Tuesday 21 April

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Today is Tuesday the 21 April, in the Season of Easter.

The monks of Pluscarden Abbey sing Ecce quam bonum: “ How good and how pleasant it is when brothers and sisters live together in unity!  It is like precious oil on the head, running down upon the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down over the collar of his robes.”  

Today’s reading is from the Acts of the Apostles.  

Now 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. There was a Levite, a native of Cyprus, Joseph, to whom the apostles gave the name Barnabas (which means ‘son of encouragement’). He sold a field that belonged to him, then brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet. (Acts 4:32-37)

Saint Luke here paints a glowing picture of the life of the early Church. Can you imagine what it would be like to be a member of a church like this? You might like to pause and reflect on your own church or community… perhaps you are missing meeting with them in person at the moment… share with the Lord now all the things for which you are grateful about your Christian community.  

A key idea here seems to be sharing. Those with plenty give freely to support those in need. Recall times when this kind of sharing has formed part of your own Christian discipleship. Perhaps you have seen this kind of sharing in recent weeks and months through the global pandemic… spend a moment reflecting on this now.  

Joseph, the Cypriot, is nicknamed by the other believers “son of encouragement”. Are you able to be an encouraging son, or daughter, to those around you? Or is there someone you can think of who encourages you in this way?  

As you listen again, try to pick out aspects of this early Christian community that you can see around you today, even in a lockdown or social distancing situation. They might be found in your church, your religious community, in your workplace, or among your friends.  

For a moment or two speak to God about how you might help to build up a community like this one today, perhaps online if you’re unable to meet in person during this time.