Authored by Lou Geense
 
Read: Acts 3:1-10 
vs. 6 – Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”
 

Reflect:
At many off ramps around the GTA, we can on occasion see people holding signs asking for food or money. Though we may wonder if they are truthful about their situation, we all know what happens when we come across them. At least for me, I usually avoid making eye contact. I avoid seeing them. How about you?
 
In today’s story we see the apostles Peter and John going together to the temple to pray. This picture of devotion and community is in total contrast to the situation of the beggar.  He was, “being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful” and left to beg for his daily bread from the people going into the temple courts.
 
Peter & John did not avoid making eye contact. Our passage says that Peter looked straight at the man who was lame and even asked him to look at him and John. Expecting some coins of silver or gold, the man looked up.
 
Peter’s next words would have been discouraging to a person begging: “Silver or gold I do not have. . .” But then came words of healing “in the name of Jesus Christ,” and, beyond his wildest dreams, the man was able to walk and jump for joy. So, he followed along with the apostles, praising God in the temple courts. Now that is Beautiful!
 
I have so often dreamed of having the kind of faith that would allow me to speak these words to people in need. At the same time, I need to consider more often what I do have to offer and to give despite the authenticity of the need. Can I trust God to deal with the heart of a person in need and at the same time be the kind of Jesus follower who is generous?
 
Pray:
Heavenly Father, may our eyes be directed by your heart for others. May we be people who welcome and show your love to everyone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.