"Worth the Risk"

“Worth the Risk”

Last year our church bought a new minibus to enhance our overall ministry. In announcing the purchase the pastor jokingly said he wondered when the first scratch would appear but added that the only way we could be reasonably sure this wouldn’t happen was if it were never used. Then years ago I heard of a church that recarpeted its auditorium and a group forbade children from meeting there lest it become stained (the pastor quickly reversed this action). In both these cases there was a willingness to risk damage in order to reach people with the gospel message.

Since ministry involves imperfect people (both those who serve and who are served) it can be difficult, hurtful and even messy at times. The only way I can think of to avoid these unfavorable possibilities is to stop serving. But if we do this we’re disobeying God’s clear commands (“…As we have opportunity, let us do good to all people….”—Galatians 6:10); “Anyone…who knows the good {he or she} ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins.”—James 4:17). So we must take the risk, do what He’s told us to do and leave the results with Him.

The Apostle Paul was described by Jesus to the Damascus believer Ananias as “…my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and the people of Israel.” (Acts 9:15). This calling brought Paul a great deal of struggle (see 2 Corinthians 11:21-28) but he wouldn’t be deterred. When his friends heard a prophecy that he’d be arrested and turned over to the Romans they tried to persuade him to evade it. His response: “I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Acts 21:13). To him preaching the gospel was imperative (“Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel.”—1 Corinthians 9:16) and it was worth the risk to “…complete the task the Lord has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.” (Acts 20:24).

Jesus never promised ministry (or life) would be easy (“In this world you will have trouble.”—John 16:33) but He’s promised us “…everything we need for life and godliness….” (2 Peter 1:3). So walking with and serving Him is a risk worth taking. Am I willing to take it?

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan