Naming the thing
by Kathy Matuschka
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It is concerning the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial before you today (Acts 24:21b).
Read Acts 24:1–23
The tension and the drama are high in Governor Felix’s court today. The lawyer Tertullus begins by fawning before the governor:
We have enjoyed a long period of peace under you, and your foresight … Everywhere and in every way, most excellent Felix, we acknowledge this with profound gratitude … (verses 2 and 3).
What will happen next? Will Felix see past the act to the fact that the Jewish leaders have no case against Paul?
But then Paul holds his own with his well-developed oratory skills and some good points. He even cites rules he didn’t break (for example, Paul states he was ceremonially clean when he entered the temple courts – verse 18), an action some might consider over the top. How is a judge to decide who is in the right? Are there undercurrents that might sway the outcome?
After the preliminary manoeuvres, Paul has the courage to name the thing, as in our text above. It’s as though Paul says:
Now that we’ve finished posturing, let’s get to the heart of the matter. The people who accuse me don’t like the changes that are happening within their religion and culture, but none of this was our idea: We are simply proclaiming what God has done among us all by raising Jesus from death.
How often have you been part of a large group in which everyone agrees on what the heart of the matter is and keeps the conversation focused there? Not that often, right? Getting to the heart of the matter can be challenging work, and the person who proposes it to a group can put themselves at risk of criticism or even scapegoating.
Governor Felix already knows a bit about the religion known as ‘the Way’, and it seems that on this day, he chooses not to explore the heart of that matter further. In response to Paul’s assertion, Felix adjourns the proceedings. So, Paul continues safely in the governor’s care, with his future still in limbo.
Dear Lord Jesus, even as I wish we could live without disputes between people, I acknowledge that I am as adept at contributing to disagreements and misunderstandings as the next person. I like to be right, and I prefer to have my way. Help me to get to the heart of my matter. Heal me so that I can be a healer, Amen.
Kathy Matuschka and her husband, Mark, live in Brisbane and worship at Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Rochedale. Kathy continues to discern her ministry calling through her employment as a hospital chaplain and voluntary LCANZ activities. This year, she has contributed to the Way Forward Pastoral Care Working Group as a member.
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