Friday 08 August 2008

Background

Today's passage is an example of the 'Bread of Heaven' givingstrength and inspiration to believers to witness and openly professto their faith. It shows how sharing fellowship can encourageChristians to continue Christ's mission.

The second chapter of Acts begins withthe story of the first Pentecost when the disciples first receivedthe Holy Spirit in the upper room, went out into the streets andpreached God's grace to everyone.

Verses 37-47 come after Peter's sermon to the crowd and before thestory of the healing of the lame man at the Beautiful Gate. Theyform a link between the amazing events of Pentecost and the storyof how the Church continued Christ's mission through theApostles.

Verses 44 and 45 describe how the believers "had all things incommon". They sold their possessions and gave the money to the poorbecause they did not value material goods. They valued theirfellowship with each other and with Christ.

The reading shows how the fellowship of the early Church wasstrengthened by sharing meals and praying together, just like theIsraelites in the wilderness. A collection of individuals weretransformed into a single community. After Jesus' death,resurrection and ascension, the 'Bread of Heaven' was a reminder ofthe Last Supper and of the Church's unity in Christ. The earlyChristians were inspired by remembering the life of Jesus Christ togo out and continue his ministry.

To Ponder

If you are a Christian, what strengthens yourfaith and inspires you to follow Christ?

What do you value most in life?