My Prayer for Your Shadow

As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter's shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. -Acts 5:15 (NIV)

Two weeks ago, the subject of my sermon was on the ministry of presence. I suggested that it is important for people to be in worship each Sunday unless they are sick or out of town. Not only do I believe that God is blessed by your faithful presence in church, I believe that you'll be blessed by your faithful presence in church. Even more, I believe that those around you will be blessed by your faithful presence in church.

Today's suggested scripture reading once again features Simon Peter. Remember him? He's the one that Jesus calls "Satan" after Peter tries to rebuke Jesus for something that Jesus said. He's the one that, despite being warned that he would do it, denies knowing Jesus on three different occasions out of fear for his own life. Yet since that time, Peter has received the gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. He has devoted himself to gathering together with other believers for worship, prayer, fellowship, and food. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Peter has been transformed into someone whose very shadow changes lives.

That's what I want for you. I want for you to make it a priority to regularly come together with other believers for times of worship, prayer, fellowship, and food. I want you to invite and expect the Holy Spirit to fill that worship space. I'm praying that the Holy Spirit will transform your lives in such a way that your very shadow, drenched in Holy Spirit power, will be a source of healing for others.

May God grant you the grace to experience Holy Spirit power today.


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Tomorrow's readings are Job 1-2 and Acts 6-7.