This week we will be focused around giving generously. In Acts 6 we find that the early church is struggling with everyone trying to do everything, and so the position of deacon is created. Elders teach, preach and provide Spiritual guidance, the deacons cared for the widows, orphans and those in need. How is God calling each of us to use our own gifts and passions to serve others in our community, to meet the needs all around us.
John starts his gospel by telling us that the word became flesh and dwelt among us. Of all the ways Jesus could have entered into this world, it matters that Jesus became a human. His arrival tells us about his mission and purpose.
As John closes out his first letter, he wants to drive home just a few things. First, loving connection to Jesus Christ is the foundation that everything else rests on. Second, overflowing from that relationship, we are called to be a blessing to the world in a way that overcomes the challenges, struggles and burdens that life sends our way.
1 Corinthians 13 is often quoted at weddings and begins by simply saying love is….The second part of 1 John 4 has as much or more to say about what God means when we hear God is love, and that we are to love one another.