Finally, Paul preaches in Rome and quotes the prophet Isaiah:

“‘Go to this people and say, “You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.”
For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes.  Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.’

“Therefore I want you to know that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!” (Acts 28:26-28)

     Even though Paul is continually chained to a Roman soldier, his ministry goes forward without hindrance, since he can receive visitors and talk with his guards.  Preaching in Rome took on a special significance, because it opened the door for the gospel to spread not just to Rome, but throughout the world.  The gospel of our Lord continues to this day.

Prayer: Dear Lord, we pray that your message will reach everybody, to the ends of the earth, because you are the one who provides the much-needed hope in all of our lives.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.