TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them.
Read the entire passage: Acts 14.8-18
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Paul and Barnabas find themselves in a unique situation. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Paul healed a handicapped man who had never been able to walk. The people of Lystra think Paul and Barnabas are Zeus and Hermes—and begin to worship them.
As Paul tries to convince the people he is just a man, he builds his case for God around how God has revealed himself through rain, crops, food and joy. Paul argues God’s greatness and goodness can be seen through these four things. For Paul, the meal points to something beyond the meal.
Paul recognizes the goodness of food and the joy having a meal with others can bring. We often give thanks to God for the food he provides, but we may miss that the goodness of the meal points to the kindness and generosity of God. When we bite into sweet corn slathered with butter or pull BBQ ribs apart, we should be reminded of God’s kindness.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Today as you eat, be aware of how God reveals himself through what you are eating and how you can experience his kindness and generosity through your meals. Savor the many flavors. Take a moment to thank him for providing you with food to nourish your body but also the joy of food. Remember the kindness and generosity of the God who created them.
