Your Spiritual Journey
Loving on the Edge
Loving on the Edge
In the third chapter of Acts, we read of Peter and John ascending the steps of the temple to pray. There they encountered a man, crippled from birth, begging at the temple gate called “Beautiful.” This gate was made of expensive, polished bronze and would shine in the sun; anyone with a visible disability was banned from passing through this gate and into the temple. Those who were lame, deformed, and unable to work would beg for money along the steps to the temple courts; forever on the fringe of Jewish society and easily ignored.
On this day, the crippled man called out to them in despair. These two apostles didn’t ignore him, which would have been an easy and quick response. They were Galilean fisherman with no money to offer him, but what they did provide was immeasurably better:
“Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk. Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.” Acts 3:6-8
Peter and John were attentive to those on the fringe, just like their Master was. They were eyewitnesses to Jesus blessing those who felt alone and helpless. As the good shepherd, He was (and is) concerned with ALL the sheep. In our church family, we’ve recently lost two sisters who recognized when people were hurting and feeling neglected, and blessed us with friendship, encouragement, and love. We will miss Lenora and Carrie, and have big shoes to fill. Let’s make sure we are attentive to needs that may go unnoticed.
Jim Leslie
