Tearfund Lent Devotional Day 18

A prayer for the church

‘All the believers were together and had everything in common.’ (Acts 2:44, NIV)

Read the following passage through two or three times, reflecting on what it means to be truly open to each other. Then, commit the prayer below to God.

‘They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people.’ (Acts 2:42-47)

‘They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching…’

God, open our minds to the teachings of others.

‘...and to fellowship…’

God, open our hearts to the friendship of others.

‘...to the breaking of bread…’

God, open our tables for the provision of others.

‘...and to prayer…’

God, open our souls to your beautiful voice.

Amen.

Gideon Heugh

Gideon writes for Tearfund and is a poet and environmentalist