September 2, 1984

Comment: As I put this little book together, I havemaintained a kind of biblical chronological order for therespective stories. You will note shifting around of datesnow, more so than earlier. Themes for the holidays, LaborDay in this case, and purposes seen for the sake of thecongregation, are not always orderly!

This particular sermon was influenced by a story Ivaguely remember from Sunday School told nearly a halfcentury ago. And it has been enriched by the Middle West'sforemost preacher, humorist Garrison Keillor. There are fewstorytellers his equal. There are many pastors who enjoy theSaturday night monologues of Keillor and draw upon them forinsightful stories and good humor.

I like situations which cross age lines, so I was gladwhen I had a chance to tell a story …