4 Peter, along with John, looked straight at him and said, “Look at us.” 5 So he turned to them, expecting to get something from them. 6 But Peter said, “I don’t have silver or gold, but what I do have, I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!” (Acts 3:4-6 CSB)

When we are in a difficult state it can be hard to look others in the eye. We will often tell our tale with eyes downcast. Others may avert their eyes in shame or pity as well.

In our scripture when a lame begger was calling upon Peter and John they did something quite different. They looked at the man and commanded he look at them. This was a point of recognition and respect to the begger.

Then they gave him far more than silver or gold, they gave him back the use of his legs. They met a far bigger need and in doing so showed him Christ through their actions.

I was taught from a very young age that no matter what you look a man in the eye. In good or bad you meet someone’s gaze out of respect and as my father put it, “Son, you are no better nor no worse than any man out there.” There is both a humble acceptance and a strength of character conveyed in this act. But most importantly, there is respect.