In vs. 45, we read, “The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles.” Peter’s band of Jewish disciples were surprised to find that the gift of the Holy Spirit was not exclusive to them. Even after everything they had heard and seen in Jesus, these believers still operated from the viewpoint of ‘us’ vs. ‘them’. This event in Acts is a reminder that part of the Holy Spirit’s work is to heal the divisions we humans tend to create.
Think of some of the divisions we see in our culture today. In what ways might the Holy Spirit be working to bridge these gaps? How can you partner with the Holy Spirit to work towards healing in your own life, celebrating the gift of ‘we’ over ‘us/them’? What impact might that healing have on your relationship with God and with others?
Offer a prayer of confession for those times you contribute to divisive conversations or attitudes. Give thanks for the expansive, inclusive gift of the Holy Spirit.