Sarah Jakes, the daughter of the renowned mega-church pastor and world preacher Bishop T.D. Jakes, has written a courageous memoir about her experiences growing up “Jakes.” In her new book Lost and Found: Finding Hope in the Detours of Life which released on April 1st, Sarah takes readers on a journey through some of the most difficult seasons in her life: from teenage pregnancy, college dropout and strip club waitress, to divorced single mother turned inspirational blogger, author, and speaker.
A mixture of grit and gospel, “Lost and Found” has something for everyone, from the every Sunday go-to-meeting believer to the Easter/Mother’s Day pew warmer. This coming of age and coming to Christ story gives readers permission to be less judgmental and more forgiving of themselves and of others.
Before diving into the book, I will warn you that because the narrative reads so effortlessly, you’ll probably wish for less commentary in favor of a more seamless retelling of events. Nonetheless, you’ll be finished reading the book before you know it and eager to share it with a friend or church group.
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with Sarah about Lost and Found and the hopes she has for its impact in the church and beyond.
BMWK: Why share your story with the world now?
Sarah: I started writing my blog about 3 years ago. Started writing from my own frustrations really within my marriage and the church because I thought I had the type of marriage that church said would make me happy. But because I didn’t start off with the key foundation, I was frustrated and experienced a lot of heartache and infidelity, and so I just wanted to put those emotions into words. As I continued to blog, I was really convicted to share my story authentically, especially after I made the decision to divorce. I felt like if they were moved and inspired by my life in the church and having my son at 14 years old, that I could take some of the pain that resulted in my marriage to help other women.
Your mistakes will be your greatest testimonies! God Bless
Absolutely!
What a phenomenal interview, it revealed things about Sara’s past that I never knew. It is liberating to read that others are in their process just like we are in ours. I feel compelled to read the book.
Oh, you won’t be able to put it down. It’s a page turner.
Great article Dr Michelle! It’s so important that we extend grace to people. As a mother of three grown daughters, I had to ask God to help me with that. I try very hard to keep my love for my daughters in the forefront when they come to me for advice. I try not to be hat mother who judges them as they go through the process of finding their position as women in the church and in every area of their lives. It really is a process that we have to go through in our own unique way!
That’s a great word for me too. I want to be that mother. When you read it, you will see how Lady Jakes mothered her daughter in spite of.