Acts 10:34-43
Quite often, we grow spiritually through divine revelation.
Ever had a life-changing experience?
Before Peter could utter the words of our text, he had to go through a life-changing experience.
He had been raised in a strict Jewish culture and understood the world from that pro-Jewish bias. However, chapter ten of Acts reveals a seismic shift in Peter's understanding of God. He sees a sheet coming down from heaven filled with unclean animals. “Get up, Peter; kill and eat!” he is told. Peter refuses; he is a good Jew and will not eat an unclean animal! God speaks in the vision, “What God has made clean, you must not call profane.” This happens three times.
Peter is understandingly bewildered, flummoxed, and perplexed.
While he ponders this vision, wondering what it means, three Gentiles, one of whom is a soldier, appear at his door in Joppa, seeking him by name. Their boss, a Roman centurion named Cornelius, has been visited by an angel of God. The angel instructs Cornelius to summon Peter, who lives in Joppa at Simon’s house, and have him come to share an important message from God. The men are there to collect Peter. Peter invites them in to spend the night (note here that Jews are not to entertain Gentiles in their homes) to continue to Caesarea the next day. At Cornelius’s home, Peter proclaims the words of our text to Cornelius, his friends, and his family.You can find the text here: Acts 10:34-43 NRSVUE
We witness a pivotal moment in the early Christian church as Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, breaks down long-standing barriers to deliver the Gospel, a message of hope and inclusion to Gentiles. This passage challenges us to reflect on our perceptions and biases, reminding us of the boundless reach of God's love and grace. Peter's declaration that "God shows no partiality" is a profound statement that calls us to examine our hearts. How often do we, consciously or unconsciously, categorize people based on their appearance, background, or beliefs? Peter's words remind us that, in God's eyes, all are equal, and His love extends to everyone, regardless of their differences.
Questions for Reflection:
- How often do I, consciously or unconsciously, categorize people based on their appearance, background, or beliefs?
- What are some essential life lessons I can learn from this text?
Prayer:
LORD, open our hearts to your inclusive love. Help us to step out of our comfort zones to share the message of Christ with those around us. Enable us to see people through your eyes, embracing the diversity of creation and extending your grace to everyone. May we be vessels of your peace, breaking down barriers and building bridges of love and understanding in our family, congregation, and community. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.
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