Generous Grace

Acts 10

³⁴ Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism ³⁵ but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. ³⁶ You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. ³⁷ You know what has happened throughout the province of Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached— ³⁸ how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.

This past Sunday we were seeing how God is generous in his grace.  Giving us all that we need, in particular the life we need and will receive in the resurrection (link to service).  We see that all receive the same gift of life, regardless of the time in the vineyard or the amount of work done. 

Now we see Peter in Acts relearning this lesson with Cornelius.  Peter is brought to bring the Gospel to Cornelius and his household.  Then Peter will see that the Holy Spirit comes on them as they heard the message.  Peter, and those with him, praise God with those who receive the Holy Spirit.  They offer baptism and belonging with the ones who also believe and are following Jesus.

So back to Sunday.  What is our response to seeing God’s generosity of grace?  Take a moment to think about, possibly write out, the places we are bringing grace well.  And also think of a place, or two or three, where we can do better at bringing the grace of God.  Consider sharing these things with a small group, a member of your church, a group or committee in the church which handles something related.  Give other people opportunities to hear encouragements.  Help us to think about places we can follow better.  See places where we can commit ourselves to something more, or different, than what we are doing.  Take time to find our response to God’s generous grace.