FIRST TO THE FRONTLINES

SERMON STORIES: LAUGH & LEARN
#35: FIRST TO THE FRONTLINES

A veteran insurance agent takes his understudy to an army camp. Permission has been given for them to make a presentation before the soldiers leave for the warfront overseas. 

The veteran asks his younger colleague to make his pitch. He begins, “Men, you know anything could happen when you go to war. We have a plan for your loved ones to be provided for should anything happen to you.” 

He pauses to let the grim prospect sink in. He continues, “Here is the good news. For just a few dollars a month, your loved ones will receive $500,000 should you be killed in battle.”

He explains how easy it is to enrol in the plan, and hands out the application forms. Only a few men take up the offer. Seeing his understudy in trouble, the veteran steps in. 

“Men, let me put the matter in a slightly different way,” he begins, “If you take up our offer, you cost the government $500,000 should you be killed. If you do not sign up for it, you cost the government nothing.”

He pauses to let the thought sink in. “Tell me,” he asks, “who will the government send first to the frontlines?”   All the men buy the insurance.  

Nothing moves a person to action like a threat against his life. Altruistic motives may inspire some to act, but survival instinct will rouse all to do something. Sales pitch that appeals to the well-being of others may work with some customers, but what often seals the decision is personal interest. No wonder the commandment to love others begins with love for self. 

“You shall love your neighbour as [you love] yourself: I am the Lord.”
Matthew 22:39 ESV