“There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.”
Acts 4:34-35
This passage in Acts 4 presents a beautiful picture of the open-handed generosity produced by the Holy Spirit when He takes hold of a congregation. This passage says there were “no needy people” within the early church at Jerusalem. Why not? Because those who had the ability to do so gave freely to help those in need. Several years ago Rockport adopted this same pattern of help when we established our own “Acts 4 Fund.”
What is the Acts 4 Fund? Acts 4 is a fund that is used to meet urgent physical and financial needs among the members of our congregation. It has been used to help families dealing with sudden illness, the loss of a job or some other unforeseen hardship. The fund is administered by our deacons as they seek to care for the families within our church. A request for help from Acts 4 is often initiated by our deacons when they sees a need, but it can also come from the elders or any church member who lets the deacons know there is a need. Through the years, Acts 4 has helped many within our church family.
At present the Acts 4 fund is being used to help meet one of our biggest challenges yet. With Brian M’s recent cancer surgery and leg amputation, the M home needs a fairly extensive remodel for Brian to be able to get around and have access to his bedroom and bathroom. It’s been awesome to watch so many of our members freely give of their time to help with this project. But the actual materials are being purchased through Acts 4. As a result, much of this fund will soon be depleted. With that in mind, we are asking you to consider making a special offering to help replenish Acts 4 so it can continue helping the Ms and any other members who may have a future need.
It is wonderful to watch God’s people take care of one another!
Pastor Scott