To Feed My Cattle?
A new preacher from the East just received his first church home in the foot hills of Montana. He arrives in time to greet the outgoing preacher who gives him a warm welcome and helps him get established in the parsonage. Being Wednesday now, the new preacher decides to get started on his first sermon, which he labors over for the next 3 days. Practice, practice, practice! On Sunday morning, he comes to church, climbs up into the pulpit and looks down into the congregation - only to see one cowboy sitting in the front row. Somewhat disappointed, he asks the cowboy, .." I've practiced my sermon for quite some time, but since you are the only one here, maybe I should just skip it. What do you think?" The cowboy replied,.." Well, if I went out to the pasture to feed my cattle, and only one cow showed up - I would certainly feed it!" Reassured, the new preacher lit into his text with full zeal. 45 minutes later, exausted from his efforts, the preacher asked the cowboy,.." well, what do you think?" The cowboy replied,.." Like I told you, if I went to the pasture to feed my cattle, and only one cow showed up - I would feed it............but I sure wouldn't give it the full load!!!"
Originally published November 14, 2002.
