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44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.

Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” 48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.

 

Acts is the story of how the gospel spread out from Jerusalem after Christ’s resurrection. Through visions, Peter was told by God to go to Caesarea to meet a man named Cornelius, a Roman centurion, who had assembled his relatives and close friends, all non-Jews. As Peter told them about Jesus’ death and resurrection, his Jewish companions were astonished that the Holy Spirit was “poured out even on Gentiles.” So, they realized that God’s salvation was for all.

Hurrah, since most of us aren’t Jewish!

 

Also, what’s amazing is the almost instantaneous unity that the Holy Spirit produces among believers for they asked Peter to stay for several days, a cultural prohibition. I have experienced this in small Bible study groups. Even when participants don’t know each other, there quickly builds an air of trust and caring as we share our lives, concerns, celebrations and learn together.

 

Dear Lord, thank you that your salvation is for all of us, however culturally different, and for your Holy Spirit who can help us live together in love. Amen

 

Linda Giesen

Linda.giesen37@gmail.com

 

Prayer Concern – Violence resulting from sectarian hostilities.