O God why must you work in such mysterious ways? Couldn’t you just give me a message straight without so much work? Your spirit came through again today as always, but couldn’t you have done that two or three days ago! Why do I have to worry and wrestle with your Word like Jacob to find a 10 minute sermon? Yes, the process is good for me, but I’m already limping from way too many years of sweating Saturday sermon preparation. I do believe, Lord, honest I do. I’ve literally experienced this miraculous process hundreds of times, but I’m old and tired and it’s harder work than it used to be. Is that because I am afraid that I don’t have many more times to get this right? Preaching is an awesome and awful privilege. How can I dare to get up and presume to speak for you? Yes, I know John Wesley said, “Preach faith till you have it.” That’s why I’m still at it. And this time, really “Let the words of my mouth be truly acceptable in your sight,” for I couldn’t do this if you were not my rock and redeemer. Amen
Peacefully Harsh 