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Pastor's Page

Posted on January 25, 2008 ...

        In a couple of weeks I will be on my annual study retreat with several of my pastor friends. We gather annually in early February to dialogue about our work and to spend blocks of time in study. I'll admit it...we also have a lot of fun and laughs. These are valuable days of renewal that I look forward to every year.

        One of my goals each year during this week is to plan my preaching ministry for the following twelve months. My aim is to identify at least a scripture and a core idea for every sermon I will be called upon to preach. Frankly, this is a challenging task that requires numerous days to accomplish. I hope you recognize that few people in our society are asked to develop the volume of speaking material as the amount expected of of pastors.
The preaching schedule that emerges is never so rigid that it prevents me from diverting from it when necessary (Lanny Green will attest to this). However, I much prefer to having a plan in place in advance rather than trying to build a sermon "from scratch" each week.
          A common question often asked of seasoned pastors is Where do you get ideas for all the sermons you have to preach? My typical answer is Every place I can!!! In my office at church I keep a box. Throughout the year I place in it books, magazines, articles, and other resources where I have found ideas for future sermons. This box is the first thing I pack when I go to this study week.
          I will also be glad to place in it any "requests" for sermon topics you may have. While I cannot guarantee that your request will eventually evolve into a sermon, I will prayerfully consider your submission. Last Fall I preached a Sunday night series on spiritual gifts. The idea behind this series was a suggestion from one of our church members.
          If you have an idea and/or topic you would like to pass along to me, write a note on the registration form we fill out during our worship times. You are also welcome to send a suggestion via email (drjaymc@gmail.com) or call the church office (476-8524).
          Speaking of preaching...our series of sermons based upon our sanctuary's stained glass windows continues to be well received. I look forward to sharing another story of Jesus' ministry with you this Sunday. Jay