Tuesday prior to Easter 5

 

 Acts6:1-9, 7:2a, 51-60 –  Today’s reflection is based on the first reading for this coming Sunday.

The apostolic church has problems of growth. The ministry was so busy that spiritual functions are being neglected. Just keeping up with the daily needs of this fledgling congregation was simply overwhelming. A number of members started complaining about some being neglected. The Greek-speaking widows were not given their share when the food supplies were handed out each day.

This was more than a simple criticism. Remember there were no social systems in place. There was no safety net. Neither was there any government programs promising a stimulus check or a bail out. Widows had no rights. When they were ignored they went without.

Jesus had already addressed this issue before.  Remember the incident in the temple as Jesus observed contributions being dropped into the collection box? (See Luke 21:1-3)  A poor widow gave two cents – all she had - as opposed to the “big bucks” and “generous contributions” of others.  She gave.  She had none other to support her.

There was a generous loophole at the time of Christ.  Children could contribute funds, designated for caring for their elderly parents, and assign them to charity. Thus, they would be free of any obligation of caring for their parents. Says Jesus, “Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.’ But you say that if a man says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever you would have received from me is Corban’ (that is, a gift committed to God), he is no longer permitted to do anything for his father or mother. Thus you nullify the word of God by the tradition you have handed down.” – Mark 7:10-13

How we can best serve our neighbor especially those isolated, the vulnerable, the unemployed and the underemployed because of layoff or reduction in hours; often circumstances beyond their own choosing. We live in a fallen world outside of Eden. Life happens.

It doesn’t take a church program or a committee for you to act. Together we serve God and our neighbor. You have the opportunity to become the hands and feet the fingers and toes of Christ. When you see a need – meet it.

Do you know of someone who is isolated because of  the circumstances of their life? Reach out to them. Are they in need of groceries? Make a delivery. Drop off a meal.  Do you have extra space in your garden as you prepare for spring planting? Zucchini green bean and summer squash grows in abundance.

There is still a hunger to hear God’s Word. As you have opportunity gossip the Gospel. 

Lives are impacted by your compassion and care through your acts of generosity and kindness. True, few may see or understand all the circumstances which happen to befall a neighbor. Neither do others often see your charity. But it exists, all the same, in many tangible ways.   

This is your opportunity – to be a sermon in shoes. The story of the 1^st Century Church in today’s lesson is that the church responded to a great need. This is your occasion to serve.  Thank you for your service. As the Savior has said, “‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ – Matthew 25:40

Until next time – remember - God loves to use weak and insignificant people to do great things for the Gospel. “The word of God increased and the number of disciples multiplied.” V. 7 The point of the lesson is simple. God’s people believe the gospel and they responded.

Lift High the Cross copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things