Lessons from the O.R.

by David Shannon

Recently I had an appendectomy. Amazingly, from the time the doctor started the surgery until the time he called my wife to give a post-surgery report, it was only twenty minutes. When I was rolled back into the room, still heavily under the effects of the anesthesia, I was welcomed by my family and a few friends. One dear friend who always builds up a brother said, "Dave, that is amazing. The doctor can open you up, take out your appendix and sew you back together, quicker than you can preach a sermon!" I was later reminded that I had drowsily answered, "Mitch, that doctor is trying to save a life, and I am trying to save a soul, and it takes longer to save a soul!"
On the serious side of that statement, years ago I made a three part commitment to myself and God; I would always enter the pulpit (1) prepared to preach (2) the truth (3) with passion. The truth of God is a message which has the power to change lives and even save souls. By no means is it because of the messenger - but the message. I strive to present the word of God every time with this end in mind. Every one of us in the assembly has room to grow. Many need to be saved. Do you come to worship looking forward to a study of God's word so your life can be empowered by God?
As preachers we need to preach the word in and out of season expecting the power of the word to transform lives ( 2 Timothy 4:2; Romans 1:16; 12:2).
Every worshiper needs to come with all readiness of mind to hear the truth if our lives are ever going to be enriched ( Acts 17:11).
All need to go home to continue studying the truth ( Acts 17:11).
Let's say as the Psalmist. "I thought on my ways and turned my feet unto thy testimonies" (Psalms 119:59). If we study the word daily and think on our ways daily, the results ought to be continual changes which lead us closer to God.
As preachers and teachers, let's not fill time - let's passionately magnify the eternal truths which change lives. As listeners and students, let's drink deeply from God's word and allow Jesus to shine brighter in our lives. Thank God for the professionals who are trained to save lives. I really mean that! But let's come to a study of the scriptures with greater passion - for there we are striving to save souls, including our own! (And it might take longer than 20 minutes!)
Thank you for all the prayers, calls, cards, e-mails, visits, gifts, and every expression of love. I feel I am the most blessed preacher on earth because of you, my family and God. My heart is humbled. I love you much. To God be the glory!