What I Have I Give
But what I do have, I give to you…
The disciples were tested almost immediately after Jesus ascended. Would they remember the empowering words of Jesus? Would they recall that they were to be His witnesses throughout the earth?
Peter’s actions at the Day of Pentecost revealed that the apostles knew the message that explained what was happening in that day. To those who were listening, he reminded them of the prophecy of Joel 2:28-32; and Peter’s message informed them there was much more to come that would astound them all. His words were words of exhortation, bringing many into the kingdom.
We are told in Luke’s account (Lk 2:43) that “Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe…” Luke continues by stating that many signs and wonders were taking place through the apostles. Unity was experienced that was beyond anything known, and “the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved” (Lk 2:47). But there was more.
In the book of Acts, Luke takes us with Peter and John on their way to the temple. In preparing to enter, a lame beggar began calling out to them, asking for alms. It seems that Peter and John were aware that this was a special opportunity, so they had the beggar look intently at them.
Peter told the man that he did not have silver or gold, “but what I do have I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene – walk!” In seizing the man’s right hand he raised him up. Immediately the man’s feet and ankles were strengthened and with a leap he began to walk. The people who saw the beggar walking, leaping, and praising God were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
Are we ready to step out and express the power of the name of Jesus with signs, wonders and miracles this year? Will we be aware of special opportunities to give what we have been given – the power and authority of the Name of Jesus? Will we be as Peter and John who didn’t question the opportunity but met the challenge? Though we are not fishermen who walked with Jesus, we have had some amazing encounters that make our testimonies unique and powerful!
