When I got a call yesterday from a beloved disciple in South Sudan, saying he and another had traveled to Juba from our base in Yei to sell sweet potatoes, despite the war, I was thrilled. The news was a confirmation and an answer to prayer.
2 Samuel 23:20 reads “There was also Benaiah son of Jehoiada, a valiant warrior from Kabzeel. He did many heroic deeds, which included killing two champions of Moab. Another time, on a snowy day, he chased a lion down into a pit and killed it.”
Men don’t chase lions, even if the lion is sick and half dead. Benaiah did. What was he thinking? What guts? How did he do it? He must have seen what many couldn’t- divine opportunity.
I’m wondering, “What is this conflict in parts of South Sudan gifting us that we are failing to notice? What is the weakness of this challenge that gives subtle advantage to the gospel?”
I may have to come face-to-face with this lion to get the answers.
It may seem foolish now, to start parking and prepping to head into a place where the sounds of war and fear stir the atmosphere as the dwellers troop out into safer havens.
Safety first, is more than an idea in our day. It’s a way of life that governs so such, from manufacturing to mundane services. But whose counsels should take preeminence in matters of eternal consequence? Safety or the Holy Spirit?
Yeah, someone may say, “He wants to be a hero…” And what’s wrong with that? Wasn’t that what David’s brothers said to him before he returned with Goliath’s head? He too, had a story with a lion and a bear.
The conflict may present itself in the form of a lion and chase many out of location; but what if one or a few among the many, turn to chase the lion, with an aim to kill it?
Why should they risk so much?
Can the gospel be effectively preached risk free? How?
We need to sense, seek, see and seize divine opportunities these global crisis present to us to bring the gospel to some, who may not hear it but for their predicament.
We have to find ways to make Jesus known, loved and followed by some of those displaced, distressed, disillusioned or at the threshold of destruction. We need to go to where they are and engage the lion.
Jesus holds all things together and must be maintained at the center of everything.
We can do more with peace, but we can make history in the midst of crisis, as we follow the Holy Spirit and dare to chase the lion for Christ’s sake.
In South Sudan, it’s clear that many wounds from past wars have not healed though we sometimes act as if we were never hurt.
As we reflect on possible “good” solutions, our confessions and body language may seem to portray a buoyant faith, but fear scoffs at our unstable heart.
It seems the prophecies of doom are coming true. But divine finality belongs to God and we are hopeful, knowing that the Most High cannot be taken by surprise. He knows this will happen but maybe He’s hoping we can see with His eyes and act with His heart.
Only crazy people chase a lion on a snowy day into a pit. All the greats in Scripture had their moments of insanity, and they took it. Could this be my time or yours?
Someone out there may be wishing to engage in a more practical way, crisis situations that are not remotely related to issues in South Sudan, Central Africa Republic or Syria. You are not alone. Seek the support and cooperation of others like you. We can do more together.
However, if others are fleeing from the lion and you are provoked enough to chase the beast, do. God will not despise your faith. You may be the answer to many prayers.
In his book, In A Pit With A Lion, Mark Batterson said, “Your greatest regret at the end of your life will be the lions you didn’t chase. You will look back longingly on risks not taken, opportunities not seized, and dreams not pursued. Stop running away from what scares you most and start chasing the God-ordained opportunities that cross your path.”
This may be the best counsel you’ll receive this year.
Kingdom Exploits With Uche 