11 When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!” 12 Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. 13 The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates because he and the crowd wanted to offer sacrifices to them.
14 But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: 15 “Friends, why are you doing this? We too are only human, like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them. 16 In the past, he let all nations go their own way. 17 Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” 18 Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them. Acts 14
Have you ever been tempted to take credit for something that you didn’t do? I am sure you have especially if you grew up with siblings. Paul and Barnabas were approached as Gods. The crowd literally mistook them for Zeus and Hermes (no not the luxury clothing company). Paul and Barnabas could have taken this credit. This would have catapulted them to local and regional stardom. Imagine the crowds that would have gathered to see Zeus and Hermes speak.
Verse 14 reveals that Paul and Barnabas didn’t even think about it. They “tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd.” The tearing of one’s clothes is an ancient tradition among the Jews, and it is associated with mourning, grief, and loss. Paul and Barnabas were mourning the fact that God did not receive the credit. Paul and Barnabas performed many miracles in God’s name. The notion that God would not receive credit was enough for them to tear their clothes.
I would argue that much of God’s work goes unnoticed today as well. The book of James says that all good and perfect gifts are from God (James 1:17). Yet, how often do we celebrate God when we receive a gift? I am guessing Paul and Barnabas would say “every time” should be the right answer. Grattitude is something that can be exhibited every day.
Yes, we are living in a pandemic. Yes, we are witnessing the largest protests and riots in decades. Yes, our future is uncertain. Even still, let us be a people that celebrates the gifts God has given us. Let our gratitude flow from a heart dependent on Him.