The resurrection of Jesus sets in motion something very dear to God’s heart: community.
This should not come as a surprise because our Triune God is, by definition, a holy community made up of Father, Son and Holy Spirit, united as one. As the Body of Christ, God wished for the Church to be a living expression of
who God is—a living unity that is of one mind working for the good of all creation.
When we have faith in the risen Jesus, living as a community comes naturally because Jesus lives within us. We see this evident in Luke’s description of the first Christians in Acts 2. They devoted themselves to the Apostles’ teaching, eager to learn all they could about Jesus, for whom they were truly grateful. and whom they loved. They
became aware of Jesus living in their hearts, and this drew them to serve Jesus and one another with love. Their intimate relationship with God found expression in their praise and worship. They shared what they knew and what they had, and no one went without. Their regular prayer and celebration of the Lord’s Supper united the community. Outsiders were drawn by their love and warmly welcomed. We are told that many wonders and miraculous signs took place. No doubt much of these had to do with
the changes within people as they grew closer in their relationship with Jesus.
Think back to the time you began to explore your faith.
What led you to find out more?
Was there a particular circumstance that led you there?
Who were the people who formed a part of your journey? Who
is still a part of your journey?
Have you ever encouraged someone to form a relationship with Jesus? What was or is that like?
What are you most grateful for about your church community?
