Everything in Common
Scripture Reading — Act 2:44-45
All the believers were together and had everything in common. Acts 2:44
One of the greatest lessons children face is learning to share. Sharing does not come easily for children or adults. We have an innate desire to hang on to our possessions and anything else that we think is ours.
But things were different in the church right after Pentecost. These believers, filled with the Holy Spirit, began selling their possessions and giving to anyone who had need. It must have been quite a time! Nothing like this had ever been seen before. But lives had been radically transformed by the gospel and grace of Jesus Christ. Hearts that had once been stingy were now filled with generosity.
When people experience the love and grace of God and the joy that comes from redemption in Christ, they realize that everything they have is a gift from God. They know they brought nothing into this world; nor will they take anything with them when they leave. Everything they have is on loan from God, and the best they can do is share with others what God has given them.
Generosity is not simply a lesson we learn as children. It is a response to the grace and love of God. It flows not from a spirit of guilt and fear but from a heart of thanksgiving and praise.
How can we, who have received so much from God, not share with those around us?
Father, you have given us so much. You have sacrificed your own Son for us. Fill our hearts and lives with a spirit of gratitude and generosity, we pray. In the name of Jesus, Amen.
About the author — Jerry Dykstra
Pastor Jerry Dykstra was recently appointed as the executive director of the Christian Reformed Church in North America. After a 15-year career in business, he trained for pastoral ministry and served as the pastor of Cascade Fellowship CRC, Cascade, Michigan, and Faith Christian Fellowship CRC, Walnut Creek, California. He and his wife, Linda, live in Byron Center, Michigan, and have three children and seven grandchildren.
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