Faces in the Crowd: Daily Reading March 6

Friday Day 9 Too Close To Home Acts 24:24-27
24 Several days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess. He sent for Paul and listened to him as he spoke about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and said, "That's enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you." 26 At the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him.

We move back from the shadow of the cross in this story, which again illustrates the far-reaching implications of the decisions we make. Paul had been in prison in Caesarea, the Roman administrative capital of Israel, for only a few days when he came before Felix and his Jewish wife Drusilla for a hearing. Felix, like many people, had an interest in religion in general and the Christian faith in particular.
Paul had previously defended his own actions and had pointed out that he was not a threat to the Roman government. In this interview however he became more pointed and talked about righteousness, self-control and coming judgment (25), so that Felix became understandably uncomfortable. No one needed to hear these truths more than this pair. Felix was described by a Roman historian as having the power of a king but the mind of a slave. Felix had stolen his wife Drusilla away from another man and they both were given to lives of debauchery and lust. As the truth of Paul’s message hit home, the heart of Felix was gripped with fear.
We are often told today that we should not make people uncomfortable and certainly should not use fear tactics in our teaching and preaching but Paul did not hesitate. Felix’ response and decision was not to decide and so he said he would make no decision at that time. Indecision is in itself a choice however, and Felix said they would talk again when it was more convenient. They did talk again and Felix frequently called for Paul and heard him (26). There is no evidence that Felix ever responded in any way except to procrastinate further.
Faced with making a difficult decision we often stall until we “find it convenient”. The convenient time never comes and we continue in our life style because we do not want to change anything. The issues that faced Felix often confront us, namely righteousness and self-control. What is it I have been avoiding because it is unpleasant and hard to face? Is it a relationship that needs to be broken but I procrastinate because the conversation may be unpleasant? What steps in the path of righteousness should I be taking but I delay because it is not “convenient”? Now is the time to break out of my lethargy and make decisions that will honour God in my life.

Forgive me Lord for a life of constant procrastination. I want to deal with any unresolved issues, take any steps of obedience and worship you in spirit and truth. I give the issues of my life into your hands and affirm that I wish to be spiritually proactive, starting today.
Old Testament Reading Joel 3:12-16