Chapter 14 - Acceptance and Opposition

Paul and Barnabas preach the gospel at Iconium and then at Lystra. At Iconium many Jews and Gentiles believe, but many others foment opposition. 
How were Paul and Barnabas a threat? The message of the gospel is a threat to systems, to divisions in the world and even as many people receive, a defense, even to the point of violence of the current systems and structures arises. Paul and Barnabas flee and wind up in Lystra. It is here that there is a beautiful scene of healing. Paul is preaching, but while he speaks he focusses on a man who is listening who is unable to walk. Paul sees the man’s faith. There is this shared awareness of openness to the presence of God that many of us have experienced. That is what is happening here. Paul speaks to the man and the man is healed. The response from the onlookers is to assume that Paul and Barnabas are gods.
Here is the confusion. Rather than understand that they are reflections of the presence of God, the people assume that they are gods themselves, Zeus and Hermes. In the response of Paul and Barnabas to this misguided praise we come across a word that helps in Christian life and mission. Paul and Barnaba say that they are not gods, that it is God who made heaven and earth and all that is in them. We are “witnesses” to the presence and blessing of God. 

Here is our call; to bear witness. Even now. 

Dear God; 
May I know your presence today. May I see faith in the lives of others. May I know the beauty of the world and may I bear witness to your love for all people. 
Amen.