Visions that Change Lives

Acts 10:1-48

Have you ever had a dream that seemed so real, that when you woke up you were confused by reality?  The dream seemed more real than the light of day?  And then, much to your frustration, it completely faded and you couldn't remember a thing?  That has happened to me on more than one occasion.

Peter and Cornelius had visions - perhaps similar to dreams but in the middle of the day - that, thankfully, did not fade upon waking up.  Peter was troubled by his vision - surely, Lord, you don't expect me to violate sacred dietary laws and eat something that is unclean?  Cornelius' response to his vision is to obey without question.  Peter, somewhat reluctantly, after some questioning, obeys as well.  And the results, my friends, are life changing for those of us were not born Jewish.  Take a look at verse 45:

The circumcised believers who had come with Peter [to Cornelius' home] were astonished that the gift of Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles.  

Yes, even on the Gentiles.  We, too, can share in eternal life.  And how can we not share that good news with everyone!  Peter knew that this news would be very difficult for some in the fledgling new church to accept.  He carefully explained his vision to them, and how the Holy Spirit came on the gentiles in Cornelius' house.  After some disbelief and more questions (read about it in Acts 11), the early church confirmed that this was from God:

When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, 'So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life.'  (Acts 11:18)

Peter says it well in 2 Peter 3:9:

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance

Yes - the Lord wants EVERYONE to come to repentance.  Thanks be to God for this gift!  And thank you that both Peter and Cornelius listened to God and obeyed, even when they didn't have the entire picture - they knew that God was in charge.  

Thank you, Lord, that you died for me - even me, a Gentile.  Eternal life is mine if I confess my sins and ask you to be the Lord of my life.  Amen.