James Rush Manley

Jim’s first love was the sky, so he lived in a tent and made jewelry to pay for flight lessons. Then, he found his life's purpose when he followed Jesus Christ. That led him to marry the love of his life. She supported the advanced flight training he used in several professional roles.

But God called him to the ministry, asking, “What’s in your hand?” They joined Mission Aviation Fellowship, where he served as a pilot in the Amazon Jungle. Flying required mastering aviation’s technical art. Relationships in six cultures demanded following God closely.

After 17 years, he moved from the cockpit to a writer’s desk with MAF’s home staff, serving in several capacities. Jim retired from MAF after 34 years to write full-time. He has published 4 books, articles in national aviation magazines, blog posts for MAF and Paraclete Mission Group. His website features current books and blog posts.

He and his wife have four adult children and live in southern Idaho.