By Andrew Williams
“After this Paul left Athens and went to Corinth. And he found a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had commanded all the Jews to leave Rome. And he went to see them, and because he was of the same trade he stayed with them and worked, for they were tentmakers by trade.” – Acts 18:1-3 (ESV)
Good morning fellow disciples.
Acts 18:1-3 introduces us to Aquila and Priscilla, a Jewish couple who had recently been forced to leave Rome due to Emperor Claudius’ edict. Paul, arriving in Corinth, seeks them out and finds that they share the same trade: tentmaking. This common ground provides an immediate connection, leading Paul to stay with them and work alongside them. This passage underscores the value of shared interests and the power of community in providing support, encouragement, and opportunities for ministry.
As a disciple, you can find common ground with others through shared interests, skills, or experiences. These connections can open doors for meaningful relationships, mutual support, and opportunities to share your faith. Don’t underestimate the power of shared activities or common bonds to build bridges with those around you.
This week, consider how you can connect with others through shared interests or activities. Join a club, volunteer for a cause you care about, or simply strike up a conversation with someone who shares your hobbies. Be open to the possibility that God may use these connections to create opportunities for ministry and to share your faith.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, lead me to connect with others through shared interests and activities. Help me to be open to new relationships and to recognize opportunities to share Your love, Your grace, and Your truth. Use me to build bridges with those around me, so that they may encounter Your transforming power. In Jesus’ name, Amen
