After being investigated by Festus and King Agrippa, Paul was transferred to Rome because he had requested the hearing before Caesar. On the voyage his ship was unmercifully battered by storms for several days. All the sailors were trying their best to save the ship from being drowned, throwing overboard the cargo or even some of the ship’s gear which could make the ship lighter and stay afloat. But the hope was given up and the ship kept drowning. Finally Paul called the crew together saying, “For this very night there stood before me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I worship and he said, ‘Don’t be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar. And behold, God has granted you all those who sail with you’” (Acts 27:23-24). Paul told them not to be scared and all the people on the boat would be safe. His message was fulfilled then though they were shipwrecked on an island.

The angel said to Paul, “God has granted you all those who sail with you” (v. 23). God rescued all the people on the ship because of his servant Paul. In the Old Testament, God had said to the people of Israel that he would remember the covenant with his people because of his servants, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, or keep the kingdom of Israel because David his servant. The love of God is unfailing and steadfast. His love of covenant is long-lasting and forever.

Meanwhile, does God grant us all those who have contact with us like Paul? Do we keep the people around us in heart and share the good news with them and they will be saved by the power of God? Let’s boldly proclaim, “The God whom I serve and worship will save you and love you forever.”