"Paul replied, 'Short time or long -- I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me to today may become what I am, except for these chains." (Acts 26:29)
Today's reading tells the story of Paul's successive trials before Felix, Festus, and Agrippa. Much like Jesus's trial before Pilate, those to whom Paul gives his accounts seemingly acknowledge the baselessness of the counts against him. Yet, like Pilate, these governmental figures show reticence to take a stand for truth and prefer instead to shirk the difficult decision to upset one group or another. Their actions point to a moral expediency, one that keeps Paul at the mercy of whim and political considerations.
How does Paul respond to the undoubted frustrations that must have arisen in his "limbo" state? We can't know his inner mind during those waiting days, weeks, and months in prison, but we can see his heart through his speeches before the three magistrates. While our sinful hearts often lead us to become defensive, Paul instead focuses on testifying to the truth, relying on its power rather than his own. He is fully convinced of his innocence because he has clung to God's revealed will. He has no reason to be ashamed and every reason to trust in God's faithfulness.
Devoting ourselves to the truth and integrity has the happy result of freeing us from defensiveness or worry. When we may point to faithfulness to God's revealed will, we no longer stand in our own defense. Instead, we may rest upon God's promises, His faithfulness, and His character. How would you reckon your own commitment to integrity? Could you stand before accusers and point to God's faithfulness?
Paul's opportunistic spirit, taking advantage of these forums to preach the Gospel through his own testimony, helps to remind us to "always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." (1 Peter 3:15b) What has God done in your life? Would you "be prepared?"
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