On the very night when Herod was about to bring him forward, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and guards in front of the door were watching over the prison. And behold, an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near Peter, and a light shone in the cell; and he struck Peter’s side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And his chains fell off his hands. And the angel said to him, “Put on your belt and strap on your sandals.” And he did so. And he said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” And he went out and continued to follow, and yet he did not know that what was being done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision.

Now when they had passed the first and second guard, they came to the iron gate that leads into the city, which opened for them by itself; and they went out and went along one street, and immediately the angel departed from him. When Peter came to himself, he said, “Now I know for sure that the Lord has sent forth His angel and rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.”

-- Acts 12: 6-11

Reflection
Although Peter knew that fellow Christians were praying for him, he must have been disheartened and scared. He was chained to his guards, and James had been put to death to the delight of the Jews. Would he meet the same fate? Peter was in a dire situation, but we can be assured he knew God would somehow provide a way for him.

When the angel appeared, Peter realized that a way had been given to him! The angel instructed Peter to grab his clothes and sandals and follow him. Peter immediately did what he had been told to do. He did not know where he was going or how far and difficult it would be, but he did not hesitate. He put on his shoes and followed the Lord’s messenger.

Nowadays, we would strap on our Nikes or Brooks running shoes (and maybe some athletic clothes from Under Armour). Are you ready to trust the Lord when you encounter difficult circumstances? Are you like Peter with your shoes nearby so you quickly obey God’s direction to help you overcome the impossible?

-- Sue Davis

Question
When has God made a way when you thought there was no way?
What ministry are you engaged in right now? How have you seen God present through them?

Prayer
God, you make a way for the work you call us to do in your name. When we falter and are afraid, bolster our confidence, comfort us in our anxiety, send messengers, angels, and unexpected provisions. Amen.