From there they sailed to Antioch, from which they had been commended to the grace of God for the work that they had accomplished. When they had arrived and gathered the church together, they began to report all things that God had done with them and how He had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. And they spent a long time with the disciples. Acts 14:26
The first missionary journey of the apostle Paul and Barnabas was coming to an end. And what a trip it was. They shared the gospel of Jesus Christ with many people, both Jews and Greeks (Gentiles) with great acceptance and hostile rejection. The sparks were always flying. So, now at Antioch, the first place they took the name Christian, Paul recounts the tales, adventure, miracles as he lifts praises to God. We are all on a journey in this Christian walk. Some have highly charged, razor focus seasons like a missionary journey, but nonetheless, we are all on this journey.
How am I sharing the gospel, involved in God’s miracle workings? Am I experiencing acceptance or rejection? Do I know its a package deal?
God, how exciting that You set apart these two men for such a journey as this. I feel You’ve called me to a special journey in service to You as well. I thank you for Maureen who is by my side in supportive ways I can never really understand fully, nor can I thank You enough. Today has opportunities and challenges ahead, may I see Your miracle working power on display. May Your name be lifted high. And Lord, please use the final days of our Philippines mission team in a powerful way for Your glory. Strengthen Kelli, Clayton, pastor Daryl, Bill and Mary.
