Lord, how we preachers do loveto use phrases that
dont mean anything! Jesus is not simply greater and wiser than Socrates orVoltaire;
he is entirely DIFFERENT.
But itsmore that I just like to make the wheels go
round. THAT, when you have the gloriousand certain figure of Christ Jesus to worship
and follow!
Ive been thinking just that all these years. But
seriously:Yes, I do say things in the pulpit that I dont mean
literally.
Smeesby was a man of forty, a crisperPhilip
McGarry. Then Idknow the joys of sanctification that you Methodys talk
about!
Now,Shallard, youre entitled to your own views, but
not in our pulpit! Oh,Lord, Phil, what a job, what a lying compromising job, this
being aminister!
Frank Shallard opens his mouth and puts his foot in
itagain!
I imagine Elmer has some desire to bea good fellow
and share his swag, but Dr.
Theylljust think shes practising stenography.
Philip McGarrys own prayer-meetings were brief.
His telephone, and a voice: This
Shallard?
Did he approve earthly monarchies orrebel against
them? But if youre right about him being really aninfidel, dont knows I could stand
that.
Ivepreached imagination, happiness, justice,
seeking for the truth. Dont you think it wouldmake less trouble if you did resign?
They were as efficient and as tender as vermin-exterminators.
And the relief not to be a preacher any more! To be
able to laugh without watching its effect!
They were as efficient and as tender as
vermin-exterminators.
Styles, he said, to feel it my duty tojump on your
pastor, Mr.
But seriously:Yes, I do say things in the pulpit
that I dont mean literally.
The whole churchll damn well do it, you watch
em!
Darn it, I cant seem to go on being interested in
the fact thatold Mrs. No blinking the horrorsof the old-time proven Hell, not in any
church IM running! Not one of us would turn the other cheek.
Himself a bachelor, McGarry had become an intimate
of Frankshouse. I havent lied or been indecent or stolen. Ivepreached imagination,
happiness, justice, seeking for the truth. He had never known a church to which the
plain people camefor prayer. It does not compel you to give up your sense of
beauty,your sense of humor, or your pleasant vices. Oughtnt you to make himcome out
from under cover and admit what he thinks?
Theonly trouble with you is, you feel youre called
on to rewrite theLords Prayer for him! This perception the clergy and their most
admired laymen expressedin quick action.