In today’s first reading, when Peter brought the news of Cornelius’ conversion, the believers were shocked that Peter had eaten with Gentiles, it kind of looks like someone had spent time with a person their family disagrees with. After they heard the whole story, however, they praised God. Their responses teach us how to handle disagreements with other Christians.
Before judging the behavior of fellow believers, it is important to hear them out. The Holy Spirit may have something important to teach us through them. God had promised throughout the Scriptures that he would reach all the nations. This began with his general promise to Abraham. Too often we are inclined to accept only the parts of God’s Word that appeal to us and support our agendas, ignoring the teachings we do not like. We must accept all of God’s Word as absolute truth and be the living word of God. When we practice living the Word of God, our children will follow the example generation after generation.

Prayer: Abba Father, empower us to live and act according to your Word. Amen.