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Forced Rest
Photograph by Alex Diaz / Unsplash I’m the first to admit that I often don’t practice Read More
Magrey R. deVega | Read Acts of the Apostles 2:42-47
The first time Christians gathered in community—before there were impressive sanctuaries, paid professional staff, and denominational structures—they focused on four essential communal practices. They worshiped together. They grew in their faith by learning together. They cared for one another in fellowship. They engaged in service to others. These comprise the...
God, thank you for the gift of community. Guide us in becoming the church you have called us to be. Amen.
Each of the passages this week describe different and complementary aspects of the life of faith. In Acts, we see Christian community in its infancy, when the first Christians gathered to share in the power and wonder of God. In the iconic Psalm 23, we see ourselves as sheep in the fold of God’s provision, receiving care and courage to endure the valleys of life. In 1 Peter, we remember the sacrifice of Jesus, whose woundedness guarantees our healing. And in John’s Gospel, we hear of Jesus as the gate through which we can be in a full and life-giving relationship with God. Taken together, these passages remind us of essential qualities—wonder, care, courage, healing, and salvation—that comprise the abundant life.
Read Acts 2:42-47. Imagine what it was like to be in the first Christian community. What aspects of their activities do you see evident today? How can you recapture a sense of awe and wonder for God?
Read Psalm 23. What memories do you have of reading and hearing this psalm throughout your faith journey? When has it brought you comfort? In what ways do you identify with the various scenes of this psalm now?
Read 1 Peter 2:19-25. What does the cross mean to you? What difference does it make for you to acknowledge and embrace the sacrifice that Jesus made for you?
Read John 10:1-10. How has Jesus been a good shepherd to you? How has he been the door through which you have experienced abundant life?
Respond by posting a prayer.
