The Greatest Gift
Today's Scripture: Acts 3:1-10
Today's Insights:
Let me set the scene for you in Acts. Jesus had just ascended into heaven from the Mount of Olives (talk about an exit!), and the disciples headed back to Jerusalem. They picked Matthias to fill Judas's empty spot, and then things got really interesting. On Pentecost, when Jewish people from all over had gathered for the festival, something incredible happened.
The disciples were hanging out in a house when suddenly – whoosh! – there was this sound like a mighty wind, and what looked like tongues of fire appeared above everyone's heads. Wild, right? The Holy Spirit filled them all, and they started speaking in different languages. The commotion drew quite a crowd, and Peter, stepping up to the plate, delivered a powerful message about Jesus. The result? Three thousand people became believers that day!
Today's Devotional:
You know those moments when you feel totally unprepared? I had one of those in Peru during a mission trip. This young guy came up to me asking for money, and I was stuck – we'd been told not to give out cash for safety reasons. But then I remembered this amazing story about Peter and John in Acts 3, and it hit me – sometimes the best gift isn't what's in your wallet.
Here's what happened: I looked at this young man and said, "I can't give you money, but can I tell you about something better?" When he mentioned he was an orphan, I shared how God could be the Father he never had. You should have seen his face – it totally got to him. Thankfully, I was able to connect him with someone from the local church for follow-up.
It reminds me of Peter and John at the temple. There's this man who's been unable to walk his whole life, asking for spare change. Peter's response is classic: "Silver or gold? Sorry, fresh out. But what I do have is way better – in Jesus's name, get up and walk!" And wouldn't you know it? The guy didn't just get healed; he got saved too. Talk about a two-for-one deal!
As we're all running around doing our Christmas shopping (anyone else still not done?), it's worth remembering that the best gift we can ever share isn't something we can wrap. It's the love of Jesus – and that's something we can give away freely, no gift receipt needed.
Reflect & Pray:
Looking at your Christmas list, who needs more than just a wrapped present this year? What's holding you back from sharing Jesus with them?
Lord, thanks for the amazing gift of Your Son. Help us remember that sharing Him with others is the greatest gift we can give.
Amen.