SCRIPTURE: Acts 28:17-31
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
Paul starts with the Jews, like Jesus did, but also experiences the same response; a few believe but many do not. He witnesses to them from the Old Testament, trying to show them that what he believes is consistent with their beliefs, the hope of Israel. This is the last we hear of Paul, spending two years in Rome witnessing to the message about Jesus. We never hear what happened to him, though he does suggest in some of his letter that he expects to die for his faith.
As with Peter, so also with Paul, the end of their life is not as important as the purpose of their lives. Both of them spend their days witnessing for the Lord, but neither of them have the details of their death recorded. They themselves would be glad, since their only desire was to preach Christ crucified and resurrected, and not themselves. “Its not about me!”
PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for Your servant Paul, and for the passion with which he pursued his call. May I be like him, in serving You with all my heart, whether in life or in death. Amen.
God uses the happenings in Paul’s life to proclaim the gospel. He proclaimed the kingdom of God and tried to persuade the people using the scriptures. No all believed and they were divided among themselves. Paul boldly continued to proclaim God’s Word.
Today is Sonday. I too will hear the Word of the Lord proclaimed. Give me ears that hear Lord, and eyes that see so that I may perceive. Your Word is always pure but it is I, the receiver and perceiver, filters that Word. May my heart never be hardened, but may it molded and fashioned after Your will. The message I hear today is from Your Word , Lord. May I, a sinner, have the grace to accept it and use it in my kingdom service. Help me each day, Lord, to be in tune with You – hearing Your voice speaking to me and seeing Your presence every day so that I may know and undertsand Your will in my life as I serve in Your kingdom.
Open my eyes, Lord
I want to see Jesus.
To reach out and touch him
To show him I love him
Open my ears, Lord
And help me to listen
Open my eyes, Lord
I want to see Jesus