Emphasis Preaching Journal

Peter had been at a loss. His wife's paycheck didn't stretch to make their payments. They had needed gas to get to a job interview 400 miles away. Pete had been desperate after living so tightly for the last three years. He had almost laughed out loud during the sermon: "Rejoice in your suffering, so that you may be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed." Sure, Pete had thought, Jesus didn't have to eke out a meager existence only to be hit by downsizing. Jesus didn't have to tell his children they wouldn't have milk for a while. While the choir sang, Pete had begun to count his blessings: three nice, happy children; a devoted wife; and a loving extended family 3,000 miles away. Pete had been glad they didn't have to see him in that condition. Pete and his family had decided to go to the interview and they had loaded up the car. They had packed some snacks and everyone had emptied their piggy banks. They would go as far as they could. A stranger with a flat tire had given Pete $20 for the lift to town. The manager had given Pete a good job. A retired couple had let them rent their basement apartment for practically nothing. And the church had welcomed the new family with a pantry party. Pete had begun to feel hopeful. He became a strong tither, and as he climbed the corporate ladder his giving increased, always including a special offering for the food pantry. Pete has a grateful heart. Although that period twenty years ago had been difficult, he had remembered his many blessings and he saw the hand of God moving in his life. He is glad to shout for joy at the glory that God had revealed.
-- Berg