As the crippled man who had been cured clung to Peter and John…

As the crippled man who had been cured clung to Peter and John, all the people hurried in amazement toward them.

Whatever happened to the man who was healed by Peter?  The Book of Acts does not say.  Maybe the small detail that he “clung” to Peter and John can give us a clue.  Having received such a remarkable miracle, this man must have come to faith in Jesus that day.  He probably also joined the growing community surrounding the apostles, just as all the other new believers had done.  And he likely continued to cling to Peter and John.  He must have held a special place in his heart for these two men.  How could he not admire their lives and ministry and pay extra attention when they taught?  Would not you do the same?

It is a good thing to “cling” to the people who have most helped you along on your spiritual journey.  They can be great mentors as you learn to walk with  the Lord, since we all have so much to learn.  You may be fortuanate to have someone in your life like Peter and John, someone who has introduced you to the Lord or helped you grow in your spiritual life.  If so , observe how that person walks with the Lord.  See how he or she interacts with fellow parishioners, neighbors, or coworkers.  Listen especially to how the Spirit might speak to you through that person, and try to follow his or her example.

How about casting your net ever wider?  Some people cling to a favorite Christian speaker or author by reading their books or listening to their podcasts.  A mentor like this does not need to live near you  – or even in this century!  maybe you feel a special kinship with St. Therese of Lisieux or St Augustine.   By befriending them through their stories and getting to know them in their writings, you can receive tremendous guidance and consolation.  You can also find yourself stretched and challenged by them.

Jesus cares for you and wants to draw you close to his side.  It is incredible thoughtful, isn’t it, that he would send mentors your way – people you can cling to just as this man clung to Peter and John.

-word among us