5/5 ⭐ | Just Have Faith by Jimmy Deas

With the first in the Mark Thomas Series under my belt, I found myself looking forward to diving in to “Just Have Faith” and catching up on what Mark had been up to since I last saw him.  This feeling perfectly describes the intricate and wholesome character creation that author Jimmy Deas has given us.  Quickly Mark Thomas feels more like a friend than fiction.  Giving the impression that you know him after just one book together, excited to see where life has taken him. 

This second book picks up several years later as Reverand Thomas creates roots with his wife, Gail, in the Greenwood Baptist Church, a small community church he’s led for the last three months.  Easily reading as a standalone but also seamlessly progressing from book one, “Ran Like Joseph.”  In this second book, Mark Thomas has grown, matured, and continues to face tests within his parish and town.  Up against a difficult parishioner, facing feelings of inadequacy, scandals, and difficult situations within the community, Rev. Thomas confronts the intricacies of his role.  Leaning on his wife, deepening relationships with the town, and always with the wisdom of God, Thomas navigates the good, joyful, tough, and testing of his ministry. 

Readers can tangibly begin to feel the fabric of the community and the ways in which Rev. Mark Thomas weaves within it.  From being a steady presence, to answering the call at all hours, standing steadfast in his values, and remaining dependable against constant demands, it is easy to see why even the most stubborn parishioners take to him.  Fall in love with Gail all over again as she begins taking on a more directly influential role as well, supporting his hard work, dedication, and fostering of church community. 

The Thomas family feels like old friends at this point, with powerfully directed sermons, wise wisdom, and a devotion that is unwavering.  “Just Have Faith” once again offers a front row pew into the life of a small-town pastor.  Deas is not afraid to show vulnerabilities in his characters, producing a genuine friend, and positive presence in readers’ lives.

Click HERE to get your copy today!

5/5 ⭐ | Ran Like Joseph by Jimmy Deas

Author Jimmy Deas has spent more than 40 years in ministry.  Drawing from this experience he has created Mark Thomas, a twenty-five-year-old minister who has taken a less than traditional route to end up at the Gentry Baptist Church in small town Florida.  From the Air Force to college, Thomas dreams of going to Seminary school. 

Just one and a half months into his first role as lead pastor, the small town of Gentry is rocked by the odd death of one of their own.  First to the scene, and witness to the events, Reverend Mark Thomas cradles Sammy Garber as he says his last words, “Ran” and “Joseph.”   A local farmer who also plays part-time law officer rushes Sammy and Mark to the nearest hospital, but it’s too late.  Called upon to lead his first funeral in a gripping affair, the town rallies behind the young pastor as he finds his place as one of their own. 

Sprinkled with courting, romance, insecurities, and small-town hospitality, this first book in the Mark Thomas novels has readers feeling right at home.  “Ran Like Joseph” will grip readers as they discover the trials and tribulations of small-town living and the true heart of ministry, helping others.  Feel like one of Gentry’s own as Reverend Thomas makes a lasting mark on all he embraces. 

God’s plan guides us all, but Reverend Mark Thomas’ path is an interesting and entertaining journey to behold. Deas has gifted us the pleasure of falling into Mark Thomas’ life as he matures, grows in his ministry, and guides the town through this unexpected death.  “Ran Like Joseph” will have you asking for more as Thomas makes a lasting impact far beyond the page.

Click HERE to get your copy today!