Today’s author is Prince of Peace member, Steve Sveom.
Acts 8:26-40 tells the story of an Ethiopian eunuch traveling on the road to Gaza. The story of the gospel of Luke has narrowed the narrative of God’s work to the culmination of Jesus’ life in Jerusalem with the crucifixion and resurrection. But after resurrection, in the first chapter of Acts, Jesus tells the disciples that they will be his “witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth.” This story expands the witness beyond the narrow confines of Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria. The story is not about compelling or forcing belief but about sharing the experience of Jesus among those who are searching. The Ethiopian eunuch was searching for something as he read the prophet Isaiah. He was curious and searching and Philip joined him to share his experience of Jesus’ love for the world. That is witnessing. Considering another person and when appropriate sharing one’s own experience. The Ethiopian is an early example of the message of Jesus pouring out into the world with the story of God’s grace and love for the whole world. The eunuch, a capable person, but one who was sexually mutilated at the manipulations of the powerful who were afraid of possible threats to power or position. The eunuch, who was ineligible for positions of power or even acceptance by God in the eyes of many, asks an important question. “What is to prevent me from being baptized?” Philip’s answer, by baptizing him, was a resounding “nothing.” And that is the story of God’s grace. It is unlimited by human judgments and categories. God’s love is for all.
Gracious God, give us hearts to hear the searching of ourselves and others and to hear your amazing grace which has no limits. Amen.