Acts Chapter 28: Verses 15-16 (NIV Translation)
The brothers and sisters there had heard that we were coming, and they traveled as far as the Forum of Appius and the Three Taverns to meet us. At the sight of these people Paul thanked God and was encouraged. When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.
God had told Paul that he would testify in Rome. Paul had held o to that assurance throughout everything he experienced on the journey. But he would have no idea how he would be received. But the believers in Rome went out of their way to meet and welcome him, travelling up to 43 miles to do so. This was a fair distance in those days, even on decent Roman roads. It was a great encouragement to Paul when he saw them all. Paul was a leader in the church but he still needed encouragement and support like anyone else, just as he had encouraged and supported others in the fledgling church.
Those in positions of leadership and authority, whether its in church of elsewhere, still need our encouragement too. They are not exempt from feeling down or disappointed. Paul told Timothy, “…for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
(1 Timothy 2:2) And that’s not just for those we like or agree with. It’s something I don’t always remember to do, and feel that I needed to be reminded of in today’s reading.
Dear Lord,Thank You for reminding me that even those I look up to, or have authority, deserve the encouragement and support that I appreciate myself. Help me to remember Paul’s exhortation to