Sermon Illustrations

Fishing Story

Story # 1:

Jimmy an orphan from a foster home, is fishing by himself on the end of a pier. Full of curiosity like most ten year olds, he leans over the edge to look at an insect crawling next to him and falls into the water. Unable to swim, he frantically splashes and screams, trying to paddle to the pier. Just as he goes under an d bobs to the surface again a strong arm reaches down, grabs him up and sets him on the pier. He is soaked to the skin and close to tears, but without the cocky attitude that allowed him to risk hanging over the edge. His rescuer scolds him about being so careless, turns, and walks off.

What’s missing in this picture?

Story # 2:

Jimmy an orphan from a foster home, is fishing by himself on the end of a pier. Full of curiosity like most ten year olds, he leans over the edge to look at an insect crawling next to him and falls into the water. Unable to swim, he frantically splashes and screams, trying to paddle to the pier. Just as he goes under an d bobs to the surface again a strong arm reaches down, grabs him up and sets him on the pier. He is soaked to the skin and close to tears, but without the cocky attitude that allowed him to risk hanging over the edge. Sounds like the same story, doesn’t it? So what’s different? This time the rescuer firmly but gently pats him on the back, burping out the water he has swallowed, carries him to the showers to wash away the saltwater, and dries him off. Then he drives him to the mall, buys him new clothes, and takes him home with...

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