Having been called and gifted by God to serve as a pastor has been one of the greatest privileges in my life. This is especially true because of my natural disposition as an introvert who dreaded being called upon in class discussions. God has graciously enabled me to preach effectively. What I once feared became a source of joy. Whenever people have affirmed a sermon, I realize that it was the power of God’s Word, not my ability.
Sometimes, perhaps too often, preaching has felt more like a “voice in the wilderness.” That was the tag John the Baptist wore: “a voice in the wilderness” He was not the promised Messiah nor a miracle worker—just a lone voice in the Judean wilderness. More like a canary singing when there is nobody to appreciate the melody.
John was surrounded by curious crowds who came to hear his message. Perhaps thousands were baptized in response to his preaching. However, he was soon incarcerated and eventually his voice was silenced.
Jesus also expressed remorse because His words fell on deaf ears. Multitudes affirmed His ministry for a brief season. Yet I can hear His words as the time of His death drew near: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, … how often would I have gathered your children together as a hen her brood under her wings, and you were unwilling.” (Matthew 23:37)
Ultimately Jesus’ teaching seemed more like “a voice in the wilderness.” Consider the multitude, that once affirmed Jesus’ teaching with statements like “No man ever spoke like that!”, would soon cry out, “Crucify him!”
Affirmations to a sermon are often idle words. Intentions to apply the sermon may have been sincere, but the cares of this life and the affluence of our culture soon choke the word and life returns to normal.
Reflecting on 50 plus years of preaching, I realize how often it felt like I was just a “voice in the wilderness.” But I still consider that proclaiming God’s Word was the greatest privilege I have ever known. Even when it felt like I was “just a voice in the wilderness”.
But, when I consider the lives that have been dramatically transformed by God’s Word being proclaimed through a weak vessel like me, I rejoice in the privilege of being “a voice in the wilderness”.
Stay tuned for future posts here on Standing 0n the Promise where we can listen to the voices of Christians from the 1st two centuries. These voices in a wilderness are still relevant today.