In the Book of Acts in chapter 3, there is a healing story. Peter and John are entering the Temple in Jerusalem through the gate called Beautiful. Seated beside the gate was a lame beggar who was carried there everyday. When he saw Peter and John, he asked them for money, as I’m sure he did everyone. Begging was the only life he knew because he had been lame since birth.
Peter tells the man to look at him, which the man does expecting to receive some few coins. Peter dashes his expectations by first telling the man that they have no silver or gold to give him, but what he does have he gives. Then he proclaims, “In the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Peter then takes the man by the hand and as he raises him up, the man’s feet and ankles are healed and he walks.
A miracle. Without question. A crowd assembles and Peter takes the opportunity to present the Good News and declares that by faith in the Name of Jesus, this man was healed.
But note: it was not the lame man’s faith that healed him. There was no gospel presentation, conversion declaration and baptism that preceded this healing. The man was looking for a few coins. He didn’t ask to be healed and there is no evidence he even knew who Jesus was. Yet Peter proclaims that faith in the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth healed the man.
Peter’s faith in the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth was the healing faith. Peter believed and interceded.
Too often, I have heard phrases used in hospital rooms and other places that put the onus for healing on the faith of the person suffering or their loved ones. If we truly believe having faith is important for intercession and healing, what about our faith? Are we willing to intercede? Are we willing to put our faith on the line rather than self-righteously smirking, “well you just have to have faith”.
My responsibility is to extend my faith as a covering over those in need or suffering, not stand back and offer advice. I can hold spiritual space for others trusting Jesus’ power and plans. I may not heal a lame beggar but I can intercede in faith.
Just Sayin' 