Acts 25:21 – When Paul made his appeal to be held over for the Emperor's decision, I ordered him held until I could send him to Caesar. (NIV)

My wife Evelyn and I have just returned from a beautiful trip to Greece. We explored many places, climbed thousands of ancient steps, and visited some of the most amazing Greek and Roman ruins in the world. We had planned this holiday for almost three years, and we both looked forward to visiting the many historical places associated with the apostle Paul. We were not disappointed.

Ever since elementary school, I've admired Paul's ministry. I grew up in a time when my school teacher began each day with a Bible passage and commentary. Most of the time, my teacher read from the book of Acts and talked about Paul's arduous journeys to plant churches around the Mediterranean and in Asia Minor. More than fifty years later, I was able to see those historic places, especially the ones in Ephesus, Corinth, Rhodes, and Athens.

Paul purposefully lived to spread the gospel of Jesus, and eventually, he was martyred because of his faith. He wanted to share the good news of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection to everyone who was willing to listen to his message. He even managed to talk about Jesus to the most powerful man in the world of his day — the Roman Emperor — as he made his personal appeal to Caesar. Imagine that — an itinerant preacher with no wealth or social position — standing before the mightiest and most revered person in the ancient world, talking to him about Jesus.

As Evelyn and I walked on ancient roads where Paul travelled, we both felt a connection to the great work that Paul accomplished in his day. As we listened to different local guides tell us parts of Paul's story, we were both humbled and inspired to spread the gospel for the rest of our lives to those who are willing to listen, because we never know who is ready to respond to God and accept His gift of salvation. We just have to make the most of our opportunities to share Christ's love and words with all whom we are still to meet.

Points to ponder: How do I share my faith in Christ? How can I make the most of my opportunities to share Christ's love anywhere at any time?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for calling Paul into Your ministry. We are grateful for the many things that he accomplished through his total devotion to You. Help us to carry on the mission of Your gospel by sharing Your love with all whom we meet and encounter today. In Your holy name, we humbly pray. Amen.

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About the author:

John Stuart <traqair@aol.com>
Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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