Dear God,
I thank You for life, and for being able to live in a country that helps with regular payments for living, though it could be argued that it is not generous; it is better than many other places with no pensions or government aid.
I read how You God, set up the Israelite nations, to be a model of health, security, and provision for each family and for the looking out for the needs of every person in their community. Moses who delivered Gods laws for living, said when the laws were followed, there may be times: Deuteronomy 15:4, 5 “Except when there may be no poor among you; for the Lord will greatly bless you ‘………’only if you are careful to obey the voice of the Lord Your God, to observe all these commandments’…” However whenever there was someone overcome in circumstances that placed them in poverty, Deuteronomy 15: 11 ‘For the poor will never cease from the land; therefore I command you, saying, ‘You shall open your hand wide to your brother; to your poor and needy, in your land.’”
Sadly In most societies down through time, self-interest got/gets in the way, and often the poor and needy are overlooked by many very ‘respectable people. May that not be me, my God; please keep prompting me as to your will. Isaiah 1: 17 “Learn to do good, seek justice, rebuke the oppressor, defend the fatherless, and plead for the widow.”
The disciples had been changed and rejuvenated by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and were sharing the good news of Jesus with many people; Acts 1: 38, 39 “Peter…’Repent and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
The disciples in the power of the Holy Spirit did many miracles, but no less miraculous was the change in personality, of everyone who accepted Jesus. Gone was the selfishness and uncaring attitude toward others. All were in unity of belief and purpose, and caring for others. Many sold their properties and land, and gave them to the apostles for distribution to those in need.
God, for the poor among us, touch each individual heart with gratitude for our abundant blessings, and the desire to willingly share with others.
Amen