A number of years ago when I was serving another congregation, I recall looking out during the sermon and seeing the look on the face of a member of the church. I remember thinking, “Oh, Kathy did not like what I said.” I then spent the rest of the message multitasking, trying to finish the sermon while also trying to figure out what she reacted to.
When she did not stand for the closing hymn, I knew something was up. I spoke to a few folks after the benediction, then walked over and talked to her. She did not feel well, so I found one of the doctors who was a member of the church. He talked with her for a moment, and her family took her to the ER, where she “just happened” to be seen by an ER doctor who was one of our elders. Long story short, she’d had a TIA, a “minor stroke” (if there is such a thing!), and because she got quick treatment, had a speedy and full recovery.
This little story in the book of Acts has always fascinated me. Eutychus was likely a teenager; the upstairs room, most likely illuminated by oil lamps, was no doubt stuffy, and he was in a place where he could hope for some fresh air.
But then Paul “talked on and on,” the Bible says. Eutychus fell asleep, then out of the window—from the third story! Paul ran down, and another Bible miracle played out, as he was able to bring this young man back to life.
Folks, if I’d been there, I would have said, “Well, I think that’s enough for one night. Let’s go home!”
But no. NO! Paul got them all to go back upstairs (I bet no one sat in a window this time!) and he spoke until daybreak.
Even in crisis—even in the midst of a crisis—the Word of God needs to be proclaimed.
That said, I would not suggest sitting in an upstairs window if I’m preaching. I’m just sayin’.