05-01-21

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHING
May 1, 2021
Scripture: Acts 14:11-12
When the crowds saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!” Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes, because he was the chief speaker.

Thought for the Day: There are times when people can pump up our egos, making us feel pretty good about what we’ve accomplished. Of course, there are times when we deserve absolutely no credit for what some have assumed to be our doing. This is where Paul and Barnabas found themselves. So awestruck were the people that they assumed Paul and Barnabas to be gods. It would have been flattering, no question about it. At the same time, the wonderful work of healing was God’s doing, not Paul or Barnabas. Though I guess you could describe them as conduits of God’s healing work. I remember years ago sitting with a family in the surgery waiting room when the doctor came out to share good news about the surgery. The family thanked the doctor, but he was very quick to redirect their gratitude, claiming himself as nothing more than a servant of God. That might be true, but the doctor was still a faithful instrument of God. It was probably good that Paul and Barnabas were quick to redirect the accolades, but I am still thankful for their willingness to say YES to God’s invitation in the first place.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord God, for your grace, kindness and mercy. You are the source of these gifts. At the same time, my heart is full of gratitude for all those who have given of themselves to reveal your gifts of grace, kindness and mercy. Amen.

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