Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

In Acts 28:1-10, we find the Apostle Paul and his companions shipwrecked on the island of Malta. The story unfolds with them being welcomed by the islanders who show extraordinary kindness, making the bleak situation a little brighter. It was storming and wet. Yet, even in these harsh conditions, Paul gathers a bundle of sticks, during which a viper driven out by the heat bites him. The locals expect him to die, but instead, he shakes the snake off and suffers no harm which astonishes those watching.

This moment in Malta speaks profoundly about serving and purpose. Despite being a prisoner and enduring a shipwreck, Paul does not shy away from helping gather firewood in the cold and wet conditions. His service, a simple act of gathering sticks, turns into a powerful witness of faith when he miraculously survives the viper's bite. This miracle leads to further opportunities to serve as Paul then heals Publius’ father and others who were sick on the island.

The story of their time on the island of Malta is a vivid illustration of how God works in unexpected ways and places. The island, initially just a place of refuge from the sea, becomes a place of miraculous healing and divine encounter. Paul’s experience reminds us that our circumstances, no matter how unplanned or adverse, are never outside of God’s providential care.

We, like Paul, are often placed in unexpected situations where our faith can shine. Whether in moments of crisis or in our daily interactions, our actions can pave the way for deeper relationships and spiritual conversations. The kindness of the islanders, along with Paul’s response to adversity, showcases the nature of blessings and the spread of the Gospel.

As we reflect on this passage, let's consider how we might be instruments of God's work, even in places and situations that seem inconvenient or undesirable. Every place we find ourselves in, no matter how foreign, can become holy ground—a place where healing, faith, and kindness meet.

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• Where are the dark, uncomfortable, undesirable parts of your life?
  
• In these moments, how can you bring God's love and healing into these moments?
  
• Who would be affected if you lived with the same tenacity of showing love as Paul does in our reading today?
  
• Let us pray that we recognize these opportunities to serve and witness, embracing them with the same faith and resilience shown by Paul, trusting in God’s greater plan and timing.