Alms

Saints Peter and John Healing the Lame Man, by Nicolas Poussin, 1655, New York, Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Christmas can be a time of great depression. Expectations are set by those around us, by commercials that tell us of luxury we cannot afford. There is one commercial where a small girl is sitting on the stairs with her mother, reciting a litany of items she wants under their tree. Scenes of homes with stacks of presents spreading many feet away from under the tree.

The majority of us cannot afford to provide such scenes for our family, unable to meet the expectations set by those around us. Attempts to do so drive us into debt, and into depression.

And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. (Acts 3:5 KJV)

People looking to us do expect things. This man, as Peter and John were about to enter the temple, asked alms. Peter specifically called for his attention:

And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. (Acts 3:4 KJV)

In spite of expectations, Peter changed the rules, the man’s life and perhaps our perspective:

Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. (Acts 3:6 KJV)

We often stop there when telling this story, and miss the marvelous gospel sermon Peter delivers.

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; (Acts 3:19 KJV)

What greater gift can we receive? The gift God has promised, and freely given. Is it not explained? Is it not expected?

But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) (Ephesians 2:4-5 KJV)

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: (Ephesians 2:8 KJV)

Open to all, freely given of God, salvation so full and free. What a wonderful gift to share with friends and family.

Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. (2 Corinthians 9:15 KJV)