Read:
Back in biblical times, people were classified one of two ways: a Jew, or a Gentile. Jews were descendants of Abraham through the line of Isaac, Jacob, and the twelve tribes of Israel. The Jews were God’s chosen people. The Gentiles were...not.
Jews and Gentiles didn’t typically mingle. They stayed in their own lanes and minded their own business. So, for Cornelius, a Gentile, to invite Peter into his home—and for Peter, a Jew, to accept—was unheard of. But it shows us something powerful about God: he doesn’t play favorites.
Grace was never meant for just one group, one background, or one kind of person. Jesus came for everyone. And because Peter and Cornelius were willing to put their differences aside, the Good News of Jesus reached more people—different people—than before.
Where we’re tempted to categorize people, Jesus just sees people. And thank God for that! Because if Jesus judged our worthiness the way we’re so quick to do to others, his grace would only reach a select few (if anyone at all). The Good News spreads faster when we’re focused more on sharing it than deciding who’s worth sharing it with.
Prayer: God, break down the barriers in my heart and help me see people the way you do. Thank you that your grace is available to all of us. Help me set aside the judgements I make about people so I never get in the way of it. Amen.