I was awed today to receive a complimentary letter from a pastor for whom I'd been a "fill in" preacher. I was awed by her words. Totally awed. I was complimented on my sermon that I gave in her stead. I usually get letters with a check attached...but this one wasn't such. And I'm glad it wasn't such a letter. She spoke to me where I am. She spoke to me where I am in my walk with Christ.
I lift up all lay speakers in our denomination, wherever they are and whatever they preach. I'm utterly awed by what we do, in this denomination. May the lay speakers be empowered by this post...and moved to do whatever it takes to bring the Word of God to His people. May we preach with authority! God's Authority!
...just another servant.
4 comments:
I still remember two years ago, someone just happened to mention in a comment on my blog 'I like the way you write"
I've been basking in the glow of that compliment for a very long time, and some days when I don't feel like writing, it encourages me to keep at it so I'll get better at it.
Compliments/Encouragement is highly underrated.
So,on behalf of the power of the pat on the back... I enjoy your blog. I read daily (you're in my google reader) I just don't take time to drop over and comment. But I'm faithfully reading though, and applying many things to my own life.
Thank you for taking the time you take out of your life to blog.
That's great Marty. As a Lay Speaker, I have more often received the check with no letter. Honestly, I'd prefer the letter.
Flyawaynet,
Thank you for your kind words. And for sharing. I follow your blog as well and I'm moved by your writing.
You have a gift for it and I wouldn't be surprised to find that you're published somewhere. Again, thanks for the kind words.
Art,
The first time I was given a check for preaching I tried and tried to make them take it back. Since then, I received good council that it is best to take it graciously so as not to offend the giver. It typically goes from their church to mine...but I've learned to be grateful and gracious in accepting. But the letter...can't give it back...can't put it in the offering.
I've been struggling with a sermon topic for this Sunday evening, and I think the notion of giving thanks to someone - as was done in this letter - will be the seed of inspiration that the sermon will come from. Your comment serves to crystallize this notion...now all I have to do is find the scripture to support it!
Post a Comment