If John and Peter, found in Acts 3, were to meet the lame beggar today what would likely happen?
Peter and John were walking to church when they happened upon a certain man sitting beside the road with a cardboard sign that had scrawled on it in a black marker, “I am lame, homeless and hungry. Please help!!”
As Peter and John were about to walk past him, the beggar sees them and calls out. “Hey Buddy! How about five dollars, or even a single? I ain’t eaten since yesterday.”
Peter and John stop and look at the man intently. Peter shrugs. “I don’t have a five or even a one, but God bless you.”
John looks to Peter in shock. In his soft voice, he chastises Peter. “That’s all? God bless you? This man needs love Brother Peter."
John walks over to the man and knells down beside him. The man looks expectantly to John in hopes of a nice gift. John gives the man a hearty hug and then hands him a flower. “Jesus loves you more than you will ever know.”
Then laying his hands upon the man John looks up to heaven. “Father, bless this man from your abundant wealth and love. Give him food to eat and a place to sleep. And if it is your will Lord, heal his legs so that he might walk again. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen!”
Standing up John smiles at the man who looks back at him confused. Walking back to Peter John beams with love. “You need to learn to be more loving brother Peter.”
Thankfully Peter and John knew what power they had, and used it. We have the power of the Holy Spirit today as well. He will lead us when we encounter people in need. Listen to The Spirit and follow Him. He might lead you to help by giving money, your things, yourself or by using the power of God. We must remember that the power of God is within us to bless people with signs and wonders just like Peter and John.
Photo Credit: Seriously Handicapped Beggar by Augapfel
