Acts 11:1-8

So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcised believers criticized him, saying, “Why did you go to uncircumcised men and eat with them?” (Acts 11:2, NRSV)

It’s not what you do but who you know, right???? That might work in the business of career ladder-climbing. But that’s not the way Jesus did it. In fact, who he knew often got him into trouble with the ones in-the-know! It didn’t stop with Jesus, either. The above scripture reading says Peter got himself into hot water with the same antics as Jesus, hanging out with the “wrong” people.

Honestly? I’ve always had a whole lot of fun when I hung out with the “wrong” people. I find that the “wrong” people are the ones who allow you to be yourself. There’s no putting on airs. There’s nothing to prove. There is, however, a lot of laughter and sharing of story and good will.

So…it’s not so much who you know as it is how you are when you’re with them. If you’re comfortable enough to grow and listen and learn and stretch yourself mentally, then you’re in good company. Jesus is in your midst.

Holy One, may we keep good company with your people during this waiting time. May we recognize the blessing of your presence among us no matter who keeps company with us. Amen.

– The Reverend Fay Ann Blaylock, Zion United Church of Christ and First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)