Our first reading this week is Acts 4:32-35.
“Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.”
This lesson tells us of a faith community that lives together in harmony and takes care of each other. Many hear this story and think how wonderful it would be to have such a society. However, we must not let our desire for a carefree life keep us from the call that Jesus placed on our lives to share the Good News with the world.
This group of believers rely on each other and God to meet their needs, like an extended family. They have given up the selfish pursuit of monetary gain and pride of possessions. It doesn’t mean everyone gets to sit around with no responsibilities.
If we desire a lifestyle such as this, it must be for the glory of God and the good of others, not merely our own well-being. Jesus never promised we could relax and take it easy, He has work for us everywhere we look! Don’t let the temptation of being comfortable draw you away from the obligation of our connection in Christ.
Loving Lord, we want the world to be like the community of this passage, but we often forget that there is still work involved. Help us to see we must change our hearts and lives in order that Your kingdom may come on earth. Amen.