From the youngest to the eldest among us, we share at least one thing in common—we are all aging. I am trying to stay aware of changes in myself that directly affect you, the church family. Yesterday, after reflecting on the sermon effort, (Sunday, August 8, 2010), I realized that I was becoming a bit too historical (or, is it hysterical?). I had attempted to give the congregation details of over 20 years of Jacob’s life in a single sitting (a long “sitting,” at that!).
As I drew toward the conclusion (and realized that several in the congregation had already “concluded”), I thought I was going to have to resuscitate my own wife who was on the front row with her head bowed (I believe that she was praying for me, or maybe just praying for it all to end soon!) I had just spent 20 minutes on my first point, “Some motivations for encountering God.” Like many others, she had failed to find any apparent reason to be motivated. (As I reflect back upon it, I am not sure that my level of “motivation” would too great after that extended investment in “less than rousing” historical data).
God love Nancy; she has had to endure a few thousand messages across these years. Many of you have experienced quite a few of them, as well. She is my best encourager. God bless her, and God bless you for your endurance!
I think that the Lord may be trying to gain my attention and bring me “back to my roots” with a simple message: keep it simple and a little shorter. At age 16, I attempted my first sermon. It lasted 7 minutes. Maybe I need to return to that original “pattern!” Many of you may immediately begin praying, “Lord, do it again, do it again!” By the way, I have a preaching assignment at another venue next week—a total of 18 minutes allocated! Pray for me.
As we all “age together,” your prayers are appreciated. I believe that I have your unanimous support on this “sermon prayer request!”
Monday, August 9, 2010
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