The Sunday Message

The morning worship had gone well. The parson had used the multimedia in a way that seemed to draw the congregation into the homily. It was one of those Sunday efforts that brought a sense of satisfaction, of having earned one's paycheck.

Even the parishioners exceeded themselves in their comments on shaking the parson's hand as they left. Half of them even commented on specific aspects of the message and how it resonated with them. The parson was feeling a bit sorrowful that Ms. Parson was not within hearing distance of this lofty praise.

The vast majority of the extreme minority who did not make complimentary comments were under the age of twelve. These the parson took extra time to talk to as they made their way out. From most he evoked some smiles and laughs and displays of affection.

Among the last group that exited the church was a visitor. The parson had noted his presence early in the service. And the man had been particularly attentive during the message. The parson prepared himself to be gracious when the man added his compliments to the rest.

“We're so glad to have you here today,” said the parson as he shook the hands of the man.

“Thank you,” said the man.

“What brings you this way?” the parson asked.

“Oh, I was just passing through. I don't go to church much, but I was intrigued by the title of your sermon out there on your church sign. So, I stopped by to hear the message behind the title.”

“Hope the message was worthy of the title,” the parson said.

“Hmm,” said the man, “that would be open to question.”

The man walked down the steps into the parking lot, climbed into a blue Ford Tarus and drove away. The parson watched him depart. As soon as the car had disappeared over the ridge, the parson turned his eyes toward the clouds in the sky and whispered, “You sent him, didn't you?”

Comments

[CurtisGrissett]

Dear Parson,
A Presiding Elder, opps, District Superintendent once said to me, "God keeps the clergy humble, the congregation keeps them poor." But, for a brief moment, you only thought you earned your paycheck. Any way, I think you do. Peace, Curtis