Now in the neighbourhood of that place were lands belonging to the chief man of the island, named Publius, who received us and entertained us hospitably for three days. 8 It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with fever and dysentery. And Paul visited him and prayed, and putting his hands on him, healed him. 9 And when this had taken place, the rest of the people on the island who had diseases also came and were cured. 10 They also honoured us greatly, and when we were about to sail, they put on board whatever we needed. (ESV)

”It happened…”

Some may have regarded it as a coincidence that Paul should be on the island when Publius’ father was so sick. But I prefer to see it as a ‘God-incidence’: a miracle of divine timing. The healing of this one man led to the healing of many others. Sometimes, more than we can imagine depends on ”It happened…” moments. See what great doors open on seemingly small hinges.

Again we see that as Paul made his journey to Rome, beset by lots of difficulties, the Lord surrounded him with many kindnesses.

PRAYER: Lord, we can’t manufacture miracles. We confess our weakness. But we dare to ask for ‘signs’ to accompany the preaching of your Word, to the glory of your name.