Cross the Road

I'm at Annual Conference (our denomination's 'annual' meeting with clergy and laypeople from each United Methodist Church in Minnesota) this week. It's always good to catch up with people I haven't seen for a year, and our times of worship are always inspirational.

Last night our bishop, Sally Dyck, preached on the topic of the Good Samaritan. Her sermon title was "Why Did the United Methodist Cross the Road?" Her short answer to that question was that Jesus always crossed the road, and when we cross the road, that's when/where we'll find Jesus.

At one point in her message, she asked the questions, "Why don't we cross the road?" and "What are we afraid of?" As I listened, I thought of this past week and people who showed up at the church seeking help. I'm proud to say that we crossed the road and did what we could to help. And here's what I learned:
1. Crossing the road is going to cost you something. It may be time, it may be an emotional investment, but in many cases, it's going to be money. People are coming to the church with financial needs.
2. If you cross the road once, you run the risk of developing a reputation as a 'road-crosser' and others in need may begin to flock to your door.

Do these facts translate to fears? Do our fears translate to inactivity? Will we see those crying out in need and walk by on the other side, or will we cross the road, extend our hand, and offer help? Let's chat...