Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

Paul continues in his travels to share the Gospel as he departs from Ephesus on his third missionary journey. He goes on to encourage believers in the area of Macedonia. Biblical scholars say that at this point Paul wrote the letter that we know as 2nd Corinthians to the church at Corinth and sent it to them by Titus before visiting Corinth himself. He eventually makes it to Greece, where he stays for three months, visiting the Corinthian church. He then goes back through the region of Macedonia and sails from Philippi to Troas, where he reunites with his ministry companions. Luke writes about a group of believers gathering on the first day of the week to break bread and listen to Paul’s teaching. Likely knowing that Paul’s visit to this area would be brief and not wanting to waste any time, Paul continues to teach through the night. It is here that Luke introduces us to Eutychus, a youth among the group. I imagine him eager to hear Paul’s teaching but also doing his best to stay awake. As you read, you’ll see that he actually falls out of the window of the room where Paul is teaching, succumbing to a tragic three-story fall. By God’s grace and through His power, Paul revives the boy. Hallelujah! I’m so thankful for that part of this account. After this ordeal, the group shares a meal and Paul continues teaching until daylight and everyone is encouraged. He then leaves to board a ship to Assos to continue his journey to Jerusalem.

Throughout this passage, I can’t help but notice the believers here prioritizing gathering for worship and the teaching of scripture. They likely had other obligations and things pulling at their attention; however, they knew that being present for this time of worship was vital for them. So vital in fact that they stayed through the night. Church history tells us that their gathering would’ve included the Lord’s Supper during their meal every week. It excites me to think of these early Christians, fresh in faith and less than two decades removed from Christ walking on earth, dying for their sins, and resurrecting three days later. How special it must’ve been to be in their midst. We can also look at scripture and church history and know that intense persecution was awaiting these new Christians. Their weekly rhythms of worship likely provided a steadiness for them as they faced hardship. Our weekly rhythms of showing up for House Church and Sunday Worship Experiences can provide a steadiness for us as well. There is great encouragement for us as believers when we gather to worship together. Just like these early believers, we can also be sure that the Holy Spirit is working in our hearts among us and changing lives.

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• Prayerfully consider your weekly rhythms. Commit to gathering with other believers and make time to ensure your heart and mind are prepared for worship before you arrive. As Pastor Gray Strickland said when we began the “There’s More” series, "Be ready to contribute and not just consume."