WordLive - Year OneSample

Prepare: Thank God for the people who are always there for you in a crisis. Who could turn to you? Are you available? Dramatic miracles The focus of the story shifts to Peter who is on the move, travelling around to encourage the believers who have been dispersed following Stephen’s stoning (Acts 7:54 – 8:1). It seems that small Christian communities already exist in Lydda and Joppa (vs 32,38). Peter’s first miracle involves Aeneas, a man who has been crippled for eight years, and who was probably known to the local ‘saints’ (v 32). Peter’s second miracle is the result of a summons by the believers in Joppa. This time it involves Dorcas, a lady who has suddenly fallen ill and died. In both cases Peter works with the local Christians; and in both cases the effect is dramatic (vs 35,42). Opening the way When nothing but a miracle is needed it is tempting to despair. But we are the local ‘saints’ in our community. God calls us to do what we are capable of, and to do it with others in love (John 13:34). That opens the way for him to break in. It is worth noting that Peter does not rush off after all the excitement. Instead, he stays with the church ‘for some time’ (v 43), sharing his faith with them, even if his accommodation is rather humble – and smelly (v 43)! Respond: How could your group rally round and support those who need a miracle? Do you need to be humble and ask for help from outside, too? http://www.wordlive.org/Session/Classic/2012-12-06