Acts 4:32-35 - Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles were giving 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 were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.

The early Christians shared an incredible bond of friendship, supporting one another both spiritually and materially. As we read in Acts 4, after believing in Jesus, the believers 'were of one heart and soul,' prioritizing people over possessions. Those who had means sold their lands and homes, using the proceeds to ensure 'there was not a needy person among them.' What a beautiful picture of Christian community, where true friendship is defined not by words, but by sacrificial, selfless acts of love and support. In their unity and generosity, they found favor with all people, and the Lord added to their fellowship daily. May we seek to foster such friendships within the body of Christ.

Within the bustling city of Jerusalem, a new community was taking shape - a community bound together not by ethnicity or tradition, but by their shared faith in the risen Jesus. Though they faced opposition, the early believers supported one another through both good times and trials. They prioritized people over possessions, ensuring all had their basic needs met. What an incredible witness this must have been to those around them! In their unity and generosity, the love of Christ shone forth. Their friendship was defined not merely by affectionate words, but by sacrificial deeds that uplifted one another. Yet in our busy, individualistic world, true community can feel elusive. We get so focused on our own lives and schedules that we fail to invest deeply in one another. But friendship, especially within the church, should be marked by more than a casual Sunday greeting. It requires intentionally making time for one another, bearing one another's burdens, and meeting real needs through both spiritual and practical support. When we foster such friendships, anchored in Christ's selfless love, His light will shine all the brighter through us. May we seek opportunities to sacrificially love and encourage one another each day.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of friendship and community shown by the early church. Forgive us when we prioritize ourselves over others or fail to invest deeply in our relationships. Help us to cultivate friendships within the body of Christ that are defined by sacrificial love and support. May we make time to encourage one another through both word and deed, upholding each other through all of life's ups and downs. Use us to shine Your light in this world as we seek first the kingdom of love You established through Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.