To Jerusalem
Day 502, Friday, Dec. 26
Acts 11:1-18
Even though they have experienced the radical acceptance that Jesus showed toward people who were not traditionally accepted, the disciples in Jerusalem criticize Peter. “You went into the house of uncircumcised men and ate with them.”
Peter tells the story of his vision and his experience preaching to the gentiles. “Then I remembered that the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think I could stand in God’s way?”
After hearing Peter’s defense, they no longer object. “So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life.”

-Rev. Mark Fleming

Friday meditation

Psalms 49:13-20
This is the fate of those who trust in themselves, and of their followers, who approve their sayings. They are like sheep and are destined to die; death will be their shepherd (but the upright will prevail over them in the morning). Their forms will decay in the grave, far from their princely mansions. But God will redeem me from the realm of the dead; he will surely take me to himself. Do not be overawed when others grow rich, when the splendor of their houses increases; for they will take nothing with them when they die, their splendor will not descend with them. Though while they live they count themselves blessed—and people praise you when you prosper—they will join those who have gone before them, who will never again see the light of life.
People who have wealth but lack understanding are like the beasts that perish.

Prayer focus
We praise you, Lord, for opening your church to all peoples. May we also break barriers that separate humanity.