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And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. They worshipped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity—all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.

Acts 2:44-47

As we read Acts 2, we witness an incredible event that changed the course of human history—the arrival of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. This day was not only significant in terms of the spiritual awakening that took place, but it also marked a profound shift in how we, as the Christian community, approach our personal and communal economies.

The early Christian community was made up of people from all walks of life, including the poor, the marginalized, and the outcasts of society. These believers were not only concerned with their own personal salvation, but they recognized that their faith had implications for the wider community. They sold their property and possessions to give to those in need, creating a community where everyone had enough and no one was left behind.

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, the early Christian community created an alternative economy, one that was based on sharing, generosity, mutual care, and empowering one another to become free from the chains of poverty. For the early Christian community, spiritual freedom in Christ went hand in hand with participating in this alternative economy.

As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded that our faith has implications for how we live in the world. We are called to be agents of transformation, working to break down the systems of oppression that exist in our communities and creating spaces where everyone is valued and cared for. One easy way we at Willow can respond to the needs around the world is to participate in our Seed Packing at Celebration of Hope. Together we pack seeds to empower local churches across the world to break the cycles of poverty that exist in their communities.

May we be filled with the Holy Spirit today and every day, so that we can live out our faith in a way that challenges the status quo and creates a more just and equitable world. Let us be a people who are known for our commitment to justice, our advocacy for the marginalized, and our love for one another.

Next Steps 

• Reflect on the chains that keep people in poverty in your local community. How might God be calling you to use the freedom you have in Christ to create an alternative economy? 
• Consider praying about coming alongside the church or an organization to support their efforts in serving the poor in another country. Ask God to show you.
• Are you interested in joining us in Seed Packing? Sign up here