It was meant to be a put down, a remark aimed to put me in my place. In a way, it did, but not as he intended.  Why is Duke Chapel so often full when many university Chapels or local churches are so often empty·? He said, "Well, Duke Chapel puts on such a show on Sunday morning. And there are always those who want church to be nothing but a good show."

The buildings, the windows, the great choir, music from two organs, and sermons by two adorable ministers -- Humph! It's all just a show. And I, not one to be put down without a fight said, "So what's wrong with a show--if it is a very, very good show?"

I hesitate to speak for God--although I do so regularly from this pulpit-­ but I can't think of any reason why God should be opposed to a Sunday morning show--unless it's not a good show.…