Universal panacea

Peter began to speak: ‘I now realise that it is true that God treats everyone on the same basis. Those who worship him and do what is right are acceptable to him, no matter what race they belong to. You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, proclaiming the Good News of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.’ (verses 34-36)

Read Acts 10:34-48

Wouldn’t it be great? To find something which would cure the ills of the whole world! What form would such a universal panacea take? Perhaps it could be a powerful medication able to cure every disease. Or it could be the elixir of life, which would ensure that anyone who drank it would remain forever young. Then again, it might be some sweet ambrosia for the spirit that kept everyone permanently happy.

Peter, speaking to a group of Gentile converts, has his version. His good news is certainly universal; it’s for all people. And it’s a message that is ultimately the answer to all the world’s problems. The fact is, says Peter, that God wants to give all people a special sense of peace. No-one is disbarred from this offer. And it’s special because it assures everyone who accepts it that they will receive reconciliation with God and an eternal future with him.

It’s what everyone needs and it’s what God freely gives.

Dear Lord, thank you for your continuing concern for your creation, especially your plans to save all humankind. Amen.

by Richard Hauser, in ‘Guidance for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2002)

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