I have preached regularly since 1979. That and the opportunity to teach homiletics for seven years are blessings. I still have much to learn, but enjoy using words to shape an event in which we encounter the gospel of Jesus Christ. Preachers attempt to find evocative and “visual” metaphors that help all who hear to “see” what they mean. Effective verbal pictures need no explanation. They convey rather than merely illustrate the message. For example, when the Gospel of John describes Jesus and his ministry by declaring, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it” (John 1:5), we can “see” the message.
As technology finds its way into worship services and sermons (as it has found its way into classrooms and business meetings), “old dogs” like me need to learn a new trick. Actually, it’s skill, not trickery. We need to learn how to select visual images and film clips that support and convey the message God has given us. If I needed to describe the difference today (and since the deadline is here I guess I do!), I would state it this way. Preachers use words to paint a picture that helps us to see the message as we apply it to our lives. Preachers use visual images to help us interpret what we see and apply it to our lives. Both tasks have value. One stresses description in order to interpret. The other moves more directly into interpretation. Both can make the message an event. Developing a new skill requires effort, but I find it intriguing and inspiring to look for images that not only make a point but also are the message.
Take a look at the photograph below. Before beginning the next paragraph, ponder what you see.
There is more darkness than light in this print, but the light most catches the eye. The photograph echoes John 1:5: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.” Even in the darkest portion of clouds, light breaks through. Rain threatens and wind blows, but light prevails/overcomes. That’s the message. Now it’s time for application to our lives.
On this Sunday, April 3, and the first Sunday in May (May 1) we will hold our Morning Glory (9:30 a.m.) service in our fellowship hall in order to experience worship with greater technological support. We have no plans to move this service to our fellowship hall permanently, but we are contemplating technological improvements in our sanctuary. The services in our fellowship hall will provide helpful experiences and information. I look forward to seeing what we learn and discovering new ways to proclaim the good news.
Grace and Peace,
LP
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