Even amid turmoil and scrapes with authorities, Paul and his companions drew some individuals to the faith. The Roman prefect Gallio wanted nothing to do with the squabble, but the mob took out their fury on Paul and his companions. We should not be disturbed by resistance and difficulties; God works in them and through them. As the angel of God told them, 'Do not be afraid to speak, for I am with you.'

The suffering and death of Jesus was nothing to rejoice over, and the disciples were sad and anxious. Jesus reassured them - they would be sad now while the world rejoiced, but everything would soon be reversed. He likened it to childbirth, which involves temporary pain and suffering. Afterwards, there is joy over the birth of a child. Likewise, a new world was struggling to be born, and it too would involve birthing pains. New life always involves struggle. Today the old world is passing away and a new one is coming to be. We are in the midst of pain, but we should remember that it will pass. There will come a day when we rejoice with the Lord while the world and its negative forces mourn. We call it the kingdom of God. Let us have hope!