20, 21. Under what circumstances was the apostle Paul strengthened by brothers from Rome?

²⁰ Especially touching are accounts of how Jehovah’s servants reached out to strengthen and encourage one another. Consider an example involving the apostle Paul. While en route to Rome as a prisoner, Paul traveled along the Roman highway known as the Appian Way. The final leg of the journey was particularly unpleasant, for it brought travelers to a swampy, lowland area.a The brothers in the congregation in Rome knew that Paul was coming. What would they do? Would they wait in the comfort of their homes in the city until Paul arrived and then come to greet him?

²¹ Bible writer Luke, who accompanied Paul on the trip, tells us what happened: “From there [Rome] the brothers, when they heard the news about us, came to meet us as far as the Marketplace of Appius and Three Taverns.” Can you picture the scene? Knowing that Paul was coming, a delegation of brothers journeyed from Rome to meet him. Part of the delegation was waiting at the Marketplace of Appius, the well-known post station about 46 miles [74 km] outside of Rome. The rest of the brothers were waiting at Three Taverns, a rest stop about 36 miles [58 km] outside the city. How did Paul react? Luke reports: “Upon catching sight of them, Paul thanked God and took courage.” (Acts 28:15) Just imagine​—the mere sight of those brothers who had exerted themselves to travel all that way was a source of strength and comfort to Paul! And whom did Paul thank for this helpful support? He thanked the one responsible, Jehovah God.