Sometimes when we think of the word ‘salvation’ we immediately assume that salvation means getting to heaven—faith becomes an insurance policy for the ever after rather than the catalyst for transformational living now. The Greek word for salvation (sozo) means more than that. It encompasses complete healing for the suffering of all humanity and all creation! Here and now! Salvation assures us of eternal life, this is true, but it also assures us of God’s blessings which include forgiveness and healing.
In today’s text we meet a man who, in the name of Jesus, is holy and wholly healed. Mind, body, and spirit. The heart of God’s work in Luke/Acts is salvation. Our saving God wants ALL to be made whole, which includes a wide range of needs, such as forgiving sin, defeating evil, restoring health and ability, and promoting peace and justice. So, the saving purpose of God for the whole world is uniquely fulfilled in the person and work (the name) of Jesus the Christ. This week let’s consider how we, like Peter and John, participate in this most holy whole healing. How might we be bold like Peter? How might we proclaim God’s goodness and faithfulness when we are met with resistance?
