Tuesday 29 January, 2013

24 While Paul was still speaking up for himself, Festus interrupted. “You are out of your mind, Paul!” he shouted. “Your great learning is driving you crazy!” 25 “I am not crazy, most excellent Festus,” Paul replied. “What I am saying is true and reasonable. 26 The king is familiar with these things. So I can speak openly to him. I am certain he knows everything that has been going on. After all, it was not done in secret. 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do.” 28 Then Agrippa spoke to Paul. “Are you trying to talk me into becoming a Christian?” he said. “Do you think you can do that in such a short time?” 29 Paul replied, “I don’t care if it takes a short time or a long time. I pray to God for you and all who are listening to me today. I pray that you may become like me, except for these chains.” 30 The king stood up. The governor and Bernice and those sitting with them stood up too. 31 They left the room and began to talk with one another. “Why should this man die or be put in prison?” they said. “He has done nothing worthy of that!” 32 Agrippa said to Festus, “This man could have been set free. But he has made an appeal to Caesar.”

Isn’t Paul bold. He just speaks out his story to anyone who gives him

the opportunity. He has had profound experiences and he wants to share them to show other people all about God. He doesn’t just talk to those who are his friends but he cares for and reaches out even to his enemies. Paul is clever too. He created the opportunity

to speak to many people in power by requesting the hearing before Caesar. He could have been set free if he hadn’t done that but he went with what God guided him to do.

Lord please help me to be so in tune with You that I know when to take a chance and speak out.

Written by Therese Manning