How to Get a Canadian to Love You (Comedy)
To win the hearts of Canadians, one must be willing to admit their flaws, show appreciation for their culture, and lead with the Gospel.
George Verwer shares a humorous and engaging experience from a youth meeting in Vancouver, where he connected with Canadian youth by embracing his identity as an American and using humor to break down barriers. He recounts how a lively atmosphere, including a rock and roll song, set the stage for a powerful message that led to many teenagers recommitting their lives to Christ. Verwer emphasizes the importance of authenticity and humility in building relationships, even across cultural divides, and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to inspire young people despite his own insecurities.
Full Transcript
Especially after I spoke at this youth meeting in Vancouver, I was as wild as I've ever been in a youth meeting. I even spoke with my hat on. I didn't only have my global jacket on, I had that heavy flag, black flag jacket, which fortunately has the Canadian flag there.
And they had this tremendous rock and roll song just before I went up to preach. And I ended up giving this Canadian a new, I can never repeat it, I don't think. I have to get that tape and listen to it.
New Canadian cheer that God gave me. How a Yank from south of the border can win so many Canadians, I've been doing it for 35 years, is a bit of a mystery. But there's a way that you can get Canadians to love you.
Just admit that you're an American jerk. They'll put their arms around you and they will love you. Anyway, I pointed to that Canadian flag and I gave this long, total abusive on my vocal cords, cheer that lasted for almost a minute, like an opera.
It didn't sound like opera. And after that, I tell you, they were wild. When I gave this invitation, lordship, repentance, revival, go, send, the whole thing off the charts.
Hundreds of these teenagers just stood up and made that recommitment. Many came for prayer and counseling. And I just have to thank God for the privilege that an old, holy ghost goat like me could still speak to young people.
It's very intimidating.
Sermon Outline
- How to Get a Canadian to Love You
- Use Humor and Creativity
- Lead with the Gospel
- Admit Your Flaws
- Show Appreciation for Canadian Culture
- Use Music and Entertainment
- Be Authentic and Sincere
- Invite Repentance and Revival
Key Quotes
“Just admit that you're an American jerk. They'll put their arms around you and they will love you.” — George Verwer
“I pointed to that Canadian flag and I gave this long, total abusive on my vocal cords, cheer that lasted for almost a minute, like an opera.” — George Verwer
“It didn't sound like opera. And after that, I tell you, they were wild.” — George Verwer
Application Points
- Be willing to admit your flaws and show vulnerability in order to build stronger relationships.
- Use humor and creativity to break the ice and connect with others.
- Lead with the Gospel by inviting repentance and revival, and be authentic and sincere in your approach.