"Many wonders and signs were performed by the apostles" after the first Pentecost (Acts 2:43). The few healings recounted in Acts of the Apostles were chosen to be proclaimed not just because they were healings, but because of their special significance. The man lame from birth is someone we all can identify with. We may not be physically handicapped, but we all have been handicapped since birth in other ways. Because of cowardice, Peter was more handicapped than the lame man. Some people have never taken even their first baby-step in evangelization. Many have been paralyzed by fear for as long as they can remember. Others have never prayed together with their spouses. These are severe spiritual handicaps.
However, the good news is that in the name of the risen Jesus we can be healed. This will prove that Jesus has risen and is alive right now. When we let Jesus heal us from a life-long handicap, we have an ideal forum for proclaiming His resurrection. Those who have known us for years will be astounded at our new freedom. They will ask how we were healed of our handicap. We will then be able to proclaim that "it was done in the name of Jesus" crucified and risen (Acts 4:10).
| PRAYER: | Risen Jesus, may I let You heal me of a life-long handicap. |
| PROMISE: | "Simon Peter went aboard and hauled ashore the net loaded with sizable fish – one hundred fifty-three of them!" –Jn 21:11 |
| PRAISE: | Alleluia! Jesus is alive! He has conquered death. Alleluia! He is Lord and God! Alleluia! |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College