I am an itty-bitty living space for His phenomenal cosmic power!

SCRIPTURE: ACTS 3:3-8

“Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I 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 courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.”

OBSERVATION:

I can’t help but imagine how many times Peter and John walked past this crippled beggar.  The text starts out saying that he was crippled from birth and was placed in the asame place everyday to beg.  It goes on to say that others in the temple recognized this man - he was a landmark so-to-speak. Peter and John had seen the guy asking for money regularly.  I imagine they threw him a coin or two from time to time and others times they were broke themselves and did not give him anything.

One day it dawned on them that though they didn’t have silver or gold to give they were not without the ability to offer help.  While their earthly resources were limited, their spiritual resources were more than enough.  I think of times that I wanted to shrink back from an opportunity because I weigh or measure the possibilities against my earthly resources (monetary, knowledge, energy, time, etc.).  While my resources may be limited, God’s are available to me.  I have been given power to be God’s witness in my neighborhood, my region, and around the world.  What we have to offer is more than people think they can ask for so they settle for money.  We can offer wholeness and the ability to build a life worth living.

As I write this I can’t help but think of Genie’s quote on Aladin “PHENOMENAL COSMIC POWER!!! - itty-bitty living space.”  While we are small and limited, we have the power and presence of God who dwells in us.  We are an itty-bitty living space for the creator of the universe - the one who made us and can fix us.

APPLICATION:

I have to remember that what we enter into is not just a future hope but also a present reality.  God is able and willing now to make us whole.  The amazing thing is that chooses us to bring this about in the lives of others.  I have to look beyond myself to the God who chose to dwell in me and make His power known thru me.  It is by His perfect design and flawless wisdom that I am an itty-bitty living space for His phenomenal cosmic power!

PRAYER:

Father, thanks for reminding me that ministry is beyond my ability.  It requires more than I have, but not more than you can do thru me.  Help me to be bold enough to make myself available to engage in the lives of others, being fully confident in your power at work thru me.  Thank you that you chose to live in me and work thru me - in Jesus name, AMEN!