Ancient Athens was a centre of civilisation. In his speech, Paul does not describe God from his point of view but, instead, starts with the local culture. Paul tells the Athenians that God is already present in their society. They are groping in the dark to discover this life-giving God. Paul gives them hope, "...indeed He is not far from each one of us" and "in Him, we live and move and have our being" (Acts 17:27, 28)

The people seem to follow his message. However, when Paul mentions resurrection, this no longer seems reasonable. It is beyond their experience and imagination. It seems absurd.

Why then do Christians today believe that Jesus is alive? The Risen Lord has sent the Spirit to guide us in the truth (Jn.16:13). The Holy Spirit has given many people a personal experience of Jesus' power in their lives. Perhaps a miracle was witnessed, a prayer answered, a blessing received or simply, a subtle inner voice heard. A Christian is someone who has discovered God in the dark.

Today, many others are still searching. We are invited to carry on Paul's mission- Christ's mission -in our own culture, through our words, actions and presence of love.