I have often reflected on the many various ways God works in our lives. Today’s first reading is a classic example. Paul is rabbi of the Pharisee sect. He is also a Roman citizen. Both give him unexpected privileges. In this case, however, they are not helpful.

The Jewish leaders are accusing him of many things, and it is such an uproar that he is taken to a Roman court. Paul is in a very serious situation. Both sides are ready to tear him apart. How often our early teachers of the faith faced death and imprisonment. But they took courage and trusted in the Lord. They believed that God would provide.

In Paul’s case today, it is the Roman guard who protects Paul. He sends soldiers into the court to save Paul and deliver him from certain death. God’s method of providing from Paul were men who did not even know or understand they were doing God’s Will at the time.

God is in control and directs His creatures to do His Will when needed. God wants us to participate and not just sit idly by. Paul was clever to recognize the situation had both Pharisees and Sadducees. They had different religious theologies, and he cleverly incites the riot that almost takes his life. This was part of God’s Will, too.

In every situation, if you would take a moment and reflect upon what is happening around you, you will see God’s hand working in your life and others. We just get so busy we fail to recognize God working in and through us. Today, whether at work or at play, look around you. Can you see God even in the smallest detail?

May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen