Hello
Today’s Holy Nougat may challenge some of us from our comfort zones. May God’s Spirit move us to hear what we ought to do.
“But Peter said, “I don’t have any silver or gold for you. But I’ll give you what I have. In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, get up and walk!”” Acts of the Apostles 3:6 NLT
So Peter and John are about to enter the temple. They see one of the official beggars about to begin his work. Not to miss an opportunity, he appealed to them for money. Please note, he asked for money; nothing else. Peter indicates that they are strapped for cash.
But
He doesn’t leave the man bereft. Instead, Peter offered the man a gift beyond measure. He gave him a new lease on life – all for free!
Time, talent, treasure … that’s the stewardship cry of many congregations. Do we have any time to serve on Q committee; can we contribute Z talent by joining Z ministry; and please remember to place our tithes and offering – God loves a cheerful and generous giver.
But –
(and critical But) …
The beggar was not part of the formal worshipping community! Peter could have passed him by. He could have gifted him with a lecture about public spaces. But he did not.
And therein is the legacy for each of us. We should not leave them unattended. It doesn’t cost too much to gift them with the Love of God in Christ. It doesn’t have to be a long or loud declaration; what matters is that we don’t leave them empty handed.
Let’s not worry about the healing process, instead let’s gift them with Jesus. As one preacher said, if we are each passionate about the Christ we experience; then we should be excited to introduce Him to others. In every walk of life. To the beggars and the billionaires. To the perfect end perverted. Without judgement or rancor.
That’s part of what the new season entails – ministering/giving beyond our own circumstances. We give from God’s bounty in Christ through God’s Spirit.
Can we do it – by God’s grace; yes we must! In Christ’s love and grace . . .
