Thursday of Easter Week 1 – Devotion

Text: Acts 10:34–43

It’s easy to feel unseen. Whether because of where we’re from, how we look, what we believe, or what we’ve been through—many of us carry the silent fear that we don’t really belong. That’s the backdrop of Acts 10. Cornelius is a Roman centurion, a Gentile, an outsider to the Jewish people of God. And yet he’s devout, prayerful, generous—and waiting. When Peter arrives and begins to speak, he begins not with rules, but with wonder: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality.” This moment is a seismic shift in the history of redemption. Peter had assumed, as many in Israel did, that God's covenant blessings were mostly for Jews. But now, by the Spirit’s leading and vision, he sees the gospel is for all people who fear God and trust in Jesus.

This sermon is also one of the clearest, most concise summaries of the gospel in Acts. Jesus came doing good and healing, was crucified, and God raised Him on the third day. Peter doesn’t just proclaim facts—he proclaims a Person: the risen Jesus, appointed as Judge of the living and the dead, who offers forgiveness to everyone who believes. That includes you. No matter your background, your shame, or how far you feel from God—this message is for you. Jesus doesn’t wait for you to clean yourself up; He comes for you where you are, just as He came for Cornelius.

This changes how we live. It means we don’t have to perform to be accepted by God. Jesus has already fulfilled the law for us. His resurrection proves that the sacrifice was accepted, and all who trust Him are brought in—not just as citizens of God’s kingdom, but as family. That means the Church must reflect this grace too. No favoritism. No cliques. No exclusions.
So reach out. Start a conversation with someone who feels like an outsider. Ask the Lord to give you eyes to see your neighbors as people God is already drawing. And if you feel like an outsider yourself, know this: Christ died and rose again for you. You are not forgotten. You are known.

Transform Our Hearts Through Prayer
Gracious God, You show no partiality. In Jesus, You have opened wide the doors of Your kingdom. Thank You that we are no longer outsiders, but welcomed, forgiven, and called by name. Holy Spirit, help us see others as You see them. Fill us with courage to cross boundaries and extend Your welcome. And when we feel unseen, whisper again the truth: we are Yours. Amen.