Matthew 2:1-2, 9-11

Abba,

In modern homiletics classes, we are taught the art of speaking—the art of delivery.  And like all things, I suspect balance is key.  This is not unhelpful or even unimportant.  But, You Jesus, were a simple carpenter.  Your disciples were simple fisherman and craftsman.  They were unlearned.  I doubt that You or they were eloquent men.  I doubt You spoke with any great oratory finesse or techniques.  You spoke truth.  Simply.  Boldly.  But powerfully.  Your disciples spoke truth.  Simply.  But powerfully.  And that Word had impact; not for any mere effort or skill, but simply because the Living Word is precisely that—Living and Powerful.  

Some of the “worst” messages I felt I have ever preached ended up being ones that seem to land with the greatest impact.  More so than even the ones I labored over to deliver with precision and skill.  Point is, it is You, Spirit, and Your Word, Abba, that do the work, not me.  I could be the worst speaker in the world and You could use Your words, spoken from my mouth, to do exceedingly more than I could ever think or imagine.  Not that I should not give attention to excellence in teaching and preaching, but may I not place the credit for the Word’s effectiveness on my delivery more than on the Word itself.  May I ever and always be committed to the Word and never my opinion or my delivery.  My delivery is but a tool, a means to ensure that Your Word, Your message is heard with clarity and precision.  Let me never make it about me.  Let it always be about You.  Let Your Word—and Yours alone—shine