Beyond the Weekend

January 31 | Assistant

January 31, 2017

Acts 16.1-10

Today’s passage highlights a crucial shift. Luke, the author of the book of Acts (think “actions of the Apostles”) is chronicling Paul’s missionary efforts in the Greek-speaking world. Notice in Acts 16.7 Luke writes, “When they came to the border of Mysia” (emphasis added). Then, just a few verses later he writes, “After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia.”

No longer is Luke writing as a third person observer, but as an active participant in the travels. In between these four verses, Luke packs his bags, puts his medical practice on hold, and joins this fellowship of missionaries.

Luke accomplished much in his own ministry, but one of his primary roles was as an assistant for the Apostle Paul. Luke stayed with Paul through the thick and thin of physical duress, emotional exhaustion, and powerful moments of conversion and discipleship. Luke made it possible for Paul to succeed. This often required great sacrifice, but also afforded Luke the opportunity to experience incredible joy in Paul’s victories.

Those of us who serve as assistants should commit ourselves to bringing our best self over and over again. When we succeed, we set up others to succeed as well. To those of us who are surrounded by assistants, let us engage them with humility and gratitude. We need each other and only succeed when everyone brings their best to the table.

Today, ask God to help you bring your best to the team he’s made you part of. And look for ways to help everyone around you win.

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