There was a man described in the New Testament who was looking for one thing, but found something much more valuable.

The man was a cripple. He had been a cripple since birth (Acts 3:2). This man was enterprising, in that he solicited someone to carry him to a place to beg. He was not content to languish in some forgotten place.

They, whether family members or friends, carried him to the temple gate. The temple was a place for religious worship. Because he was crippled, this man was denied the privilege of making an offering to God, especially if he was a Levite (Leviticus 21:17-21). The cripple was in a place where rejection was the rule for him.

The cripple was at the temple gate begging for money. Whatever our condition, most of us think money will solve most of our woes. This man was at the temple at the time of daily prayers, perhaps thinking that his condition might elicit sympathy, along with some coins from people seeking to ease their conscience as they went to pray.

Two apostles, Peter and John, came along on their way to pray. The cripple asked them for money (Acts 3:3). He was trying to get enough to exist one more day. His life was a series of crises: the earnest search for daily bread. He had no hope, no prospect; he had known nothing in his life except misery and depravation.

Peter and John stopped where the cripple was. The cripple was hopeful and likely extended his hand or a cup, and said something that would explain his plight. Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you" (Acts 3:6).

Before the cripple could respond, Peter said, "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Maybe this cripple knew about Jesus, or maybe he didn't, but likely he had heard something, because it would be difficult to be anywhere around Jerusalem at this time and not know something of Jesus.

Peter took the cripple by the hand and helped him up. As the cripple was standing up, his feet and ankles became strong, and he could walk (Acts 3:7). He went with Peter and John walking, jumping, and praising God.

A cripple who started the day without any hope except what he could beg, now had a completely different prospect for life.

No matter what our condition or position, it is likely we are looking for something more. The question is, to whom or what are we looking? This crippled beggar put himself in the right place and was introduced to the saving and healing power of Jesus Christ all in one divine moment.

Jesus Christ the Son of the Living God is alive and well. He is in the miracle business. What greater miracle could there be than for people in despair and hopelessness to find life and purpose in Jesus Christ!

The crippled beggar went to the temple. He had probably been there many times before, but this day, he met Jesus, and his life would never be the same again.

Have you found what you are looking for? Jesus Christ is the answer. Put yourself in a position to meet Him. He is waiting.