What good is being a prophet or having visions?

I believe this sermon sees a first for me. I don’t think I’ll go back to check but I’m pretty sure this is the first time I have ever begun a sermon with, “So.”
But I stand by the opening–and will be very happy if anyone has anything to say about the opening for good or ill–because it sets a particular tone which I think is helpful when we ask weighty questions. The sermon title “What good is being a prophet or having visions?” is a bit provocative, even a bit pugnacious. It is still a good question. If we quickly review the biblical prophets many of them, even most, ended what we might describe as badly. And yet, how many prophets ask for their prophetic gift, regardless of it being foretelling or forth-telling, to be taken away? There must be some sort of upside . . . mustn’t there? What do prophets get out of it?
That’s the crux of the whole matter and it is what I was talking about earlier today. As always, let me know what you think as you are inclined and able. I very much value the feedback I get.
Warmest blessings,
