Giving all
Day 488, Friday, Dec. 12
Acts 4:23 – 5:11
The end of chapter 4 and beginning of chapter 5 get into an intriguing aspect of early Christian life—the way that at least some early Christians seemed to have lived communally, sharing all possessions. Advocates of differing political-economic systems have tried to use this for support.
It is clear that this kind of sharing was practiced by at least some of the believers. “All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.”
On the other hand, Peter’s response to Ananias and Sapphira suggests the process was voluntary. Their sin wasn’t in holding back part of what they owned; it was lying and claiming to have given it all.
Throughout Christian history there have been communities of believers—notably monastaries and convents—that have practiced this kind of communal living. While it has never been the norm for Christianity, it presents a way of living that has worked for some.

-Rev. Mark Fleming

Friday meditation

Psalms 40:6-17
Sacrifice and offering you did not desire—but my ears you have opened—burnt offerings and sin offerings you did not require. Then I said, “Here I am, I have come—it is written about me in the scroll. I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart.”
I proclaim your saving acts in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, Lord, as you know. I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and your saving help. I do not conceal your love and your faithfulness from the great assembly.
Do not withhold your mercy from me, Lord; may your love and faithfulness always protect me. For troubles without number surround me; my sins have overtaken me, and I cannot see. They are more than the hairs of my head, and my heart fails within me. Be pleased to save me, Lord; come quickly, Lord, to help me.
May all who want to take my life be put to shame and confusion; may all who desire my ruin be turned back in disgrace. May those who say to me, “Aha! Aha!” be appalled at their own shame. But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; may those who long for your saving help always say, “The Lord is great!”
But as for me, I am poor and needy; may the Lord think of me. You are my help and my deliverer; you are my God, do not delay.

Prayer focus
May all we have be used for your glory.