The Storm (Part 4)

Acts 27:33-38

“33 Just before daybreak, Paul urged all of them to take some food, saying, “Today is the fourteenth day that you have been in suspense and remaining without food, having eaten nothing. 34 Therefore I urge you to take some food, for it will help you survive; for none of you will lose a hair from your heads.” 35 After he had said this, he took bread; and giving thanks to God in the presence of all, he broke it and began to eat. 36 Then all of them were encouraged and took food for themselves. 37 (We were in all two hundred seventy-six persons in the ship.) 38 After they had satisfied their hunger, they lightened the ship by throwing the wheat into the sea.”

The image of Paul, breaking bread and giving thanks to God in the midst of a horrific storm, not only encouraged the 276 persons on board the ship, but it still inspires us today.  

Paul’s courage and example during such a time lifted the spirits of the passengers and crew, and they too began to eat.  Paul knew what lay ahead and everyone was going to need all of their strength.  

Paul was a servant of Christ no matter the circumstances, no matter the location, no matter the people.  He was always a willing example, always the disciple.  

Christians cannot leave their faith or their service or their example in the church.  We are called to be in the storm, breaking bread, being the calm, offering the peace and light of Christ to others.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)