ACTS 14: Take time to rest and recuperate
We’re well into this journey through the Book of Acts and it’s proving to be an exciting adventure full of twists and turns. We’re reading a chapter a day and I’m providing a link to the chapter in the NIV(UK) version, but you can of course read the chapter in whatever version you like. I’ve been sharing some short reflections, but the important part is the last part: ACTION. How have you been getting on with the short daily challenges so far?
Are you up for today’s challenge?
Then let’s continue!
READ: Acts 14
REFLECTION: What a roller coaster ride! What a whirlwind of activity! Such highs and lows!
In Iconium, a great number of Jews and Greeks believe Paul and Barnabas. Those that don’t stir up dissent. Paul and Barnabus perform signs and wonders. When they hear of a plot to stone them, they flee.
In Lystra, Paul heals a lame man. The people think they are gods and want to bring sacrifices, despite their protests – ‘We’re only human after all.’
Paul is stoned and left for dead. He picks himself up and returns to the city.
They travel to Derbe, Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. Then Pisidia, Pamphylia, Perga, Attalia and back to Antioch.
And they stayed there a long time with the disciples.
ACTION: Take time to rest and recuperate
I hope, I really hope that Paul and Barnabus stay a long time in Antioch because they’re taking a break, a well-deserved rest. I hope that they are being well looked after, nurtured and nourished in body, mind and spirit.
I’m exhausted just reading about their travels and activities in this chapter! No one can keep up that pace without taking time out to rest and recuperate. Even Jesus himself had times when he withdrew from the crowds to a quiet place.
I know how much I need this today. I’ve had a full on week and I am exhausted. I need to rest and look after myself today. I don’t actually have the energy to battle on today working my way through my to do list, even if I wanted to.
I’m only human, after all.
I don’t know how much time you need to take today to rest and recuperate. But take some. Sit in the sun. Rest in the silence. Withdraw to a quiet place.
You’re only human, after all.
