November 20

Acts 2:42-47

"They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."

I think these verses do an excellent job of describing exactly what the Church should be. The Church doesn't need a building, talented musicians, brillant teachers in order to exist. All we need is to be devoted to Jesus' teachings and to each other... and that's it. Everything else will happen as it should as long as we pray together, support each other, grow in our faith together.

I have seen a great example of this kind of selfless love and fellowship at Lakeside Christian Church in Escanaba, MI (Travis' parents church). Lakeside is not a big church, probably on average about 40 people per Sunday. One of their members recently lost his job and then a short time later was diagnosed with cancer. This small congregation rallied behind their brother in ways that have astounded me. They have given generously to help him and his family not fall behind on their bills. They have also organized community events to raise money for his medical expenses. They have given countless meals, phone calls, cards, and prayers on his behalf. They have sacrificed for his sake so that he would not be in need. They are living proof that God can do great things, even with a small number people. This man's name is Chuck Thompson. He is someone who means a great deal to me, Travis and our parents. It would mean a lot to all of us if we at Grace Church could lift him up in prayer. Thank you.