Day 206: Psalms 42-43; Acts 24

Curiosity can be a dangerous thing if it is only concerned with information and not transformation. Felix is a prime example of this in Acts 24:24-26. Paul was a curiosity to him. Obviously the Jewish leadership was obsessed with Paul's punishment (and removal, especially by death). Felix, being married to a Jewish woman, was curious about what Paul could have done to inspire such devoted hatred. Certainly he had an idea about Paul's history, his transformation from the leader of the haters to the defender of the hated One...from emissary to the Jewish ruling council to missionary for the Way. Out of curiosity he sought an audience with Paul, but, confronted with the truth of 'righteousness, self-control and judgment,' he dismissed Paul...he wanted information, but the truth calls us to transformation. Clearly, Felix was more focused on things temporal...he was hoping for a bribe. He would keep calling Paul back to talk, but I am certain that he dismissed him as soon as Paul got to speaking truth...Paul was all about the mission, for he had truly been transformed by God's grace. As you read Paul's letters from prison, you take note that Paul's transformation was ongoing...degree by degree. The lovers of the world will always prefer information and avoid, fear, or hate the truth which calls them to transformation. As followers of Jesus, transformation should be our journey. Curiosity for information lulls us into a false sense of security in our knowledge and stunts our spiritual growth. Learning for transformation keeps us in a present relationship with the One Who transforms us daily into His likeness...degree by degree. Let us be transformed by the renewing of our minds!