The community of believers was of one heart and mind,
Acts 4 32-37
and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own,
but they had everything in common.
With great power the Apostles bore witness
to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus,
and great favor was accorded them all.
There was no needy person among them,
for those who owned property or houses would sell them,
bring the proceeds of the sale,
and put them at the feet of the Apostles,
and they were distributed to each according to need.
What a radical idea. As an American this whole notion is so difficult to wrap my head around. In reality it’s far less about possessions than about making sure that each member of the community is provided for. God has provided everything we need for every individual. With that in mind, “after our needs are met all the rest belongs to the poor,” a saint once said. No it is not wrong to own things and to enjoy them. We are physical beings. On the other hand it’s wrong to ignore the needs that surround us when we have an abundance.
Help us Lord, to develop hearts that are generous and desire share your abundance with those around us. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.