You’re Invited to Book Club, Monday, October 26th, to Discuss "Buttermilk Sky" by Jan Watson
Friends! If you live anywhere near Louisville, Kentucky, you’re invited to join us for a lively discussion of a very lovely and lively novel, Buttermilk Sky by Jan Watson.
We will meet at Middletown United Methodist Church (MUMC), Monday, October 26th, from 6:30-8:00 p.m.
11902 Old Shelbyville Road, Louisville, KY 40243 http://www.middletownumc.org
While Jan lives in Lexington and cannot physically be with us next week, she’s been filling me in on what she’s up to. I’m excited to be sharing fun snippets straight from her. If only I could duplicate her accent, we’d be in business. She’s the best!
This novel, Buttermilk Sky, is my favorite so far. If any of you have read her others, be sure to either bring them or be ready to tell us some of your favorite parts, characters, etc. Needless to say, Jan offers us quite a variety for our enrichment and entertainment!
Last Fall I went to hear Jan speak to a Sunday School class at Harvey Brown Presbyterian Church. I also got to meet her sweet brother who drove her over from Lexington. She shared with us why she primarily sets her books in Eastern Kentucky.
She believes the folks from the mountains in Eastern Kentucky are strong, stalwart people. Her desire is to honor them because they are often maligned. I believe we catch some of this from Mazy who treats Cinnamon with love and respect vs. shame, disgrace, and judgment that some of Mazy’s fellow students offer her.
Above and beyond admirable and less admirable character traits we’ll discuss, let’s not miss the number of Scriptures Jan includes, plus her emphasis on the urgent importance of being assured of your salvation.
One night when Mazy’s friend Ernestine is visiting her, Mazy recites a favorite Scripture after revealing it was her Mother who taught her how comforting Scripture is. “The words of Jesus were more soothing than any medicine could ever be.”
Ernestine loves the sound of Scripture and asks Mazy if she can borrow her Bible sometime. Mazy answers, “The best way to remember Scripture is to write it on your heart….”
Then she probes further, “Do you know Jesus, Ernestine?”
Mazy can tell Ernestine is uncertain while procrastination to learn more tempts her. But, Mazy speaks boldly: “Don’t put it off, Ernestine. None of us knows how long we have on this earth.”
“The best way to get closer to Jesus is to read His Word. Start with the Gospels.”
While thinking about the Gospels, last week we talked about filling our mind with good things, especially from the Bible. Later this week, we will learn more on this most necessary-for-survival topic. Stay tuned!
Thank you, Jan, for your boldness, even in a novel. This speaks to ALL of us. May we be inspired with eyes open for people the Lord places in our paths. Hope your ears are burnin’ come Monday night!
Don’t forget to bring your book so you can share your favorite quotes with us, plus we’ll be reviewing the Discussion Questions on pages 343-345.
Please bring a Kentucky-themed treat to eat if time allows. The fact that Mark’s Feed Store is right down the street from MUMC, and they offer a delicious dessert which rhymes with Buttermilk Sky is not lost on yours truly. Now you know what I’m bringin’!!!
Bring a friend or two or ten Monday night, October 26th! The more the merrier!!! Please call the church office to RSVP or if you have any questions : (502) 245-8839.
Let’s close with a beautiful Scripture Jan signs on all of her books, Isaiah 43:1-2:
“Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go thru’ deep waters, I will be with you. When you go thru’ rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk thru’ the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” (NLT)
‘Til next time!