Hope in the Midst of Political Whim

Scripture Verse that Caught My attention Today: Acts 24:27 After two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus; and since he wanted to grant the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison.

Observation: Paul was caught in political process.

Application: Apparently right now there is debate in our state’s capital over a recent bill under consideration. Honestly, I don’t know much about it. I’ve simply seen references to it, pro and con, on Facebook.

Like I’ve already stated, I don’t know much about it and therefore I’ll refrain from offering either support or opposition to the bill. What I will note, however, is that this is but another example of how often times people are either the beneficiaries or victims of powers beyond their control, sometimes through the form of political whim.

We can bemoan such circumstances all we want, and sometimes even develop helpful reforms. But most of the time we just have to find a way to move forward regardless of the circumstances.

Enter Paul’s example. Paul was caught in all kinds of political whim, emanating from religious and secular circles simultaneously. If it fazed (sp?) him, the Biblical witness did not record it. Instead he appears to almost relish in it. In Acts it says that he “cheerfully” made his defense. He trusted that eventually all things would be made right and that even secular leaders would be able to make sense of it all. He saw the circumstances, however grim, as fraught with opportunity. May the same be said of us.

Prayer: Lord, thanks for faith witnesses like Paul who remind us to keep all things in perspective and to be attentive to ways to utilize present circumstances in a way that proclaims a hope in the coming and present kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

(Readings today included: Numbers 1-2, Acts 24)