Tomorrow is the Sunday after Easter. Last week we celebrated the resurrection of Christ. The scriptures throughout this week told of how a scattered group of disciples were reunited as they encountered the risen Christ. Doubt and fear was replaced with hope and a boldness to reclaim the life he offered them. Because God broke the chains of death by raising Jesus from the dead, a shattered community found wholeness once again.
These early Jesus followers began to reorganize their life together. Acts tell us that “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)
When we encounter the power of new life in Christ, nothing can stay the same. We are connected with other members of the body of Christ (some whose names we may never know) in deep and profound ways. This connection changes how we live our lives. We see how everything we do, every choice we make, impacts other members of Christ’s body. We live knowing our wellbeing is tied to their wellbeing.
Last week, we sang our “alleluias” as we retold the story: “Up from the grave he AROSE!” This week, will you be like those first disciples and allow the reality of this truth to sink in. What will be different for you because Christ is no longer in the tomb? Will you share the story with others? Will you allow a great grace to rest within your heart? How will you extend that grace to others? How will you share what you have with those who have little, so that there will be “not a needy person” among us?
The resurrection of Christ dares us to live in new ways. Are you willing?
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