The Wednesday Word 1.26.2022

 

Acts 2:42-47

42 All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. 43 A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— 47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.

It is no wonder Methodists are crazy for their Carry-In Dinners. It’s right there in the Bible! The kind of community described here sounds like joy to me. When you stop to think that the Crucifixion had only been a couple of months before, these things came to pass amazingly fast. Astounding, in fact. What could bring these people together and completely change their lives? The Resurrection.

For forty days, the Risen Christ was among the believers. Then there was his Ascension into Heaven. Angels came to assure the Disciples that Jesus would one day return in the very same manner. Just as Jesus had promised, the Holy Spirit was sent to guide those who believed in an event we call Pentecost. It is no wonder that these people came together to form a community of worship and love.

What does this have to do with gathering in the church basement over a pan of fried chicken and some amazing pies? The Crucifixion wasn’t just for the first believers. Jesus suffered for you and me. The Resurrection wasn’t just revealed for them. The Holy Spirit was sent for you and me and everyone else to bring us together for the worship and glory of God. Fellowship was meant to remind us. The smiles and the laughter and the chicken we share is foretaste of the community we strive to join. The eternal fellowship…something to pray about.

Don’t forget to look for the Lord today. Vicki H.



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