Paul and Barnabas
image by David Bane
moved forward to preach.
For many lost souls,
were waiting to reach.
Effective in speech,
the men boldly spoke.
Spirit empowered,
the truth to evoke.
Jews who opposed them,
stirred up much dissent.
Divided people,
murderous plot bent.
They found out and fled,
to neighboring towns,
where they kept preaching,
more lost were soon found.
Wondrous healings,
then misguided praise.
They thought they were gods,
the truth quickly raised.
Tearing their clothing,
the apostles said,
“We are men like you.”
Some wanted them dead.
They spoke of the signs,
provided by God,
that prove that He Is,
genuine, no fraud.
Though many were won,
the rumblings had grown.
They dragged Paul outside,
began slinging stones.
They left him for dead,
but God had much more,
faithful around him,
and he was restored.
(Responding to Acts 14:1-20)
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that in You, we are equipped and empowered to do whatever You ask of us. Forgive us for lacking the courage to always act on that which You are asking. Please teach us to trust You more deeply in all things and at all times, and may we walk courageously, as so many before us have done. Thank You for such bold examples of men and women who were completely sold out for You. Teach us to give You our whole lives with the same sort of fervor. May we be used as Your instruments to carry Your light, love and truth to those who need to know it, so that they may find their way into a secure and lasting relationship with You. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
It is a rare gift to capture the essence of the Word in verse. Lots of people have written poetry about Bible passages and characters, but few are able to capture the message in the Word. Thank you for sharing this extraordinary gift with us. God bless you.
Thank you for such encouragement! He is so good, and it really forces me to see the stories clearly. I love how His word is always fresh and new, even if I’ve read the same passage many times before. Praying that His peace is with you and your family, as I imagine you are still grieving the loss of your loved one. Blessings to you, friend.
You have a wonderful way with words. I hope you write often.
Thank you, Peter. I can say the same of you with your story-telling! What a treasure to share with your boys and a wonderful way to honor the memory of Jesse, until you are reunited forever. Blessings to you and your family.
So true!