The Ministry of Christian Fiction

By Renee Blare

Have you ever wondered about your ministry as a Christian author? Is it make-believe stories? Does it lie with ideas in your head? Or with success? Is it a ministry or a career, both? I’ve thought about these questions a lot. For many reasons. How do we walk the fine line between author and Christian…without offending someone? And by the way, I include fellow-Christians in that last one.

I can hear questions ringing through the stratosphere. What is she talking about? Of course, it’s a ministry, what else would it be? Walk what line? Offend who? Well, why don’t we back up a moment? Take a deep breath.

First, let me say, I love Christian Fiction! I love to write it, I love to read it, and I’m confident that I’m not alone. However, the reality is that some Christians don’t agree with me. I’ve faced those who deem my ministry “shallow” and “worldly.” Others believe Christian authors should write “constructive” and “wholesome” fact-based works. I’ve even been told my stories weren’t a “real” ministry at all. Is this familiar to anyone?

I may have been hurt, even angered by their words, but I stayed the course. Although propelled with disgust, derision…even love, would these words have had their desired effect if uttered ten years ago? I doubt it. You see, fictional stories have touched me in ways no other type of writing could. And I don’t believe I’m alone.

Devotionals, study guides, biographies have their purpose and are God’s handiwork but I believe fiction holds a unique place in the library of Christian literature. An imaginative, Christ-centered story written for God’s glory is true, wholesome entertainment for His kingdom. They also serve as a conduit to spread His word to a lost, and hurting world. I’m honored to be a part of that calling and ministry.

An example is my last release, Racing Hearts. This story is fictional but closely reflects my early marriage. The characters’ agonizing insecurities, fears, spiritual and personal growth were pulled from pages of my own life. Was writing this book easy or easier in any way? No. But the Lord continually guides me as I write. He shapes my life, touches my soul and leads me down the rocky road. Every step I take or those taken around me are depicted through my characters and settings.

The believable, glory-filled journeys of Christian Fiction reveal the Almighty so readers may discover Him for themselves. Should I write devotionals and study guides? Maybe, but God is good and orchestrates my ministry. I can’t wait to see where He leads next. What about you?

Raised in Louisiana and Wyoming, Renee Blare started writing poetry in junior high school. After having her son, a desire to attend pharmacy school sent her small family to Laramie and she’s been counting pills ever since. While writing’s her first love, well, after the Lord and her husband, she also likes to fish and hunt as well as pick away on her classical guitar.