There is a legend that in colonial New England some churches had someone walk up and down the aisle during longer meetings with this odd tool. It was a long stick that had a feather attached to one end and a tack nail on the other. And that some people would be encouraged with the feather while others might get the nail. 
I’m not sure if it's true, though I kind of hope it is. This week we are going to look at two parables where Jesus will both offer both the feather and the nail. 
I’m looking forward to being with you many of you this weekend.