In Jerusalem of old, houses were set side by side with one outside wall facing the street. The doors on these walls were kept closed, ensuring the family’s safety. The door had no windows or peep holes. Each home had a designated doorkeeper who was expected to learn and recognize the voices of family members and friends, opening the door only for them. These few verses in the book of Acts accurately depict this situation.  One day, Rhoda, who was a servant girl, answered a knock on the door. The voice she heard on the other side of their protective door was one she did not expect to hear, though it was one she clearly recognized. Peter had been in prison, but the church, including Rhoda, had been praying fervently for his release. The night before he was to be taken to trial, the angel of the Lord appeared to Peter in his jail cell, released him from his shackles, and led him to a miraculous escape from the prison walls. Peter then ran to the very home where he knew many would be gathered in prayer. What a surprise it must have been for Rhoda to hear Peter's voice!  She had witnessed the power of prayer firsthand!

Even though Rhoda is mentioned very briefly, we can learn several important things from her. One of the most notable things in my opinion is that Rhoda was a young girl.  The word “girl” suggests that she might have been an adolescent or a teenager, and most impressive was the fact that she was participating in a prayer gathering.  Even though she was only a servant girl, Acts 12 suggests that she was involved in the congregation in Jerusalem. When she heard Peter's voice, she was overcome with gladness (v.14); she was excited and eager to share the news with those in her church. I can imagine that behind this Christ-loving young girl was a Christ-loving mother who taught her daughter the ways of the Lord. The simple story of Rhoda reminds us that age is not a factor when it comes to serving the Lord. We aren't told that Rhoda led a Sunday School class, or that she sang on the worship team; we are told that she was the doorkeeper. Her job was to open and close that door and she did so wholeheartedly. Rhoda's story is recorded in Scripture because of the small yet important job she did. Let this be a reminder to us that God uses every position. This month, as we've celebrated mothers all around the nation, let us celebrate the mothers who are raising their children to serve the Lord!

Suggested Prayer: Dear Father God, thank you for examples like Rhoda that remind me that all positions are important when done for your glory. Thank you for using anyone who is willing to serve you. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

1.    Acts 12:13-14 (NIV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Veronica B.