Acts Chapter 10: Verse 24 (NIV -UK)
The following day he arrived in Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends.
Acts Chapter 10: Verse 27 (NIV-UK)
While talking with him, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of people.
Acts Chapter 10: Verse 27 (NIV -UK)
Cornelius answered: ‘Three days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me and said, “Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He is a guest in the home of Simon the tanner, who lives by the sea.” So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us.’
Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realise how true it is that God does not show favouritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right’.
Acts Chapter 10: Verse 44 (NIV-UK)
While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message.
Cornelius was excited about what God had said. He trusted that Peter would come, and in anticipation had gathered his family and friends to be there too. Peter had responded to what God told him but he was curious to hear why Cornelius had sent for him. It must have warmed his heart to hear that Cornelius and his family were so eager to hear what God would say through him. And they were so open that God moved on all of those present even before Peter had finished speaking!
We too should be eager to hear what God has to say to us when we gather together. We should not come half-heartedly, or even out of habit. If we come with an expectant heart, ready to hear and respond to God’s word, we will never be disappointed.
Dear Lord,
As a roman centurion, Cornelius’ attitude to hearing from You would have put many Jewish people to shame. Help me to come to your house with the same sense of eagerness and anticipation as him so that You can move as You want to. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.