One the foremost community characteristics of the early Christian community was the sharing aspect of its individual members. They really took care of those in need. Those with plenty or enough to spare did not mind putting their excess at the disposal of the elders to be given away to those who really haven't much or anything at all.
This generosity does not necessarily and merely stem from a sense of pity or abundance. At the root of this generous sharing is the sense of unity, of oneness and equality. Those with plenty did not feel bad about giving away something and those with little did not hesitate to come forward and appeal for help. Everyone, rich and poor, haves and have-nots felt at home with one another. That being at home with one another was the Church!
Moreover it was basically this community dimension that appealed most to the believers of other faiths. The joy and serenity that they noticed among the Christians made them wonder what is it that they had going on among them. How is it that this group of people could feel happy about giving away - generously - what was legally and rightfully theirs? Why was there this feeling of 'being-at-home'?
If it was this community sharing and concern that brought the people together, it was the Gospel message that strengthened the bond and deepened it, complementing charity with divinity.
This generosity does not necessarily and merely stem from a sense of pity or abundance. At the root of this generous sharing is the sense of unity, of oneness and equality. Those with plenty did not feel bad about giving away something and those with little did not hesitate to come forward and appeal for help. Everyone, rich and poor, haves and have-nots felt at home with one another. That being at home with one another was the Church!
Moreover it was basically this community dimension that appealed most to the believers of other faiths. The joy and serenity that they noticed among the Christians made them wonder what is it that they had going on among them. How is it that this group of people could feel happy about giving away - generously - what was legally and rightfully theirs? Why was there this feeling of 'being-at-home'?
If it was this community sharing and concern that brought the people together, it was the Gospel message that strengthened the bond and deepened it, complementing charity with divinity.
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