Kept by the Holy Spirit

Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them. -- Acts 16:6-10

Similar to this Bible story, our mission team from Peoples was setting out for a trip to Baltimore. However, the organization through which we were arranging the trip has prayerfully decided to cancel all trips to Baltimore this year. Rather than our group being discouraged, I sensed a determination to seek God's will and move forward. After hearing about the dilemma and asking if folks were still interested in going on some kind of mission trip that week, all of the group, including our two youth members Isaac and Nathan Dunn, enthusiastically said, "Of course!" All were excited to pursue other options. "Where is our Macedonia?" we asked. The group will be meeting to continue our discernment process.

Most of us at some time will feel "kept by the Holy Spirit" in our call and mission field, wherever that may be. Let us follow the example of Paul and his companions to persist in seeking God and his loving will for our lives, and to be encouraged in the joy of the Lord.

Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Gwyneth