Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Christ’s Presence with the Outcast
Sarah Varghese
Carmel MTC Boston
8 And God, who knows the human heart, testified to them by
giving them the Holy Spirit, just as he did to us;
Differences
can have the power to separate people. Gender, sex, race, class, politics, and
wealth, are only a few of the many categories that divide us. Although
society tries to further separate us based on these factors, our common
denominator is our love for Christ. As His followers we are called to serve,
spread His love, and accept our brothers and sisters with open arms.
The
Gentiles were seen as outcasts. They were rejected and looked down upon by
society. They were seen as unable to be saved because of a simple physical
difference. In our world today, there are still many who may feel like
outcasts. They may love God just as much , they may serve just as much, and
they may spread his love just as much as others, but still they may feel not
good enough, not loved, and not able to be saved. As His followers, it is our
duty to love and accept the “unwanted.” In this passage we see Peter addressing
the council trying to convince them that God accepts the Gentiles just as He
accepts us. Christ has accepted us despite our shortcomings and sins, He did
not turn us away. In the same way, we are to bring others to Christ by
spreading this good news. Those who feel unwanted or not good enough need to
know that Christ is for them and not against them.
Ultimately,
God knows our hearts. He does not make a distinction between us. No matter our
gender, sex, race, class, or political beliefs Christ accepts us for who
we are. Before Him we are all equal.
|
|