You would think the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem would forget about Paul. It’s been two years, and their anger burns on. Meanwhile, Paul has been an innocent man in prison. I thought of how this scenario is much like us holding on to grudges.
Have you ever had someone mad at you to the point where you weren’t speaking? Or maybe you were put out with someone and wanted nothing to do with them. I think we have all experienced that to some degree in our lives. It’s not healthy. We’re seeing the Jewish leaders holding on to this false notion about Paul. They think they know what Paul’s intentions are for the Jewish people. This is a great example of how grudges are often based on something other than true reality.
While we each come to a situation from a different perspective, it is only when we cannot see or understand another’s perspective that grudges can result. Over time, grudges hurt more and more. Those holding on to them are hurt the worst. In fact, the source of your grudge may not even know what they did to cause such anguish for you. They are going about their lives without giving a thought to the very thing that is just eating you up inside.
Think about it. What good does it do you to hold on to something that is hurting you? Yet we still hold on. Like the Jewish leaders. It’s almost like their anger is building and morphing into something uglier.
Do you ever wonder what happened to that band of folks who said they weren’t going to eat or drink until Paul was killed? I’m guessing they either died of starvation or had to “eat crow.”
The other amazing thing about this passage is how quickly the justice system was working. Festus moved Paul’s case to the top of the list, just like that. He had the power to do so apparently. That is not something we would see in the United States at least. I can attest to that having been a paralegal for 30+ years. The legal system is anything but quick. Unfortunately.
But what an interesting case we have in our text today. Paul has appealed to Caesar, which is a big deal. Even the king wants to meet him. What will happen next? Stay tuned!
Let’s pray. Lord, forgive me for holding grudges against others in my heart. I have worked through so many of them over the years. I thank you for the courage to go through those hard times. There is so much relief on the other side. I pray for those who have hurt me. I trust you know what it is that they need. May this cleansing flood my heart and mind so I am better equipped to serve you and others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
