I was asked to prepare a sermon for our Church Conference last night. I chose verses from Acts chapter two including these to illustrate the beginning of the Christian community which became the Church. Fellowship and sharing were an integral part of the success of their movement. Students of the Bible know that these followers of Jesus were under tremendous persecution from outsiders. They were literally putting their lives on the line in order to follow Jesus. We don’t face that same type of stress but almost everyone is faced with some type of challenge in their life. Living in the model that God wants for us, loving God and loving others, helps us face those troubles. The love and care of friends makes the going easier. When we love and care for others, it helps take our mind off our own concerns. Last night we had our second annual Holy Ghost Weiner Roast. My heart was touched as I looked around at the assortment of people who gathered for food and fellowship. These people care for one another, help one another and pray for one another. It is much better to make a friend and be a friend than to isolate when troubles come. Church and small group fellowship is a great place to start.
Heavenly Father, you call us to love you and to love our neighbors as ourselves. I pray that you will bring friends into to our life for mutual joy and care. Be with us this week and bring us together on Sunday for worship and fellowship. We pray in Jesus name. Amen.
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