March 13, 2020: SOAP #3753:  Deuteronomy 22-24; Galatians 4

Scripture:  Galatians (NIV) 4:13 As you know, it was because of an illness that I first preached the gospel to you. 14 Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself.

Observation:  Paul had first stopped at Galatia due to illness.  Either the sickness caused him to stop where he had not planned or caused him to extend his stay instead of moving on as he had planned. The people of Galatia did not treat Paul as though he was untouchable due to his sickness but went out of their way to minister to him.  Paul refers to it as a trial that THEY endured. Paul was not afraid to identify his problem as “my illness.” It was not considered a “negative confession.”  The Galatians did not reject Paul or belittle his faith because of this sickness. Both Paul and the Galatians used this “illness” for the glory of God.  Paul did so by taking the opportunities afforded him to preach the gospel.  The Galatians did so by accepting the gospel!

Application:   Today, it seems the whole world is being affected by the coronavirus or COVID-19.   Although not personally infected with the virus, my life has personally felt limitations.  Late this afternoon, we discovered that the store where we commonly shop was out of toilet paper.  Then later this evening the news media reported that the basketball tournament to which I was to drive a bus tomorrow has been stopped.  Tomorrow, I will check on the trip we have planned for next week,

Limitations, unplanned interruptions, changes in schedules may provide unexpected opportunities to share the love of Jesus.  I must not waste my time complaining but looking for divine opportunities.

Prayer:  I call you Lord because I trust you to direct my life.  In the unexpected changes that come my way in the days and weeks ahead, be glorified.  May the name of Jesus be exalted!  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!