Reimagine Boldness Through the Lives of Peter & JohnSample

Unexpected Opportunities

How many divine appointments have you missed simply because you were too focused on your own agenda? Most of us live highly structured, goal-driven lives—and in the process, we can walk right past the moments God has planned for us. But what if the interruptions you experience aren’t obstacles to overcome—they’re invitations to step into something far greater than what you had scheduled?

Peter and John were headed to the temple for afternoon prayer—a daily rhythm they likely followed countless times. But on this seemingly ordinary day, God had an extraordinary plan. At the Beautiful Gate, they encountered a man who had been lame from birth, asking passersby for coins. Peter saw this man—the Greek word Luke used is attenzio, which means to gaze intently. Divine appointments often begin with divine attention.

Instead of spare change, Peter offered something of eternal worth: “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”(Acts 3:6, NIV) And the man didn’t just walk—he jumped, danced, and praised God, creating a holy disruption in the middle of temple life.

It’s important to note: Peter and John weren’t seeking a ministry moment. They were simply being faithful to their daily routine. But when God interrupted their path, they didn’t miss it. They saw the opportunity, heard the Spirit’s prompting, and responded in faith.

This miracle wasn’t about Peter and John’s power—it was about their availability. They had something to give because they had received something from Jesus. Their lives had been transformed, and now they carried that transformation into every moment of their everyday lives.

The same is true for us. We may not perform miraculous healings, but we have something to offer: the love, peace, and hope we’ve found in Jesus. The question isn’t whether we’re powerful enough—it’s whether we’re paying attention. Are we available to be interrupted?

Each day, we cross paths with people who are spiritually, emotionally, or relationally “lame”—stuck in pain, fear, or shame. These moments aren’t distractions from our plans. They are the plan. They’re sacred opportunities to extend the grace we’ve received to others who desperately need it.

What divine appointments might God have in store for you today? Who’s the person asking for a small favor who might actually need the life-giving hope of Jesus? When we stay attentive to the Spirit and willing to be interrupted, ordinary routines become extraordinary moments of grace.

Reflection Questions:

1. When has God used a seemingly ordinary moment in your life to open up an extraordinary opportunity for ministry?
2. How can you train your eyes and heart to recognize divine appointments in your everyday routine?

Prayer:
Lord, help me see the opportunities You place in my path. Give me eyes to notice and a heart willing to stop and share what I’ve received from You. Make me available to Your divine appointments. Amen.