All the ends of the earth have seen the saving power of God. — Psalm 98:3

Mass readings: Acts 13:44-52 / John 14:7-14 

In and Out of Control 

I didn’t see the ending coming in today’s first reading. Paul and Barnabas have gotten a positive response to their preaching but then local leaders encourage some prominent woman to stir up enough opposition so the two missionaries are forced to leave the area. Or else. Even so . . . they’re “filled with the Holy Spirit and joy.” Why are they filled with joy? Because they did what God has asked them to do: preach. Why aren’t they upset that they’ve been run out of town? Because that’s beyond their control. 

Few of us want to control the world but most of us would like a little more control of the people around us. But they, like us, have the God-given gift of free will.  

Prayer: Dear Lord, please help my loved ones who are making bad choices.