Have you ever been fired up about something? Sports, maybe?? (Certainly not in Central Ohio, right?) Or perhaps someone cutting you off in traffic or an injustice committed against a friend or loved one?
Often when we’re “fired up” we open our mouths and all sorts of things fly out. Well in today’s reading, Peter is fired up in a different way. He’s filled with the Holy Spirit when he talks with the rulers and elders and sets them straight. He’s not filled with the same righteous anger we might be, but instead speaks truth through the Spirit when he declares, “Hey, remember that guy you had killed? Well, he’s risen and he’s the reason for this miracle before you.”
He goes on to describe Jesus like a stone that the masons rejected. He brings to their attention that although they dismissed him, Jesus is the cornerstone or rock on which salvation rests. Jesus is the only way.
Verse 11 brings this phrase to mind, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Jesus’ value was not recognized at the time. He was condemned and discarded. His words considered rubbish. Only a very few realized the true treasure he was and even they didn’t truly recognize his worth until he died and rose again.
Peter wants everyone to be absolutely certain who Jesus is and what He’s done. He’s filled with the Spirit and fired up for his friend. When he opens his mouth it’s not foul words, but truth that comes out. I admire Peter’s example of speaking the truth with such passion.
Father, I want to be fired up and declare your Son as my treasure. Fill me with the conviction of the Holy Spirit to speak the truth and share the gift of salvation. Amen
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