Learning

While [Paul] was making this defense, Festus exclaimed, “You are out of your mind, Paul! Too much learning is driving you insane!” – Acts 26:24 (NRSV) 

The Acts of the Apostles includes many opportunities for first generation Jesus-followers to tell the story of their faith. In Acts 26, Paul is in the middle of explaining what he believes and how his heart was changed by encountering Christ on the road to Damascus. Festus, the Roman governor of Judea, has given him the chance to make his case to the Roman-appointed King Agrippa. 

But as Paul testifies to the good news of the gospel and shares that Christ’s message is for all people, Festus cries out.  

A few weeks ago, I was in church to see our 8th graders confirmed. The class wrote their own statements of faith, formed over their years of Sunday school and three years studying in confirmation class. They know and can articulate how much God loves not just them, or their particular church, but everyone. It’s a spiritual truth repeated over and over in worship and witnessed in the actions of a congregation that loves to serve. These young people have not only heard the words but metabolized the faith witness unfolding around them. 

Festus created a space for Paul to tell his story, then interrupted him. I wonder if it is his own learning that feels like too much? He expected something harmless that would get Paul out of trouble. Instead Paul persuades him to consider a different view of the world, a Christ-shaped lens available to all. 

Whether it comes as years-long formation or an encounter that disrupts our way of thinking, learning and re-learning who Christ is changes us. 

Prayer
Help us, O God, to keep learning who you are. Amen.

About the Author
Martha Spong is a UCC pastor, a clergy coach, and editor of The Words of Her Mouth: Psalms for the Struggle, from The Pilgrim Press.