In 373 a man named Ambrose became the leader of the church in Milan.[i] Ambrose, who at the time was governor of the city, had political aspirations and no interested in serving in the church. After his conversion, however, a controversy erupted in the church and he attended a meeting with the hopes of dealing with the potentially explosive situation and maintaining peace in the city. As he addressed the crowd, his leadership and skillful communication convinced the people that he should lead the church.

After attempts to refuse the office and even to escape the city were unsuccessful, Ambrose relented and became the bishop of Milan. Despite his reluctance, he came to embrace this role and God used him mightily.

I mention Ambrose today because one story from his ministry presents a relevant challenge for the contemporary Church.

An enemy army invaded and ravaged a nearby region. As refugees flocked to Milan, news spread that the enemy was holding other people for ransom. In response, Ambrose ordered that money be raised to help both of these groups by melting golden vessels from the church. This order created controversy within the church to which he responded…

“It is better to preserve for the Lord souls rather than gold. He who sent the apostles without gold also gathered the churches without gold. The church has gold, not to store it, but to give it up, to use it for those who are in need…. It is better to keep living vessels, than the golden ones.”

Which vessels are more valuable to you? Which vessels are more valuable to our churches?

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[i] The historical events referenced in this entry, including the extended quotation, are based on Justo L. Gonzalez, The Story of Christianity, vol. 1, pp. 189-193.