October 11, 2022

As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people invited them to speak further about these things on the next Sabbath. When the congregation was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who talked with them and urged them to continue in the grace of God. On the next Sabbath, almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord.

Acts 13:42-44

Devotional

Have you ever stayed after an event was over, getting close enough to the leader to articulate, “I want to hear more”? That feeling of having a backstage pass in your hand, or a book signed in person by that special author—perhaps extra time in the presence of a teacher who inspired you to look at the world in a completely different way—those are what we like to call “mountain-top experiences.” This passage speaks of Paul and Barnabas inspiring countless believers who were craving more from them, wanting more information about this Jesus.

We always want more time with those who impact us. And when an exalted, super-human stranger is gracious enough to welcome us into a continued conversation, the result is both uplifting and cyclical: person A inspires person B, while person B further encourages person A through their joy-filled response to the shared ideas. And here’s the bonus: when you do receive more one-on-one time from a creative or inspiring person, there is potential for the initial large-group seminar to bloom into a relationship.

Why do you read so many devotions? Why participate in church each Sunday? Why take a Bible study class? Why engage in Honour Academy? Some of you do ALL those things—but why? Because you want to know more about this Jesus. You can no longer get enough of this Jesus, so you invest your time and energy seeking the living Lord, the maker of heaven and earth, listening to the wonderful teachers and preachers who help you unpack the Word of God. But remember—this IS a relationship! You are a child of God, the God who is with you always. He will never leave you or forsake you. Follow Him, listen to Him, talk with Him, trust Him, and allow yourself the beautiful, daily experience of His blessed presence.

For Reflection

How do I crave and seek the knowledge of God?

How do I crave and seek the presence of Jesus?

Prayer

Jesus, Lord, we look to Thee, let us, in Thy Name, agree;

Show Thyself, the Prince of peace, bid our strife forever cease.

Make us of one heart and mind, gentle, peaceable and kind,

Lowly, meek in thought and word, altogether like our Lord.

Free from anger and from pride, let us thus in God abide;

All the depths of love express, all the heights of holiness.

Jesus, Lord, we look to Thee.

Charles Wesley 1749