Acts 28:2
And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold. And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because of the cold.
The people of Malta, also called Melita, showed exceptional kindness to the shipwreck survivors by kindling a fire and receiving everyone because of the present rain and the cold. The rain had drenched the survivors and the cold made them shiver and suffer, leaving them needing shelter and warmth. That kindness was shown to everyone without exception, including the prisoners. Paul himself took part in providing for the chilled company, gathering wood with his own hands for the fire, just as he had worked to save his fellow passengers from drowning.
Though a prisoner on a barbarous island in discouraging circumstances after the shipwreck, Paul remained courteous, courageous, hopeful, cheerful, self-possessed and helpful. His calm helpfulness flowed from implicit trust in God and a healthy religious experience governed by love for Christ.
Wherever there is love and sympathy and the heart reaches out to bless and uplift others, the working of God's Holy Spirit is revealed. The islanders were in the depths of heathenism, with no knowledge of the written law of God and having never heard the name of Christ, yet they were kind to His servants and protected them at the risk of their own lives. Their acts show the working of a divine power, with the Holy Spirit implanting the grace of Christ in the savage heart and quickening sympathies contrary to nature and education. The universal divine light given to every person was shining in their souls, and if heeded it will guide their feet to the kingdom of God.