While the people cynically questioned God’s justice and longed for his intervention, in Malachi 2:17-3:5, God told them he would be coming in judgment after his messenger prepared the way. In the New Testament, we learn who that messenger was and what God did when he showed up, which was a shock to all.
The proclamation of the King’s word provokes two opposite responses.
A small “chance” occurrence that turned out for Paul’s protection reminds us of God’s providential care for his children.
The same joy that the first disciples experienced upon seeing Jesus again is available to us.