That's okay.

 ACTS IN 90 DAYS

A reading for Friday, September 4, 2020: Acts 21:37-22:5.

"I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, educated strictly according to our ancestral law, being zealous for God, just as all of you are today."

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross first said, "I'm not okay, you're not okay and that's okay." 

Today, Paul defends himself beginning with his complicity in the persecution of Jesus. He had been a faithful Jew, a true believer with the best pedigree. He studied with Gamaliel, at the feet of the master strict and orthodox in all things.

Of course, he is setting them up for his conversion story. Notice, however Paul starts with identifying with his enemies. He does not outright condemn them, but empathizes with where they are. It's yet another lesson in humility when dealing with detractors.

If you find yourself in conflict today, start with a question... In what way am I like the person I am in conflict with? "I'm not okay, you're not okay and that's okay."

God can do miracles when we come with a humble and contrite heart. Thanks be to God!