Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Renewal in Shared Resources
 Elizabeth Philip


St. John's, NY

46 Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
 

In today’s passage, the author explains the activities of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the leaders and in the fellowship of the church. The church is the community of believers who praise God and enjoy the good will of all the people. Jesus said “For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.(Mat.18:20)".

This reminds me of the recent shooting in the church in Charleston, North Carolina. A group of people were meeting every week praising God and enjoying good will but the devil worked his way in and tragedy struck. Jesus was in their midst but Jesus allowed this time of testing to check their faith. The community could have easily reacted with anger and sought vengeance. Instead, this community shocked the world with what the world least expected – forgiveness

Jesus shared his life and resources with us. He taught us to "forgive our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." The greatest example of this was seen through that Charleston community. Sometimes we may have difficulty understanding God's plan for us. When the trials and temptations happen, we must follow Gods teaching with faith, share our resources with others and pray together so that the Lord will shower upon us his miracles and wonders. We may not know God's plan but we are given the faith to see the unseen. Although we may endure suffering in this world, God knows what is best for us. Just as it is said in the passage, God will increase our  numbers and we will bear fruit through all our troubles. As Christians we are called to unite the believers and come forth and share what we have - our resources –time, talent and wealth.

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, allow us to come together as a community, use our resources to gather more souls for your kingdom

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
“ In everything, give thanks and pray without ceasing for this is the will of God”. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
  

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