Scripture
One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. 2 Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts.10 They recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
Reflection
This is the story of the healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate of the temple. Peter and John have come to pray at about 3pm. They are walking up the steps toward the Beautiful Gate when they encounter a lame beggar. Charity was a hallmark of Judaism and beggars knew that Jewish pilgrims on their way to the temple would not ignore them on the steps. Peter and John apparently had little money but they were not lacking in generosity or authority. As Jesus’ representatives they were authorized to heal in Jesus’ name and they did! A well-known lame beggar who is now “waking and leaping and praising God” will draw some attention, which was good because soon Peter and John will need witnesses to the miracle. As one modern healed man said with joy, “It was the hand of God” (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- Is God asking you to pray for someone’s healing?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- What is one way you can apply this truth to your life today?
- Who can you encourage with this story/message?
Prayer
Pray for anyone you know who is facing challenges or struggles right now. Pray for calm in the storm.
