Acts 22-24

Waiting. I don’t know about you, but I find it hard to wait. I can manage to be fairly patient while waiting in line, for an appointment, or for a friend who is running late. I can usually settle in and enjoy a rare moment of peace. I can take a deep breath because I know that eventually, I will get my turn, see the doctor, or catch up with my friend.

No, the waiting that troubles me is the type in which I do not know what is going to happen next. If I am honest with myself, I would have to admit that I never really know what will happen next, but it is in times of waiting that I am acutely aware of my inability to predict the future. This kind of waiting can be faith-stretching and scary.

That is why I am stunned and humbled when Scripture reveals a situation like Paul’s. In Acts 24 we learn that, in the face of false accusations and pending inquiries, Paul had to wait – for two years! How did he spend his “waiting time”? Did he bring a good book or catch up on some knitting? No, Paul did what he always did. He spent his time telling folks about the good news of Jesus Christ. For two years, while Felix was hoping for a bribe, Paul spoke time and again about faith in Christ.

Paul’s example challenges me to remember that God’s timing is not my timing. Perhaps, while I am waiting on Him, there is someone who needs to hear about the grace and hope that can be found in Jesus.


Kathleen Tatro
April 13