Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.”

After living for many different things and causes over my lifetime, at the half-century mark I have tried to simplify my mission and purpose in life. I used to care too much about family drama, church drama, work drama and overall life drama. I cared about things that would not last into eternity.

In this passage, Paul makes it very clear the things we are to focus on: “If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward.” (‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭3‬:‭12‬-‭14‬)

Lately I have tried to hone my focus into a renewed Christ-like mindset each day. This purifies my heart and produces the attitudes and actions that please God. It also helps me weed out the things that will not last and then prioritize the eternal activities.

I think this is an “Ah hah!” moment for Peter. God showed him that focusing on petty things, such as comparing oneself to another based on what you eat, is not what God wants. He does not want us to mainly point out the faults of believers. Instead, we are to look into their hearts and see their potential in Christ.

And so Peter in a way apologizes here to this righteous man for prejudging him. And I must think about those who I have prejudged too. I must look to find the salvation and redemption potential in them. Nothing should stand in the way of welcoming godly followers of Jesus who look, smell, eat, talk, or operate differently than I do. Maybe I can learn something from them?

Lord, thank you for Peter and his honesty to admit that he was wrong. I long to be more honest and humble as I follow you. Teach me to seek your kingdom ways and prioritize the thoughts and actions that build eternal wealth in your Kingdom!