The readings on this 20th Week of the Year reveal God’s providence to foreigners, Gentiles, and people of different cultural, linguistic, and ethnic backgrounds. As members of this vast family, may we foster ties of community and friendship as we shine with the light of faith in the world.
We discover in the Acts of the Apostles a common theme of unity within the early Church. They were of “one heart and mind” and lived their faith in Christ in both physical and spiritual ways.
Jesus refers to the Trinity in John’s Gospel, pointing out that we are “works in progress” who are growing in our discipleship and communion with one another.
At the conclusion of his Letter to the Romans, St. Paul starts dropping names as he greets and cites many holy people who are all serving the Lord. Would that our names were among them! Would that we would take the opportunities before us in this time in our world to work together in the name of Jesus!
The early Christian community shared their resources so that no one was in need. Their example inspires us to consider how we might use wisely our material goods in order to alleviate the suffering of our brothers and sisters.
“The community of believers was of one heart and mind,” and their example – powered by their faith in the Risen Lord – inspires us to draw together as we face the challenges and obstacles in our lives today.
The Acts of the Apostles reveals a powerful example of communal life that challenges us to examine our relationships at every level and interaction. Community is crucial…but not always easy! May we call upon God’s Mercy for the help to make our communities flourish.