November 22, 2007 - Acts 3:6

“Then Peter said, ‘Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.’” Acts 3:6.
Peter knew what the crippled beggar wanted, and he told him that he did not have any money. Instead, he had something of much more value for this crippled person: his healing! Peter and John didn’t just give this person some money and go on their way; they gave him back his life and his dignity. It says that, after he was healed, this man got up and starting leaping for joy. He could not believe it! The healing was amazing, for this person had never walked before…..ever…..and now, he was jumping and leaping!! Let that one sink in! What about his muscle development? And he had never learned how to walk, and now he was jumping and leaping! Amazing!
There was much to give thanks for, in this picture. Peter and John gave this person an incredible, priceless gift, out of their obedience to the Holy Spirit’s direction. This is a true picture of Thanksgiving. I do not know about you, but I have much to be thankful for. I usually focus on the relationships and the things that God has provided for me and my family. I do not, however, take intentional time to consider where God would have me invest myself to help those around me in need – the poor, the needy, and the lonely.
I heard recently someone say that we should not give in order to receive back. In other words, we should not give, to get. Instead, we need to give, in order to give. Giving is at the heart of Jesus’ message: “For God so loved the world that He gave…..”, and it can be at the heart of our message to those around us.
Questions to consider: What are we giving in the name of Jesus of Nazareth? Are we willing to do the same as Peter and John, who took the risk and stepped out of their comfort zone? How would God desire for us to give in this season of our lives? Bonus question: How are we any different than this beggar – really?
Prayer – God, help me to remember the priceless gift that you gave to me, and give me the hearing ear and caring heart to be sensitive to Your Holy Spirit, as He guides me to other “beggars.”