Just Before Sunday

Just Before Sunday invites preachers, teachers, and ministry leaders into the sacred space that exists between preparation and proclamation. Rooted in lived pastoral experience, this book offers timely reflections, spiritual insights, and practical wisdom for those tasked with carrying the Word week after week. Rather than focusing on technique alone, it addresses the inner life of the preacher-faith, fatigue, hope, and holy expectancy. Each entry serves as both encouragement and challenge, reminding readers that preaching is not merely a task to complete but a calling to steward. With honesty and reverence, the author speaks to moments of doubt, urgency, and renewal that often arise just before Sunday arrives. This book functions as a devotional companion and a ministerial mirror, helping leaders remain grounded in purpose and presence. Whether read in quiet moments of preparation or during seasons of exhaustion, Just Before Sunday re-centers the preacher on God’s voice before stepping into the pulpit. It is a timely reminder that what happens before Sunday often determines what God releases on Sunday.

Dr. Willie J. Thompson Jr. is a pastor-scholar, educator, and community leader with a deep and enduring passion for strengthening and inspiring the preachers of our day. His work is driven by a singular conviction: that those who pour out week after week must themselves be poured into, encouraged, and reminded of the sacredness of their call.

Beyond the academy, Dr. Thompson’s pastoral heart is most clearly expressed in his unwavering commitment to clergy care. For years, he has intentionally walked alongside preachers, offering encouragement, accountability, and spiritual grounding-often in the quiet, unseen moments when ministry feels heavy. What began as weekly words of affirmation and prayer for fellow preachers has evolved into a broader ministry of renewal, culminating in Just Before Sunday: The Preacher’s Inspiration. His writing speaks directly to the interior life of the preacher, addressing fatigue, faithfulness, preparation, and hope with honesty and grace.

Dr. Thompson understands the unique weight carried by those called to proclaim the Word. His work consistently affirms that preaching is not performance, but stewardship; not ego, but obedience. Whether in the classroom, the pulpit, or the study, he remains deeply invested in reminding preachers that they are seen by God, sustained by grace, and never laboring alone.

A proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Dr. Thompson embodies its ideals of achievement, leadership, and service. He is a sought-after speaker, mentor, and consultant, known for blending theological depth, practical wisdom, and pastoral sensitivity. Across all spaces he occupies, his life’s work reflects a clear purpose: to refresh those who refresh others, and to help preachers stand with confidence, clarity, and joy-just before Sunday and beyond.