Love’s Risk

July 1, 2009

By Gary Rogers

Everything in our society tells us to be cautious and careful concerning relationships. “If you don’t keep your guard up someone will hurt you.” “Be careful, there are people who will take advantage of you.” “Don’t make eye contact with strangers.” “Being friendly is a sure way of looking weak and vulnerable.” “About the time you start trusting somebody they’ll let you down.” “The people who will hurt you the most are the ones you get close to.”

We have become so paranoid about relationships. The sad reality is, this same attitude has invaded the church. We must be willing to be vulnerable in showing the love of Jesus.

You become vulnerable when you begin a conversation with someone you don’t know. You become vulnerable when you ask someone if they would like you to pray for them. You become vulnerable when you sit next to and smile at someone you’ve never met. You become vulnerable walking around the church and shaking hands and greeting people. You become vulnerable when you begin to care for people. You become vulnerable when you intervene in an attempt to keep someone from making a bad choice. You become vulnerable when you invest your time and compassion in listening to another person’s needs.

This list of vulnerable actions describes true Christianity. I’ve heard people say, “I’m just taking care of me and my family! We don’t need church or other Christian relationships.” I feel sorry for these people. You can’t fulfill the biblical mandate of showing love and kindness to other believers without becoming vulnerable.

Over the years I’ve been hurt many, many times. But I have to make the conscious choice to keep loving people, to keep making myself available to others in ministry. I have to remember that Jesus continued to reach out in love to others, even when they were crucifying Him.

Yes, Christian love does mean you become vulnerable. Ceasing to become vulnerable is not an option. I refuse to develop a calloused heart. I refuse to allow the hurts of the past to keep me from having loving, compassionate, caring relationships today. “Love must be sincere” (Romans 12:9, NIV).

— Gary Rogers is senior pastor of First Assembly of God in Coweta, Okla.