And when he observed him, he was afraid, and said, "What is it, lord?"So he said to him, "Your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God. Acts 10:4

Cornelius is a non Jewish man who has a reverence and a respect toward the Lord. We know at this point he has not been born again or filled with the Spirit - which is why, later in this chapter, the Lord gives Peter a vision to go and bring the gospel to him and his friends.

What we need to take note of is verse 4 - a glimpse into heaven's activities as a result of our prayer life. Your prayers are taken note of in heaven!! As a result of Cornelius' prayers - visions are released, Angels are dispersed, men are moved by the Spirit - all because one man - not yet saved - prays!! Come on! Think about this for a minute - because of this one man's prayers, the gospel has come to my country NZ - which is furtherest from Jerusalem on this globe. Our prayers have an impact now and in decades and centuries to come (if the Lord tarries). This alone should be enough to get the church back on it's knees. Technology is great. Fine buildings can be a blessing. Gifted men and women of God are needed. However, above all - our prayers can have an impact like nothing else can!

I encourage you today to make a fresh start in your prayer life. God really does listen. Your prayers will come up as as memorial before the Lord. He will pay attention to the cry of your heart. And heaven will be moved! Amen.