MONDAY - JUNE 22

Read. Acts 4:32-37
32 The community of believers was one in heart and mind. None of them would say, “This is mine!” about any of their possessions, but held everything in common. 33 The apostles continued to bear powerful witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and an abundance of grace was at work among them all. 34 There were no needy persons among them. Those who owned properties or houses would sell them, bring the proceeds from the sales, 35 and place them in the care and under the authority of the apostles. Then it was distributed to anyone who was in need.
36 Joseph, whom the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (that is, “one who encourages”), was a Levite from Cyprus. 37 He owned a field, sold it, brought the money, and placed it in the care and under the authority of the apostles.

Reflect. This text gives us a little look at the how the early Christian community in Jerusalem looked. This is the 2nd summery of the community life (the first is in Acts 2:42-47). The distribution of goods for the sake of the community is emphasized in this passage. This is also the first time we meet Barnabas, who will later be a companion of Paul. Barnabas is marked by his generosity of selling his property and donating it to the church. 

• In verse 32 you find the theme of unity—being of “one in heart and mind.” Unity and oneness is a main concern throughout the New Testament. In John 17:11, Jesus prays to that father that his followers “will be one just as we are one.” In Galatians 3:28, Paul writes that there is nothing that can separate the church “for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
• Clearly, Christians have not done a good job of living into this unity through the ages. Especially today, we see followers of Jesus falling into the same hyper partisan traps that mark the current political landscape. 
• Take a moment to reflect on: How have I given of myself to promote unity? How have I been a stumbling block to unity in the church? What can I do, today, to live more like the early followers of Jesus? 

Pray. Dear Jesus, just as you prayed to make us one, help me to be an agent of your unity. Fill me with you spirit of peace, so that I can share and give in your church as one. Amen.

COMMUNITY PRAYER LIST

Doug. Bobby. Collier. Glenn. Adam.  Mary.  Clyde.  Linda. Betty Carolyn. Jeff. Albert. Richard. Lois. Ross. Tiny. Donald. Bill. Barbara. Andreas. Helen. Bonnie Brenner. Baker Family. Robert McKenzie Family. Terry Kibler. Carolyn Harlow