WordLive - Year OneSample

Prepare: Who has been in the news recently? Think of the people the media love to hate. How would you feel if some of them turned up at your house? Reflect on how God feels about them and how he wants to reveal himself to them. Nobody beyond reach Peter is on new ground and in front of witnesses from Joppa (v 23). He is aware that he is about to publicly break the Jewish law, so, maybe to help himself and them, he says clearly why he is content to go into Cornelius’ house: ‘God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean’ (v 28). Peter has learnt the important truth that nobody is beyond God’s kingdom reach. Made in God’s image Our world is quick to label those it says we should avoid: terrorists, drug pushers, paedophiles, hoodies, corrupt politicians, overpaid bankers, those who sanction killing in the name of religion... All these are made in God’s image, though sin has marred them. God calls Christians to work among them and to reveal him in their actions and words. Breaking barriers In stark contrast, Cornelius is overly reverent towards Peter (v 25). Peter realises how Cornelius sees him, and quickly removes that barrier (v 26). Although a respected Christian leader, Peter has grasped that we are all flawed human beings, all equally in need of God’s grace and forgiveness. Respond: Think of somebody you would normally avoid or be scared of. Then think of somebody who sets you on a pedestal. What barriers need breaking down for you to take God to them both today? http://www.wordlive.org/Session/Classic/2012-12-10