Enter in the gates with thanksgiving!
Acts 3:1 (KJV)
3 Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.
The events in Acts chapter 3 explain to us what happens when we have our hearts full of thanksgiving and our minds focused on the Lord. The Bible records that Peter and John are going to town, at 3 o’clock in the afternoon, to begin prayer at the synagogue. However, before they entered into the gate of the city called beautiful a miraculous event occurred.
A man who was lame and who could not walk was laying at the city gate. Historians, state that he had bad ankles. This could have been a bad case of clubbed feet. But, scripture reports that he was laid at the citygate begging for alms. When the Israelites went to the temple it was customary for them to bring an offering. Just like today, we often see beggars buy the shopping centers, because we know people will be carrying money. I find it interesting that the word alms was Not found in the Old Testament, but repeatedly in the New. It is our Christian duty to help the needy and the poor among us. In addition, the Mosaic law said this in Deuteronomy 15:7: “If anyone is poor among your fellow Israelites in any of the towns of the land the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward them.” Therefore, we are to promote a spirit of charity.
The name of the man at the gate was not noted, but we can call him Beggar. The Beggar was requesting for others to stop by and give him something for his relief and support. He assumed they were all Israelites, because the people were going into the temple at that time Therefore, many people traveling to the synagogue to warship passed him by daily. When Peter and John came to the gate, they were full of the Holy Ghost and they had compassion on the man and healed him in the name of Jesus. This one action was perhaps what the prophet Isiah was teaching in Isiah 35:6. “Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert.” I love when the Bible gives us a direct fulfillment, because it sure builds my faith.
Scripture reports that they helped him to his feet. I can imagine John grabbing one arm while Peter grabbing the other and pulling this man to his feet that never had stood before. Perhaps, beggar reluctant but ever so thankful. Then, as people witnessed this spectacular event they began to praise God.
This miracle sure would’ve made it a very special commencement to the service! The happiness and faith expressed by the people would have clouded the synagogue. Amazing things happen when we begin to praise the Lord. The next time you go into your church, go win with thanksgiving and praise from your lips!
This class is found on YouTube! This lesson was also aired on WEMM 107.9 FM radio Station!
