July 13, 2014
Acts 21:31-15 Paul's journeys on toward Jerusalem.
Today's reading gives us a glimpse into Paul's developing ministry and its challenges as he travels around the Mediterranean Sea. Sailing from Rhodes, he lands at Tyre Syria, visits with fellow Christians there, and then proceeds on, eventually coming to Caesarea where he is warned by Agabus that if he decides to go on to Jerusalem, he will be arrested and handed over to the Gentiles. In the face of this, Paul declares that he is prepared to continue even in the face of trial and the possibility of death, for he has the example of Jesus' own ministry and life to strengthen him... and with this, he sets out for Jerusalem.
Have we ever faced a moment or moments where to go forward might mean much hardship , and even death? Perhaps in times of pending war and conflicts, those serving in our armed forces experience such inner struggles , knowing that such service might even mean the personal sacrifice of ones own life in the act of protect others. By extension, being on the front line includes all who daily face in such circumstances danger of loss of life: fire fighters, police, chaplains, doctors and nurses, and all in supporting capacities. Resolve, courage, coping with fear, a sense of inner strength, prayer, and a sense that God keeps us company, all these aid in helping us "to stay the course" in such times!
God grant that each one of us, if we are ever faced with days or times with an uncertainty of outcome, that we too will find, that we can have something of the same same spirit as Paul did as he continued to go on to Jerusalem: a sense that that God in Christ will be with us every moment, upholding us and giving us courage and strength to endure and to witness to God's Grace & Peace.
Archdeacon Ken Cardwell
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