Our Daily Bread: Unity in JesusSýnishorn

No Favoritism

Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism.” -Acts 10:34

Returning from vacation with his mother and brother from a French seaside resort, little Jack (only eight or nine at the time) declared to his father that he was prejudiced against the French. When his father asked why he felt this way, the boy declared, “If I knew why, it would not be a prejudice.”

Jack’s (young C. S. Lewis’) statement recorded in Harry Lee Poe’s book Becoming C. S. Lewis is accurate. The word prejudice means an unreasonable preconception that’s formed without knowledge.

Unfortunately, we sometimes fall into the trap of having a negative opinion about others without full knowledge. In the Bible, the Jews viewed the gentiles as unclean and lesser than themselves.

As we read in Acts 10, however, God made it clear to Peter that this shouldn’t be the case. Peter declared this message: “You know it is against our laws for a Jewish man to enter a Gentile home like this or to associate with you. But God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean” (v. 28). Peter explained that “God shows no favoritism” (v. 34). In fact, that day, “the gift of the Holy Spirit [was] poured out on the Gentiles, too” (v. 45).

God wants all people to be a part of His family. Let’s set aside any preconceived notions we have about others and welcome all with joyful hearts.

Julie Schwab

What are some prejudices you’ve had or have about others? How can God help you love others as we’re called to love?

Heavenly Father, please forgive me for judging others based on preconceptions.