I do think there is great strength, though, in starting a sermon with a story, then returning to that story at the end. That puts book ends to a sermon. It is a real simple technique that communicates to the audience that there is a sense of closure, that they have a package here, or we began and we closed with this. I think that's just a nice technique.
Max LucadoThere is something about keeping Him divine that keeps Him distant, packaged, predictable. But don't do it. For heaven's sake, don't. Let Him be as human as He intended to be. Let Him into the mire and muck of our world. For only if we let Him in can He pull us out.
Max LucadoHave you been called to go out on a limb for God? You can bet it won't be easy. Limb-climbing has never been easy. Ask Joseph. Or, better yet, ask Jesus. He knows better than anyone the cost of hanging on a tree.
Max LucadoOthers have promised and failed. But God has promised and succeeded. He loves you with an unfailing love.
Max LucadoConfession is the act of inviting God to walk the acreage of our hearts. โThere is a rock of greed over here, Father. I canโt budge it. And that tree of guilt near the fence? Its roots are long and deep. And may I show you some dry soil, too crusty for seed?โ Godโs seed grows better if the soil of the heart is cleared.
Max Lucado