A Resurrection-fueled Connection for Good

All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.
- Acts 4:32-33a
 
At the center of our passage for this week is the notion of a resurrection-fueled generosity. This is what makes the domino effect unique.
 
There are so many movements to make the world a better, sweeter, kinder place. The “Pay it forward” effort did a lot of good. The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge raised a lot of money. But both of these have dissipated over time. The domino effect sparked by the resurrection of Jesus has lasted from generation to generation.
 
The resurrection of Jesus changed the way people viewed their relationships. A radical new unity followed in Jesus’ wake. If you’ve ever watched the slider of a zipper pull two sides of a piece of clothing together, you’re close to imagining what Jesus has done.
 
The things that used to divide us seem so small when we live with a continuing awareness that Jesus has conquered death and climbed out of the grave. The testimony of the apostles rang out over their community: “Jesus is alive, Jesus is alive, Jesus is alive!” When the great enemy has been vanquished, we can be free to lay down our arms and embrace each other.
 
When we forget the resurrection reality and treat Jesus as a dusty historical figure, our experience of connection and impetus for generosity begin to fade. We lose perspective. Our petty differences take on an exaggerated significance.
 
This is why a daily rhythm of prayer makes such a difference in how we live in the midst of our community. Connecting with Jesus – even briefly – grounds us in the world in which the resurrection-reality overshadows the enemies to our unity and, therefore, to our generosity.
 
Take some time this morning to pray, connecting with Jesus. And ask him to help you make a meaningful daily connection with him every day this week.
 
If it helps you, take a peek at your schedule and find a time that works for you to sit in quiet and connect with Jesus. Go outside for a walk if that helps. Take a journal with you if you find that useful. Apply some creativity and intentionality. It’s worth it!

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