Inspiration for Preaching

Sometimes and image can be a powerful inspiration. I saw this sad sight outside the farmers' market a few weeks ago. I had to get a picture because of the power of this simple scene. Lament is a dropped ice cream cone. A future never realized. A dream dashed on the concrete.

From this image I might preach about Judas. So much was given to him through the course of his time with Jesus, and so much was lost when he would not seek forgiveness after betraying Jesus.

Or I might preach about Paul, who would not take John Mark out for a second missionary journey after he failed on the first attempt. Barnabas saw that there was hope still left and took Mark with him. Later in life, Paul asked for John Mark to come to him as a trusted friend. Despite appearances, redemption is always available. There's always another ice cream cone.

What images inspire you?