The French Revolution of 1789 led to a reign of terror where enemies of the new regime were executed. The guillotine took the lives of thousands, including Marie Antionette, and in a macabre twist, many of the original leaders of the revolution. Once the mob is unleashed, who knows who it will consume?

Paul and Barnabus created a ruckus in Lystra when Paul healed a man crippled from birth. The crowd went wild, even proclaiming Paul and Barnabus as gods. Paul tried to quiet the crowd as he spoke of the living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them.

But enemies arrived and turned the throng. Snapping and snarling, throwing rocks and fists, they dragged Paul from the city and left him for dead. One minute worshipping, the next stoning. So goes the madness of crowds.

I see the mob most evident today on social media. An event whips up a fervor. A movement forms. It’s tempting to jump onboard, even if I don’t know all the details or are privy to inside information. I click to hold accountable those who need punished, without trial or testimony. It’s fun and easy to join the mob, although I often turn a bit queasy when all the facts emerge later.

Avoid the madness of crowds. There’s no future there. Turn off the social media maelstrom and go for a walk. Calm your psyche and settle your soul. Turn instead to the amazing God Paul proclaimed, who satisfies your heart with food and gladness.

Acts14:8-23

Photo by Amber Kipp