Devotion • July 11
Today’s Scripture Reading
Acts 10:34–48
Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all. That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. We are witnesses to all that he did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear, not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, for they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter said, “Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days. (NRSV)
Reflection
Our text today is a short sermon Peter delivered to the household of Cornelius and is one of the first instances of the early church dealing with difference. Peter and Cornelius were about as different as anyone could be. Peter was Jewish, Cornelius was a Gentile. Peter was poor, Cornelius was rich. Peter was part of the oppressed class, Cornelius was a Roman Officer. And despite both men believing in the oneness of God, both of their religious laws would have prohibited their socializing. And yet, God called Peter to Cornelius’ home that day to preach the Word of God.
The first words out of Peter’s mouth were groundbreaking, “I truly understand God shows no partiality.” He goes on to proclaim that God’s love is for all and no one can be held back from participation in God’s work. This is one of the first times we hear how the character of God as an impartial God now means the character of God’s community is impartial. The former dividing lines separating Jew and Gentile are dissolved. This does not mean Israel as God’s people has been dissolved, rather the basis of membership has been redefined. God accepts all.
I can’t imagine this was an easy shift — even for Peter. We aren’t being asked to simply acknowledge God’s impartiality, but practice it ourselves. Do I really want to be impartial in my welcome of all? Do I want to embrace those who look differently, think differently, vote differently than I do?
Peter doesn’t promise this work will be easy. He doesn’t make it optional either. Still, just as God includes me, I must include all others. And I will do my best, with the Holy Spirit’s help.
Prayer
O God, your love includes all and forgets none and you ask us to model the same. Help me to be as impartial as you — for everyone deserves love and welcome. Amen.
Written by Shawn Fiedler, Major Gift Officer
Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church
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