The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11

The Acts of the Apostles 

Chapter 

11

1. Now the apostles and the believers who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles had also accepted the word of God. 2. So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticised him. 3. saying, "Why did you go to uncircumcised men and eat with them?"

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11 verses 1 to 3)


Oh Holy Spirit of God I thank You for never denying anybody of Your Holy presence. If there is someone who creates such barriers to Your mighty presence is us believers, who may think that Faith in You is something private or something that is reserved only for Roman Catholics! This is a great mistake on our part, one that we must be careful not to make, for by means of such an error, we are blocking the conversion and salvation of many non-Christians and this, goes against Your plan for our salvation.


4. Then Peter began to explain it to them, step by step, saying, 5. "I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance, I saw a vision. There was something like a large sheet coming down from heaven, being lowered by its four corners; and it came close to me. 6. As I looked at it closely I saw four-footed animals, beasts of prey, reptiles, and birds of the air. 7. I also heard a voice saying to me, 'Get up, Peter; kill and eat,'8. But I replied, 'By no means, Lord; for nothing profane or unclean has ever entered my mouth.' 9. But a second time the voice answered from heaven, 'What God has made clean, you must not call profane.' 10. This happened three times; then everything was pulled up again to heaven. 11. At that very moment three men from Caesarea, arrived at the house where we were. 

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11 verses 4 to 11)


Oh God as in the case of Peter at the time that he received Your vision he did not understand its meaning, however when the time to give testimony arrived, You gave him all the answers and filled in the missing pieces  of the jig-saw puzzle. Throughout our daily life, and even in the life and history of the Roman Catholic Church many decisions were made and are being made that may be misunderstood, however in time all the clouds will be cleared and all our questions will be answered.


12. The Spirit told me to go with them and not to make a distinction between them and us. These six brothers also accompanied me, and we entered the man's house, 13. He told us how he had seen the angel standing in his house and saying, 'Send to Joppa and bring Simon who is called Peter; 14. he will give you a message by which you and your entire household will be saved.'

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11 verses 12 to 14)


Oh Jesus how much I wish that I am so close to You at all times, so much that I can live my life according to the promptings of Your Holy Spirit. I honestly pray for this today. I am aware that if I am to be totally led by Your Spirit, I will be led to areas and people whom I do not know, and even situations that I am not aware of, where Your presence and message of salvation are both missing. I invite all the readers at this moment to sing with me this prayer to the Holy Spirit of God. 


Prayer to the Holy Spirit


15. And as I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell upon them just as it had upon us at the beginning. 16, And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said. 'John baptised with water, but you will be baptised with the Holy Spirit.' 17. If then God gave them the same gift that he gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could hinder God?"

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11 verses 15 to 17)


Oh God, it seems that one of the gifts of Your Holy Spirit helps us to remember Your Word at the right time, for a good purpose and with a good intention. I was not aware of this. I thank You for this understanding oh God. Now I understand that when we talk about You, it is Your Spirit that is really talking and not me, my memory or myself.


18. When they heard this, they were silenced. And they praised God, saying, "Ten God has given even to the Gentiles the repentance that leads to life."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11 verse 18)


Oh God, You have opened the doors to welcome all who desire to believe in You. If this was not so Christianity would not have come to Malta as according to Your will by means of the Apostle Paul. I thank You, my God, for permitting us to be included in the list of nations and countries who were planned to receive You and Your Message of Salvation. I also pray for those nations who are aware of You but for the time being do not believe in You. As in the case of Ecumenicism we are to respect the beliefs of others and others are to respect our belief in You. 


19.Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that took place over Stephen travelled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, and they spoke the word to no one except Jews.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11 verse 19)


Oh God even to this very day those who believe in You are still being persecuted and have had to flee from their country of origin at the risk of their life. However, oh God persecution does not weaken our faith but strengthens it especially when keeping in mind that our cause is just and valid and that after these moments of persecution Your salvation awaits us.


20. But among them were some men of Cyprus and Cyrene who. on coming to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists also, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. 21. The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number became believers and turned to the Lord. 

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11 verses 20 to 21)


Oh God, You speak and work in ways that we can either predict or fully understand, As in the case of these believers who fled as a result of persecution, You choose to intervene on our behalf by means of anybody and any situation, in order to have Your message spread. Moreover, You are able to change what appears to be a negative situation into a positive one on our behalf.


22. News of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23. When he came and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast devotion; 24. for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were brought to the Lord.


(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11 verses 22 to 24)


Oh God, we are also to be happy as a Church when we hear positive news of conversions in the Roman Catholic Church or in relation to a major issue. If You would like to be informed about such positive updates and share the joy of the Good News I invite you to click on the following link and subscribe freely to the following link: -The Christian Post


25. Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26. and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for an entire year they met with the church and taught a great many people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called "Christians".

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11 verses 25 to 26)


Oh God, I thank You for making changes in our plans so that Your will be done. If Paul had resisted Barnabas in favor of his own agenda, the people of Antioch would not have benefited as much as they did. Moreover, this day is very important for us, for on this day our name as 'Christians' was born.


27. At that time prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28. One of them named Agabus stood up and predicted by the Spirit that there would be a severe famine over all the world; and this took place during the reign of Claudius. 29. The disciples determined that according to their ability, each would send relief to the believers living in Judea; 30. this they did, sending it to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.


(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11 verses 27 to 29)


Oh God during the times of the Apostles there was a world -wide famine. During our times, there are still famines in the world and the Roman Catholic Church generously turns on us believers to contribute financially both in kind and in active presence towards countries experiencing such situations. Many Youths go to share this experience doing missionary work, however, the greatest need that is being felt in the world is also of a spiritual nature. We are famished for Your presence oh God. Even if we do not admit it, we need You more than the money we earn, more than our luxuries, more than our careers, more than ever before. 

Therefore, I would like to end this chapter with the following prayer:

Oh, Jesus. God my Father I pray to You sow the seeds of new vocations in the hearts of our sons and daughters, for indeed we are hungry and thirsty for You and Your presence more than ever. A lot of theories and beliefs are being spread and atheism is on the increase. We are living in a world that is becoming more scientific and less spiritual. Therefore, I pray that You renew our souls with a revived spiritual fervour so in all our circles so that we can continue to spread Your message throughout all the world. I pray that we become more aware of our vocation as missionaries with the obligation of spreading the faith by both actions and words Amen.

The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10

The Acts of the Apostles 

Chapter 

10

1. In Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion of the Italian Cohort, as it was called. 2. He was a devout man who feared God with all his household; he gave alms generously to the people and prayed constantly to God. 

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 1 to 2)

Oh God my Father You can be the God of all who accept You as being their God, even those people as in the case of this centurion who was a soldier in the Roman Empire. May we all be like this person who not only believed himself but also encouraged his household to stay firm in the faith, even though if he was caught the consequences might have been negative both for himself and even for his family. Oh God I pray for all Fathers of many families such as myself, that we do our utmost to keep our families in the faith, even though we may appear to be old fashioned when compared to the trends of the current period.

3. One afternoon  at about three o'clock he had a vision in which he clearly saw an angel of God coming in and saying to him, "Cornelius." 4. He stared at him in terror and said, "What is it, Lord?" He answered, " Your prayers and your alms have ascended as a memorial  before God.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 3 to 4)


Oh God if anyone  thinks that our prayers to You are a waste of time because we pray a lot but get a few replies, one must stop and consider if what we are praying is good for us or not. On the other hand we need to consider that God  does not have only our interests but also that of others. If I am praying for a change in employment maybe to work as a waiter, there might be a waiter who wants to work as a call agent. In order to make the transfer of job possible one has either to quit or be sacked for the other to take his place and this obviously takes time. Therefore we need  to pray for the gift of patience until God's plans  unfold.


5. Now send men to Joppa for a certain Simon who is called Peter; 6 he is lodging with Simon, a tanner,  whose house is by the seaside. "

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verse  5)


On reflecting oh God You can also send others to refer to us by means of others. May we always be tools in Your hands oh God. Amen.


7. When the angel who spoke to him had left, he called two of his slaves and a devout soldier from the ranks of those who served him, 8. and after telling them everything, he sent them to Joppa.

(The Acts of  the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 7 to 8)


As in the case of Abraham in the old Testament without being aware we might being hospitable to angels or people with a good name as in the case of the devout soldier. You also chose those who were devout to You as in the case of the Apostles, Moreover You also chose us and sent us on a mission of salvation both for ourselves and even for others. As Christians or Roman Catholics we are each others angel with the role of helping each other in their spiritual life.


9. About noon the next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10. He became hungry and wanted something to eat; and while it was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 13. He saw the heaven opened and something like a large sheet coming down, being lowered to the ground by its four corners. 12. In it were all kinds of four-footed creatures and reptiles and birds of the air. 13. Then he heard a voice saying, "Get up, Peter; kill and eat." 14. But Peter said, "By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is profane or unclean." 15. The voice said to him again, a second time, "What God has made clean, you must not call profane."

(The Acts of  the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 9 to 15)


Oh God by means of these verse You have brought together the teachings of the Old Testament as found in the Book of Genesis face to face with the Acts of the Apostles that is in the New Testament period. By means of Peter's vision and his hunger pangs, You updated Your teachings. At times as in the case of Peter we  feel comfortable living according to our old ways, however You are telling us to take hold of our Bibles in light of the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church and download a new service pack. This may not be easy to adjust to, for old habits die hard as in the case when we used to receive You in our mouth instead of on our hands. As a consequence there were some who experienced psychological problems until they accepted the fact that they were permitted to hold You in their hands before they receive You. I pray oh God that You give me the courage to admit my errors and apologise for any misconception that I might have thought and said and be ready to admit our mistakes. Amen


16. This happened three times, and the thing was suddenly taken up to heaven.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verse 16)


According to Joseph who was given the gift of interpreting dreams once a vision or dream happened three times it was already in progress, therefore this was actually taking place. This is the time for us to evaluate our lives and put a stop to any false belief that is hindering us from living as whole persons. 


17. Now while Peter was greatly puzzled about what to make of the vision that he had seen, suddenly the men sent by Cornelius appeared. They were asking for Simon's house and were standing by the gate.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verse 17)


Oh God at times we do not understand the meaning behind actions that take place in our lives. As in the case of Peter while in the situation we remain perplexed and without words, however knowing our mental limitation as humans and our strong motivation to rationalise everything You are teaching us not to waste our time in reasoning out the situation but to accept and obey Your will even if at the time the reality seems to be a bit fuzzy, for what we do not understand at that time You will reveal to us later on when the time is right.


18. They called out to ask whether Simon, who was called Peter was staying there. 19. While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Look, three men are searching for you. 20. Now get up,  go down, and go with them without hesitation; for I have sent them."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 18 to 20)


Oh Father Your Spirit is one of action indeed ans surely not a passive one. When living a life led by Your Spirit one is always on the go as in the case of Peter and my others. In two verses meaning verses 18 to 20 there is a barrage of verbs that are associated with action and speed. These are the following:- Look; Now; get up, go down, go with them, without hesitation!


21. So peter went down to the men and said, "I am the one you are looking for; what is the reason for your coming?

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verse 21)


Oh Peter indeed You are walking in the foot steps of Jesus. When in the garden of Gethsemane the guards came looking for Jesus who fearlessly admitted which of the men he was and gave the guards the opportunity to take him without showing the least sign of resistance, while Peter had already his hand resting on his dagger. However this time Peter was prepared for the event by the power of the Holy Spirit who showed him the good intents of the messengers of Joppa. During moments of dilemma the same Holy Spirit illuminates our intellect by making us aware of any trap that we might be heading into amen.


22. They answered, "Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house to hear what you have to say." 23. So Peter invited them in and gave them lodging. The next day he got up and went with them, and some of the believers from Joppa accompanied him

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 22 to 23)


Oh God that we may be always ready to open our hearts to dwell in so that we can welcome and accept the good news of Your Salvation. I would never prefer a better place than to find a lodging with You oh Jesus! May I always be open to receive the never ending bounty of the messages found in the Bible Amen.


24. The following day they came to Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verse 24)


Oh God and Father, what great faith did Cornelius have, so much that it empowered him with the gift of perseverance and generosity. Not only had he benefited from believing in You but he also wanted to share the wonderful experience of believing in You with others who were close to him such as family and friends. 


25. On Peter's arrival Cornelius met him, and falling at his feet, worshipped him. 26. But Peter made him get up, saying, "Stand up; I am only a mortal."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 25 to 26)


Oh God our praise and worship is to be given only to You and not to material goods or people. It is the case that worship is being given to parts of the body such as feet and even apparel such as shoes. In such cases worship is given to both the user and the article, which should be given to You Amen. On the other hand we are to be careful for  even our children can be a source of worship and attention that may outweigh the love and attention given to You my God and Father.


27. And as he talked with him, he went in and found that many had assembled; 28. and he said to them, "You yourselves know that it is unlawful for a Jew to associate with or to visit a Gentile; but God has shown me that I should not call anyone profane or unclean. 29. So when I was sent for, I came without objection. Now may I ask why you sent for me?"

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 27 to 29)


Oh God by means of these verses You gave me another lesson in not being judgemental or ever showing any form of discrimination, for as in the vision of Peter you told him not to call profane anything that You have made clean.  Therefore when somebody asks us to help him or else we happen to meet somebody who needs our help even if the person is of a different religion or country we are not to hold back our support. Amen.


30. Cornelius replied, "Four days ago at this very hour, at three o'clock, I was praying in my house when suddenly a man in dazzling clothes stood before me. 31. He said, 'Cornelius, your prayer has been heard and your alms have been remembered before God. 32. Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon, who is called Peter; he is staying in the  home of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.' 33. Therefore I sent for you immediately, and you have been kind enough to come. So now all of us are here in the presence of God to listen to all that the Lord has commanded you to say."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 30 to 33)


Oh God at times to understand what You say to my heart is not always possible. You speak by means of different people and situations and at times I cannot connect one message with another and as in the case of Cornelius would need more clarification. 


However, I thank You for giving me the understanding by means of the father where I confess my sins and the good counsel that You give me by means of this instrument in Your hand for he helps me to understand my dilemmas, Moreover I still thank You for these messages, for when I am at peace with myself in a spirit of prayer even after time has passed You explain to me the meaning of such events and messages and then I realise what You had planned for me, and why certain events happened.   


34. Then Peter began to speak to them: "I truly understand that God shows no partiality, 35. but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 34 to 35)


Oh God this is one quality that i love You more for. Showing no partiality means that You are biased against nobody regardless of ones belief. You welcome everybody whether the person is a Muslim or from any other religion. If a person shows belief in You and lives according to Your ways this is acceptable to You my God.


36. You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ-he is Lord of all.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verse 36)


On reflecting Your message contained a simple message that is not impossible to live. If it were so, You would not have given it to us. What makes it difficult and challenging to live Your Message of peace and love, is that as humans we are clothed with a body that if left to its own ways, without any form of restriction or control it will rebel and go against Your Ways. By default we are all sinners, however where it not for Your grace and loving mercy and the power of Your Holy Spirit our chances of salvation would be non existent, for although we wish to live according to Your ways, our sinful nature as in the flesh is in constant war or struggle with our spirit which is Your Holy presence that dwells in us.


37. That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: 38, how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39. We are witnesses to all that he did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; 40. but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear, 41. not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 37 to 41)


Oh God my Father this is also the creed that I believe in, the message that as a Roman Catholic I am bound to preach to others so that they also receive the faith and gift of the Holy Spirit, if they accept You in their lives. This is the main aim of my sharing this blog, so that others may read, reflect and believe in Your word not in mine and ultimately receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.


42. He commanded  us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. 43. All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 42 to 43)


Oh Jesus this is also my creed and the message that I am duty bound to deliver to others. Everywhere I go I am a loaded gun ready to deliver the message of the Gospels. I thank You oh Jesus for all the people that You permit me to meet so that I can discuss in a friendly environment Your love and the wonders that You perform in our lives. While I was at the clinic yesterday You permitted me to meet a couple who are 'born again Christians' although we did not agree on all the issues we still agreed on Your love and the power of Your healing grace.


44. While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. 45. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles, 46. for they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter said,

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 44 to 46)


Oh God how caring and loving You are! You do not show partiality in favour of Roman Catholics and discrimination against those who do not yet know You. You generously and lovingly give the gift of the Holy Spirit to those who desire it.


47.  "Can anyone wit-hold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?" 48. So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they invited him to stay for several days.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 10 verses 47 to 48)


Oh Jesus You do not make any discrimination among those worthy to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit or not. This is such a wonderful gift, that we all should pray for regardless of our creed. Amen


Oh God Almighty I would like to end this chapter with the following prayer while also by clicking on the following link which directs us to a prayer to the Holy Spirit


Prayer to the Holy Spirit:-



Oh God my Father in name of all the world and all its nations regardless if they believe in You or not I pray that today You anoint the world with a renewed baptism. The baptism of the Holy Spirit, so that You may come and dwell in our hearts. I also pray that this blog will continue to spread throughout the world so that others can experience You and Your healing word. May You disinfect the Internet from all forms of malicious site and bless each server, so that all will proclaim Your Name and be blessed Amen.










  




























    

The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9

The Acts of the Apostles

 Chapter 9

1. Meanwhile Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the LORD, went to the high priest. 2. and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any who belonged to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 1 to 2)

Although You Holy Spirit never stops working oh God, the negative spirit of evil is also always at work trying to win over one soul after another. This spirit is so bold that it even tries to wager with You oh God as in the case of Job, whom You love so much.

While on this issue I would like to share this song that although has been labelled as being of a Satanist nature has a positive value that we can benefit from if viewed from the perspective that You oh God are always victorious over the forces of evil!

The Spanish Train


3. Now as he was going along and approaching Damascus, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4. He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" 5. He asked, "Who are you Lord?" The reply came, I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 6. But get up and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 3 to 6)


Oh God You are so merciful, that You intervene in our lives during precious moments when we are about to perform our biggest mistakes as in the case of Paul. Just at the right moment You pull the hand break so that we can make the U turn leading to our conversion. Although it seems to be that You blinded Paul, but in truth You replaced physical sight with the sight of faith which made him more receptive to accept Your will.


7. The men who were travelling with him stood speechless because they heard the voice but saw no one. 8. Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9. For three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 7 to 9)


At the beginning of the time of our conversion we need the help and support of others to help us on our way. As in the case of Paul God provides such people. At the time the eyes of faith will start opening and after a time according to the will of God You give us full spiritual sight by which God can have fellowship and relationship with us. In relation to how God works in our live especially during times of persecution I would like you to click on the following link:-

The experience of two ex Muslim girl converts


10. Now there was a disciple in Damascus named "Ananias." He answered, "Here I am, Lord," 11. The Lord said to him, "Get up and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul. At this moment he is praying, 12. and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 10 to 12)


At the right moment oh God You send us people who act as beacons of light to guide us in our ways. Your invitation to change our ways may take on a variety of forms, such as an invitation from a Charismatic Renewal follower to attend a meeting or from any other organisation, a family member or friend and many other means that may not be all that positive, such as an accident or the death of a friend or family member.


13. But Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints in Jerusalem; 14. and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who invoke your name."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 13 to 14)


I can only imagine the fear of Ananias. If the leaders of ISIS was to experience the same conversion of St. Paul and come to Malta to be baptised and become a priest or a bishop or even a Pope, I can imagine the panic that we would experience as humans and as Roman Catholics along with the security that would be on red alert.


15. But the Lord said to him, "Go for he is an instrument whom I have chosen to bring my name before Gentiles and kings and before the people of Israel; 16. I myself will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 15 to 16)


Oh God even though St. Paul persecuted You through Your followers still You forgave him and brought out the goodness in him by choosing Paul of all people as a means of spreading the 'Good News" of Your Kingdom throughout the world of his times.


Oh God I also thank You for having chosen me to spread Your Word throughout the world of my times by means of this blog via the Internet. Even though I have committed many mistakes throughout my life, both in the past and in the present, You still have mercy on me and help me to continue spreading Your Word as found in the Bible.


17. So Ananias went and entered the house. He laid his hands on Saul and said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on your way here, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit". 18. And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes and his sight was restored. Then he got up and was baptized, 19. and after taking some food, he regained his strength. For several days he was with them in Damascus, 20. and immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, "He is the Son of God."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 17 to 20)


As in fishing, one needs to be at the right place, and at the right time. I thank You my Father for sending such people as Ananias at the right time. On going back and even very recently I remember the many people that You sent to help me in this daily journey of my salvation. When I had almost lost faith in the human race, while I was at a shop buying cheese cakes, I met a man who had experienced healing by means of the Eucharist and we ended up talking on the great wonders that You have done in our lives. This man felt so much at home during our brief conversation that he gave me a card and invited me to attend an Eucharistic group which is also available on line live streaming.


On reflecting on verses 17 to 19 it seems that You fed the Apostle Paul spiritually as much as physically for after having spent some days with the other apostles he also started proclaiming Your name.  I thank You Jesus for these 14 years of praying on Your Word. As You know this is our fourteenth year of praying on Your Word. Throughout these years You have been feeding and nourishing me with all the necessary vitamins. I pray that my immune system against my own evil self will continue to be boosted throughout the course of time. Amen.


21. All who heard him were amazed and said, "Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem among those who invoked this name? And has he not come here for the purpose of bringing them bound before the chief priests?"

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verse 21)


Oh God as much as You had not escaped the judgemental attitude of humanity when You were called a drunk, likewise we also cannot avoid being labelled. On witnessing the changes that You have done in us, others have the option of either remembering us for our new self that has been renewed in You or by our previous sinful acts. The choice is in that of the eye of the beholder.


22. Saul became increasingly more powerful and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Messiah

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verse 22)


Oh God when we offer ourselves for your service You can use us to achieve great things, that we have never ever thought of doing. We are instruments in the hand of God who is able to do anything at any time.


23. After some time had passed, the Jews plotted to kill him, 24. but their plot became known to Saul. They were watching the gates day and night so that they might kill him; 25. but his disciples took him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket.

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 23 to 25)


Oh Jesus how unpredictable we are, when Paul was on the wrong track capturing Christians he had all the support of the Jews of his time, now that he had converted to accepting You as his Lord and God they were totally against him so much as wanting to kill him. The same case happened to You. On entering Jerusalem the people called out hallelujah to the son of David, the same people later on cried for you to be crucified. Indeed we are not reliable or either to be fully trusted. I pray oh Jesus that You cure me of my negative ways and make me more consistent and reliable on both a human and spiritual level. Amen.


26. When he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples; and they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple.

(Acts of the Apostles chapter 9 verse 26)


Oh Jesus at times the image we project reflects who we really are and others judge us by what they see and hear. Even though You make radical changes in us, others still tend to focus on our negative side. Moreover fear also plays a key role in accepting others as they are especially those of us, who had a negative background such as Paul. Oh God I pray that we learn to accept others and love them as they are and not as we wish them to be. Amen.


27. But Barnabas took him, brought him to the apostles, and described for them how om the road he had seen the Lord, who had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus.

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verse 27)


Oh Jesus how I wish that I had people such as Barnabas who would recommend me as being a good person to proclaim Your Gospel. I also wish that this blog had Papal Acceptance and Approval. This would mean alot to me, even if I had to be recommended to have audience with the Pope himself.

28. So he went in and out among them in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. 29. He spoke and argued with the Hellenists; but they were attempting to kill him. 30. When the believers learned of it they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 28 to 30)


Oh God since the beginning You had different plans for Your servant Paul. It was evident that Your pathways are different from ours. It seems that You did not permit Paul to remain with the rest of the apostles but in other areas. At times it is time to move on for a new beginning in different areas of life.


31. Meanwhile the church throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and was built up. Living in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers.

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verse 31)


Oh God this is also my prayer that as Christians and Roman Catholics we continue to be formed and experience spiritual growth for at times I think that we have reached a point of stagnation. Many people give me the impression that they are outwardly Christians however when it comes to sensitive issues such as divorce and marriage which effect us directly we are Christians or Catholics no longer. Oh God I pray for a spiritual revival so that we can all continue to grow in spirit and be built and even increase in genuine numbers as in the case of the churches of Judea, Galilee and Samaria.


32. Now as Peter went here and there among all the believers, he came down also to the saints living in Lydda.

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verse 32)


It is interesting oh God that Peter addressed the group of new believers as already being saints. Moreover You gave us a calling to be holy, therefore it follows that we are all saints. I thank You oh God for giving us this dignity as being Your Sons and Daughters amen.


33. There he found a man named Aenas, who had been bedridden for eight years, he was paralyzed. 34. Peter said to him, "Aenas, Jesus Christ heals you; get up and make your bed! And immediately he got up. 35. And all the residents of Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 33 to 35)


As in the case of Aeneas we may be spiritually bedridden for years. We may think that we are progressing in our spiritual life, however we may be spiritually bedridden stuck on a particular issue.


36. Now in Joppa there was a disciple whose name was Tabitha, which in Greek is Dorcas. She was devoted to good works and acts of charity. 37. At that time she became ill and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in a room upstairs. 

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 36 and 37)


Oh God as much as we care for the body by providing a place of rest at the point of death, You care more by providing us a place of rest both for the body and better for the soul, which is more important than the body. I thank You for caring so much as to have reserved us places in our heavenly home Amen.


38. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, who heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him with the request, "Please come to us without delay." 39. So Peter got up and went with them; and when he arrived, they took him to the room upstairs. All the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing tunics and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was with them.

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 38 to 39)


Oh God every day of my life You give me a different calling by means of others and by means of situations that You wish me to experience. I applied for the job of a social worker but for the millionth time You showed me that it is still not yet the time and that maybe I may be hurt by the experience because I am still not ready to experience such an occupation. I realise that I have enough stress on my mind and the added demands may have been more stressful than rewarding, therefore I thank You from the bottom of my heart for my not being accepted Amen.

40. Peter put all of them outside, and then he knelt down and prayed. He turned to the body and said, "Tabitha, get up."

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verse 40)


Oh Jesus every day of our lives You also look at us and call us by our names pleading on us to wake up from the way we are living. You ask us to wake up from our dream of worldly illusions and false hopes and become conscious of the reality that we have a loving Father who is dying to welcome us in his arms if only we accept Him as our Father. He asks us to get up and start living instead of existing, being a pawn in the machinery of society. You oh God offer us the dignity of being true sons and daughters but we prefer to be slaves of our thoughts, emotions and social trends! How blind we are.

41. He gave her his hand and helped her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he showed her to be alive. 42. This became known throughout Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. 43. Meanwhile he stayed in Joppa for some time with a certain Simon, a tanner.

(Acts of the Apostles Chapter 9 verses 41 to 42)

Oh Jesus every day You offer us Your helping hand in order to give us new life, however we do not always accept it for, at times we prefer to follow the ways of the world. However You love us so much that Your hand always remains outstretched and available for us. The hand of salvation is always there for anybody, even though as sinners we do not merit it. This is what I call pure love oh God.

I would like to end this chapter with the following prayer:

Oh God my Father, may You give us a spirit that is welcoming to those new comers to the Roman Catholic Faith meaning Christianity so that they may feel respected and at home, even though they may have been members of different religions. These people and others who are not yet Christians are sill are brothers and sisters and we are to treat them likewise. Oh God I also pray that You raise us from our death, for at times we think we are fully alive, and on reflecting we discover that we are still enslaved by particular sins that are blocking us from being fully alive as humans and also as Christians or Roman Catholics. Without knowing we may be living a lifestyle that is inferior to what we are supposed to be living.

The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8

The Acts of the Apostles

 Chapter 8

1. That day a severe persecution began against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout the countryside of Judea and Samaria.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verse 1)  

During our times oh Jesus the Roman Catholic Church is still facing persecution both internally, and even externally. Muslim groups such as ISIS are wrecking havoc by killing many Christians for what they believe and for who they believe in that is You oh God. However the greatest persecution that the Roman Catholic Church is facing is being caused by us Roman Catholics.  We are not setting a good example of our belief in You and many are being compelled to join other religions such as Islam. Others have made the mistake of viewing the Church from a human material perspective and began considering all from a human perspective and negating the divine nature. Some of us had to renounce their homelands, and even their places of work due to the persecution that they experienced from fellow 'Christians' who made life a living hell for them.

2. Devout men buried Stephen and made loud lamentation over him. 3. But Saul was ravaging the church by entering house after house; dragging off both men and women, he committed them to prison.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 2 to 3)


During our times oh Jesus Your Church is also facing times of persecution. This terrorist group Isis is ravaging Roman Catholics and is killing many by torturing beheading and even raping Catholics because they believe in You. For more details please click on the following link:-


Isis attacks on Christians


4. Now those who were scattered went from place to place, proclaiming the word.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verse 4)


The new followers of the apostles or the new community of Christians were, so empowered by the power of the Holy Spirit by which they had been baptised, that not even the threat of being killed as in the case of Stephen was enough to stop them. Although they were scattered far from their homeland this did not discourage them at all. Moreover even during our times we also have the same assignment that of spreading the Word of God, even if this moments or periods of trials and tribulation. Spreading Your Word oh God is not restricted to preaching or writing blogs, but even by the way we live we are also setting a practical example of Your love that is written on every page of Scripture.


5. Philip went down to the city of Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah to them. 6. The crowds with one accord listened eagerly to what was said by Philip, hearing and seeing the signs that he did, 7. for unclean spirits, crying with loud shrieks, came out of many who were possessed; and many others who were paralyzed or lame were cured. 8. So there was great joy in that city.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 5 to 8)


God was with Philip and this was reflected by the positive acts that were done by You oh God in the person of Philip. Today there still exist such burning flames who preach in groups and in Your name perform acts of healing. I pray that more of such people continue to perform such acts even though they be of a protestant church, for even though such people may not be Roman Catholics, they still believe in You oh Jesus, and nobody who has such a spirit can ever say anything against You and Your holy name. God bless such people whom I consider as my friends because all people who are friends of Jesus are my mother, brother, father, sister cousin and other members of God's big family, whatever their race, belief or colour.


9. Now a certain man named Simon had previously practiced magic in the city and amazed the people of Samaria, saying that he was someone great.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verse 9)


Throughout the course of history there were many people who projected themselves as being the high and mighty conquerors of the world. People such as Adolf Hitler and many others. However Oh God there was and there never will be anybody like You who since ancient times was backed by prophecy that was either fulfilled, about to be fulfilled or will be fulfilled in the future as in the book of revelations. Oh God even though some may try to disprove Your existence, nobody will ever succeed, not even the wise Charles Darwin who attempted to refute You as the Sole creator by creating the 'Theory of Evolution', which is completely non reliable when compared to scripture, archaeology and other sources such as history.


10. All of them, from the least to the greatest, listened to him eagerly, saying, "This man is the power of God that is called Great."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verse 10)


As humans we may be greatly influenced by the power and mystery of magic. Some of us may end up having a go at magic and end up in deep trouble by misusing it by means of the use of negative means such as boards and cards. On witnessing the power of evil as in the case of Simon one may easily make the mistake of attributing spiritual connotations and think that the simple trick is an act which has it s origins from God.

In order to help us understand how magics and trickery can be used to fool us into thinking that a miracle has taken place please click on the following link:-


Tricks faked as a miracle


11. And they listened eagerly to him because for a long time he had amazed them with his magic.


(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verse 11)


In the case of sin or sinful acts the same thing happens. It is like we have fallen under the effect of a spell by which we are controlled. It is only when somebody intervenes and pops us out of the effect of the spell that we become aware of the consequences of our act. It is as if we have been living in a bubble that somebody bursts to bring us back home and aware of our selves again.


12. But when they believed Philip, who was proclaiming the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verse 12)


Oh Jesus even though we are surrounded by many people who profess to have the good news or some other form of proposed way for salvation, or even a state of absolute atheism, we are to remain faithful to You and to Your Holy Word as found in the Bible and give witness to it, by means of what we say and practise in our every day life.


13. Even Simon himself believed. After being baptized, he stayed constantly with Philip and was amazed when he saw the signs and great miracles that took place.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verse 13)


Oh Jesus one can accept to follow You and Your ways, however only under the inspiration of signs and miracles as in the case of Simon, whose intentions may have been not totally sincere. I pray oh Jesus for many Roman Catholics and Christians who are baptised in the Church but in truth are not really and truly convinced of their belief in You, but are there simply because they were baptised by their parents and in order to be socially accepted. I also pray for myself, that I never become a hypocrite in my faith and attitude towards You. Help me please to live according to my faith, for this is a challenge that I cannot live by myself because I am still as weak as a new born baby!


14. Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. 15. The two went down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit 16. (for as yet the Spirit had not come upon any of them; they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus).

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 14 to 16)


I can only imagine the joy in heaven that You oh God feels when we really and truly change our sinful ways and give our lives to You. In the case of the Apostles they wanted the new converts to receive baptism in the Holy Spirit and not simply the baptism with water as in the case of John's baptism. With reference to the baptism of the Holy Spirit which I have personally experienced please click on the following link:-

Baptism of the Holy Spirit


I would also like to share a personal experience of a person who also received the baptism of the Holy Spirit:-

Experience of Baptism of the Holy Spirit


17. Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. 18. Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19. saying, "Give me also this power so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 17 to 19)


As in the case of many people, there are some who think that with money they can achieve unlimited power that is stronger than that of God, moreover the power of the Holy Spirit is not like that of a magic wand that grants the wishes of the user.


20. But Peter said to him, "May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain God's gift with money! 21. You have no part or share in this, for your heart is not right before God.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 20 to 21)


Many things can be purchased but not spiritual graces or means. These gifts are only given by God to those who are chosen by Him and no to anybody.  This is why priests are ordained because they have their hearts set on You and are dedicated to walk in Your ways.


22. Repent therefore of this wickedness of yours, and pray to the Lord that, if possible, the intent of your heart may be forgiven you. 23. For I see that you are in the gall of bitterness and the chains of wickedness."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 22 to 23)


Verses 22 and 23 make us aware of not only the sinful act but also the intention. At times our intentions for doing an action are not possibly bad or evil, however the outcome may still end up to be negative. Therefore before performing an action we are to stop and think if our initial intentions are based on the will and ways of God or not.


24. Simon answered, "Pray for me to the Lord, that nothing of what you have said may happen to me."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verse 24)


Oh God what men say can be reversed but Your Words will remain forever amen.


25. Now after Peter and John had testified and spoken the word of the Lord, they returned to Jerusalem, proclaiming the good news to many villages of the Samaritans.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verse 25)


Oh Jesus the role of the apostle is never ending. Even though Peter and John were on their way home, they still continued proclaiming the message of the good news. They did not take a week end break. As Christians we are to be always ready to proclaim Your Word in every circumstance where You call us to go, at work, home or elsewhere.


26. Then an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Get up and go toward the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." (This is a wilderness road.) 27. So he got up and went. Now there was an Ethiopian eunuch, a court official of the Candace, queen of the Ethiopians, in charge of her entire treasury. He had come to Jerusalem to worship 28. and was returning home; seated in his chariot, he was reading the prophet Isaiah.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 26 to 28)


Oh Holy Spirit of God You make now discrimination between the rich and powerful and the poor and lowly. You wish that all believe in You even those who are educated as in the case of the Ethiopian official to whom You sent Philip while in a spirit of prayer meditating on the book of Isaiah. Even though the official was not a baptised Christian he still came to worship You and in turn You did not deny him Your presence. Therefore oh God Your presence is for any body who accepts it regardless of the persons creed or country of origin.


29. Then the Spirit said to Philip, "Go over to this chariot and join it" 30. So Philip ran up to it and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah. He asked, "Do you understand what you are reading?" 31. He replied, "How can I, unless someone guides me?" And he invited Philip to get in and sit beside him.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 29 to 31)


Oh Jesus this is the role of the Roman Catholic Church and that of all Christians, that of praying on the Gospel, the entire Bible. In a spirit of prayer oh God You explain the message of each verse in the Bible so that I can grow spiritually and even on a holistic level as a human. I thank You Jesus for Your never ending supply of biblical verses that You give me each day when I meditate on different chapters of the Bible.


32. Now the passage of the scripture that he was reading was this: "Like a sheep he was led to the slaughter, and like a lamb silent before its shearer, so he does not open his mouth. 33. In his humiliation justice was denied him. Who can describe his generation? For his life was taken away from the earth."

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 32 to 33)


Oh Father of humility King of justice how much You love us. You chose to take the cross as the altar on which to redeem my sins. You paid the price in full by permitting us humans to humble You and sentence You to a lowly death which was fit for criminals and murderers and not for the Son of God. When confronted by such a reality you remained silent and for our love and redemption accepted every whip of the soldier, every spit and insult punch and kick and most of all the nails that ripped Your skin apart as they were driven into your body with no mercy or kindness. You accepted all because You love and care for us and our salvation. What great love!


34. The eunuch asked Philip, "About whom, may I ask you, does the prophet say this, about himself or about someone else?" 35. Then Philip began to speak, and starting with this scripture, he proclaimed to him the good news about Jesus.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 34 to 35)


Oh Jesus I thank You oh Jesus for this new vocation that of spreading Your Word as found in the Bible with all the people of the World. I Thank You for the Internet, Facebook, Twitter and other forms of Social Media such as You Tube by which Your Word is proclaimed. I Thank You for linking me with such sources Amen. Although I am not a theologian or a graduate in theology I thank You oh Holy Spirit of God for the insights and reflection that You share with me, so that I can share with others. Amen.


36. As they were going along the road, they came to some water; and the eunuch said, "Look, here is water! What is to prevent me from being baptized?" 38. He commanded the chariot to stop, and both of them, Philip and the eunuch, went down into the water, and Philip baptized him. 39. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord snatched Philip away; the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing. 40. But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he was passing through the region, he proclaimed the good news to all the towns until he came to Caesarea.

(The Acts of the Apostles Chapter 8 verses 36 to 40)


Oh God this is a very important question indeed. What is holding us back from being convinced Roman Catholics and or Christians? Maybe we are missing the miracles that Jesus did, the outward physical signs of healing, but what about the inner healing of our spirits. Many people during prayer meetings and healing services and even during adoration to the Holy Eucharist are experiencing inner healing. While going to purchase two cheese cakes from a local retail outlet I met a person whom You saved at the point of death and today is a faithful believer in the Eucharist and who even invited me to attend to a common healing service held in the Church.


I believe that the evil one is making us so proud that we are not accepting You as the one and only Father God of our lives. We proclaim that we are advancing in technology and science however in truth we are blocked because our spirit is in pain and thirsty to communicate with its creator.  For some reason we are caring for the material body by means of fitness programs and crash diets, however we are also putting the Holy Spirit of God who dwells in us on a diet. You wish to communicate with us on a personal level however we have blockages such as unbelief and the messages given to us by the media and other sources that are convincing us not to believe in You and place our trust in You. As a consequence some of us are feeling desperate and the only alternative that they consider as being the way out is death.


I would like to end this chapter with the following prayer:-


Oh God I pray both for myself and for all Roman Catholics and Christians, Muslims and for all the world. May You heal us from our hurts and prejudices and bring us to peace. Our world is being harassed by wars and other forms of conflicts. May we all be convinced in what we believe in. May we become one big family and let friendship and love be a priority over all other issues. May we place our issues aside and focus on the value of love for our selves for each other and for those who believe in You such as myself love for God. Amen