Acts 10 34-43v 44 “Even as Peter was saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who were listening to the message.”
God shows no favoritism. He accepts everyone. This is the message of the good news- that there is peace through Christ, who is Lord of all. You know that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. Jesus went around doing good. God was with Him. We are witnesses to His death and resurrection. We were those who ate and drank with Him after He rose from the dead. Even as Peter was saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who were listening to the message.” The Jewish believers were amazed that the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the gentiles too. So, all were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
My kids will tell me that I have favorites amongst the three of them. However, I remember counting the presents at Christmas time and birthdays making sure that everyone had the same amount. That they were only allowed to be in one after school activity each, that they all had a new back-to-school outfit each year. However, trying to treat three different personalities the same was difficult. The differences were amplified when trying to discipline them, set boundaries so that they were safe. One, a raised voice was enough for a small child, another had to be physically removed from the dangerous action as talking wasn’t enough. So how can people in families live well together? How can we live well with our neighbors? With the world?
The good news? God shows no favoritism. Through our belief in God, through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and our guide the Holy Spirit we can all work together. For the good of each other and the world. Look for the things that are the same in each other. For the light of love that is Jesus and let it shine out to those you meet today. And listen to the Hoy Spirit who guides us all.
Prayer: Holy God thank you for the word in the bible that you gave to us. The good news that you show no favorites and the life of Jesus who shows us how to love each other. The Holy Spirit you gave to all who believe to guide us , today and every day. Amen
CrossWalk 