Reading: Acts 3:1-11 NLT

Peter and John went to the Temple one afternoon to take part in the three o’clock prayer service.

As they approached the Temple, a man lame from birth was being carried in. Each day he was put beside the Temple gate, the one called the Beautiful Gate, so he could beg from the people going into the Temple. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for some money.

Peter and John looked at him intently, and Peter said, “Look at us!” The lame man looked at them eagerly, expecting some money.

But Peter said, “I don’t have any silver or gold for you. But I’ll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, get up and walk!”

Then Peter took the lame man by the right hand and helped him up. And as he did, the man’s feet and ankles were instantly healed and strengthened. He jumped up, stood on his feet, and began to walk!

Then, walking, leaping, and praising God, he went into the Temple with them. All the people saw him walking and heard him praising God.

When they realized he was the lame beggar they had seen so often at the Beautiful Gate, they were absolutely astounded! They all rushed out in amazement to Solomon’s Colonnade, where the man was holding tightly to Peter and John.

Prayer: Lord Jesus – Forgive my timidity… my self-consciousness… my unbelief. I am so worried about looking foolish if nothing happens, that I don’t even try to offer healing in your name… especially in a public setting like the Beautiful Gate. And in the end, everyone loses… no one gets healed… no one’s life is changed… no one praises God… and no one sees your power at work in real life.

Holy Spirit – Give me the heart and mind of Peter and John… to discern the real problem… and, with boldness, to offer a healing solution. Help me to get over myself, and focus on what you want to do.

Heavenly Father – May I honor you in all things… and bring glory to your name. Amen.

Spiritual Song: “Healing Rain” – Michael W Smith