Elements of Vision 3

Finish the Deed

The third element of vision for ministry relates to execution. Nothing is more devastating to people than the cessation of a ministry they have come to rely on for help. It speaks of the unreliability of the minister but inherently reflects upon God as well. "For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he may have enough to finish it?" Luke 14:28. "Therefore, since we also are surrounded with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily besets us, and let us run with patience (endurance) the race that is set before us. Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right of the throne of God." Hebrews 12: 1,2. "If a job has just begun, never leave it 'til it's done; be the labor great or small, do it well or not at all" - my Dad. Here's the thing: what if Jesus had given up before going to the cross? Now we know that never would have happened, but it "almost" did--in the Garden of Gethsemane. Many teachers once held (and some still do) that there was a moment of indecision on Jesus' part, which is why he prayed "Father, let this cup pass from me." (Matt 26: 39, Mark 14: 36, Luke 22: 42). I and many others, however, believe that He was under attack by Satan who was attempting to prevent Him from reaching the cross and that He was on the verge of death there in the Garden. He knew that in order for Him to be the perfect sacrifice, He must die on the cross, because the scripture says "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree." Galatians 3:13. Satan knew that as well, and so came against Him there until His sweat was mixed with blood as it fell on the ground, a physiological sign of imminent death. Even with all the miracles He performed and all the truths He taught, Jesus' ministry was incomplete until he reached the cross. He had to finish the deed for our sakes. Thank God He did! We must follow His example and finish whatever task He calls us to in ministry through His vision in us.