Daily Devotion, May 3, 2023

 

Devotion:

Read Acts 8:26-39.

Graduation experiences prepare us to “move beyond our comfort zones.” Until “graduation” we are usually familiar with the routines of classes, study and our educational environments, but afterwards, new adventures await us! Perhaps this was Philip’s experience as well!

We first read of this Philip in Acts 6:5. He is one of the seven chosen to give the daily distribution of food to the widows. These seven were selected because they were “known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom.” Acts 8 then begins to tell the story of the church’s mission beyond Jerusalem, which fulfills Jesus’ words from Acts 1:8, “….to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Philip had been a faithful follower of Jesus, through the teachings of the twelve disciples. He was also faithful in service. Acts 8 begins telling us of his calling beyond his “comfort zone” to offer the good news of Jesus to the people of Samaria.

In today’s scripture, God is leading Philip way beyond his “comfort zone” ….”to go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.”  Philip and these earliest followers of Jesus are beginning to understand that the good news of Jesus for salvation is for all people. For this conversation to take place there were several cultural hurdles to overcome from both Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. The Holy Spirit was leading and guiding both. And they were following.

The Holy Spirit gave Philip his question to ask, “Do you understand what you are reading?” And the Holy Spirit was leading the Ethiopian eunuch to ask in response, “How can I unless someone explains it to me?” He is inquiring about Isaiah 53:7-8.

“Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.” Philip is relying on all he has been taught about Jesus. His words are offered with compassion and witness to this one who has for far too long felt that he was outside of God’s grace and salvation. Philip brings him good news that Jesus lived, suffered and died for his sake, too!

Personal Worship Option:

How might the Holy Spirit be leading you “beyond your comfort zone” to offer Jesus’ compassion and good news to individuals who might feel that they are outside of God’s grace and salvation?