Risk And Rescue
Greet Priscilla and Aquila . . . who risked their own necks for my life.
Romans 16:3-4
Some years ago, I visited the Farne Islands off the Northumberland Coast, England. Whilst there I visited the Longstone Lighthouse, where I learnt about Grace Darling, the daughter of a former lighthouse keeper. On September 7, 1838, Grace Darling, spotted a shipwreck and survivors offshore. Together, she and her father courageously rowed their boat a mile through rough waters to rescue several people. Grace became a legend for her compassionate heart and steady hand in risking her life to rescue others.
The apostle Paul tells us of another man and woman team who took risks to rescue others. He wrote about Priscilla and Aquila, his fellow workers in Christ, who “risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles” (Rom 16:3-4).
We are not told exactly what “risk” Paul was referring to, but with beatings, imprisonment, shipwrecks, and threats of death so common to Paul’s ministry, it is not hard to see how this couple could have put themselves out to help their friend. Apparently, Paul’s rescue was more important to them than their own safety.
Rescuing others, whether from physical or spiritual danger, often carries a risk. But when we take a risk by reaching out to others, we reflect the heart of our Saviour who gave up everything for us.
Bible Reading
Romans 16:1-7.
Prayer
Father God, It is wonderful to know that I have been rescued and saved, and this not because of anything good about me, but because of the Lord Jesus, and His work on the cross for me. I praise You in His precious name. Amen.
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