Image of Liam and Caleb by Eradio Valverde
Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. (Acts 4:32-35)
Good day Dear Friend! I trust this finds you and yours doing well. Happy Easter! May the power of the Lord's Resurrection bless you and strengthen you in all you do and face today is my prayer.
I have always loved this passage, though we usually read it in the context of almost the whole 2nd chapter of Acts. It still jumps out at me and tells me that the power of the Holy Spirit, the same power that raised the Lord from the dead, brought new life and joy to those gathered there in Jerusalem. Though it had been some days since the Lord's resurrection and ascension into Heaven, the resurrection was key to their faith and preaching. And that core belief brought them together to share "one heart and soul." So much so, that "no on claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common." The presence of Christ brings to an end that which started almost at birth; self-centeredness and selfishness. One of baby's first words, besides, no, is mine! If you were spared that, you were spared a great thing; but most of us remember having to teach our children how to share. Even when there was only one, but other babies were introduced to them, the awareness was that this new baby has no claim on my stuff!
The new believers loved the Lord so much and awaited to see Him that the things of earth became temporal things. While awaiting Jesus' return, they cared for one another and shared all things. This brought sharing and it also brought grace upon them all. Incredible to see that among that group, "There was not a needy person among them;" and even those blessed with property and houses, sold them, and brought the profits to the disciples so that they could share with those in need.
Has the Lord's resurrection brought that power to you? Recently, several people have, on television, and in person, especially among our grandkids, asked, "What's your superhero power?" Can we answer, "I have the superhero power of sharing!" Indeed, what greater power do we need?
PRAYER: Loving God, grand me the grace and strength that comes with Your presence in my life. Grant to me the loving heart to lovingly share with all whatever I see as a need. Grant me the boldness and strength to share the good news of Your resurrection as that which brings peace and eternal life. This I pray in Jesus' strong name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! Share with joy, as you see my two grandsons above, Liam Carlos Vasquez, and Caleb Eradio Garcia, sharing the joy of holding live butterflies that they released on Easter Sunday along with all the kids from our church.
Eradio Valverde
PRAYER UPDATE: Rev. Michael Dobbs underwent successful surgery yesterday and was released late afternoon to go home! Power in prayer! Thank you for praying! And pray for one another; further witness to the presence of the Resurrection!
