Readings: Acts 16:1-10; Psalm 100; John 15:18-21.
Our readings today are very powerful.
The first reading is an account of Paul’s second missionary journey.
This morning, I want us to reflect on three lessons from the text.
I. God will always make provisions for us.
Paul, Barnabas and John Mark were working together. For certain reasons, John Mark and Barnabas left Paul (Acts 15:36-41). But God provided another person for Paul even in the very town where he was initially stoned.
Our God knows how to take care of us and supply our needs at a time and in a way that beats our expectations.
II. Wisdom as a gift of the Holy Spirit.
Wisdom is one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It is that gift that enables us to apply our knowledge in a practical situation. It disposes us to act in the best way in any given situation.
This is at work in Paul’s decision to circumcise Timothy. Many of us may think that it is inconsistent with what Paul preached but in actual fact, it was a very sensible decision. Paul had Timothy circumcised not for his salvation but so that his status does not become an obstacle to their ministry especially in the synagogue, among the Jews.
Let us always pray for this gift especially when we are confronted with a difficult case or a complex situation that we need to make a decision.
III. Surrendering to God
St Paul had a good desire, he wanted to preach in Asia but the Spirit warned him not to, he wanted to preach in Bithynia but the Holy Spirit forbade him.
Why? Even though it was a good thing to preach anywhere, the Lord had a plan in mind. It was not the right time for Paul to preach in those places. It was a good desire but not God’s timing. The Spirit instead led them to Troas and from there to Macedonia.
If we learn to surrender to the Lord and be attentive to His Spirit, He guides us to the right places at the right time, He makes things happen at the right time. Sometimes He prevents us from going in a direction we desire; sometimes He leads us to the right place by closing a particular door or by saying “no” to a particular request.
Jesus sums it up by telling us in the Gospel that a servant is not greater than his master. This again tells us that we need to trust in God, surrender to Him, allow him to take the lead, not trying to nudge our way or push limits with Him.
Sermon preached by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Okami on May 16, 2020