Hundreds of people likely passed this man every day. Many probably dropped a coin without ever looking at him. Peter did something different; he stopped and truly saw him.

One of the greatest gifts we can offer another person is to make them feel seen. So many people today feel overlooked, forgotten, or invisible. Before Peter offered healing, he first offered dignity.

We may not always have the perfect words or the perfect solution, but we can give someone our attention. 

That same heart for dignity is one reason I’m so grateful to be part of a church whose heart posture says: “Every Number Has a Name, Every Name Has a Story, and Every Story Matters to God.” 

I’m reminded of a friend who faithfully serves at Fresh Market every week. Her role is simple yet powerful: she calls each guest by name, welcomes them with a smile, and hands them a wagon as they enter the market.

As we transitioned from a manual check-in process to a digital one, we briefly considered calling guests by number rather than by name. She wouldn’t have it. She gently reminded me, “Our Fresh Market training taught us about dignity—the way we display the food, the cleanliness of the stations, the hospitality area with coffee and donuts, and the way we welcome each guest. Why would we stop calling people by their names?”

I was humbled, proud, and grateful that my sister in Christ had the courage to remind me of the why behind what we do.

May we be people who stop, look, and truly see others. Because every number has a name, every name has a story, and every story matters to God.

Prayer: Jesus, open my eyes to truly see people as You do.