The son of Paul’s sister heard of their ambush.

Acts 23:16-17, Now the son of Paul’s sister heard of their ambush, so he went and entered the barracks and told Paul. Paul called one of the centurions and said, “Take this young man to the tribune, for he has something to tell him.”

So, Paul’s nephew just happens to be in the right place at the right time to overhear the bold plans to call for Paul to be examined by the council, and then to ambush him. And they were committed enough to this plan to not eat or drink until Paul was dead! Yet God has his plan, this young man who overheard. As we read in the Proverbs, “the lizard you can take in your hands, yet it is in King’s palaces.” And this information is enough to warrant two hundred Roman soldiers to guard Paul on his way to the governor! I’m sure those waiting in ambush were surprised about the force protecting Paul. If only they knew the power behind it all!

We thank you for this same power that protected Paul that is available to us today, if only we ask!

ESV Lectionary