Sometimes the greatest miracles begin with a simple conversation, a small act of kindness, or a willingness to be present in someone’s life. In this Sunday evening sermon, It was a joy for Pastor Homan to return and speak again at a church where he once served for over 20 years. He began by sharing some humorous observations and heartfelt updates from his current ministry in Newfoundland, where he now pastors a congregation that has grown to reflect a beautiful diversity of cultures, including members from Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Honduras, the Philippines, and Mexico.
He reflected on how much Newfoundland has changed over the years, especially in its increasing multicultural presence. With this shift has come a broader opportunity to connect with people from various backgrounds and to share the gospel. He emphasized how important it is for believers to engage with newcomers, offering a warm welcome and, when possible, sharing the message of Christ.
Pastor Homan then transitioned into the heart of the message: what it means to be an answer to prayer. Drawing from Acts 10 and the story of Cornelius, a devout man who prayed to God continually, he shared how God responded by sending Peter—another believer who had prepared his heart and life to serve.
He challenged the congregation with a few key takeaways:
Look for People You Can Bless
Peter’s journey in Acts 9 shows that he was actively seeking people to minister to. Pastor Homan encouraged everyone to adopt the same mindset. Rarely do opportunities to help fall into our laps by accident; instead, we must train our eyes and hearts to see them. From helping strangers with broken car windows to noticing a distressed woman in a coffee line, he illustrated that compassion often begins with simple awareness.
Be Available When Someone Asks for Help
Peter responded immediately when believers in Joppa requested his presence after the death of Tabitha. Likewise, we’re called to respond when others ask for help. Whether it’s offering time, skills, or even financial resources, our availability can be the miracle someone else has been praying for. Pastor Homan noted that often it’s not about the size of the act, but the willingness to say yes.
Don’t Be Afraid to Get a Little Dirty
In ministry, serving others can sometimes mean stepping into uncomfortable or unpleasant circumstances. Peter stayed with Simon the tanner, whose profession likely meant dealing with strong smells and less-than-ideal conditions. The message was clear: true ministry isn’t always clean or convenient. It requires humility and the willingness to be present in the mess.
Stay Faithful in Your Walk with Christ
Peter was on the rooftop praying when God gave him the vision that led him to Cornelius. This divine appointment came because Peter was faithful in his spiritual disciplines. Pastor Homan reminded listeners that if we want to be used by God, we must first be faithful, reading Scripture, praying regularly, staying committed to church, and living consistently in our testimony.
Conclusion
In closing, Pastor Homan quoted the familiar line, “Make me a blessing,” encouraging believers to be intentional about impacting others for Christ. Whether it’s helping a stranger, encouraging a brother or sister, or simply being faithful in small things, we each have the opportunity to be an answer to prayer.
