Prayer: O God, fill our hearts with love through your Word so we can share it with others, in Christ’ name. Amen.
Paul, tell us a story
And so it was that all were brought safely to land. (v. 44)
Paul travels make for great stories. Today’s story could even be more interesting if some more of the details were given. Who was this centurion, Julius? Why did he help Paul? Did Paul swim to shore or did he grab a piece of the boat to help? But the story ends simply.
Paul risks his life time and again in his travels to spread the gospel. We are inspired by his faith and sacrifice.
Our devotion writer asks; “What about us? What risks have we taken to proclaim the good news of Jesus? What story might we add to the acts of the apostles? It’s not too late.”
Prayer: “God, help us to learn from Paul how to extend your love through word and deed. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Acts 27:39-44
New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
The Shipwreck
39 In the morning they did not recognize the land, but they noticed a bay with a beach, on which they planned to run the ship ashore, if they could. 40 So they cast off the anchors and left them in the sea. At the same time they loosened the ropes that tied the steering-oars; then hoisting the foresail to the wind, they made for the beach. 41 But striking a reef, they ran the ship aground; the bow stuck and remained immovable, but the stern was being broken up by the force of the waves. 42 The soldiers’ plan was to kill the prisoners, so that none might swim away and escape; 43 but the centurion, wishing to save Paul, kept them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and make for the land, 44 and the rest to follow, some on planks and others on pieces of the ship. And so it was that all were brought safely to land.
Gary's Devotion Comments 