Ordinary Days?

8-26-2014           Acts 27:1-8

S.       1 And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.2 And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being with us.3 And the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself.4 And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because the winds were contrary.5 And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to Myra, a city of Lycia.6 And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy; and he put us therein.7 And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against Salmone;8 And, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.

O.      Paul’s final leg of his journey to Rome begins under Julius, a understanding and fair, centurion.

A.      These were long weary days of difficult travel. Changing ships often, uncomfortable lodgings and many schedule disruptions. No great miracles or events are mentioned, just ordinary life and struggles. We must face days like these often and keep our faith strong and our joy intact. God is the God of the ordinary day just as he is in the day of miracles.

P.       Father; Keep me strong and encouraged through the ordinary days of life. Help me to show your joy to others and be an example of a happy servant. Amen.