I Was Wrong. (And God Had to Show Me.)
5 Day Devotional
This five-day devotional will be taking a deeper dive into the sermon from this weekend. Join us as we explore how the gospel of Jesus calls us to radical inclusion and challenges our preconceived barriers to unite all people to God and each other. Each day we will reflect on a core scripture and seek to apply these truths to our lives.
Day 1
Scripture: Acts 11:1-18
Our journey begins with understanding the foundation of radical inclusion as demonstrated by the early church. Imagine the moment when Peter was criticised for breaking traditional boundaries by entering the house of Cornelius, a Gentile and a Roman official. His actions marked a pivotal moment in church history, highlighting that God's message is for everyone, not just a select few. This account encourages us to step beyond our comfort zones and challenge the invisible barriers in our lives.
As we reflect, let’s consider the concept of prejudice that the circumcision party displayed. They saw Peter's actions as a threat to their social and religious norms. Yet, the Holy Spirit's intervention showcased God's limitless grace, breaking down the barriers of ethnicity and tradition. Today, we are called to challenge our assumptions and allow God to lead us into a more inclusive community.
What invisible barriers have you placed in your life that hinder God's inclusivity?
How can Peter's example inspire you to step into spaces that are outside of your comfort zone?
In what ways can you be more inclusive in your community?
Pray for the courage to break down your own barriers.
Ask God to help you see people through His inclusive lens.
Day 2
Scripture: Acts 10:34-35
Continuing our exploration, let's delve into the idea of God's impartiality. As Peter spoke to Cornelius, he declared that God shows no favoritism, but accepts those from every nation who fear him and do what is right. This profound declaration underscores the heart of the Gospel: that God's love is not confined by human barriers of culture, race, or tradition. As believers, we must embrace this reality and seek to embody it in our interactions.
Reflect on how God calls us to see past the superficial differences that often divide and alienate us. We’re reminded that every person bears God’s image, deserving of dignity and love. This calls us to be intentional in creating spaces where everyone feels valued and accepted, mirroring the boundless kingdom of God. Even in our personal circles, let us challenge ourselves to build bridges rather than walls.
How does understanding God's impartiality change the way you view others?
What steps can you take to reflect God’s inclusive love in your daily life?
Who in your life can you reach out to and bridge a gap today?
Pray for a heart that mirrors God's impartial love.
Ask for guidance in breaking down personal prejudices.
Day 3
Scripture: Galatians 3:28
As we progress, we reflect on the unity that Jesus brings. Galatians reminds us that in Christ, there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for we are all one in Jesus Christ. This verse dismantles societal hierarchies and divisions, inviting us to see the world through the lens of Christ’s transformative love. It’s a call to action for believers to embody this unity within their communities.
Consider the freedom that comes with this understanding; we are no longer bound by the divisions that the world imposes. Instead, we can live in a manner that reflects the diversity and richness of God’s creation. Our relationships, church gatherings, and community interactions should be marked by this profound unity, where every individual is recognized as a beloved member of God's family.
What barriers exist in your life that prevent unity?
How does the unity in Christ challenge your current worldview?
What practical steps can you take to foster unity in your relationships?
Pray that God would give you a heart of unity.
Ask for wisdom in being a peacemaker in your community.
Day 4
Scripture: Ephesians 2:14-16
In today’s reflection, we delve into the peace that Jesus brings and how he breaks down the walls of hostility. In Ephesians, Paul vividly captures how Christ's sacrifice reconciles us to God and to one another, abolishing the barriers that once divided us. This peace transcends human understanding, calling us to become agents of reconciliation in our own spheres.
Envision a world where every interaction is characterized by the peace and reconciliation of Jesus. Our lives should radiate this truth, inviting others to experience God's peace through us. It is a peace that dismantles hostility, invites healing, and cultivates a community rooted in God's love. Let's be intentional in seeking reconciliation and choosing peace in our relationships, reflecting the heart of Jesus in every interaction.
How can you actively pursue peace in your relationships?
What does reconciliation look like in your life currently?
How does Jesus’ role as a reconciler influence your actions and beliefs?
Pray for God’s peace to reign in your heart and mind.
Seek opportunities to be a reconciler in your community.
Day 5
Scripture: Revelation 7:9
As we conclude our devotional, we turn our eyes towards the future vision of God’s kingdom—a kingdom without boundaries. Revelation provides a glimpse of this heavenly reality, where every nation, tribe, people, and language stands before the throne, unified in worshipping God. This is a powerful reminder of our ultimate goal and the kingdom we are called to bring forth in our own world.
Let this vision fuel your commitment to fostering inclusivity and unity here and now. God’s kingdom is vividly diverse, and it is our privilege to reflect this diversity in our churches and communities today. Our calling is to participate in building a community that mirrors heaven, rooted in love and acceptance, transforming the world with the message of Jesus' inclusive grace.
How does this vision of heaven inspire you in your daily life?
What small steps can you take to help your community reflect this future reality?
How does this divine vision redefine your understanding of community?
Pray for a heart open to God’s diverse kingdom.
Ask for opportunities to actively participate in fostering unity and inclusivity in your circles.
Rewatch the Sermon
