David Bahn – Reflections

Acts 28:11-22

After three months we set sail in a ship that had wintered in the island, a ship of Alexandria, with the twin gods as a figurehead. 12 Putting in at Syracuse, we stayed there for three days. 13 And from there we made a circuit and arrived at Rhegium. And after one day a south wind sprang up, and on the second day we came to Puteoli. 14 There we found brothers and were invited to stay with them for seven days. And so we came to Rome. 15 And the brothers there, when they heard about us, came as far as the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On seeing them, Paul thanked God and took courage. 16 And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who guarded him.

17 After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews, and when they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. 18 When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case. 19 But because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar—though I had no charge to bring against my nation. 20 For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain.” 21 And they said to him, “We have received no letters from Judea about you, and none of the brothers coming here has reported or spoken any evil about you. 22 But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against.”

When my eight-year-old sister died in a tragic accident  in our home I recall – more than the pain and sadness – the kindness and love expressed to our family by people who came to our home and walked with us for those days. Some brought food. Others simply came and visited with us. Even my friends from college came to be with me and just hung out. It was as if we were picked up by this surge of people coming into our lives and carried across the raging torrent of grief and sadness that was flowing through our hearts. Now, more than 40 years later I recall with great thanksgiving how these people came into our lives.

In times of grief and sadness, or times of stress and fear, the presence of friends and family can bring great comfort. Some of those present came because of their faith which we shared: a hope in Jesus, and a conviction about the goodness of God and his salvation. They knew the pain of grief, but also held to the hope of salvation. They wanted to help us embrace both of those well.

As Paul is heading for Rome, and his trial before Caesar, having experienced storms at sea, shipwreck, and threats to his life, he is met by brothers in the faith who encourage him. Luke tells us, “Paul thanked God and took courage” (v. 15). He seeks the support and understanding of the local Jewish leaders as well. This great and intrepid missionary, having experienced scourging, shipwreck, beatings, and opposition of every kind was thankful for the encouragement his God brought him through these people.

Perhaps you or I will never be put on trial for our faith. But we may know others who are hard pressed and would be greatly blessed by our encouragement and presence in their lives. What a blessing to be able to stand by others’ side, to offer courage, hope, and comfort. That opportunity may come this week or next month. When it does, we do well to stand with those who are suffering – whether for the cause of the gospel or in the face of any personal pain or loss. This is the blessing of the mutual conversation and consolation of the saints.