Daily Devotional - Terms of Agreement - WK9 - 2/28/25 - Day 59 - "Mission Minded"

Author: Evangelist Lisa Hoffman

“Mission Minded”
Scripture: (Acts 4:32-37 KJV)
 
“And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid them down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.”
 
Devotion:
All of my life, I have watched my mom give to those in need. Every day of the week, and especially on Sundays, we would have extra mouths at our table to feed. Mind you, we were not rich, and there were six of us. But she didn't care. She brought coats and clothes for neighborhood children, took in family members, friends, and children who had nowhere to go. Every job she worked brought her more honorary children calling her mom or extended family members. Today, she continues that legacy at her church and in her community. She helps serve on a community outreach program at her church that provides food, clothing, toiletries, and other necessities to those in need on a weekly basis. She teaches Bible study once a month at an assisted living community, and sponsors yearly meals and events for them. She takes part in a yearly event hosted by her church that feeds the homeless in their community a five-star meal and treats them to a night of elegance. My mom has been a great example for me of being mission focused and mission minded.
           
However, Christ set the greatest example for us all to follow. He knew the importance of fulfilling the natural and spiritual needs of the people. He could have let the multitude go hungry, instead he fed them. Today’s scripture shows us a glimpse into the early church where everyone worked together and shared what they had, so there was no lack among them. This is a great example of what unity and being of one mind can do.
When we come together bringing our talent, time, and treasure, and serve out of love, God will give the increase so that there is no lack.
           
The epicenter of the black community used to be the church; people knew they could get fed, healed, delivered, and restored all in one place. Now, you have six churches on one road in the poorest communities, and no unity among them. I truly believe that God is calling us back to the foundation of being mission minded. There are so many people in need and without basic necessities. We, the church, must not remain so inwardly focused that we forget our mission. Little becomes much when we put it in God’s hand.

Prayer:
God, thank You for bringing us through every test and tribulation. Thank You for giving us Your strength and greater faith for the journey. Amen.