Silver and gold

Acts 3:2 "And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength."

In the referenced scripture that you just read, we witness a profound moment where Peter extends a gift of healing to a man in need. It is crucial to delve deeper into the significance of this event to truly grasp its essence. Peter's actions go beyond merely addressing the man's immediate request for material wealth. Instead, he recognizes the deeper longing within the man's soul for true healing and restoration. It is essential to note that Peter's response is not a dismissal of the value of silver and gold. Rather, it is a recognition of the limitations of earthly possessions in providing lasting fulfillment. By acknowledging his lack of material wealth, Peter opens the door to a greater spiritual gift that transcends the temporary comforts of this world.

When Peter invokes the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth to bring about healing, he is tapping into a power that goes beyond physical restoration. This act symbolizes a profound transformation that is available to all who seek the healing touch of Christ. It is a reminder that true healing comes from a place of faith and spiritual renewal, rather than mere external interventions. The message conveyed through this scripture is one of hope and redemption for all who find themselves crippled by the burdens of life. It serves as a reminder that true healing begins with a shift in perspective, a turning towards the light of Christ that illuminates the path to a new and abundant life. By centering our lives on Jesus, we can experience a profound transformation that enables us to walk uprightly and live in alignment with His will.

We witness in this account the profound impact of invoking the name of Jesus Christ. The apostle's gesture towards the lame man was not merely a physical act but a spiritual one, as he acted as an instrument of the Lord Jesus Christ. By reaching out to the man and helping him stand up, the apostle symbolically lifted him out of his state of physical incapacity, all in the name of Jesus. This act serves as a powerful reminder that when we extend a helping hand to those in need, we are embodying the compassion and grace of the Lord. Just as the lame man received newfound strength in his feet and ankles, so too can we find renewal and empowerment when we turn to Jesus for assistance. The man's first steps were a testament to the miraculous transformation he experienced, having never walked before due to his condition from birth. The overwhelming joy he must have felt upon realizing his newfound ability to walk is akin to the liberation one feels when freed from the shackles of sin and embraced by the life-giving grace of Jesus.

Reflecting on this narrative prompts us to consider our own limitations and impediments that hinder us from fully embracing the teachings of Jesus Christ. What is it that cripples us today, preventing us from walking in the fullness of our Savior? Just as the apostle commanded the lame man to walk in the name of Jesus, we too can seek liberation from sin, guilt, and shame by turning to Him for healing and restoration. In conclusion, let us be inspired by the transformative power of faith and the liberating grace of Jesus Christ. May we find the courage to cast off our burdens and walk in the light of His love, free from the constraints that hold us back. Silver and gold, I do not have but I have I freely give to you. In the name of Jesus, WALK!