Listen to this devotion
Joy in our differences
In the Word
… they had no further objections and praised God … (Acts 11:18b).
Of the Word
Every eye was upon the young man as he walked into the church. His clothing was black and loaded with chains, his hair spiked and brightly dyed. What was he doing here? First impressions often reflect personal fears and prejudices. That fact is neither new nor unique to our society.
In the time of David his youthfulness was used as an excuse to doubt his success against Goliath (1 Samuel 17). During Jesus’ ministry His message was discounted because of His father’s occupation. Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? (Matthew 13:55a). What then makes “good” Christians? What do they look like?
Consider Galatians 3:26–28: You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Christians have faith in Christ. They look like God’s people, whether in boots or sandals, bald headed or braided.
Walking with my Lord
Lord, forgive me when I forget that all people are precious to You. When personal prejudices and poor first impressions turn me away from loving my neighbor, remind me that, in Christ, we are one. In His name I pray. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Living in Joy. Authors: Dcs. Betty Knapp, Irene Mensing, Myrna Lou Meyer, Margaret White. 17/30 ©2005 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide.
