Witnesses

 

The Spiritual Waiting Room

Witnesses

Spirit-filled     Community

Believing     Testifying     Resurrecting

Our Ancestors In Faith

Apostles

(picture and poem by Kathy McNamara)

Scripture:   Acts of the Apostles 4: 32 to 36

The community of the faithful was of one heart and one mind, and none of them thought that any of their possessions belonged to them alone for they held everything in common. With great power the apostles bore witness to the resurrection of Jesus, and great blessing was showered upon all of them.

There was no needy person among them since those who owned property or houses would sell them and give the proceeds of the sale and lay them at the feet of the apostles.

They were given to each one according to need.

(scripture adapted by John J. McNamara)

Reflection

This reading from the Acts of the Apostles tells us a lot about life in the early Church. It challenges us to have that same unity of mind and heart that these first followers of Jesus showed.

What a witness for us! Imagine if we followed this example and tried to take care of those in our community who were in need.

Our possessions are blessings from God that are meant to be shared. We witness to a different way of life----a Spirit-filled trust in our God who is always there for us.

It is hard to overcome that selfishness which puts us first and to accept the power of the resurrection which transforms our lives.

We have to realize that we are not alone. We are connected to a community.

Our connection goes back through history to all of those in the Communion of Saints who are so deeply connected with us. They have gone before us in faith and they are always with us.

These witnesses have gone before us and shown us that it is possible to put others first and that it can transform both us and our world. We can think of our ancestors who travelled to a new land to create a better life for their families.

We can think of those like Mother Cabrini who came to America and started orphanages, schools, and hospitals to help those in need. 

We can remember those like Bishop Oscar Romero who advocated for the needs of the poorest among us.

Kathy's photo from the Easter baptisms at St. Francis Xavier Church in New York City shows that journey continuing today. We welcome all into our community so that we can share our blessings of faith and be enriched by the faith of those who have been led to our Church by the Holy Spirit.

Spread the Good News of the Resurrection of Jesus by the witness of your life!

1. Can you think of any special witnesses of faith in your life?

2. How are you called to be a witness to the Resurrection of Jesus?

3. What comes to your mind and heart as you think of the Communion of Saints?