Real Life

Timothy was well thought of by the believers in Lystra and Iconium, so Paul wanted him to join them on their journey. In deference to the Jews of the area, he arranged for Timothy to be circumcised before they left, for everyone knew that his father was a Greek. [Acts 16.2-3]

As we look into the lives of Jesus' followers in the New Testament, I think sometimes we forget that they were human. That being said, I think we should carefully examine their lives, as they are presented in the Bible, and watch for discrepancies or indiscretions that would simply verify their humanity.

This is the case in today's reading. Before the passage above, we have record that Paul and Barnabas separated because of a sharp disagreement between them over John Mark. We must realize that (at least) one of them was wrong - they certainly couldn't both be right if their disagreement became an argument that led to their separation. Yes, God used them in separate places, but they could have arrived at that decision by the leading of the Holy Spirit and not as the result of an argument!

Then, in Paul's life, it seems he had somewhat of a lapse in his faith when he had Timothy circumcised. The one thing he had already encountered (and addressed) was the very thing he fell into, circumcision.

However, before we get too harsh on Paul, we probably ought to go look in the mirror. What I see in Paul's life is, in fact, real life. What I see is that not every decision we make is necessarily the right decision. Not every relationship we are in do we do right by. Not every circumstance do we handle exactly the way we should.

What we do see in Paul that is of great value is his commitment to the cause. Paul remained faithful. I am sure he learned a lot along the way - but that did not stop him from going forward!

Father, thank You for Paul the Apostle. His life gives me hope for myself in my pursuit of You. Help me to remain faithful!