Dear conqueror in Christ:
I wish to underscore for you the awesome power God has given you to lift somebody up in time of need. The Lord has created us to love and help one another. This purpose is better fulfilled through service, that is lifting somebody up in trouble. Jesus gave the perfect example of lifting people up in the case of a boy who was demon possessed. The demon threw him into fire and water to kill him. When they brought the boy to Jesus, he cast out the demon. While still on the ground, “Jesus picked him up by the hand, and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up” (Mark 9:27). As his disciples, we must commit ourselves to service. Let us look at the apostle Peter’s example as he reached out to help a man in need.
This man was in a terrible shape, being crippled from birth. He was unable to care for himself. Friends carried him and placed him at the entrance of the temple, for it was a strategic position where godly people going to pray were more disposed to help their fellowmen. Indeed, Peter he got Peter’s attention who lifted him up. In the first place, Peter gave him a spiritual lift saying: “in the name of Jesus of Nazareth, walk.” (Acts 3:6). He further gave him a physical lift. For he took “him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong.” (Acts 3:7). This miracle triggered praise not only from the healed man, but also from all the people there who “were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.” (Acts 3:10). Remember that when we lift people up, God is also glorified by our good works.
Excelsior
Bishop Leon