Acts 16: 1-10; Psalm 100; John 15: 18-21
“I have chosen you out of the world—therefore the world hates you.” We certainly have seen that evidenced in the work and subsequent persecutions of Paul. In today’s reading Paul capitulates to the Judaizing faction of Christians, and has Timothy circumcised before they travel together. Paul is tuned into the Spirit who warns them not to preach in Asia (Minor), but who speaks in a dream, inviting Paul to come to Macedonia.
Has the world ever hated you? Who are some people the world hates because Christ has chosen them? How do you discern, like Paul, when to flex–circumcising Timothy so as not to distance possible Jewish converts—and when to stand firm, no matter the consequences? Pray for the gift of discernment and wisdom for yourself and for our leaders in church and country.
Dying you destroyed our death, our fear of persecution, of suffering. Rising you restore our life. Lord Jesus, come to all hearts that hunger for peace, joy, unity.