Lent@Landmark: Day 27

Luke wrote the book of Acts somewhere around a decade or two after the events they describe, such as this moment when he is giving advice to the Ephesians at the end of his final visit to them.

“I know that after I leave, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. So be on your guard! Remember that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.” (Acts 20:29-31)

Those hearing the Book of Acts read to them know that this has already happened. They know who the “wolves” were who tried to steal people away from the Ephesian church for their own benefit. It sounds like Paul did all he could to contend with these wolves, and all he could do to prepare the Ephesians to contend with them.

This passage reminded me of today’s distracting, invented controversies like which Bible version to use or which worship style is the right one.

But then, an odd finish. “…I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears.” It’s a window into the heart of Paul—and into the heart of the Gospel—full of love and compassion; with a genuine, earnest desire for people to encounter the risen Christ who loves them.

When you talk about those with whom you disagree, is the disagreement over something that matters?

If so, do you mock them, berate them, belittle them, or dehumanize them; or do you try and compassionately connect with them… perhaps even with tears?

The way we disagree says a lot about our hearts. What does the way you disagree say about yours?