25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, 26 and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s bonds were unfastened.
Acts16:25-26 ESV
19 Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.
Matthew 18:19-20
These men have been arrested, beaten, and thrown in prison. To make matters worse, they were put in stocks. It’s now midnight in the innermost prison. I’m thinking the lighting might’ve been a bit off. It’s easy to preach about their response, but very hard to imagine really doing it.
I’m sure I’d be tempted to complain, demand a lawyer, or even question God’s goodness in allowing such an occurrence. For us “faith” folks, we might even think to make a few good confessions and speak to the prison doors to open. These guys saw their plight as an opportunity to glorify God, acknowledging His presence and power with their prayers and praise. In response, He opened more than prison doors. He opened hearts and allowed them to pioneer the Church in Philippi.
As we assemble with the saints, it occurs to me that Jesus, the Christ, will be in our midst as we lift our voices in worship. It doesn’t matter if the band is good or the songs uplifting. It only matters that we praise Him and please Him. When I realize that I am there for Him, not Him for me, miracles happen, and opportunities follow. Let’s try it.
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