Oh the blessing, the privilege to share the truth of God’s Word with others. Each time I’m given the opportunity I’m grateful, extremely grateful. Today was special though. Today was different. For the second time in my life I was asked to preach the Word of God in a foreign country.
To say I felt nervous is an understatement. My stomach twisted into four dozen knots. I’m not sure if I was nervous because my stomach was upset, or if my stomach was upset because I was nervous. All morning I feared the sickness which struck Aaron with such ferocity on Saturday morning would also attack me. I’d feel a tremor ripple through my gut just after making the first point of the sermon. I’d have to beg the pastor to hold a ten minute long prayer meeting while I run to the only bathroom which is down the block.
Thankfully that never happened. Pastor Antonio Navarette introduced me to the congregation then Kurt Gomez and I stepped onto the small platform before the church. Kurt walked to the microphone beside the pulpit, and I walked to that all important position- the spot behind the pulpit. In many ways I fear that spot for with it comes a world of responsibility. As much as I enjoy the privilege of preaching here and there, I’m glad I don’t occupy that spot each Sunday and with it the tremendous responsibility.
Our text this morning was Colossians 1:15-22: A Portrait of Christ. As I spoke I scanned the faces in the crowd. Mothers, fathers, wives, daughters, brothers, and sons all listening to the precious Gospel of Jesus Christ. As I spoke that separate mental track that runs through your mind said, “This is what it’s all about. This is what we’re created for - to share the gospel of Jesus with others.”
I’m grateful to everyone who made that possible. I’m especially grateful to the Lord for the incredible privilege.
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