Good morning:
Are you a risk taker? Do you live life on the edge? Most of us would probably answer, “No way!” We like to steer a safe middle course. We’re not going to be too daring in our style of clothing or too aggressive in how we invest our IRA. We don’t crave to make the front page of the newspaper for crossing Lake Michigan in a bathtub.
Yet in what matters most, the Lord calls us to be the greatest of risk takers. To our human reason it is incredibly risky to deny self, take up our cross, and follow Jesus. Why would anyone say, “Lord, Your will, not mine, be done”? Abraham’s neighbors no doubt tried to dissuade him from setting off on a “risky” move to some unknown destination which God would show him. The apostle Paul turned his back on friends, power, possessions, and prestige—everything he once held dear—in order to gain Christ. Who would do that and why?
Is it worth the risk? Absolutely! Really, it’s no risk at all, for Jesus promises that whoever follows Him will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. There is nothing questionable or uncertain about the blessings of trusting in Jesus. He has already done everything needed for our salvation. He was perfect for us. He paid the full penalty for our sin on the cross. It seems utterly ridiculous to the world to make forgiveness, peace with God, and eternal life the priority in life. Yet in reality, it is the wisdom of God. “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?” (Matt. 16:26).
So today, take some risks. When God gives it, take the opportunity to share the message of Christ crucified with that friend you’ve been meaning to talk to for months. Invite someone to hear the Word in our online service tomorrow. Show the Lord’s kindness to the person who has done nothing but hurt you. Be an aggressive investor in putting all the talents the Lord has given you to work for Him. “Cast your bread upon the waters” (Eccl. 11:1). “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Col. 3:23). Take the risks and trust the Lord for amazing results!
Yours in Christ,
Pastor
The family of Arlene Bernthal invite you to join them for her Victory Service online this morning at 11 am (https://tinyurl.com/y552ca77) and then for a picnic lunch following at noon at Lions Legend Park in Franklin at 8030 S. Legend Dr Franklin, WI.
Tomorrow’s services are at 8:00 and 9:30 a.m. Here is the link for signing up for August services: https://tinyurl.com/y2j5r8sn
Face coverings: Wisconsin now requires face coverings at all indoor gatherings for everyone five years old and older, so remember to bring yours along. Disposable masks will be available in the entry for those who need one.
