Unexpected Blessings

Thinking through the implications of Acts 28.9, this morning. The people of Malta gladly accepted and cared for the 276 survivors of the shipwreck, among whom were Paul and Luke. Because of this treatment when they brought their sick to Paul, he healed them. They provided sustenance to people in need, and in turn their own people's needs were met.

We do not provide aid and comfort for what we can get in return; we do it because that is who we are and what Christ calls us to do. However, sometimes God brings unexpected blessings to us when we do these things.

One further interesting note that Barclay makes in regards to this passage: Paul could exercise the gift of healing; and yet Paul had forever to bear about with him the thorn in the flesh. He healed others while he could not heal himself. Like his Master, in another sense, he saved others when he could not save himself.