“The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold.” – Acts 28:2, NIV
Paul was being transported by ship to stand trial. While they were sailing, the crew encountered rough seas. They spent over two weeks on the ship, trying to get through the storm. Eventually, they shipwrecked on an island.
Some of the crew wanted to kill Paul and the other prisoners to prevent them from escaping. But the centurion wouldn’t allow it because he had grown to like Paul.
When those living on the island met Paul and his companions, they showed them great kindness by building a fire. Then the townspeople welcomed them warmly even though it was rainy and cold outside.
When we encounter unpleasant circumstances, it’s easy to use them as an excuse not to show grace. You might say, “Oh, I could visit her in the hospital, but I just don’t have time.” Or you may think, “I could mentor young women in my life if I only had a beautiful house.”
But as the islanders prove, you don’t have to wait for the perfect circumstances to show kindness to others. You can do right now even if your life isn’t perfect, your home is messy, or you feel a little less than perfect.
Prayer:
Lord, please put someone in my path this week that I could extend grace to. Let me welcome them and warm them just as the islanders did to Paul all of those years ago. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
