While talking with Cornelius, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of
people. He said to them: “You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with or visit a Gentile. But God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean. So when I was sent for, I came without raising any objection. May I ask why you sent for me?”
Acts 10:27-29
Despite Jesus’ instruction to bring the Gospel to all nations, it was difficult for Peter to see that God’s kingdom was open to the Gentiles. The Holy Spirit arranges for Peter to meet a Roman centurion Cornelius. Then the Holy Spirit descends while he is talking to him. After this encounter, Peter comes to understand that God shows no partiality and that he should not think of anyone as unclean or outside of his influence. He understands that God wants a relationship with everyone.

Just as the Holy Spirit opened a door for Peter to meet with Cornelius, the Holy Spirit can open doors for us to meet with out neighbors. Like Peter, we might believe that we have nothing in common with our neighbors or that they don’t live up to our standards. Like Peter God wants us to show no partiality. We must be careful about thinking that our neighbors are not like us and that we are above connecting with them.

Pray today for the same understanding of Peter. Pray that you would not see anyone as impure or undeserving of your consideration.