Time for a Family Meeting

Daily Reading: Acts 22

Scripture Focus: And when they heard that he was addressing them in the Hebrew language, they became even more quiet. (Acts 22.2)

Devotional Thought: Yesterday, I had a gratifying conversation with my daughter, Jenny. We were discussing these devotional articles that we work on together. We were able to communicate in a 'language' that we both understood and appreciated. It's great to be on the same wavelength with someone you love, isn't it?

It wasn't always like this. I remember when my daughters were teenagers. We sometimes had to have conversations to discuss behavior and attitude. I called them 'family meetings.' And, as often as not, it seemed like we were talking two languages. But, we somehow managed to communicate in spite of the frustration. God's grace!

Communication is enhanced when we take the time and make the effort to speak in the same language, isn't it? When, in Acts 22, Paul spoke to the crowd in Jerusalem, he adopted their language and got on their wavelength. Immediately, the raw nerves were soothed and they were able to hear what Paul had to say. As it turned out, they didn't like what he had to say, but at least at this point they were willing to listen to him.

As we communicate the love of God to those around us, it is good to address them in their own 'language,' to get on their wavelength. If we will make the effort to do that, we will have a much better chance at being heard. And, even if they don't accept our message, we have at least planted a seed that may one day bring forth life. If we don't bother to speak their language, then there will be no seed to spring to life.

So, give attention to not only what you say, but how you say it. Speak their language.

Prayer: Father, as I communicate your love to a broken and hurting world today, help me to take on their perspective and to speak their language. May my words be seeds of your love to mend and heal. In Jesus' name - the one who came to speak my language - I pray, amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 72.17-20

17 May his name endure forever, his fame continue as long as the sun! May people be blessed in him, all nations call him blessed!

18 Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does wondrous things. 19 Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory! Amen and Amen!

20 The prayers of David, the son of Jesse, are ended.