Daily Devotional for Friday, April 7

Paul Sends for the Elders

“And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church,” Acts 20:17

This last journey of Paul was rather fast and furious. Paul had a clear timetable: make it to Jerusalem by the Feast of Pentecost. As much as he probably wanted to spend a few days in each place, his mission was urgent. He wanted to present the offering at the festival. Jerusalem would be filled with people. He could report on all the Lord had done among the Gentiles, and an offering from the Gentile churches would make great strides for unity. Believers in Jerusalem could meet new brothers from the churches in Asia and Macedonia and hear for themselves their concern. His timely arrival was strategic.
While we were on deputation or furlough from the mission field and traveling to churches, we many times would find ourselves within an hour or two of friends’ homes. Since our next face-to-face meeting was uncertain, we liked to take every opportunity we could to see as many friends as we could. We would either drive a little out of the way or invite our friends to meet us halfway. Paul was within thirty miles of Ephesus, but he could not go back to the city. Although he felt like he needed to, it was too much of a risk. The ship might sail before he got back to Miletus, and his departure from Ephesus had been preceded by a riot. He wanted a few last words with the Ephesian believers, but it was much safer to stay in Miletus. Nothing could hinder him from getting to Jerusalem. He sent messengers, probably members of the church of Miletus, quickly to Ephesus to bring the elders of the Ephesian church to him. His parting words and admonitions were important and served almost as a last will and testament for the churches he would not see again. The elders came in haste.

THOUGHT: While we have time, let us take every opportunity we have to tell our loved ones words of encouragement and truth.

Kelli Reynolds