November 29, 2019

November 29
Running with Jesus

Acts 23:35 “He said I will hear thee, said he, when thine accusers are also come. And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall."

     Paul was placed in the judgment hall when he reached Caesarea. This would be a prison. In those days it was called "house of darkness" I read it was like a manhole they were placed down into and was dark where only torches were lit for the guards to see by. Archeologists have found walls with chains and shackles that would hold them and normally it could take long periods before brought to trial. In Paul’s case since they had no reason to try him they hoped the riot would calm down. It was not the case. We know Paul was often in chains and beaten. We can reflect back and remember times when he and Silas praised God while in prison.
     We all experience times we feel we are in that "house of darkness". We feel chained and hopeless. We must remember to worship and praise God during those times. Praising and looking up at the goodness of God will help us endure those times.
      Sometimes I tell the Father the only good I see right now are Your attributes and often I turn, especially at bed time, to Isaiah chapter 6 and read where Isaiah saw the Lord sitting on His throne lifted up and His train filled the temple. Then he saw angels flying around the throne crying out "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heavens’ Armies! The whole earth is filled with your glory!" I put myself to sleep meditating and visualizing heaven.
     This earth has so many dark places but in heaven and eternity Jesus is the light and there is no need for a sun, moon or stars. And one day he will wipe away every tear we have ever shed on this earth.
  Take some time and go and read this Isaiah passage and let the peace of God surround you.
               

Father, I know in my darkest days You have always come to me and as I look into Your word you bring light and lift me up as I keep my mind stayed upon You. You had mercy upon man after they sinned and caused us to live in a fallen world and You gave us living hope after this world passes and for that we can worship and praise You. We have a Savior who suffered and knows and understands our pain. Thank You for salvation and hope. Bless that one who needs to know You see in their dark places too.

Meet your accuser tomorrow!

Judy Hollaway

Originally penned 2015