Listen

The believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the community, to their shared meals, and to their prayers. A sense of awe came over everyone. God performed many wonders and signs through the apostles.

Acts 2:42-43

Think

When the Good Shepherd of Psalm 23 knows each sheep by name and the flock stays with the shepherd, then the green pastures and still waters will be theirs. Likewise, when a community of faith draws close to God, the apostle’s teaching, the shared meals, and prayers, will be theirs. They are no longer just a surviving group but are a thriving fellowship. This is the mark of a community of believers.

God offers the protection, tenderness, and care of a shepherd. Under these conditions, the community is free to devote itself to that which brings abundant life. These verses do not lay down rules or specific structures for Christian living. Instead, they indicate the presence of the resurrected Lord Jesus Christ and are visible signs of an invisible spirit that connects this community.

Katie Cashwell

Pray

Good Shepherd, give me rest this day, in big and small ways.

Be gracious to me and hear my prayer.

Amen.

Go

Your sure provisions gracious God
attend me all my days;
oh, may your house be my abode,
and all my work be praise.
Here would I find a settled rest,
while others go and come;
no more a stranger, nor a guest,
but like a child at home.

from “My Shepherd Will Supply My Need” (Isaac Watts, 1719)