Heralds Digest

“Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul. And because the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority advised to set sail from there also, if by any means they could reach Phoenix, a harbor of Crete opening toward the southwest and northwest, and winter there.” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭27:11-12‬ ‭NKJV‬‬ https://www.bible.com/114/act.27.11-12.nkjv   Barring the prevailing restrictions to interstate and inter-territorial mobility, sailing from one harbour of life to another is mostly based on popular considerations, like the favourable standard of living, high employment rate, good health care services, attractive social services, etc.  And like the Old Testament Jonah and the call to proceed and preach in Nineveh, not many people would readily consider the existence of divine guidance and God’s timing in life. But even in his unpleasant situation and circumstances, Apostle Paul does rely on divine gu...

“And the next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul kindly and gave him liberty to go to his friends and receive care.” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭27:3‬ ‭NKJV‬‬ https://www.bible.com/114/act.27.3.nkjv   Throwing consignment of relief packages in the midst of affluence and the abundance of space for unlimited exploitation is easy. But in season of global distress, a pin drop of care and hospitality makes a pronounced ripple of appreciation. Such was the gracious moment of care expressions at Sidon: 1. the centurion Julius granted Paul the liberty to enjoy his transit with the disciples at Sidon; 2. Paul utilized the short transit time in his ship of confinement for follow-up on the welfare of free disciples; and 3. the friendly disciples of Paul at Sidon welcomed and showered the necessary care during the short visit. The common denominator in these care expressions is the willingness to take the risk, as long as the value of care is worthwhile. It implies that although a consignment of...