October 2, 2012   

Today's Photograph . . . . Mission in Chopping   (Tom B)

Bible Study Verses

Acts 18:2-3 

There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them, and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them. (NIV)

Thoughts

The above scripture tells us about Paul's visit to Corinth, visiting Jewish believers, telling them about Jesus Christ. One couple he met and stayed with was Aquila and Priscilla. I have read these two verses many times in the past, but this time, "and because he was of the same trade, he stayed with them and they were working, for by trade they were tent-makers," jumped out at me!

Think about it-what a neat picture. We see Paul's human side, Aquila and Paul, out in the shop, sewing cloths of fabric together, making tents. I bet Priscilla every so often came out and brought drinks and snacks. I bet they shared stories, many about Jesus Christ. 

Paul had to share his "knocked off the donkey" conversion. What a great story that would have been. I can just imagine the excitement in Paul's voice as he shared that event. Paul was a human being. I sure would have liked to have been there ease dropping on their conversation, maybe even learning how to put together a tent.

Action Point
We all know that taking someone else fishing or hunting, who might not be a believer in Jesus Christ, can be a great witnessing tool. But what about sharing the workload of a friend that is not connected to fishing or hunting? We, who love to fish and hunt, are all "Missionary Fishermen and Hunters." We have no problem telling someone about what happened on our last trip afield or afloat.  

But, what about rolling up your sleeves, getting your hands dirty, helping a friend or neighbor with yard work, home maintenance, maybe helping fix their car or truck? I used to have a friend that he and I spent many a Saturday morning repairing each other's car.  

"He stayed with them and they were working, for by trade they were tent-makers." Probably most of us are not tent-makers, but we do have skills that we can share with others. Along the way, as the relationship deepens, you might even be able to share Jesus to them. By working alongside of them, you are already sharing one of Jesus' commands:  Love one Another. 

Sportsmen's Tip of the Day 

Many organizations have projects that need volunteers to help out in, such as Habitat for Humanity. Maybe your church has a program where members lend their skills to community neighbors who need help. Get involved when the opportunities arise. Don't be just a "Missionary Fisherman or Hunter."