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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion Monday, January 19, 2004 The Challenge of Ananias and Sapphira |
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Frontline Devotion for Monday, January 19, 2004, by Pastor Dave Sonnenberg
Bible text:
Acts 5:1-42
In Acts 4, one reads how the early Christian community rallied together and
shared their possessions. In a sense, they became a community where it was more
important for all to have their basic needs met instead of having any one person
having all their wants fulfilled.
In a consumer society, many of us have the opportunity to go way beyond having
our basic needs met. We can have the latest DVD’s and the latest gizmos and
gadgets. A recent book I read talk about “upgrading” as a cultural phenomenon.
Upgrading leads one to believe that nothing is ever good enough. Something else is always out there.
Acts 4 is a reminder that the early Christian community tried to become a group
that saw their common connection in Christ. With Christ in their life, they
realized that “having it all” really did not mean much. Having Christ in their
life was what mattered the most. In response, they felt free to share and look
out for others.
In today’s text, Ananias and Sapphira are two examples of people who couldn’t
quite go the extra mile. They couldn’t quite share as God would have them
share. What really happens is that they lose everything - including their life.
When I get beyond the literal - I find it a powerful challenge to 21st century
Christians - myself included. I hear a call to remember that the God who
provides for all my needs will continue to provide for my needs. I hear Jesus
challenging us day in and day out to remember who our provider is and to learn
to look out for those around us and be willing to share our resources. That is
no easy task, but I fully believe that is a holy challenge that God wants us to
work at. Ananias and Sapphira were not up to the challenge. May you and I rise
to the occasion - day in and day out. It won’t be easy, but let’s give it our
best effort.
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All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry on the "Frontlines" of the world. Frontline Devotions are sent via email daily. Sign up by clicking on the box to the left. Pastor Dave welcomes feedback. Contact him at pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org. |
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