Acts 2:42-47 (NRSV)
Read Acts 2:42-47 on biblegateway.com
Verse 42They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Verse 43Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. Verse 44All who believed were together and had all things in common; Verse 45they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Verse 46Day 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, Verse 47praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
Devotion
Why is this passage from Acts a part of this week's offerings? Because this new community of faith needed a shepherd, one to lead them in their new life of faith as they devoted themselves "to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers," and it was all done "with glad and generous hearts, day by day." Led by the Spirit, they were putting the first blocks into the foundation of Christ's new church. No matter what millennium it is, we, God's gathered flock, are going to deal with our calling in the midst of a troubled and confused world. But, keeping our eyes on the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, trusting in his promises and following him, we can be our Lord's hands and feet in good times and in bad.
Prayer
Lord, you have gathered us together as your flock, now help us to be your hands in the world, dedicated to serving in your name.
Amen