Elsa John
Author
I have been on a wonderful, and often daunting, journey of emotional healing these last few years. Hope seemed out of my grasp until Christ stepped in and gave me hope. I am finally able to share my creativity, and story of hope through writing.
I hope to connect with others who are on a similar journey of healing from present or past traumas.
You are not alone.
There is Hope for you in Jesus.
Meet Elsa
I was born in India and raised in New York. I currently reside in Edmond, OK. I have always written poetry and short stories as a teenager and young adult. Somewhere along the way, I had forgotten that gift. Recently when I was sharing the completion of the devotional and book with an old friend, she reminded me that I had loved writing and showed me a poem I had given her almost 30 years ago. It was saddening and heartfelt to see the struggle of a teenager through poetry. But it was a true testament to the journey I am on now as the Lord has shown Himself faithful through all these years. I now have an avenue to express myself creatively through words and share words of hope with my readers.
Our Special Stories
The Story Behind Devotions of Hope
The Devotions of Hope is my testimony. I have always had a hard time sharing my testimony. I never knew how much or how little to share. It seemed self-focused and discouraging if I had too much of my story. On the other hand, if I had "too much" of God's story (as if you can have too much of God), I felt lost, as if my experiences didn't matter. But I do matter. What happened to me does matter. My story and journey matter. Through writing this devotional, the Lord showed me how to find the perfect balance between sharing my story and keeping Him as the center. He showed me that when I hide my story in His, I am not lost. In fact, my story is given purpose and meaning when I am hidden in Him. In the most beautiful way, I can highlight difficult events while the beauty and glory of God's great grace shines brighter. The purpose of this devotional is to point to Christ, even in grievous situations. Writing truly has been a beautiful journey of hope and restoration. I am sure I have more healing and maturing to do, and He will continue to do the work. Philippians 1:6 "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion".
The Story Behind the Frowning Ballerina
I wrote this story a few years ago as a way to capture a specific event in our family. I didn't really know how to go about getting it published nor did I have the drive to pursue it until now. The process of writing the devotional was difficult and emotionally exhausting. I wrote each chapter through tears and with a heavy heart. Whenever I would get overwhelmed, I would switch over to the children's story and work on it. Talking to the illustrator, editing the images and focusing on this story allowed my mind and emotions to take a mental break from the tediousness of the devotional. This sweet and light hearted book was in stark contrast to the content of the devotional. I saw how the Lord was so strategic to give me two projects that were polar opposites. I see his kindness in giving me this children's story and not allowing a desire or opportunity to publish it years ago. This book served as a soft cushion to fall on under the weight of the heavier project.
Worship Songs
Customer Testimonials
“This book is well-written and so touching! The author is brave and discusses serious topics that a lot of people (especially women) can relate to on some level while giving encouragement to push forward in this life. Her spiritual guidance is very helpful and approachable no matter the current state of your faith. I feel blessed to have this work to turn to during hard seasons of life in the future..”
-SJ
“My husband bought this devotional book for me. I started reading it aloud and was automatically hooked and inspired. Elsa is vulnerable, well versed and well written. It’s amazing to see how the Lord has used her obedience, humility, talents (worship, writing, etc) and ministries in the church and in the family to create something so beautiful. Can’t wait to share this devotional with other ladies in my life. 10/10 recommend!.”
-Jacob
“Raw and honest. A personal journey of recovery and healing..”