Reflections on My Sermon at Seventh Avenue Presbyterian Church, San Francisco.
Recently, I had the honour of delivering a sermon at the Seventh Avenue Presbyterian Church titled; We Can Be Heroes for More than One Day. Inspired by presentations I’ve delivered with my brother, Robert Fripp, who played on David Bowie’s Heroes, this was an experience I’ll always treasure.
The choir’s heartfelt rendition of Heroes set the perfect stage for the message: the power of well-chosen words and the impact of acts of quality.
One story I shared was about a Chief Rabbi who, despite limited English, conveyed a profound message about the connection between faith and daily life in just 15 well-chosen words.
Twelve words of one syllable, two words of two syllables, and one word of three syllables and pronounced as if having two (business): “When you go into your shop, say ‘Hello God!’ and you will have good business.”
His simplicity and clarity were a powerful reminder of how carefully chosen words can touch the soul.
In presentations with my brother, I ask him, “How do we become heroes?” His reply was, “By performing acts of quality.”
An act of quality is ungovernable by size. This is the world of qualities; this is not the world of quantities. Quality is ungovernable by size or number.
The second principle of quality: Although we may never see the repercussions of an act of quality, and we will never see the consequences of our own act of quality, we may be confident that the right action generates just consequences.
This principle was beautifully illustrated in the biblical story of the Widow’s Offering.
41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts.
42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.
43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you; this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.
44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
Though she gave only two small copper coins, her act of generosity, rooted in sacrifice, stands as an enduring symbol of faith. You cannot give more than you have. Her donation will not put a roof on the church. The widow’s act of quality keeps the church standing, is the reason we attend church, and is an example to us all.
Another meaningful story came from a client, Bernard, who was teaching his children the importance of giving to children who are not lucky enough to have a home. When asked by his son, “How much should I give?” Bernard replied, “You never give it all, just enough that it hurts a little.” These words resonated deeply, reminding us that faithful giving often comes with a personal cost.
Our minister, Jenna Meyers, graciously said, “Thank you for a wonderful sermon. You are a sight to behold. I don’t know how you memorize all those well-chosen words.” The answer? Repetition and rehearsal—dozens of times! My goal was to be note-free and connect fully with the congregation.
I may not be a biblical scholar, but as an enthusiastic congregation member, I sincerely appreciate the invitation to share this message.
It reminds us that we can all be heroes every day through quality acts and well-chosen words.
What’s an act of quality you’ve experienced recently? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
