The Business of Ministry

I charge people for my services of speaking, writing, and editing—even though the topics are all about serving God. Is that appropriate?

When I was working as an acquisitions editor, folks would often tell me it was wrong for a company to charge for Christian books. Now that I have shifted to speaking, I see the same dynamic in that industry. "We'll cover your travel expenses, of course," potential hosts tell me. "Do you need an honorarium, or do you speak for ministry?"

I get where they're coming from. When you make ministry a business, it somehow seems the message will be diluted. In publishing, one my primary concerns was whether we could sell the book. In speaking, my coaches will tell me how to maximize the emotional affect on my audience. That feels wrong.

However, whenever I come across people who balance ministry and business well, I am reminded that striving for effectiveness is never wrong. Last week a couple of executive television producers spent a few days with my family to record our story. These guys were for real. They were passionate about the message and they were excellent at their job. I hope they were well compensated for their important work.

My ministry is giving witness to the restorative power of God's love. My job is communications. I'm thankful the two work so well together.

Adreneline Rush

There is nothing quite like seeing two headlights on a interstate highway heading directly for your own son. If I've ever doubted that I would ultimately be able to jump into shark infested water or to dash into a burning house or to attack an armed enemy to save my kids, I doubt no longer. All I wanted to do after our car stopped spinning—in that instant we stared helplessly at the approaching vehicle—was to pull Chad out of that place of danger and to put myself there instead. My little boy!

But I couldn't do anything. The oncoming car rammed into our minivan, pushing Chad's bucket seat right up to mine, slamming our heads together and demolishing the entire driver's side of the vehicle.

And yet he lived. Chad walked out of that harrowing experience with nothing but a bump.

As we drove home in our rental car a few hours later, Chad said that he should be on a commercial for Chevy. "Write them a letter and tell them how safe the Venture is, Mom," he advised. I might do that. But first I had to write a letter to the world saying how good God is.

Thank God for miracles!