Friday 29 July 2022

Psalm 19

Background

Paul suggests that repentance (John’s baptism) is only half of what it means to be a Christian. This is important for what follows: people in the synagogue were set in their beliefs and unable to be open to new ideas as a result. The last ten verses of this passage relate back to Acts 16. Once again, we find that the God who created the universe chooses where or how to be active, and is not controlled by people or by talisman objects of devotion. God is known and related to in faith. The evil spirits know Paul and Jesus, who are called God and Son of God respectively. People who think they can use the things, people or words of God for their own ends are mistaken. God is not a concept, but a living reality.

Notice that in verse 11, it is God who works the miracles by using Paul’s hands. The traditional exorcists, while believing in the same God, tried to work their own miracles (of exorcism) by using the name of Jesus. God alone chooses where healing shall take place, not human beings whose role is to repent and to put themselves at the service of God in Jesus Christ through the gift of the Holy Spirit.

To Ponder:             

• Why do you think repentance has gone out of fashion?
• Do you think you can be more open to God to do something new in your faith; and to the Holy Spirit to be active beyond your expectations or beliefs?
• Have you ever found yourself praying for a miracle because you want it rather than because God intends it? How can anyone tell the difference?

Prayer  

Loving God, forgive me for any prayers which have been thoughtless; for the times when I have made assumptions about what is needed without asking. Help me to pray according to the wishes of those for whom I pray, and to leave the outcome to you.