The twists and turns of running the Christian race.

Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews who have been in prison with me. They are outstanding among the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was. (Romans 16 v 7)

It seems likely that Paul is commending another married couple. But unlike Priscilla and Aquila the male is mentioned first.

Both were Jews like Paul. They had paid the price for the gospel like Paul. They were identified as sent-ones (apostles) just like Paul (though not as the office that Paul had).

But the similarities stop there because Paul says this couple had come to Christ before he did.

Whilst he was known as Saul the Pharisee; whilst he was carrying out his murderous threats to Christians; they were in Christ. They were part of the hunted pack. In his past he viewed them as his enemies now they are colleagues, kinsmen, comrades in the faith and family. I wonder if they prayed for him when he was persecuting the Church. I wonder if they were sceptical when reports came that he had converted to Christ. I wonder if they had to forgive him.

Little did they know back then as they were looking over their shoulder that they would be part of Paul’s team. They are now announced as a couple with an excellent reputation from someone whose reputation used to be that of a murderer.

Continue running your lane because there are surprises in store for you! It might be tough today but it could well be part of a beautiful story that God is writing. The race isnt over keep running.