Invocation
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Word
And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common.
Acts 2:42-44
Meditation
Today’s meditation is written by Jeff Cloeter.
Charles is an intern at my church, working and gaining experience in ministry. Charles grew up in a refugee camp in Uganda his whole life until he came to the U.S. with his family at age 15. Today Charles is 20 and studying at a local community college. A couple weeks ago we were reading Acts 2:42-47. Here we get a description of the things the early church did.
“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common.”
I asked Charles, “What about this reading jumps out at you?” I knew my answer. I was focused on the first item, “the apostles’ teaching.” I was thinking about what it meant. The Old Testament, the teaching they received from Jesus, the doctrine that was formed in the early church.
Charles had a totally different response. What got his attention was this: “They were together and had all things in common.” Why was that the main thing he noticed in the text? Charles replied, “That’s what we did where I grew up. We have to show love to each other in real ways. If someone lacks something we all make sure they have it.” Charles lives this out in his life. He serves the African refugee community by translating, helping the elderly, connecting immigrants to resources, getting people jobs, and mentoring kids.
American Christians have much to learn from our global brothers and sisters. We all confess a common faith in a common Savior. But do actualize that faith in common care for one another? I think we have to work on this one. Our belief must find its expression in behavior. Jesus said, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35)
One mark of Christian community is our common care for one another. Who is it that you must care for today?
Father, you are the one, true God. You have given us one Savior, one Spirit, one faith. Assist us to live out this faith in common care for one another. Give us a selfless vision of human need. Compel us to share when others are lacking. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
For My Close Christian Community
- For a few close and trusted Christian brothers or sisters. Give me encouragement, accountability, godly counsel, and Christian love through these relationships.
- For a haven of Christian community where I can be loved in Christ, and from that love be sent into the world.
- For honest speech and mutual love and care for one another.
Benediction
May the almighty and merciful God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, bless and keep us. Amen.