There's a Sermon in there somewhere!

Kaitlyn and I were on the way to school this morning reflecting on yesterday's worship experience with Dr. Billy Abraham. We were sharing some of the more memorable moments of his sermon when our conversation turned to the general topic of preaching. (Many of you know that Kaitlyn has been flirting with a call to ordained ministry - one that I have tried hard not to push on her, but one that makes me stand about a foot taller when I think of her following in her old man's footsteps!)
She mentioned that she wanted to know where I get my stories from when I preach. I answered her, "Everywhere!" And that is true. I shared with her that I have learned over the years that there is a sermon in just about everything you can see or hear or experience. We were passing the VFW in Sattler when I spotted the sign regarding the Burn Ban being in effect. I shared with her that just off the top of my head, that could be a paradoxical sermon - A burn ban means that because the conditions are so dry, fires can quickly get out of control, and so therefore, burning trash, brush or other debris is banned. "Imagine if you will," I said, "that being a Christian is like a burn ban. It means if you are saved, you will be saved from burning in hell. However," I added, "turn it around. Imagine the world is telling us Christians that we cannot burn - burn with the Pentecost fires of the Holy Spirit! It is as if the world is trying to tell us that we should not attempt to burn uncontrollably. The world doesn't like it when the Holy Spirit is unleashed upon the world - because that means that the world is not in control!"
Ok, so it is a sermon that needs some work. Still the idea is, if you are paying attention, there is a message in everything. There is a message being proclaimed, if you are looking for it, listening to it. There is a sign that will point you back in the right direction.
The problem isn't with the signs. They are everywhere. The problem more often lies within ourselves, and our willingness and ability to be observant.
The challenge lies within us. But there is hope, and help in Christ. The more we spend time with the Word, the more we come to understand about God, and know God's character, God's nature, and God's will. The more we know about God, the more we get to know God.
There truly is a sermon in there somewhere. I'm convinced!
See you in church!
Grace and peace,
Brad