Hear His Words

I remember my days in seminary, listening to my professor of homiletics. He said that preaching is the one time we have a chance to convey God’s words to people who were there to listen.

I soon realized, as I started my ministry, how true this was. I would spend hours each week reading and studying, all to come up with a message that the congregation could take home, and hopefully apply to their lives. I do, I have to admit, sometimes get frustrated: I have no idea if the sermon made an impact or not.

In today’s reading, there is little doubt that Jesus’ words made an impact. Jesus taught and the people were amazed at his words and his new teaching.

How many of you, after hearing a sermon from your pastor, take the time to thank him or her for their words, maybe not in the handshake line, but later in the week? I think it is safe to say that we pastors would like to know what you think of our teachings now and then.

Gracious God, we give you thanks for your words and we give you thanks for all the ministers who help us to understand you better. Amen. — RW