Acts 10-15

Back during covid I used to write out my Sunday School lessons. Even though I'm not a Sunday school teacher any more miss sharing my thoughts and feelings on that week's lesson. Partly because it gave me a reason to do my studies. So I'm going to give my weekly Come Follow me thoughts and feelings another try. Here is this week's.

One thing I have always loved to do teach. I love that lightbulb moment when a person's eyes light up when they make that connection and understanding clicks into place. I have come to appreciate the power of learning line upon line, a little at a time. I've learned that this is the Lord's way of teaching us, be it in teaching us individually or as a people. I have seen throughout the scriptures that he will not teach us any principal or commandment until we are ready and prepared for it. This principle is beautifully illustrated in Acts chapters 10 through 15, where we see examples of God's love for each of his children and how He uses revelation to teach us.

In Acts chapter 10, we read about the story of Cornelius, a centurion of the Italian Regiment, who had a vision of an angel of God. At this time the Gospel of Jesus Christ was being taught primarily to Jews. The angel told him to send for Peter, a Jewish apostle of Jesus, who also had a vision that challenged his understanding of the separation between Jews and Gentiles. The Lord didn’t come out and just instruct his apostles to start teaching the gentiles but he prepared them first. He helped them to change their view of people and see that God loves each and all of his children and desires to develop a relationship with each of us and not just a specific group.This chapter shows us that God loves each of his children on this earth, regardless of their background or circumstances.

As we continue reading through chapters 10 to 15, we see how God uses revelation to teach us line upon line. For example, in Acts 15, certain men preached that living the Law of Moses, including circumcision as a requirement for salvation. However, the Holy Spirit directed the apostles not to accept this teaching. I think it is important to note that no revelation was given on this subject until the Lord was asked about it. This is another example of the Lord waiting to give instruction until we are ready and seeking the knowledge. This is just one example of how God reveals His will to us gradually, building on our previous learning And waiting until we are prepared to receive it..

As teacher, I see this principle in action every day. Children learn best when they are taught a little at a time and given the opportunity to build on their previous knowledge. And no child learns better then one who actively seeking that knowledge. My new go to person if I need to know anything about classical Music is my 11-year-old son. He has learned more about classical music in the last year than I have learned in my 40+ years of life. How did he learn so much, the simple answer is he sought the knowledge and worked to gain it himself a lottle bit at a time. We learn the gospel the same way, first we need to seek it and then be patient as God teaches us line upon line.

These examples from Acts chapters 10-15 show us that God loves each of us individually and uses revelation to teach us gradually. As we strive to follow His teachings and seek His guidance, we can grow in our understanding and knowledge.

The Reunion in Aguerius Forest

 With a skip in his step and Crusty bounding alongside him, Almas made his way into Aguerius Forest. It had been some time since their last encounter with Ulec, and Almas was eager to reunite with his elvish friend.

As they ventured deeper into the forest, Almas looked all around before calling out as loud as he could, "Ulec! We're here!"

"Over here," Ulec called back. Almas turned and saw Ulec sitting on a moss covered rock that he could've sworn had been empty just a second before. Ulec's eyes sparkled with delight as he waved to Almas and Crusty. "Almas! It's wonderful to see you again, my friend. And I see you've brought Crusty with you!"

Crusty wagged his tail, his excitement evident. Ulec reached into his shoulder bag and carefully released Metal, the slimy creature plopping onto the ground and assuming its blob-like form. Crusty approached with curiosity, sniffing the peculiar creature.

Almas grinned. "Metal, this is Crusty, my loyal wolf companion. Crusty, meet Metal, Ulec's slime friend."

Metal jiggled in response, emitting a soft, gurgling sound. Ulec chuckled. "They're going to be fast friends, I can already tell."

As the trio ventured deeper into the forest, Almas noticed a glimmering light dancing through the foliage. "Ulec, do you see that? It looks like a hidden treasure!"

Ulec smiled with mischievous excitement. "A treasure? Let's go investigate!"

Crusty barked eagerly, his tail wagging in agreement. They followed the trail of sparkling lights, their laughter echoing through the forest.

They soon stumbled upon a clearing, where an enchanting waterfall cascaded into a crystal-clear pool. And there, around the pool was a sea of bright flowers their colors mixing giving the appearance of a bed of sparkling gems.

Almas gasped, his eyes widening with wonder. "Ulec, it's even more beautiful than I imagined!"

Ulec grinned mischievously. "Indeed, it's a treasure worth discovering. But remember, true treasures lie not in gold and jewels, but in the simple moments with friends in nature."

Crusty, with his tail brushing against the flowers, seemed to understand, his gaze fixed on Almas and Ulec. They basked in the magic of the moment, cherishing their friendship and the hidden treasure they had uncovered within themselves.

As the afternoon wore on, the sun cast a warm glow upon the forest. Almas, Ulec, Crusty, and Metal reached a tranquil stream, its gentle current inviting them to play.

Ulec's eyes twinkled mischievously. "Almas, Crusty, how about a game that uses my ability to communicate with the animals of the forest? Let's call it the Mind-Link Game!"

Almas gave Ulec an intrigued glance. "How does it work?" Almas asked, his curiosity piqued.

Ulec explained with a grin, "I will close my eyes and connect my mind with a forest creature. Without speaking or making any physical gestures, I'll try to guide the animal to find you. It's your job to stay hidden and see if you can outwit our furry friends!"

Crusty wagged his tail, eager to participate. Almas nodded, excitement bubbling within him. "That sounds amazing! Let's do it!"

Ulec closed his eyes, his brows furrowing in concentration. Slowly, he reached out with his mind, seeking a connection with a forest dweller.

After a moment, Ulec's eyes fluttered open. "I've established a link with a mischievous squirrel named Nutmeg. Prepare yourselves, my friends!"

Almas and Crusty hid behind a cluster of bushes, their hearts racing with anticipation. Ulec focused his thoughts, mentally guiding Nutmeg towards their hiding spot.

Minutes ticked by, filled with suspense. Suddenly, a rustling sound echoed through the forest, drawing closer. Almas and Crusty exchanged glances, trying to suppress their excitement.

Then, with a triumphant chirp, Nutmeg leaped onto the bush, landing right in front of Almas. He burst into laughter, delighted by the squirrel's clever sleuthing.

Ulec clapped his hands in glee. "Well done, Nutmeg! You've found Almas!"

Crusty wagged his tail, barking his approval. Almas stepped forward, patting Nutmeg gently on the head. "You're a brilliant detective, Nutmeg. Thank you for playing with us!"

Ulec beamed with pride. "The forest creatures are incredible allies and friends. We can share adventures and games like this, any game you can think of."

And so, they continued their game, connecting with different forest creatures through Ulec's mind-link. From playful squirrels to wise old owls, the animals of Aguerius Forest joined in the joyous pursuit, making memories that would last a lifetime.

As the day drew to a close, Almas and Ulec sat atop a mossy log, their faithful companions by their side. The sun cast a warm, golden hue upon the forest, bathing everything in a tranquil glow.

Almas sighed, a mix of happiness and longing in his voice. "Ulec, this has been the best day ever. I wish it would never end."

Ulec placed a hand on Almas' shoulder, his voice filled with warmth. "I feel the same, my friend. But remember, the forest will always be here, waiting for our return. And who knows what new adventures await us?"

Crusty nuzzled against Almas, as if in agreement. Metal gurgled softly, its slime quivering with contentment.

Almas smiled, his heart brimming with gratitude. "You're right, Ulec. We'll come back to this magical place, with Crusty and Metal by our side. Until then, we'll carry the memories of today in our hearts."

And with a promise to return, Almas, Ulec, Crusty, and Metal made their way back through the forest, their laughter and whispers blending with the rustle of leaves, creating a harmonious melody that would linger in Aguerius Forest, a testament to the enduring bond of friendship.