ACTS of the Apostles, part 2
Monday, October 10 ACTS of the Apostles, Part 2 Learning How to be Daring and Dynamic Read Acts 28: 7-10 Focus Verse: Acts 28:7 There was an estate nearby that belonged to Publius, the chief official of the island. He welcomed us to his home and for three days entertained us hospitably. In these verses, we see that Paul and crew are still in Malta It’s interesting to note that Malta means “refuge”, and what a refuge it turned out to be. The Malta-Islanders welcomed these travelers with open arms, hospitality, and kindness which was unusual for them. Also out of the norm, we read Publius , the chief island official, welcomed Paul and fellow travelers into his home for three hospitable days(v.7). What an example of exceeding hospitality from the residents of Malta. During his time in this home, Paul was able to pray for and lay hands on Publius’ sick father as well as many others which led to their healing. When it was finally time to set sail, many supplies were given to Paul and his companions for their travels. This little passage is a great example of how God orchestrates. Malta,(the refuge),with unusually kind folk welcomes Paul and travelers with open arms and hospitality and eventually sends them on their way refreshed and replenished with needed supplies. Paul, even though he was a prisoner, continued to minister to others who no doubt were affected spiritually as well as physically. Only God could design a path like this. No wonder the gospel spread like wildfire. This story of Paul reads like an exciting adventure with miraculous things happening throughout. So what about us? We each are planted somewhere. It maybe at your workplace, at home with little kids all day, or maybe you find yourself sick in bed at the moment. Our individual stories may not sound nearly as exciting as Paul’s, yet they are no less important. We can be Christlike in any circumstances. Loving and giving to others can be as simple as an encouraging phone call or text. Hospitality can be an invitation to someone who lives/works alone in their home and really needs some face to face contact at a coffee shop or a lunch. There is something that most all of us can do (which might be out of our normal routine) that brightens a day for someone who desperately needs it. You may have something very simple that you do which speaks volumes to another. If you have any suggestions, I would love to read them. Please share in the comments below. Heavenly Father, What a great story yours is. No matter how often we read the Word, there is something new to glean from. Don't let us pass on any lesson you have for us. Help us to see that doing something as small as having open arms and hearts can be life giving to others. Give us opportunities to share you and your love with those we may pass by everyday. Remind us that hospitality can begin with us right where we are planted- no need to travel to Malta to find it. Amen