Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing.     Acts 8 : 38 - 39

Bible reading : Acts 8 : 26 - 40

Thought for the week

How often have you ventured out and had a seemingly chance encounter with someone you know, or a complete stranger? A conversation that led to more, was clearly meant to be?

In our reading today the apostle Philip meets an Ethiopian who just happens to be reading from the Book of Isaiah in God’s word. The conversation leads him to hearing from Philip about Jesus, and being baptised there and then!

We are all called to be on the alert for these moments. If someone reveals how they are feeling, or a particular concern, or a conversation that is about faith, often starting with a question, that is often a God – led moment.

We may not feel we have all the theological answers (I certainly don’t!), but we can point to Jesus. We can all listen carefully, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide us.

We can all speak of our faith and trust in Him. We can share what faith and prayer means for us personally. We can share what we are giving thanks for in our lives. We can offer to remember that person in our prayers. The Ethiopian went off rejoicing. How much joy in Jesus a ‘chance’ encounter can bring.

Rev Paul

Prayer for this week

Risen Christ,

your wounds declare your love

for the world

and the wonder of your risen life:

give us compassion and courage

to risk ourselves for those we serve,

to the glory of God the Father. Amen.