“There was great joy in that city.”
Acts 8:8
Today
we skip to the 8th chapter of the Acts of the Apostles for a reading titled:
"Philip in Samaria.” Philip was one of the assistants chosen by the
apostles in chapter 6.
Here's the back
story:
Some
of the Jewish community has converted to Christianity. Others are pushing back
and persecuting Christians. The most famous of these is Saul who later
becomes Paul, after his conversion on the road to Damascus.
The
Samaritans pay attention to Philip. Unclean
spirits are excised and the paralyzed and crippled are cured. This is
even before the "big guns" (Peter and John) leave Jerusalem to lay
hands on them. They must have been
really good Samaritans. (I couldn’t resist the pun.)
This attentiveness
to the word of God leading to great things provides me with the opportunity to
share an idea that has been percolating for several weeks.
Back
in theological school I learned of a concept which affects churches known as “The Slow Buffalo.” Here’s how it works: The group is advised of a need. Everyone mutters an excuse and runs away
as fast as possible leaving the slow buffalo with the job.
Stories
of the vibrant and growing Christian community of Acts cause me to wonder why
today’s church can be so disconnected from their energy. They also fuel my desire to go beyond my assigned
role to ACT more like them.
The antidote
to the slow buffalo might be found in the fable “Stone Soup.” The people’s
attentiveness and willingness to act causes great things to happen. (Soup from a stone….fancy that.)
Our
social concerns ministry is an e-mail list of 40 people willing to act from
time to time in response various needs. Future goals are twofold:
- Add more people to the list
- Create a talent bank of skills
to be applied to needs that arise
Here’s what you can do:
Add your name and e-mail to our
list.
Remember "Acts" is not just a name. It is a verb.
Blessed
to be in ministry WITH YOU at St. Mary’s,
Bruce
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