"You're A Christian, Aren't You?" (Acts 28:14-15)

I recently purchased two new tires for my car. The shop is conveniently located next to my office so I left the car at the shop and returned a few hours later when the job was completed. As I was paying for the services, the manager smiled and asked me, “You’re a Christian, aren’t you?”

I was surprised and cautiously replied, “Yes. How did you…”

Before I could finish, he answered my question. “Your radio was on the Christian station. Very nice.”

Returning his smile, I asked him, “Are you a Christian?”

“Yes I am!” He beamed.

“Praise God!” I exclaimed. “Always happy to meet another Christian brother! We’ve known each other for several years now, but now I am happy I know you in a much deeper and important way!”

“Yes!” He nodded. “So important to let others know about God.”

We were definitely bonding. “Well brother, so glad to see you again. Until the next time, whether in this life or the next before our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!”

“Amen!” We both declared.

That put a big smile on my face. It was an unexpected and welcome surprise. I was comforted to meet another Christian brother in a location that I had visited in the past. As believers in Jesus Christ, we are His Church on this earth. We should seek out other believers to encourage and fellowship with them.

There we found brothers and were invited to stay with them for seven days. And so we came to Rome. And the brothers there, when they heard about us, came as far as the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On seeing them, Paul thanked God and took courage.

Acts 28:14-15 (ESV)

The Apostle Paul found similar comfort after being shipwrecked enroute to Rome. After setting forth from Malta, he sailed along the Italian coast visiting several cities before landing in Puteoli. He stayed there when he found other Christian brothers who opened their homes to him. Finally arriving in Rome, other Christian brothers came to see him and support him.

Like Paul, I am thankful to meet other Christian brothers and sisters wherever God leads me. They encourage me and broaden my vision of God’s Kingdom on this earth.

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.