Let's Get Digital
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, I’m so very grateful for all that You’ve done for me and all You give me each day.
Read Acts 4:32-37
[32] All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. [33] With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all [34] that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales [35] and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need. [36] Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), [37] sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
What was so distinctive about this early Christian fellowship?“The pursuit of individualism has led us to this place of hunger for community, not of blood or nation but communities of choice,” says author and futurist Leonard Sweet. He suggests that eBay is one of the best expressions of community for postmodernists because “where else can they participate so fully and have their lives changed by the experience?” But what about the development of offline communities? Isn’t that what church should be about? After the excitement of the Pentecost season, Luke enthusiastically describes one of the most important features of the early Christians: a commitment to community. Caring for one another, sharing all things in common, cultivating unity and practicing grace were all signs of modeling the Gospel and living as the people of God. Mentioning the generous gift from Joseph of Cyprus was not to promote him, but to describe the selfless sacrifices that were taking place. Community–a wonderful way to work out the love agenda of Jesus and what a challenge for us as we live in this multitasking, hectic but often lonely and isolating age.
Apply
Do these verses describe your church community? How can you help develop what is lacking?
Closing prayer
Lord, may my church be an example of the kind of community of faith that honors You and attracts others.
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