The preacher was delivering his
message. He was dynamic and animated, and listeners were hooked on every word he
uttered.
Right at the critical moment, with his hands moving
dramatically to illustrate his latest point, he managed to knock over a water
jug.
He immediately stopped speaking. Everyone looked,
mouths open, wondering what this awesome preacher would do and say next! Without
saying a word, he knelt down, studied the messy shape of the spilled water and
picked up the plastic jug.
The silence continued much longer than the
congregation was comfortable with. Coughs, babies crying, even the clock ticking
could be heard in the silence! But then he finally rose, intentionally with jug
in hand, and moved slowly back to the microphone.
“That’s it,” he uttered with great impact, “the Lord
just gave me the best illustration of how God works. When we least expect it He
arrives … and it’s often messy! He changes our lives, alters the course of
history for us.” And then he promptly sat down!
The worshippers sat in silence, stunned by the simple
yet unexpected conclusion of this awesome message. They were touched by the
simplicity and power of the Holy Spirit's message.
May your life today be captured by something messy,
unexpected, and unpredictable! Take the time to get down and study the mess
well, knowing that our mysteriously loving God again is in charge!
“But when the Father sends the Comforter [the Holy
Spirit] instead of me He will teach you much, as well as remind you of
everything I [Jesus] myself have told you.” John 14:26
Bruce Wadd brucewadd@todaysthought.sharesong.org
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
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