Paul says: You Israelites, and others who fear God, listen. The God of this people Israel chose our ancestors and made the people great during their stay in the land of Egypt, and with uplifted arm He led them out of it. For about forty years He put up with them in the wilderness. Acts 13:16-18

As Paul speaks before listeners at the closing of worship in the synagogue, he summarizes the Old Testament (vs.17-22). “You that fear God” is a bond as each heart humbles. He invites them (and us) to listen well to the preacher standing before them, to open their ears and their hearts– singular attention with full concentration.

Recall that your Exodus ancestors were chosen in historic numbers– 600,000 men aged 20 and up, plus their wives and children. An estimate of 4.2 million people minimum. God’s Arm uplifts to lead, protect, feed, spiritually liven, and more. 40 years God put up with Exodus’ complaining, sorrows, wining, crying, impatience, anger, anguish, and foul moods.

God’s great and abundant love for each individual causes Him to put up yet keep Arm uplifted. God puts up with us too even while His love flourishes in Jesus Christ. His uplifted Arm has loving Purpose. Love is His driving force. His uplifted Arm is above the Cross, over the empty tomb of Jesus’s Resurrection, and above us as Christ’s alive Presence in our loving hearts gives Holy Spirit blessings.

Rev. Patricia E. Walker, AlphaChurch.org