A Man Named ‘Manaen’
Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul.
Acts 13:1, NIV
In this verse, a man named Manaen was mentioned. He was someone who grew up with Herod the tetrarch. This was the same Herod who beheaded John the Baptist. Imagine, they grew up together, but they lived a totally different life. Herod became selfish and prideful about his position. But here comes Manaen, who became a Christian and followed the ways of Jesus.
Sometimes, we believe that people who grew up in the same environment will have the same destiny. Perhaps, we associate a person’s character based on their upbringing. But this part of the scripture only shows us that just because two men grew up together doesn’t mean they’ll have the same life in the future. Manaen chose to live for Jesus regardless of his background.
This means that nothing is impossible for our God. He could possibly change or transform people no matter what past they may experience. So let’s become a ‘Manaen’ in this world full of ‘Herod.’ Let’s surrender our lives to Jesus and allow Him to transform us. May we trust in His power, and let the Holy Spirit give us a new life.
Prayer: Father God, thank you so much for giving us the chance to receive your love. Help us, Lord, that we may become like Manaen who chose to follow and do your works. Please give us a humble heart that we may learn to obey your words and keep your promises. We pray for your loving hands to guide us to the right path, that we may grow with a selfless heart. This we ask and pray, in Jesus’ name, amen.
