Reflection on Acts 2: 37-47
Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him.” And he testified with many other arguments and exhorted them, saying, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” So those who welcomed his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand persons were added. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
Acts 2:37-47 (NRSV)
During the high point of immigration into the the United States, we saw thousands of new Americans bringing their persons, belongings, and beliefs to these shores. When these immigrants arrived, they began to search for roots, place, and a way to belong.
When you move to a new town or a new job or a new school, where and how do you put down roots? How do you choose the place that will become your home?
For most immigrants, the answer was obvious, they settled with other immigrants from their country, Many cities saw neighborhoods of different ethnic groups popping up, and one of the central places for these communities were the places that they worshiped.
Over the years, families have left, people have moved into the suburbs, and the people we see every day are less likely to be the same people that we worship with once a week. The connections may not be as obvious as they were in the past. We may look at the awe that bound together the Pentecost Church and feel like we have lost something. BUT! It’s never too late! God has called you to your community at this time and place! Don’t be afraid to start new relationships or deepen existing relationships now. Jesus Christ called the early church to work together, in all aspects of their lives, and Jesus Christ is calling you and the people in your congregation and community to work together, too.
Reflection by Pastor Tim Crummitt