Time to Rest

Then they passed through Pisidia and came to Pamphylia. After they spoke the message in Perga, they went down to Attalia. From there they sailed back to Antioch where they had been entrusted to the grace of God for the work they had now completed. After they arrived and gathered the church together, they reported everything God had done with them and that He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. And they spent a considerable time with the disciples. Acts 14:24-28

I find it interesting that Paul and Barnabas retraced their steps, almost, but went to Attalia and there is no report of anything happening in this town. God has a timing and a method for His work. The new disciples could easily be given the task to evangelise in this place. Yet, the task given Paul and Barnabas was that of a hammering ram. They broke down walls, confronted religious leaders, shook the foundations. Through the breech flowed grace and now the seed of grace would germinate and flourish. By the time they get to Attalia they had rest and passage home.

Isn't it lovely that they return to the place where they had been 'entrusted to the grace of God for the work they had now completed.' Grace is beautiful, precious and life-giving. To know you have walked wih grace and finished a task is life-giving. Now it was time to rest in the arms of fellow believers
And be refreshed and built up. God is in the rest, just as He is in the mission. Enjoy!

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