Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. – Acts 10:34-25
In the 10th chapter of the book of Acts, we hear the story of Cornelius and Peter. Cornelius is a Roman centurion described as a God-fearing, generous man who prayed to God regularly, but had yet to hear the Good News of Christ. Being instructed by a vision from God, Cornelius sent for the apostle Peter to come to him in Caesarea.
Meanwhile, in town called Joppa, Peter is having his own peculiarly odd vision that shows him that ‘nothing that God has made is unclean’, teaching Peter that this Good News he preaches is to be shared beyond just the Jewish people.
So, when Cornelius and Peter meet, they share their stories of God’s visions with each other. As a result, Peter preaches the Gospel directly to a Cornelius, his family, and many gathered friends. And for the first time, a Gentile audience hears the Good News of Jesus Christ.
“God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.” These are radical words, both then and now. God shows no favoritism. God accepts those who love God and love others. There are no darlings. There are no exclusions. God loves all.
How easy is it for you to hear that message? In some ways, it’s an easy missive to hear because it means we’re included. In other ways, it’s a difficult idea to hear because it means the people we don’t like are also included. Not only does God love difficult people, but God doesn’t love us more and them less.
My dad had two signs on his desk. The one facing outward read “God loves everyone, but I’m his favorite.” That was his tongue-in-cheek, self-deprecating humorous message to put visitors at ease. The other sign facing toward him read “God loves the people that annoy you.” It was his constant reminder that God shows no favoritism and accepts everyone, so he should too.
When I get cut-off in traffic or listen to someone bloviate politics that make my blood boil, I don’t want God to accept them. Wherever there are people who share my ideals and do amazing things to help others, I want God to shower them with special blessings.
Cornelius wanted that to be different. Peter preached that it should be different. No exclusions, no favorites. We are all loved and beloved by God.
Let us pray,
You extended your arms on the hard wood of the cross, Lord Jesus, so that the whole world might be embraced by your love. Thank you for your servants, Cornelius and Peter, who taught us to love as you love, without exception or favor. Lead us from prejudice to truth. Deliver us from division to unity. Enable us to reconcile and be reconciled. And all for your love’s sake. Amen.
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