The shortest sermon I ever heard was preached by the shortest preacher I ever saw. It took place on a boat on the St. Lawrence river. Ever since the boat left the wharf, I had been amused by hearing a clear, high-set voice asking questions, one after another, as fast as the little tongue could go.
A policeman took his place beside the little boy, who turned up his dear little face and said, “Are you a policeman?”
“Yes,” answered the man, looking at him kindly.
“Why are you a policeman?” was the next question.
The policeman gave a puzzled laugh, but took out the key of a patrol box, and a pair of handcuffs, and told him they were to put on bad boys when he took them away.
“You won’t take me away.” said the little fellow bravely, looking him straight in the face.
“No, my boy, I won’t take you; but who do you belong to?” asked the big man still smiling.
“I belong to Jesus,” said the child.
The big policeman got very red in the face, and, rising hurriedly, left his seat.
I shall never forget that little preacher and his little sermon.
The sermon was only four words. Dear reader, could you preach it truthfully?
“I BELONG TO JESUS.”
Can a little child like me
Pray to Jesus fittingly?
Yes, O yes, He loves to hear
Prayers from lips of children dear.
I will need His help today
In the things I do and say.
ML 12/17/1967