For the months of June and July, we did a sermon series that was based on a series that Rev. Adam Hamilton from the UMC of Resurrection did years ago. Each week consisted me of listening to his sermons, taking down notes, then researching on my own through commentaries and websites, and then actually writing the sermon.
I learned a lot from listening to Adam Hamilton.
However, when that series concluded, and I had to move on, I started struggling a little bit. I guess I had gotten used to the routine I had. Not only that, because I spent so much time invested in someone else’s voice, it was hard for me to find my voice again.
That first Sunday I had to preach on my own, man, I want that Sunday back. As soon as the sermon (about the Prodigal Son) was finished, during the announcements I felt the need to apologize for the sermon. (But I didn’t. Because… that’s weird, I think.)
But safe to say, I am comfortable in my skin once again. That first Sunday was just a speed bump. Last Sunday’s sermon (about the Prodigal’s older brother) went much better. It felt like me, it sounded like me and it was God working through me.
I had bought all these sermon series from Church of Resurrection because I had planned to do other series based on Rev. Hamilton. But I scrapped that idea. I think it’s best to just listen to them for my personal experience and growth.
Next Monday is our first Young Adult Retreat. I am nervous and excited. But there’s a lot of work that needs to be done, so I best get to it.
