#1 from Ileen Rourke on March 29, 2010

Jeff, It’s so great to be thousands of miles away and still be able to hear your sermons on my laptop.

I have to admit the end of your sermon had tears running down my cheeks. Yes, my past is one that I’m not proud of, and I was litterly crying in bed last night thinking of how ashamed I’m going to be when I come face to face with Jesus on that day. I still struggle with my past sins, and even though I hear over and over that He has forgiven me, it’s hard to grasp that He could love me that much.

Last week I couldn’t get through to this sermon so I emailed Northview and they said there were a few problems, but they were fixed now. After a rough night, struggling over how sinful I have been, I decided to pull up your sermon on “An ear, a cup and a fire” and it really shook me up. Isn’t it funny I needed to hear it this morning, not the other day, (God’s perfect timing) Like you said, He know’s all thing’s. I can’t thank you enough. I hope every time I struggle with this, which is far too often, that I will remember what you said. So many people struggle with the issues you mentioned, including many in the church. There are so many people who hide their sins under the carpet, but they will have to deal with it one day. It will catch up to them. We can’t run forever. If this sermon didn’t convict them, I don’t know what will.

I think you are the most awesome pastor and I get so much out of your sermons. They hit home. I hope you don’t have any intention on leaving us. We would be lost without you. I’ve heard so many of the congregation speak very highly of you and your preaching talents. You often hit us where it hurt’s. That’s a good thing. We all need a wake up call. One thing I highly respect you for is how you humble yourself and admit your short comings and don’t come across “hollyer than thou” You say it like it is and admit you’re no better than us. I can’t thank you enough.

Take care