A team

John Povey February 29, 2024 4 2

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Acts 2: 42-47 (NRSVA)

42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.

43 Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. 44 All who believed were together and had all things in common; 45 they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

The emerging Church in the first generation faced hard times and severe persecution.  You wouldn’t guess that fact from the snapshot we see this morning in the book of Acts.  There was a spirit of joyful celebration of new life in Christ and fellowship together by the Holy Spirit. The Church breathed communion, community, fellowship, partnership, and solidarity.

Jesus spent a lot of time with his disciples teaching them how to be a community of faith. He encouraged them to care for each other, that they might remain strong in faith and service. Jesus said to them, “Where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there among them.” His presence is felt in a very special way when His people lift up His name in praise and worship.

The glory of God leapt out into the world through that fledging community. A new spirit moved, connecting them, inspiring them, enabling them to speak and listen to each other and to God. They showered each other with support and helped those in need around them. Their example and their enthusiasm was so catching that day by day the Lord added to their number as people discovered salvation in Jesus. Now there’s a thought!

Prayer:

Lord, you have given us countless numbers of fellow believers who testify to Your love and inspire us to greater things. In so many other ways, you have given us all we need for fellowship, support and protection, and we praise you. As we share a common faith, and are inextricably bonded one to another, bless us with love for each other, and an ever-growing love which reaches out to many. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.