Please don’t call the SPCA on me. I know it’s somewhat unfair, but I practice my sermon each Saturday on my dog, Max. He obediently follows me to my office at home. He sits down as I call up my sermon on the computer and then preach to him. Most of the time, he doesn’t yawn. But he occasionally scratches. He doesn’t offer any suggestions or criticism. He just looks at me. Sometimes it’s a look of admiration. Sometimes it’s a look of bewilderment.
I imagine Max thinking, “Wow, master has worked really hard on this.” Or perhaps, “Why is he getting so worked-up?” Or, “How much longer do I have to sit here and listen? Please, just give me my treat.”
Pastors sometimes wonder what the members of their congregation are thinking when they are preaching. I guess that sometimes it is better that we don’t know!
Personally, I am just so thankful for the opportunity to proclaim the good news of Christ each week. I consider it a holy and sacred responsibility and take it very seriously. The Apostle Paul said, “Preach the word of God. Be prepared whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.” (II Timothy 4:2)
I am also thankful for a good dog who patiently listens!