?Recently, through YouTube, the world became aware of Susan Boyle of Scotland. She was a contestant on the TV show “Britain’s Got Talent.” Susan is single, middle-aged and matronly as opposed to young and glamorous. The judges and the audience dismissed her, many rolling their eyes while others snickered.
But when she began to sing, the audience and the judges were shocked and spellbound. The smiles gave way to cheers and a standing ovation.
All three judges gave her high marks. They even admitted their prejudices. It was a great, feel-good story; but it also reveals a flaw in contemporary culture.
Too often we make judgments on the basis of externals. By the way, Susan developed her extraordinary singing ability in the church choir.


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About The Author

A third generation preacher, Mike Shannon is Professor of Preaching at Cincinnati Bible Seminary of Cincinnati Christian University. He has served as a preaching minister, church planter, and college professor. His most recent preaching ministry was at the historic First Christian Church of Johnson City, Tennessee. In his nearly two decades at Cincinnati Christian University, Mike has served as both professor and Dean of the Seminary. He has also been an adjunct professor at Milligan College and Northern Kentucky University. Mike is the author or co-author of several books.

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