In our continuing look into Acts after Pentecost I find a few more details about Phillip's ministry important to note. I note particularly the direction of The Angel of The Lord as important or at least instructive.
It is important to note that The Angel of The Lord directed Phillip to a place where there was a man who was already reading The Hebrew Scriptures. This was a man who had interest in The Hebrew Scriptures even if he did not have a clear understanding of what he was reading. It is clear to me that The Angel sent Phillip to a very receptive person.
This single feature interests me and causes me to reflect on my own ministry practices. Am I attentive enough to God's direction to know what is going around me? Do I overlook some of the people who are the closest to me? There is a principle of proximity and receptivity here.
It reminds me of Jesus' words about The Holy Spirit's work in witness. Jesus declared that the work of witness will begin in Jerusalem , Judea, Samaria, and then the whole world (Acts 1:8). In other words, the work of witness begins with those closest to us (Jerusalem). The work of witness began with those close to the follower's of Jesus.
Have you given much thought to the receptive people that might already around you? And here I am speaking of a receptivity to you as a person. This is someone with whom you have some level of relationship. What about family members, work associates, people in your neighborhood, clubs or associations in which you participate?
I think it is a particular challenge for all of us to pay attention to people who might be receptive to us. Have you considered giving intentional effort to develop relationships with those already in close proximity and have some level of receptivity to you?
REFLECT: Can you name a couple of people in your life that may not know Jesus and you could begin to pray for them by name? Would you be willing to have The Holy Spirit help you identify receptive people in your life?