Peter put all of them outside, and then he knelt down and prayed. He turned to the body and said, ‘Tabitha, get up.’ Then she opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up.” vs. 40
Acts 9:40-43
From our reading of the gospels we know that healing miracles were a regular part of the ministry of Jesus. In fact, that’s why most of the people flocked to hear him preach–they knew he could work wonders for their ailing relatives and friends. A couple of times it was even reported that he gave life to those who had died. After his death and resurrection those same expectations were a part of everyday life among his followers. Before long, stories of miraculous healings were attributed to the disciples–it was one of the factors that sparked interest in the developing Jesus Movement. So when Peter showed up in the towns and cities west of Jerusalem it was assumed that healing would be a part of his ministry–it’s what gave his leadership credibility. That healing connection has continued to be a part of the Jesus story through the centuries. Always the followers of Jesus have reached out to the sick and offered prayers for healing and restoration. It’s who we are! And even in these days of MRI’s, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments, there remains a sense that healing itself is an act of God–and it goes on every day. We might not get the same results from our prayers that Peter got, but there’s no doubt that they are effective.
Thought for the Day: Why do I pray for the sick?
0 Comments