So what happens after two years of Paul’s being detained? Enter, Festus. At first, the Jews ask a favor – that Paul be brought to Jerusalem so that they could ambush and kill him along the way. Wait a minute, didn’t God tell Paul a few chapters back that he would share the Good News in Rome? Festus convened court to hear the charges brought against Paul and then offered to send him to trial in Jerusalem. But Paul appeals to Ceasar. So, as only God can do, Festus can find no grounds to comvict Paul and is moved to send him to stand trial in front of Ceasar. In Rome. Paul is going to Rome.
I wonder, how many times do we feel God’s calling on our hearts and become discouraged at the delay in “our” plan to accomplish that calling. Or maybe what looks like a complete derailment. I’m willing to bet that when Paul heard from God he was going to Rome, he probably didn’t picture himself being imprisoned for 2 years and sent there as a prisoner.
Do you feel the calling that God has placed on your life? He always has a plan and you are always at move in it. Even in unprecedented circumstances. Even in uncomfortable settings. Even in seasons that feel stagnant. I dare you to believe that God has you there on purpose. If Jesus saw you today and asked, face to face, what you’ve done to share the Good News in the last 30 days… what would you say?