READING: Psalms 6-10, Acts 28
Paul had finally made it to Rome. There, the crowds gathered to hear him even when he was under house arrest. In fact, he proclaimed the good news to them “from dawn to dusk” (Acts 28:23), telling them about Jesus from Moses and the prophets. I can just hear him passionately, persistently, powerfully telling the story. As a believer, it’s hard for me to believe some folks didn’t listen to him.
But, that’s what the text says: “Some were persuaded by what he said, but others did not believe” (Acts 28:24). Scholars debate whether those who were persuaded chose to follow Christ personally, but it’s likely they did. For that, we rejoice. On the other hand, some would not listen—and for that we must grieve.
I am reminded today that any time we preach the gospel, we will have varied responses. We praise Him for positive responses, and we keep praying to Him for others whose response is negative. We rejoice, we grieve, and we pray.
PRAYER: “God, give me a heart that rejoices and grieves.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: Rejoice over the last person you saw turn to Christ, and weep over someone who doesn’t want to listen.
TOMORROW’S READING: Psalms 11-18, Romans 1