Saul, Barnabas, and John Mark set out to spread the Gospel message to the island of Cyprus. In Acts 13:4-12, they proclaimed God’s Word in the Jewish synagogues and traveled through the whole island until they came to Paphos (v. 6). They met the proconsul or governor there who was interested in hearing about God’s Word but Elymas the sorcerer opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith (v. 8).

Then Saul who was filled with the Holy Spirit was given insight into the motives of the fortune-teller named Elymas who was trying to keep the gospel message from the governor. Saul boldly stood up against Elymas with the Holy Spirit actively working in him to bring blindness on the fortune-teller.

From this point on Saul was called Paul. This same power that Paul demonstrated gives us the courage to stand out in a dark world that is very troubling at times. We can be courageous in dark times to shine the light because we are protected and cradled as a cherished child of God.

This day with You Lord, we are confident that You are active in our world and are working with us to spread the light in a sometimes dark world. There are those against us but the Holy Spirit is actively working in us. We are filled with faith and this faith powerfully radiates a glowing light so that others will believe and join with us. We are very thankful that You have given us this same power that Paul demonstrated in today’s lesson. Amen.

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