Every week, I write a manuscript for the sermon. But when I actually preach the sermon, I don’t stand behind the pulpit, looking at a manuscript or notes. All I have is the Bible and my tiny brain. This means I rely heavily on the Holy Spirit to make my inadequate words make sense. This also means there are times when I go in a completely different direction than my sermon manuscript. That can be a problem because I have no printed record of what I’ve said. Years ago, Sandy decided to fix this.
For many years, week after week, Sandy sits down at her computer, listens to a recording of my sermon and transcribes it. Think about what that means.
While most of my sermons are so good the angels cry, every once in a while I preach a real stinker. Listening to it once in the worship service is bad enough, but Sandy has to listen to it at least twice, as she laboriously types word after word after word. What a trooper.
The thing is, no one would even know of Sandy’s tremendous gift of service if I didn’t write about it. She doesn’t advertise what she does. She just does it. I think God really loves the Sandys of the world.
Jesus was particularly angry with the people who did good deeds for others to see. In criticizing the Pharisees, Jesus said: “They do all their deeds to be seen by others; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long. They love to have the place of honor at banquets and the best seats in the synagogues, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi….All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Matthew 25:5-7 & 12)
Now that I think about it, I am privileged to serve a church filled with Sandys. They are the ones that meet contractors for repairs, fold bulletins and put stamps on newsletters, teach Sunday school, prepare Holy Communion, volunteer as receptionists, work in our food bank, usher, drive vans to pick up those needing a ride to church, work in the audio/visual ministry, the list goes on and on…..
When I grow up, I want to be a Sandy. I am sure that’s what God wants for all of us.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, give me a servant’s heart. I pray that my actions and words always bring you glory and joy. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
If you want to make God smile, be a Sandy.
Also, just for the record, Sandy won’t like that I’ve highlighted her service. The good news is she has to forgive me. It’s in the Bible.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 