Sermon Illustrations

A wonderful illustration of how our lives can be transformed by God’s peace is found in the life of Archbishop of the Chicago diocese, Joseph Cardinal Bernardin’s. In his little book, The Gift of Peace, which he was working hard to complete just a year ago, there is a gripping and moving account of his meeting with Steven Cook, the young man who had accused Cardinal Bernardin of sexual abuse. It is an event best forgotten except for the extraordinary way it concluded. In 1993, the accusation became public, and Cardinal Bernardin had to live in the glare of public curiosity, constant media attention and the deep pain of experiencing his credibility and integrity questioned by many people who simply assume that an accusation is the equivalent of guilt. And then, over time, Mr. Cook acknowledged that the charges were false, and the case was dropped. The Cardinal plunged back into his busy schedule but he kept thinking about Steven Cook, his accuser, now critically ill with AIDS, living alone.

So Cardinal Bernardin did the most remarkable thing. He located Mr. Cook and invited him to meet at a seminary outside Philadelphia. Cardinal Bernardin explained that his only reason for wanting to see Mr. Cook was to tell him that he, Cardinal Bernardin, harbored no ill feelings. He wanted to pray with Mr. Cook.

Steven Cook accepted that invitation and said that he wanted to apologize for the hurt and embarrassment he had caused. When the meeting happened, Mr. Cook told his story, including his alienation from the...

Continue reading this sermon illustration (Free with PRO)

Related Sermon Illustrations

Related Sermons

  • Every Step Of The Way Series

    Contributed by Dennis Davidson on Dec 29, 2013
    based on 7 ratings
     | 41,193 views

    Jeremiah points out that God will be faithful to you every step of the way. Each day when you rise, God will already be taking care of you. His grace, strength and love will be as much a daily part of you life as is breathing.

  • Compassionate Giving

    Contributed by Bruce Ball on Nov 23, 2014
    based on 7 ratings
     | 38,425 views

    This message explains the necessity of giving to a compassionate ministry so others might be helped. The parable of the Good Samaritan in LUKE 10 is used as the example.

  • The Food Sign Series

    Contributed by Jeff Strite on Mar 20, 2017
    based on 14 ratings
     | 36,034 views

    Jesus did many miracles but only 2 are told about in all four Gospels. One is the miracle of Jesus' resurrection... and the other is the miracle of the feeding of the 5000. The question is "Why are these 2 the only miracles listed that in all 4?"

  • Mantengan El Enfoque

    Contributed by Abraham Marsach on Apr 13, 2007
    based on 3 ratings
     | 33,267 views

    MAntenga el enfoque en Cristo, y como Cristo enfrento con amor a la gente escojidad de El

  • Forgive Or Not To Forgive

    Contributed by Anthony Zibolski on Feb 28, 2012
    based on 1 rating
     | 32,339 views

    Forgiveness is the way the Lord releases us from guilt and sets us free to continue loving God and others.