Those who had been scattered by the persecution … went as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word. No doubt those first followers of Jesus were distressed when persecution broke out. They were forced to leave their homes in order to stay safe. But out of this seemingly negative experience God drew some good. They were forced out of the safe cocoon of family and friends which provided the opportunity to spread the good news to those outside of their usual circle. That pattern reminds us that God brings something positive out of things we perceive as negative. We would prefer to only have positive things happen to us and get bummed out when the opposite happens. The Biblical lesson is to look for the opportunity for life and growth even in the midst of the danger and distress.
