Invocation
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Word
“Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone who had need.” Acts 2:45
Meditation
Today’s meditation is written by Susan Senechal.
Have you ever been in need? I mean real, down to your last dollar or last day, no place to live, need? No food and no diapers need? Recently someone in our family was in just that place…the end of the rope, no reason to hope, seemingly insurmountable need. A stranger in a strange town during a pandemic. Knowing no one in that place, they turned to the church, the people of God. And the church, the people of God, came through.
From a total stranger, a house, fully furnished, was available for free for three months—the exact amount of time of the need. Because of tax liability, they couldn’t/wouldn’t even accept money for the electric bill. From another group of strangers, baby supplies. Enough formula for well over a month, and diapers enough for six months.
The people of God are at their best when they look after not just one another, but strangers. Jesus said, “I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in” (Matthew 25:35).
Those early Christians, the Acts people, were known for their acts, which drew new members: “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47). But I don’t think they carried out their acts because they were trying to grow a bigger church. They did them because they saw a need, and they could meet that need. Jesus says “whenever you do it for the least of these you do it for me” (Matthew 26:40).
Some Christians are really good at seeing a need and giving from what they have. And some of us want to know all the things first: Does he really have a need or is he just lazy? Will she use it the way I want her to? Will they be grateful for what I give? Will they join the church? None of that matters. “Acts people” see a need and they act. Then God does what he wants with that action.
Dear Jesus, help me to live generously, to see people in need and to give, simply give, with a joyful heart, to strangers in need. When you use me, you grow me. And sometimes you add to the number of those being saved. Amen.
Prayer for My Local Church
- For my local congregation. My pastors, leaders, and fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. I name them . . .
- For the Spirit’s power to gather and enlarge our congregation.
- For courage to speak the hope that is within us.
- For our church to serve and bear witness to our city, town, neighborhood, and community.
- For our church to walk together in unity. Quell any division and build us up in love and humility.
Benediction
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (II Cor. 13:14)