Book Description
In Panning for Gold, Judson Edwards looks back on his life and reflects on the things that have mattered most to him. He comes up with an eclectic and fascinating array of gold nuggets—God, family, sports, fascination, writing, books, laughter, Scripture, music, faith, tenacity, solitude, justice, doubt, creativity, words, grace, and memories—then shares them with wit and a storyteller’s flare.
Even if you don’t share all of Jud’s “favorite things,” this book will invite you to think about your own life and the things that matter most to you. And, as he celebrates the things that have enabled him to find joy, you will find yourself celebrating the things that give you joy, too. Panning for Gold is really an invitation to fall in love with life all over again.
Book Reviews
In this highly readable book Jud shares his reflections on what has mattered in his life. In doing so he causes the reader to reflect on what matters in the reader’s life. I recommend it to people regardless of where they are in their journey of life.
—Sanford R. Beckett
Retired Associate Director
NorthStar Church Network: An Association of Baptist Congregations
In Panning for Gold, pastor and author Judson Edwards shares the joy and enrichment that comes from discovering what really matters in life. In his own poetic style, Edwards sifts through a lifetime of memories and gives us insightful nuggets of everyday wisdom gleaned through years of pastoral experience. From such items as God and Scripture, to music and laughter, and sports and writing, Edwards shares in a refreshing way, experiences and truths that enlighten and nourish the soul. It is a delightful read and his practical wisdom and honesty challenge us to evaluate the priorities of everyday life.
—W. Merlin Merritt
Author of Seeing the Son on the Way to the Moon
In Panning for Gold, Jud Edwards looks all the way back and mines the deep treasures of his reflective life. He asks, “Of the myriad experiences I’ve had—happy and sad, uplifting and debilitating, exhilarating and normal, what really mattered?” It’s hard to distinguish the best parts of this book, for each chapter contains a gem or two distilled from the author’s lifelong reflecting. For instance, I was moved by his account of how “justice matters” in the real world of today—of how walls need to be replaced with bridges. Readers will immediately identify with Edwards’ genuine honesty shining through each of eighteen chapters—the real gold he has collected as a lifelong panhandler.
—William R. Hornbuckle
Retired music minister