Contemplative Bible Reading

Acts 2:37a (New Living Translation)

37 Peter’s words pierced their hearts,

Peter is speaking to a large crowd on the day credited with the birth of the church (so some say). At the end of talk, there is the reaction of the crowd. They all respond to Peter’s admonitions.

But first, we have this description of the scene. Peter’s words pierced their hearts. Their hearts were not stone or did not have callouses that were like a couple inches of camel hide. Their hearts were soft enough and tender enough that they could be pierced.

I see that as a miracle. The hearts of the people were ready. The hearts of the people were receptive. I believe God had prepared the hearts of the people for Peter’s words.

I write many things. I speak on occasions. Sometimes I am quite disappointed with what I write or say. It just isn’t good or good enough. Yet, on those occasions, people come to me and say how my words helped them. Huh?

God prepares hearts. God had prepared the hearts of the thousands who listened to Peter on this occasion. Once prepared, Peter’s simple words pierced their hearts.