Gentile Christians celebrate the story in Acts 10 as proof that God has a place for us. Remember, that in the early days of The Way (the name given to Jesus’ first followers) it was not clear what role Gentiles would have. Would they (we) need to become Jews, only then to become a part of this Way within Judaism? Peter represents one pole in the early debate; Paul stood at the other.
In Acts 10 Peter has a vision. In this vision, he is instructed by God to eat “all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds.” Peter refuses. “No, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” To which God replies, “What God has cleansed, you much not call common.” As the vision is ending, there comes a knock at the door, messengers from the household of a Gentile, asking Peter to come to the home of this Gentile, that he may accept The Way.
Gentile Christians read this story and understand it to be talking about us. It is God’s assurance that no one whom God has made is common or unclean.
I wonder as to the application of this story in today’s world. In reading it, do Gentile Christians see any application beyond affirmation of our own inclusion in God’s heart?
This evening’s sundown is significant for many of those whom God has created. This evening’s sundown marks the end of the Muslim observance of Ramadan. Known as Eid al-Fitr, this evening’s iftar brings to an end the month of fasting, prayer, and acts of charity.
This evening’s sundown marks the beginning of the Jewish celebration of Rosh Hashanah. Most commonly thought of as the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah looks to the creation of Adam & Eve and the relationship established between God and humanity. It is a time for celebrating relationships and building up our common commitments.
What a wonderful coalescing of events: that our Lectionary would arrive at Acts 10 on the day that Jews read the ancient stories of Rosh Hashanah and the attention of the Muslim world would turn to Eid al-fitr. Might we, Gentile Christians, re-read the story and allow ourselves to assume the role of Peter. What message might God be delivering to us? How are we to apply this vision in our own lives and in our contemporary society?
At the very least, don’t let the day pass without greeting that neighbor who is Jewish or Muslim. Acknowledge the importance of this day for them; express openness to learning from them the significance of these religious observances.
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