“In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”
— Acts 3:6
Sometimes when we read the Bible, we can miss little phrases that make a transition. The beginning of our reading today provides a transition that leads into a new experience of God’s kingdom. It says, “One day Peter and John . . .” This will take us into a deeper sense of awe as we see God working and moving to bring more and more people to himself. Let’s savor each moment as it brings wonder, inspiration, and joy.
It was a regular day as Peter and John headed to the temple to pray, and then things became really irregular. A lame man asked for money, and Peter offered him something completely different. He offered him Jesus and healing all in the same moment.
Wait—what happened here? The man was healed in the name of Jesus, both spiritually and physically. This might make us uncomfortable, but when God chooses to reveal who he is and what his kingdom is about, he can do powerful things!
We may not always see healings like this, but when we see families restored, freedom from an addiction, and other amazing turnarounds, we can sense the wonder of the new life Jesus offers.
Moments like this show us the power of God’s kingdom. They give us a glimpse of what the Lord came to do and what he will do when he fully restores all things.
God, help me to see the power of the resurrection. Open my eyes and heart to the new things you are doing in and through and around me. Amen.