My mom had a saying, “For those who do not listen, have to feel.”  In other words, when we disobeyed, did something we were told not to do, or ignored our parent’s advice, we were often punished.  I don’t remember getting too many spankings, but the mere fact that I had disappointed my mom and dad, was usually enough punishment.

In the Book of Acts, is the beginning and forming of the first church.  Jesus had ascended into heaven to be with God and the Disciples were given the Holy Spirit to carry out the work that Jesus had started.  Luke wrote this book and it is a continuation of his gospel.  It is probably my favorite New Testament Book of the Bible.

In Acts 3:1-25, Peter is a witness of Jesus’ death and resurrection and has the gift and authority to heal people.  In this story, he heals a man who is crippled.  Reaching his right hand out to the man who cannot walk, Peter pulls him up and the man is healed.  Can you fathom what that must have been like?  Peter takes this opportunity to preach to the people.  He explains that it is through their faith in Jesus Christ that this man was healed.  Then Peter gives them a warning: “Anyone who will not listen to that Prophet (meaning Jesus Christ and Peter himself), will be completely cut off from God’s people” (Acts 3:23)

I believe we disappoint our Lord when we do not listen to Him.  However, because of Jesus Christ, – daily – we are given the opportunity to open our hearts and minds for the gift of forgiveness and listen to what God is calling us to do in His name.  Peter says, “Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away” (Acts 3:19).  Without repentance, we will be separated from our Lord.

Listen!  So, that we may never feel alienated from our Lord and Savior!

Let us pray, Gracious God, help us to turn to you for forgiveness.  We belong to you and we never want to be far from you.  Give us the means of grace in which, we know your presence and feel your amazing love for us.  In your name we pray, Amen.