You have probably heard about the recent events surrounding the death of Kayla Mueller, an aid worker who was serving in Syria before being taken hostage in 2013. She was not a part of military personnel or any other government agency. She was not even a journalist capturing the news of what was happening in the country. She was just someone who was devoted to helping others.
The Ultimate Cost
While you may never plan to help overseas or work in third-world countries, danger lies even in working in the inner cities and downtrodden areas of the cities right here in the U.S. Those who stay on the fringe of such ministries do not understand the fears that must be faced to minister to those in need. Threats from drug lords and other hardened criminals can make every day more challenging in inner cities while a lack of basic necessities can threaten the quality of life in other areas.
Why do these people sacrifice their lives in such a way? They are following in Jesus’ steps. After all, He paid the ultimate cost for all of us by giving His life. Can we do less than give our lives to those who need us?
Small Sacrifices
Even if you are never called to make the ultimate sacrifice, your service in ministry will cost something. It may cost you time with your family when you are working instead of spending time at home. It may cost you in terms of money because you are giving of your time instead of working on a well-paying job.
You will see and hear things that you would not otherwise when you serve in ministry. Entering a different world from what you have known will change your life forever. You won’t be able to “unsee” the horrors that exist outside of your comfortable world.
Counting the Cost
Jesus also told His followers to count the cost of following Him. This was not meant to be a deterrent then nor is it supposed to be one now. Rather, it means understanding exactly what you are being called to in ministry and being prepared for it. God wants us to serve in ministry, but He wants us to know what that means. He wants us to be dedicated to where He puts us regardless of what happens. He wants us to look to Him for strength instead of looking to outside sources.
The truth about ministry is that it is hard. It takes a toll on your life physically, mentally and emotionally. On the other hand, when you count the cost and go into ministry with your eyes on God instead of what is going on around you, you will be strengthened spiritually.
Anyone who serves in ministry must sacrifice something. They must give part of themselves. That is the cost of ministry, but what you receive back is so much more.
