Called to be Apostles in the Midst of Wolves
by Gail Lenhard
(Matthew 10:16, NABRE).
As Christian writers, we have the ability to change a person’s life. The Lord sends us to represent him in our craft, whether through devotionals, mysteries, picture books, or any other genre.
Words can evoke emotion. They may offer comfort, provide guidance and grant enjoyment while introducing a whole new world to the readers. Writing could also summon pain, discontent, and sadness to develop empathy or invite healing. Yet the wolfish culture will challenge us for these passionate messages.
Perhaps you’ve felt the heated, snarling breath of the world’s hostility against your writing, too. I’ve found reassurance in such times from the words of the one who sent me to deliver these messages. He knew you and I would face enemies when we served his call as wordsmiths.
Christ sent his apostles into the midst of wolves and advised them to be as shrewd as serpents and simple as doves. This was no easy task for them. The apostles were often hunted as criminals, treated poorly, and even martyred for their words. And yet, they continued to spread God’s words. Words of repentance; words of love; words of grace. They believed they had to carry out what Christ asked of them.
In Matthew 10:16, Jesus wasn’t just talking to the apostles, he was talking to us—ordinary people who bear his message. We need to follow the example set by the apostles and write words that speak the truth—God’s truth.
Yes, it will be hard. Yes, there will be obstacles and distractions in our way. The “wolves” among us will try their best to block us at every turn. But, we should always remember that we are apostles of the one true God; and as apostles, we need to be faithful and follow God’s plan for us as Christian writers and not be afraid to share the Good News.
Father, please send your Holy Spirit to us as we strive to write words that will bring others to you. Help us to be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves. Shower us, your people, with grace and mercy. Amen
Gail Lenhard holds a BA degree in Elementary Education from Saint Leo University. She is an award winning writer for all ages and genres, and offers editing and critique services at http://www.copygail.com. Gail and her husband own Glenn’s MG Repair in St. Petersburg, FL that focuses on the maintenance and restoration of British classic cars. Several of her articles have been published in various classic auto magazines.