“My brothers, if one of you has a word of exhortation for the people, please speak.” Acts 13:15
Most of us know how important it is to have a cheerleader, someone who sees us with honest and compassionate eyes and does everything they can to help us see ourselves as capable and caring. For some it is their grandparents who do this. For others it is a good friend or teacher.
Though they may have been testing St Paul and his companions, we might also wonder if the leaders of the Jewish community in Antioch were struggling with their faith and needy of someone who would help them see and understand their Jewishness in a different way. Reminding them of God's constant care for the Jewish people, Paul invites his listeners to see Jesus as the fulfillment of everything they already learned in faith. Jesus is not an heretical Jew, but a brother whose interpretation of the Torah and the prophets is inclusive and hopeful. Maybe Paul was the cheerleader they needed. Perhaps we can offer this same gift to our families, coworkers and neighbors.
Today encourage someone. Be hopeful
Who helped you grow in faith when you were struggling?
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