The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers used to meet together in Solomon’s Colonnade. No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people. Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed.

When we are meeting with our brothers and sisters in unity, doing God’s will together on a daily basis, dwelling with him, confessing sin, and receiving his good gifts, God’s power is revealed in us in BIG WAYS.

Here we see the ingredients of a vibrant church, which is active daily in their community: Apostles teaching and fellowship (at Solomon’s Colonnade) are listed. And I am sure they were still praying and eating together, as per Acts 2:42. They were unselfish and they were hungry to serve the Lord and dwell with him. Their food was to do his will, just like Jesus. “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.” (‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭34‬)

The fruit of this was twofold: 1) converts to follow Jesus were added daily, 2) miracles, signs, and wonders were being performed. The sick were healed and the demon-possessed were delivered.

And so we see in the midst of dangerous times (people were fearful to meet them out in public), because of their faithfulness to God and each other (and their unity), the Spirit of God showed up in power.

What will God require of me to lay down at the feet of Jesus, in order to become a more transparent vessel of his light and goodness?

Lord, continue to refine me. I am not satisfied with where I am right now spiritually. I want to become truer to you. Cleanse my heart and take away the things I hold onto for my confidence and security. You are such a better provider of my needs than I or this world! Praise your name, Father!