Reading: Acts 28:11-16 NLT
It was three months after the shipwreck that we set sail on another ship that had wintered at the island — an Alexandrian ship with the twin gods as its figurehead. Our first stop was Syracuse, where we stayed three days. From there we sailed across to Rhegium. A day later a south wind began blowing, so the following day we sailed up the coast to Puteoli. There we found some believers, who invited us to spend a week with them. And so we came to Rome.
The brothers and sisters in Rome had heard we were coming, and they came to meet us at the Forum on the Appian Way. Others joined us at The Three Taverns. When Paul saw them, he was encouraged and thanked God.
When we arrived in Rome, Paul was permitted to have his own private lodging, though he was guarded by a soldier.
Prayer: Heavenly Father – Thank you for the Apostle Paul… for the companions who travelled with him… for the believers who encouraged him along the way… and for the soldiers who protected him. May we find our stories in their stories… each with a particular part to play… as you unfold your purpose and reveal your saving presence and power to the world. Lord Jesus – May we keep our eyes fixed on you… the Author and Finisher of our faith… and may we never waver from the narrow path you set before us. Holy Spirit – Empower us to serve you, the living God,,, produce your good fruit in us – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control… and may we be faithful instruments of your mercy and grace, utilizing the particular gifts that you have given to each of us. And may you be honored in all things. Amen.
Welsh Hymn: “Here Is Love, Vast as the Ocean” – William Williams (1717-1791)
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