Peter and John are about to arrive on time for the prayer gathering when someone calls out to them for help. 

Acts 3:2-3

“Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money.”

Do Peter and John keep going and arrive on time? Maybe throw a little coin? 

They are the leaders of the emerging church and their presence at these visible gatherings is important. 

Do they pause with the understanding that they will be late and give meaningful attention to a typical beggar? This man does not seem to be strategic to reaching the community. 

Acts 3:4-5

“Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.”

Courageous faith keeps our eyes open for opportunities. Instead of focusing on being ‘on time’ for church, both Peter and John are walking in the Spirit and ‘expecting’ God to open ministry doors. Might this be an open door right now? The upcoming prayer meeting at 3 PM would most likely include intercessory prayer asking God to open doors for them to share the Good News. 

‭‭Courageous faith is also a matter of ‘being prepared’. Yes to walking in the Spirit but also yes to doing the prep work ahead of time so as to be ready when the door actually opens. Peter would later write ‘Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who calls you to account for the hope within you’.   I Peter 3:15

Prayer. 

Father, please help me to have courageous faith to say no to external factors that blind me to the doors that You are opening for ministry. Interrupt my agenda with your agenda. 

In Jesus Name,  Amen.