"All the believers were together and had
everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave according to what each one needed."
- Acts 2:44-45
The
meaning of our lives is not found in the pursuit of individual happiness, in
personal careers or accumulating possessions according to the American
dream. Rather, Jesus invites us to a
shared life defined by his call to "love one another as I have loved you." This love has the power to transform ordinary
human beings into gifted members of the Body of Christ--a whole new way of
living together in mutual service and forgiveness that is good news to the
world now, and the beginning of eternal life with God.
What
does this look like in our daily life?
Like many of our neighbors, we gather around tables to share meals. However, like the early church, through
common sharing of resources and goods we have practical ways to share our possessions with one
another and with our neighbors in need.
Like
many others around the globe, we have jobs and attend meetings. However, we believe that Jesus is present
with us as we discern together how we shall work for the common good, and by
Spirit-led consensus, make the major decisions of our lives together in
community.
Like
people of all ethnic groups and nations, we share times of celebration and
mourning, times of thanksgiving and lament.
However, our common bonds rooted in the person and life of Jesus give
meaning to the joys and sorrows we share as part of God's work to redeem the world he created.
Our
life together, like the life of the twelve disciples, is in some ways common,
and in other ways miraculous-a privilege we want to share. Come and visit to
see for yourself.