A Special Meeting
Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of the Kandake (which means “queen of the Ethiopians”). This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the Book of Isaiah the prophet. The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.”
Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked.
“How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. Acts 8:26-31
Insight
In today’s passage, we encounter a story about Philip and an Ethiopian man that shows how God can surprise us with meaningful encounters. Philip, a follower of Jesus, was led by God to meet this man, who was confused about a passage in the Bible.
God sets up these special meetings for us. He arranges times when we can connect with others in a way that feels like it was meant to happen. But are we paying attention? Are we ready to join in when God opens these doors?
Philip didn't hesitate when God nudged him to talk to the Ethiopian. He was open to whatever God had planned, even if it seemed strange. And because of his willingness, something amazing happened: the Ethiopian learned about Jesus and his life changed forever.
We have to be open and willing to take part in these moments, for they are often the very moments when God's hand is most clearly at work in our lives.
Yet, all too often, we find ourselves consumed by the noise of our agendas and the distractions of our daily routines, leaving us blind to the sacred opportunities unfolding before us.
It's in those moments of quiet surrender and intentional openness that we position ourselves to recognize and embrace the divine appointments God has prepared for us, ready to be instruments of His love and grace in the lives of those around us.
When we let go of our plans and follow God's lead, incredible things can happen.
The best part is, God's love and message are for everyone. It doesn't matter where we're from or what we've done. Just like the Ethiopian, anyone can hear about Jesus and find hope and forgiveness.
So, let's be like Philip, ready for God's surprises. Let's keep our hearts open and our eyes peeled for those unexpected moments when God wants to use us to make a difference in someone's life.
Reflection
Have you ever experienced a moment where you felt like God was orchestrating a special encounter or opportunity for you? How did you respond?
Reflect on a time when you may have been too preoccupied with your own agenda to notice a divine appointment or opportunity God had set before you. What steps can you take to become more attentive and receptive to God's leading in the future?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I come before you with an open heart, ready to embrace the unexpected encounters and divine appointments you set before me. Grant me the courage and willingness to step out in faith, trusting in your leading and timing. May I remain attentive to your whispers, ready to be a conduit of your love and grace to those I encounter. In Jesus' name, amen.