Doors and Gateways

Church of St John the Baptist - Gozo by Paul Collings

Acts 3:1-10 “One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!”  So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.

Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. When all the people saw him walking and praising God, they recognisedU him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.”

In the Middle Ages, a young novice was shown around the Vatican Treasury by the Vatican Treasures. Showing the many riches acquired by the church over the years, the treasurer said to the young man, “no longer need the church say, ‘silver and gold have I none!” To which the young novice added, “Ah, but can it still say in the name of Jesus Christ rise up and walk?”

All through history people ask the church to bankroll good causes, to dispense money; and the church responds. But as Peter reminds us here, our real treasure in the church is the living Christ. The knowledge and touch of Jesus, in the gospels and in us, is better than silver and gold; it has power to change our lives.

Holy Spirit of God, come fill me with love for those who are disadvantaged in our world and who need Your healing power. May we who are more able be always willing to understand their plight, and may we trust You whose power is to heal and to save. Work through us to bring liberation we pray, to Your praise and glory! AMEN