WITHIN REACH

THE second-hand book shop had a well-stocked “Religion” section. On the shelves, the books ranged from modern paperbacks within easy reach to leather-bound and possibly antique volumes on the higher ledges.

Craning my neck to look beyond recent titles, I made out titles like An Outline Of Christianity, Fleetwood’s Life Of Christ and The Bible Encyclopaedia. One book, however, stood higher and deeper than the rest.

It was The Home Preacher, with lessons, well constructed sermons and quotes for every day of the year, all of which are meant to be worked through at home.

It made complete sense. Home is where we are at our most authentic, often where we are most challenged, and where the example we set has a more lasting effect.

Few might aspire towards teaching directly from the pulpit, but every one of us blessed with a home and a family ought to aim to be a home preacher.