One day Peter and John were going up to the temple to pray. There was a man who was lame from birth at the temple gate called Beautiful. He was carried and put everyday to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him and said, "Look at us!" So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give 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 hurts, walking and jumping and praising God! People were filled with wonder and amazement and came to Peter and John. When Peter saw this, he boldly proclaimed that this man was made strong and healed by faith in the name of Jesus! He pleaded with them and told them to repent and turn to God so that their sins may be wiped out and times of refreshing may come from the Lord. About five thousand believed the message. However, the priests, the captain of the temple guards, and the Sadducees were disturbed and jealous of Peter and John. They arrested Peter and John and put them in jail. The next day, when Peter and John were brought to be questioned, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, once again boldly shared his faith and proclaimed that salvation is found in no one else but Jesus! Just as Jesus' power helped Peter be bold, Jesus gives us power to be bold so we can courageously speak up and share our faith with others. 

Jesus' power also lets us live forever. In Matthew 26-28, we read about Jesus' death and resurrection. Shortly before Jesus was arrested, He went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane. Jesus told them to keep watch and pray while He prays. Jesus' soul was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. He knew that soon a large crowd armed with swords would arrive and seize him to persecute and crucify him. Jesus fell with his face to the ground and prayed. He prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will. My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done." Jesus was obedient and submissive to His Father's plan. He was arrested, betrayed, mocked, beaten, persecuted and finally died on the cross to pay for our sins. But the good news is Jesus rose again and came back to life! And because Jesus was resurrected, those who believe in Jesus also have hope of resurrection! When we believe that Jesus died on the cross for our sins, repent, and turn away from our sins, our sins are forgiven and we receive eternal life and the power of the Holy Spirit dwells with us. This week, as we think about what we learned, let us thank Jesus for what He has done for us and depend on the Holy Spirit to live a life that pleases, honors and loves God. 

Image: Tracking with Jesus Bible Book