May 12 - Always be Prepared

Acts 17:16-29

In today’s reading we find Paul in Athens. He speaks in the synagogue and in the marketplace with a variety of people and eventually encounters “A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers (who) began to dispute with him.” My Concordia Self Study Bible notes indicate that Epicurean philosophers originally taught that the supreme good in life was a lasting happiness. But at the time of Paul’s interaction “this philosophy had degenerated into more of a sensual system of thought.”The Stoic philosophers “taught that people should live in accord with nature, recognize their own self-sufficiency and independence, and suppress their desires.” By Paul’s time this system had become a system of pride. Ultimately this leads to Paul addressing a larger group of Athens’ citizens and responding to questions about God and the gospel.

It turns out that Paul is up to the task of defending his faith. He tells the crowd in simple terms about the one true God and ultimately presents the gospel message. Acts 17:34 confirms this by stating “A few men became followers of Paul and believed. Among them Dionysius, a member of the Areopagus, and a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.”

Like Paul, we are surrounded by people who hold life philosophies that are different from ours – and like Paul we should be prepared to share the truth of God and the gospel. 1 Peter 3:15 has some good advice on this topic: “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.”

When there is an opportunity to share our story we can learn from Paul how to present our faith in simple terms and follow Peter’s advice about doing so with gentleness and respect. Let’s look for opportunities to do that in the days ahead!

Now, Go and tell!

Mark 6:7-9 (MSG)  Jesus called the Twelve to him, and sent them out in pairs. He gave them authority and power to deal with the evil opposition.  He sent them off with these instructions: "Don't think you need a lot of extra equipment for this. You are the equipment. No special appeals for funds. Keep it simple.  

Jesus sent his followers out in pairs. He knew they would need the support and encouragement a partner could provide.  While singly the disciples could cover more territory, as pairs they could give prayer cover while the other was dealing with a situation.  When one stumbled or despaired, the other could provide support or wisdom when faced with new problems. Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work (Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NIV)

Keep it simple.  What a great way to approach ministry.  Keep it simple; how much more could be accomplished if we did this, if we kept things simple so our work could be easily duplicated. There is wisdom in these verses. It is simple to talk to a neighbor, to invite them over for a meal or to help with a chore. It is simple to ask if you could pray for them.

The relationship that is being formed will eventually allow you to take the next step and share your faith story. Keep it simple. Make friends, enjoy each other, develop trust and share your life. This is how we share the Good News, by sharing our lives, by opening our homes and keeping it simple.

It is good to remember too, when we feel inadequate and so very unprepared for what lies ahead, He (Jesus) gave them (and us) authority and power to deal with evil opposition," so we can know that we have truly been equipped. WE ARE CALLED! YOU ARE CALLED!

Mark 6:7-13