. I read the book and then I sat down to write this. I first took a walk through the wonder and beauty of God’s creation around me. As always, l can not walk through the trees or along a creek or stream without being inspired. Therefore, as I write these words I am inspired not only by this book, but by my last encounter with nature.
As I read the pages, I met an author who through the beauty of her writings has linked nature and Divine inspiration and truly inspired me. Just to think about nature and talking to God brings inspiration to my whole being.
So, with anticipation and great emotion, I endorse MERRY CHRISTMAS by Shirley D. Andrews. As I looked at the beautiful pictures I saw nature, but I also felt the hand of God. As I read the words of this manuscript, I knew that this author would introduce me to God, because like the artist inside of me, I would feel and experience God by what I was about to read, and I did. Thank you, Shirley for introducing me again to the God who spoke nature into existence.
You must experience this book and see the God who not only has his eye on the sparrow, but made the sparrow. Shirley, you will truly inspire the world.
— Dr. Thomas F. Reid
I love the way Shirley brings us into the presence of our “EXTRAORDINARY” Lord through what we mistakenly consider the ordinary. Thank you Shirley for helping us to see God and draw closer to Him. Job 12:7-10 & Romans 1:20
— Rev. Jay Richmond
President, Renewal Prayer Network
Albany, NY
Volume 3 of Shirley Andrews’ daily devotions highlights the wonderful works of God in nature and recognizes His gracious work in our lives and relationships. Shirley invites us to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
— Pastor Dave Martin
Elder, Upper New York Annual Conference
Hope United Methodist Church, Troy, New York
Shirley is a graduate of Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, and has a master's degree from the Crane School of Music in Potsdam, NY. She taught elementary public school music for 31 years. Most of those years were in the Scotia-Glenville School District. She also taught music education classes at Schenectady County Community College. Shirley loved her career in teaching. She has two children and two grandchildren.
After retirement and the death of her husband, Shirley pursued a second career as a Certified Lay Minister in the Adirondack District of the United Methodist Church (UMC), and has held leadership positions at Porter Corners UMC, Ballston Spa UMC, and led worship at Woodlawn Commons in the Wesley Community. At present, she is the keyboard accompanist for the Galway UMC in Galway, NY.
Shirley continues to be passionate about devotional writing for God lovers, God seekers, nature lovers and the family altar; hoping that more families will use these books to worship and pray together. "MERRY CHRISTMAS - Advent to Epiphany," A Devotional Inspired by Nature: Volume 3 is her third project. Future writing may include "DIVINE LOVE - Ash Wednesday to Pentecost," A Devotional Inspired by Nature: Volume 4.
