Scripture
Acts 2:46–47 (NIV)
Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
Reflection
Have you ever been so amazed by something that it changed the way you acted? Have you ever been so captivated by a movement that you couldn’t help but be a part of it? Maybe you’ve watched a sports game that you initially had no interest in, but by the end of the game, you were fully invested. Maybe you fell in love with someone and found yourself willing to do anything for that relationship. Each of us can likely recall a time when we’ve been left astonished by something and the experience moved us to act. To respond. To celebrate. To be filled with joy. To give. To tell others.
In this Scripture, we meet a group of Christians, the first believers, who were so swept up in the works of the Holy Spirit that they became joyfully generous. People around them were being freed from sin, proclaiming Jesus as their Savior, and being baptized. These new followers were in awe of the works being done by the followers of Christ that they, too, devoted themselves to contributing to the growth of the church. They were collectively all moved by what God was doing that they responded with joy and praised him together. This group of people came from different backgrounds, experiences, and ways of living but agreed on one thing: their belief in Jesus. They were so aligned with their beliefs that it was as if they were one heart beating together—on mission together, “praising God and enjoying the favor of all people.” They were unified in their spiritual disciplines, connected in their friendships, and fused together in their praise. So much so that they went above and beyond in selling their possessions to meet the needs of others. So much so that their exuberant praise of God and selfless generosity attracted others to them. The Message translation says that “People in general liked what they saw. Every day their number grew as God added those who were saved.” Which is exactly what Jesus challenged them and us to do in his last words: “Go and make disciples (followers) of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” In the same way the first believers were unified, in awe of God, joyful, generous, and praising God for the growth of disciples, we are challenged to do likewise. To live in such a way that others are attracted to Jesus and his church, so others might come to know him.
Do people like what they see when it comes to how you portray Jesus? Does your relationship with Jesus draw others in? How can you cultivate a spirit of joy and generosity in your own life?
Prayer
Lord, move in me so that I may have a joyful and generous heart that reflects you. Ignite in me a passion for you so that others would be attracted to YOU so that you will add to the number of those being saved around me.
In Jesus's name I pray,
Amen.
Church Family Prayer
Heavenly Father, we want you to move. We are hungry and desperate for more of you. Pour your Spirit out over us, our families, our church, and our community.
In Jesus's name I pray,
Amen.
