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Courtesy On Melita
Good morning everyone. I hope you are
being more aware of courtesy in your life. Change is hard
for all of us, but worth it to be like Christ. Our study
today comes from Acts 28:1-11. Paul is being transported to
Rome to stand trial when their ship is caught in a storm and
wrecked on the island of Melita. It was for the crew and
passengers a time of tragedy (although God had saved all of
their lives). The scripture says of the island inhabitants
that they showed “no little kindness.” They immediately
“received” every one and relieved them from the rain and
cold. The chief of the island, Publius, apparently had
housing and land in that part of the island. The Bible says
he “lodged them” for three days “courteously.”
Our slogan this month is, “Courtesy opens
doors.” Publius’ courtesy caused several things that brought
about the healing of his father. (1) It created good
relations with these newcomers to the island. Little did he
know that among them was a man of God through whom his
father could be healed. (2) His courtesy allowed him to
visit with the shipwrecked folks. In the process, they
learned of his sick father which would probably would not
have happened had he ignored them or been hostile to them.
They would have had to look elsewhere for sustenance and
shelter. (3) His courtesy created good will that left the
visitors wanting to return their kindnesses. When you do not
have good relations with people, they do not think about
helping you or even listening to you to know what your needs
may be. (4) Not only was his father healed, but, the
kindness of Publius opened the door for many to be healed
and you know that Paul taught all he could the gospel. The
doors that a little act of courtesy opens can be many more
than might be imagined or expected. (5) Relations were made
that had been non-existent. We are always hoping to find
ways to reach people for the Lord. Courtesy is a good place
to start. Be courteous (1 Pet. 3:8). |