I Am Ready

Day 182: Acts 21:1-17

“Then Paul answered, ‘What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.’ And since he would not be persuaded, we ceased and said, ‘Let the will of the Lord be done.’” - Acts 21:13-14 ESV

What is it with us and our aversion to pain? For most of us, safety for ourselves and our families is our top priority. It is understandable. Why would we willingly walk into a situation that we know will bring harm to us?

This is what was confusing to all of the prophets among the Christians in every city Paul visited. The Holy Spirit was saying the same thing, "Pain awaits Paul in Jerusalem!" It is interesting to note that the Holy Spirit didn't say that Paul shouldn't go into the city; He only said that opposition awaited him.

How about us? Do we sometimes discourage someone from doing something difficult, maybe even painful, even if it's the right thing to do?

Since we have the advantage of hindsight, we can now see that this would be the beginning of Paul's most significant opportunity for influence throughout the Roman Empire. More letters would be written (think New Testament). More rulers would be engaged. He would journey toward the largest platform in the known world: Rome itself.

All because he was willing to face opposition in Jerusalem.

What pain are we currently avoiding that could lead to greater influence on those who have yet to confess Jesus?

"The grief displayed by Paul’s friends had the effect of pounding at his heart as they attempted to dissuade him. But for himself Paul was quite prepared not merely for what was prophesied but also for possible death at Jerusalem. It was not that there was any virtue in such sufferings for their own sake, but only if they were accomplished on behalf of the name of Jesus, i.e. as a necessary part of Christian service."
- Marshall, I. H. (1980). Acts. (Vol. 5, p. 360)