Due to being shipwrecked, Paul’s destination to Rome took a necessary detour, ending up on the island of Malta:

     “Once safely on shore, we found out that the island was called Malta.  The islanders showed us unusual kindness. They built a fire and welcomed us all because it was raining and cold.” (Acts 28:1-2)

     During their stay in Malta, they shared the gospel of Christ with the residents of the island and healed many of those who were sick.  So, even though their stay was not planned, there was a reason for this happening, because they were blessed and were a blessing to the people of this island. 

     Sometimes our plans are changed or we find it necessary to take a slight detour, but we still learn from our experiences and can use them to further the mission we have. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) Our Lord provides a way to use our experiences, planned or unplanned, for the good of his kingdom.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I look back at some of the plans I have made, and how you have delayed or changed those plans.  In the meantime, I see how you have helped me to learn from these experiences, and because of that, I give you all of the praise, honor, and glory.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.