Now many signs and wonders were done among the people through the apostles....and the people held them in high esteem. Yet more than ever believers were added to the Lord, great numbers of both men and women, so that they even carried out the sick into the streets, and laid them on cots and mats, in order that Peter's shadow might fall on some of them as he came by. A great number of people would also gather from the towns around Jerusalem bringing the sick and those tormented by unclean spirits, and they were all cured.
(New Revised Standard Version)
The apostles are invigorated by the power of the Holy Spirit. The situation has got no easier with the authorities, they still hover on the edge of the crowds waiting to pounce, but while there are so many supporters they hang back, and watch as God's power allows the disciples to carry out healing after healing. They brave a cruel death, though, as we see throughout the book of the Acts of the Apostles, despite having such courage.
Today, our Hospital staff and Nursing Home staff are the courageous healers as they work with all who are sick and in such need. They too face the possibility of a cruel death in the face of Covid 19, yet their fears are put aside to help us.
Take time today to put yourself in their shoes and thank God for their professionalism and generosity of spirit.
Lord Jesus,
Your disciples gained strength from Your example,
and we pray for all who face danger at this time,
because of their job and their need to help others.
Give them the mental and physical strength to continue,
and the courage to keep going in all situations.
May they know that You are with them,
and may they rest in the knowledge of Your love.
Amen.