To the Ends of the Earth: Serving the Forgotten — Tuesday
Acts 3:8
And leaping up, he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. (ESV)
Jesus had a reputation. His reputation caused large crowds to pursue Him often. He did healing miracles during His ministry, and word got out. As that word got out, crowds gathered to try and receive His healing power. Similarly, Jesus passed on the power of healing miracles to His disciples who, on occasion, physically healed people.
As Christianity has moved forward through the centuries since Jesus left the earth, His followers have led the way in caring for the physical health of others. In our own country, most major hospital systems find their roots in Christianity. Faith in Jesus and a focus on His tangible love for others overflowed into the practice of medicine. The medical profession provides healing and preventative medicine for millions and millions of people every single day.
In Acts 3:8, we see a vivid response to physical healing. The man who begged Peter and John for some money got more than he could have ever asked for or imagined when he was miraculously healed. The healed man even made a scene and caused a stir in the temple with his excitement. He couldn’t help himself.
Our friends at Lifeline Christian Mission carry on the great tradition of providing healing and care for people who otherwise could not receive these things in their current circumstances. As we saw Sunday, the care they provide changes lives, and it all flows out of a love for Jesus. Like Peter and John, they know their limitations, and so they turn to Jesus as the source of the help they offer.
Tuesday’s Reflection
Who needs help around you today? Ask Jesus to give you guidance on what to do next, and then do it.
