August 23, 2021 - Acts 20:13-38

There are many times when I come into work here at the church and look at messages or receive phone calls that make my heart rejoice over the way the Lord has worked in people’s lives. Not always is it good news but in every instance I have a confidence that the Lord knows what He is doing even when I do not understand. That makes my job as Pastor special and rewarding.

Paul had been through so many different trials and difficulties in his time as a missionary to the Gentiles. He had faced riots, death threats, occasions of stoning, and beatings in order to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ. He had spent years working through the cities of Asia Minor and Greece to present and disciple believers for Christ. Now it was time to return to Jerusalem and report to his sending church all that Christ had accomplished through his ministry.

As he sails away from the Asian Coast and begins to move toward his destination, it was impressed upon him to make a stop at Miletus and to send for the elders at Ephesus. He did not want to stay long and so chose this location to call for the elders and deliver a final message to them. A parent’s heart is always to warn and prepare your children for events that you can see approaching. That was Paul’s desire here as he warns the elders of the dangers that are ahead for the church.

This veteran worker for the Lord knew the dangers and difficulties that lay ahead for the church, as well as himself, but still proceeded in the direction the Lord led him. His parting words to the elders were to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (v. 35).

This week as you go to work or go through your week and rub shoulders with those you spend so much time with, consider how you can encourage your workmate, friends, or those around you. Perhaps a word of encouragement or a pat on the shoulder will suffice. Look for opportunities to lend a helping hand that normally is outside your work area to assist a colleague or neighbor. When the time comes for transition from one occupation to another may your coworkers have positive statements of your attitude and performance while on the job.