Scripture: Acts 16:9-10
A vision of a man from Macedonia came to Paul during the night. He stood urging Paul, “Come over to Macedonia and help us!” Immediately after he saw the vision, we prepared to leave for the province of Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to proclaim the good news to them.
Thought for the Day: I’m bouncing around a bit in Acts, but part of this is my own selfish exploration as I prepare to had for Greece in a couple of weeks. This is the transitional point where Paul took Christianity to Europe. Paul had been in the Territories of Galatia and Mysia, which would have been found in Rome’s Asia. Paul crossed the Aegean Sea, leaving from the port of Troas and stopping at the island of Samothrace, and then landing in Neapolis (I’ve learned that this port town is now called Kavala). In his previous journey, Paul got as far as Antioch which was not anywhere near the Aegean Sea. In his Second Journey, Paul suddenly had this vision (a spiritual hunch) to venture into another part of the world. In my opinion, this would have caused some anxiety. All those lands visited by Paul were part of the Roman Empire at that time, yet there were different cultural expectations and norms depending on where one was. It is one thing to show up as a guest in a strange land, assuming you brought your best manners. It is something very different to show-up and suggest that you are bringing something that people, who you have never met, must have. One of the great struggles for Christians throughout history was how to be both passionate and humble. I think Paul struggled with this as well.
Prayer: Wherever you might send me, O Spirit of Life, let me remember how the people I meet are not stupid or ignorant or in need of saving. In fact, I might show up and discover that I am the one who was saved from my own arrogance or bigotry. I may not always be good at this, yet your Gospel is best revealed among those who humbly display your love. Amen.
A LITTLE DANCING
This Saturday
7pm
In the Activity Room
All Are Invited
