June 14, 2021 - Acts 3:1- 10

How do we respond when a person with a need comes to us for assistance? Do we begin to back pedal and try to get away? Perhaps, we listen with compassion and then offer to pray or simply say I am sorry and go on about our day. Occasionally, when confronted, we are able to assist someone we do not know with their need.

Peter and John were on their way to the Temple at the time of prayer to spend time with the Lord and to bring petitions and needs to their Savior. This was the accepted practice of every good Jew at that time and many throughout Jerusalem came to the temple to pray. As they approached the gate of the temple, called Beautiful, a man lame from birth lay begging for assistance. The scripture says that he lay there daily and conceivably Peter and John had passed him in the past as they entered the temple area. This day the man fastens his gaze upon the two men and makes eye contact with Peter asking him specifically for help.

The passage seems to indicate that the lame man spoke to Peter and John, looked away to the next person when Peter speaks directly to him to regain his attention. The man’s expectation was material or financial, but Peter had a different gift for the man. Peter’s gift was one that the man had ceased to believe could happen, the gift of healing and to finally enter God’s presence. Suddenly, the man was made whole and he, along with Peter, John and others, entered the temple walking, leaping, praising God for this miracle that had suddenly happened.

When God works in His power and demonstrates the mighty plan He has for mankind, everyone takes notice. What had been a lame beggar is suddenly a testimony of God’s transforming ability to create a worshipping saint. What seemed like a quiet prayer meeting suddenly turned to a loud praise event as God moved through submissive messengers.

We are amazed when a person of ill repute and unquestionably bad character is changed by the gospel of Jesus Christ. Just like here, it is the power of the Holy Spirit that makes the difference in a way no one can deny! Peter and John did nothing but proclaim Jesus and God did the rest! If we are faithful in proclaiming Jesus to people, God will change individuals and make exciting testimonies for us to see as well. Take a moment and ask the Lord to give you an opportunity to share Jesus with someone today!