Reading from the Bible :
1 Now in the church that was at Antioch there were
certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon whom was called Niger, Lucius
of Cyrene, Manaen who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch and Saul. 2
As they ministered to the Lord and fasted the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate
to me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them,” 3 Then
having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away. ACTS
13:1-3
Summary :
El Bulli restaurant, 2 hours
north of Barcelona, is so popular that customers must reserve a table 6 months
in advance. But noted Spanish chef Ferran Adria decided to close the doors of
his award-winning restaurant for 2 years so he and his staff could have time to
think, plan and innovate. Adria told Hemispheres Magazine, “If we are winning
all the prizes, why change? Working 15 hours a day leaves us very little time
to create.” In the midst of great success, they took time out for what is most
important to them.
The
first-century church in Antioch experienced a time of exciting growth when “a
great number believed and turned to the Lord” (Acts 11:21). As a result,
Barnabas and Saul came to teach the new believers (vv.25-26). But along with
the hard work, they took time to seek the Lord through prayer and fasting
(13:2-3). Through this, God revealed His plan for taking the gospel into Asia.
Few people can
take 2 years off to think and plan. But all of us can build time into our
schedule to seek the lord earnestly through prayer. As we open our hearts and
minds to God, He will be faithful to reveal the steps of life and service that
honor Him.---DavidMcCasland
There is a blessed calm at
eventide
That calls me from a
world of toil and care;
How restful, then, to seek
some quiet nook
Where I can spend a little
time to prayer.---Bullock
Prayer is as important as breathing.
