November 26

November 26

Peter -- Cornelius' conversion -- God brings Gentiles (non-Jews) into God's household.

Today's Readings:

Reading 1: Acts 10

Reading 2: Acts 11:1-18

Reading 3: Ephesians 2:11-22

Throughout our readings, in the New Testament, we have seen how God is in control, even in the midst of terrible circumstances such as the sham trial and crucifixion of Jesus, and the persecution which followed the martyrdom of Stephen.

It is hard for our limited minds to understand, but God is big enough to work through hardships and disasters, as well as through pleasant circumstances.

Today's readings are again full of supernatural circumstances that show us that God is fully committed to overturning the status quo: Cornelius sees an angel, Peter sees a vision and God commands him to break the Jewish law, the Holy Spirit falls on the Gentiles after Peter has carefully explained how Jesus brought salvation for the Jews, and the believers back in Jerusalem are scandalized that their leader has associated with Gentile heathen until they hear that God doesn't seem to be as offended as they are!

It is almost comical, and you can read these passages with an eye on God's smile in the background! Today, what is the application for us? Maybe God is at work despite the politicians? What if God is touching the lives of terrorists? Maybe God can extend His Kingdom through evil things done to good people? There is no limit to what God can do. Let's pray "Your Kingdom Come!"

Have a great day!

Mark.