Thursday of the Third Week of Easter
The New Testament reading about Philip’s encounter with the eunuch is a story that we can all relate to. In this reading there are four important parts: First, Philip is nudged by the Holy Spirit to go and share his faith. Then Philip listens to this nudging and approaches the man. Philip shares all that he knows and believes. Finally, both Philip and the eunuch’s lives were changed by this encounter.
Think of a time in your life when this same scenario may have played out. The Holy Spirit is always present and working in our lives, nudging us into action. We may not always be listening or aware of the message being sent, but the Spirit is encouraging us. Is there a time or moment when you feel that you knew the Holy Spirit was urging you into action?
Once he was aware of the Spirit’s nudging, Philip did what I think is the hardest part. Philip listened and obeyed. He followed this still small voice, urging him forward, not knowing where it would lead him. It is easy for us to think we can sense where God is calling us, but it is so much harder to say yes and to follow that call.
After taking the leap of faith and initiating contact Philip then shared all that he knew of Christ and of the scriptures. How often are we presented these opportunities and moments to tell others about Christ and we shy away or are too scared to share what we really believe? I think we need to follow the example of Philip here and be willing to pour out our love for Christ with all of those we meet, especially those who ask us about Christ.
Finally, because Philip was willing to take this risk and follow the Spirit’s call, both his life and the life of the eunuch were changed forever. The eunuch was baptized in the river, right then and there. His heart was suddenly on fire for the Lord. By simply sharing his story of Christ Philip was able to have a profound impact on this person. And Philip, his life too was changed. First he was snatched up by the Spirit of the Lord and then spent his days preaching and speaking about Jesus.
Both Philip and the eunuch were blessed and profoundly changed by this encounter. I have experienced these kinds of moments a few times in my life and they are always powerful when I do. I pray today that we may be open to the Spirit’s nudging and that those moments may bear great fruit, both in our lives and in the lives of those with whom we share our love for Christ.
- Amanda Grimm