ICF - Professions of Faith

Sunday 18th May 2025 - 5th Sunday of Easter

Acts 11:1-18 Revelation 21:1-6 John 13:31-35 Psalm 148

At first sight, we may struggle to see any clear and obvious connections in today's readings with the world of work. But there are some broader principles that could be usefully explored. In the New Testament reading, Peter offers an explanation for his changed attitude towards Gentiles, attributing this to his vision on the roof of the tanner's house in Joppa. Peter has been challenged about his inherited attitudes towards that which is 'clean' and 'unclean'. Applying this to our contemporary context, a congregation might be challenged to consider what elements within our own life and society are considered to be outside of God's concern and inclusion. In the present context, this might be particularly applied to our attitudes towards our own working lives and the working lives and professions of others. This outward focus is reinforced through the Gospel reading in which Christian disciples are reminded that our shared attitude of love will be a sign to the world of the authenticity of our faith.