Today's Reading: Old Testament: Numbers 5 - 6
New Testament: Acts 9
Focus Verses: Acts 9:23-27
23After many days had gone by, the Jews conspired to kill him, 24but Saul learned of their plan. Day and night they kept close watch on the city gates in order to kill him. 25But his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall. 26When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus.
Insight:
This chapter of Acts records the radical change in the Apostle Paul's life. It begins with Saul (Paul) "breathing murderous threats against the disciples" and moves to Saul preaching "fearlessly in the name of Jesus." Those who welcomed the anti-Christian Saul turned against him and conspired to kill him. Those who feared the anti-Christian Saul found it difficult to believe he could ever be a true disciple. Barnabas was an exceptional Christian brother to Saul. He believed Saul was a true convert and accepted him as a brother in Christ. He welcomed Saul into fellowship and vouched for him to other believers.
Response and Action:
It's hard for people to change. Some people don't want them to change and turn on them when they do. Others, who should be praying for change in others, find it hard to believe true change has happened and are therefore slow to welcome them. Barnabas is a great example to me. He believed that God has the power to transform people and so he welcomed and encouraged those who were making important changes in their lives.
Thank you, O God, for everyone who has been a Barnabas to me. Thank you for everyone who has believed in the possibility of change in my life. Thank you for everyone who has welcomed me into a supportive friendship. There are so many people I know who need your help to change, Jesus. Help me to pray for them, to believe in your power to transform them, to encourage them, and to welcome them into a supportive circle of Christian friends. Amen.
Proverbs: 7:4
"Say to wisdom, 'You are my sister,' and call understanding your kinsman..."
Resources:
The Pursuit of God in the Company of Friends
by Richard Lamb
