May 1, 2018

A Wonderful World

J. Michael Ripski | Read Acts of the Apostles 10:44-48

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Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” Peter realizes if the answer is no, all heaven will break loose among those who, like himself, have believed what religion has taught: God chose Us; God did not choose Them....

Recall times when the Holy Spirit used your experience of Them to make it impossible not to view Them as Us.

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Lectionary Week

April 30 – May 6, 2018

Scripture Overview

The Acts passage continues to tell the story of the advance of the gospel. The Holy Spirit falls on a group of Gentiles. They believe and are baptized, thus showing God’s inclusion of all peoples in the plan of salvation. Psalm 98 is a simple declaration of praise. All creation will sing to and rejoice in the Lord. The two passages from John are linked by their emphasis on the relationship between love and obedience. We do not follow God’s commandments in order to make God love us. On the contrary, because God has first loved us and we love God in return, we follow God’s teachings. Jesus provides the model for us, being obedient to his Father out of love.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Acts 10:44-48. When has the Spirit of God brought you to a new understanding?
• Read Psalm 98. Does the guest of honor’s coming to judge the earth make you feel easy or uneasy? Why?
• Read 1 John 5:1-6. Is your life one of “oughts,” “musts,” and “shoulds”? Do you impose them on yourself, or do they come from others? How do you move toward loving obedience?
• Read John 15:9-17. How do you experience yourself as a manifestation of the Logos?

Respond by posting a prayer.