The God of the Unseen

(My Original Blog Post: http://ping.fm/t1eO0)
“While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, ‘Behold, three men seek you.  Arise, therefore, and get you down and go with them, doubting nothing—for I have sent them’.”

Acts 10:19-20

Like a maestro directing a large, renown symphony orchestra, so is our omniscient God behind the scenes orchestrating the events in our lives even now.

So often when we read stories like the one in today’s Manna we somehow nod and say “Isn’t that amazing how God acted BACK THEN?;” yet, if God is “the same yesterday, today and forever” (Heb. 13:8), doesn’t that mean He may still act the same way today. . .in our lives. . . in the lives of those around us. . .and in our circumstances?



Most assuredly so.

Although Peter’s life and view of things had changed dramatically after his encounter with Jesus on the seashore that day (Jn. 21:1-23) and the Spirit’s coming in power on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4), he still was a work in progress.  Just as we are.



Still “under construction.”  Still lots to learn.  Old habits to break.  New habits to be formed.  Old views and values to be discarded and new views and values (Christlike ones) to be formed in our hearts and minds (Acts 10:9-28).



Such was certainly the case with Peter that day as he went up on the housetop to pray around lunchtime (v.9).  He was staying with Simon, a leather-worker who lived near the seashore in Joppa (Acts 9:43; 10:6).  We don’t know how he knew Simon or how long he stayed there, although we’re told “he tarried there many days” (9:43).



Regardless, that particular day God showed up in a way totally unexpected.  And, during that serendipitous vision he “saw Heaven open” (10:11) and was taught a valuable lesson to never “call any man common (unfit) or unclean” (10:28).  Simply put, it was a time for shredding “old wineskins” in beliefs and relationships so the true Wine of Jesus’ Life and Love might flow through him.



And, dear Pilgrim, He’s wanting to do the same in our lives today.

Even now, God is at work in your life and in the lives of those around you.  He’s working in the life of the cashier in the department store.  He’s working in the life of the waiter in the restaurant.  He’s working in the life of the nurse on the ICU ward.  He’s working in the life of the homeless beggar you meet on the street.



That’s why important to never underestimate or discount anyone we meet—for some have “entertained angels without realizing it” (Heb. 13:2).  And, never forget what Jesus said:  “You’ve done it unto the least of these, you’ve done it unto Me” (Mt. 25:40; Acts 9:4-5).  Therefore, live today always remembering that everywhere you go is Holy Ground and everyone you meet has either been directed or allowed across your path for a reason.  And, make sure, like Peter, to share with them (as you have opportunity) that “whosoever believes in Him (Jesus) shall receive remission of sins—i.e., be forgiven” (Acts 10:43).  Hallelujah!!!

By Tom Smith Morning Manna Dated July 13, 2010