I don’t think the commander is connecting the dots. Perhaps we have several different commanders involved in this series of events. You will recall Paul shared with a commander a couple verses ago that he was from Tarsus in Cilicia. That commander granted Paul an opportunity to talk to the crowd. At the end of that very same speech, when the crowd heard the word “Gentile,” they erupted again.
The commander in today’s reading, then brings Paul inside and orders him beaten so they can get to the bottom of his “crime.” If it was the same commander, he had a short memory. Roman citizens are awarded certain privileges. The important one here is trial before punishment. Not punishment as a means of determining what justice is appropriate.
I’m glad Paul spoke up and spared himself a whipping. I’m sure the commander and guards were a bit afraid now as this truth sunk in. Paul could really make a mess of their authority if he were to make a claim against them. That is not what Paul is about. That’s the last thing on Paul’s mind. Paul just wants God’s will to be done and for people to know the truth.
What motivates you? Are you motivated by having authority? Are you motivated by being the smartest you can be? Are you motivated to help other people? Are you motivated to be a servant to the most high God, ready to suffer any consequence that your obedience may rile in people? We all have different motivations that light us up and keep us moving. Take moment to think about your motivations in life.
Goal setting can often be a helpful activity to really get to the bottom of one’s motivation. It can also help put into motion the right activities that should be the focus. We include goal setting in our coaching sessions to help people. Sometimes we all need accountability to stay on top of the things that are most important to us.
Paul as given us a stunning example of what it looks like to be all-in for God. He seems fearless on the outside. What do you suppose he feels on the inside? He is probably as terrified as we would be, yet he stands with boldness because of his sure devotion. God is by his side, and it doesn’t matter what happens. God is there for us, too. God never leaves us.
When we’re going through times of struggle and stress, we need to remember who’s driving the bus. It’s God. There is always a way to safety. There is always a beautiful sunset ahead. We are on the journey of life in the here and now. Our destination is eternity with our heavenly Father. How we enjoy the journey can be affected by the motivations directing us and the boldness of our faith leading us.
Let’s pray. Father God, I give you thanks for this life journey you have given me. It may not all be sunshine and roses, but it is the path I am on to learn and to grow closer to you. Don’t let me lose sight of the end game and what I am striving for. I want to be more like you every day. I want to touch people with your love. I want to make a difference. Lord I need your help. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
