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A Lectionary Resource for April 27 to June 1 2003

April 27 2003

REBUILDING COMMUNITY

After the crucifixion the disciples were a scattered and broken group. Their fragile community had to be rebuilt, without the centring presence of Jesus. Today's readings present some of the ideals of Christian community, from a later, confident perspective.

The ideal Christian community is one where:

• People live in unity (Psalm 133)
• They share a common belief and a common experience of Christ (John 20:19-31)
• They live authentically (I John 1:1-2:2)
• And they share their possessions (Acts 4:32-35)

This is community, communalism, even communism. This is the ideal. But how realistic is it? Has it ever been achieved? Many monastic communities tried to live this way, but the attractions of money, sex and power often sabotaged their efforts. In 1980, a visitor from the Philippines, Sister Mary John Mananzan, described the New People's Army there. They were, she said from an experience of living with them, totally committed to each other and their cause, very respectful of each other, determined but joyful, and ready to give their lives to save the others at any time. The government knew them as terrorists.

In New Zealand there have been a number of attempts to set up Christian communes, or communities. Most are short-lived, but some have lasted for over fifty years.

When we have a Christian society the State may take responsibility for social equity, sharing or redistributing possessions, and encouraging unity. What is Christian responsibility in this context?

The verses from Acts are inserted into this story from a time when COMMON LIFE had become the ideal. It may be based on the teachings of Jesus as expressed in his encounter with the "rich young ruler".

The Psalm is one of ascents, pilgrims riding up to Jerusalem, singing good poetry, encouraging each other with their religious fervour. It is important for us to experience this at Festivals and on pilgrimages. We may then carry these ideals through into ordinary life.

I John is a fascinating letter, touching on gnostic ideas, yet challenging Gnosticism. It is strong on light and darkness, yet also links the mystical with the practical. The message is that how you live is the most important, not what special knowledge you might claim.

The Gospel presents faithful Thomas, the man who can question and must see for himself.

Here then are practical challenges to live out the ideals of community.

This is ANZAC WEEKEND. Some believe the slaughter at Anzac Cove gave birth to a New Zealand nation. Certainly common suffering can build community.

These notes are written in February 2003. What Anzac messages will be relevant in April? Has the 21st century shown that the nations have learnt from the experience of 20th century wars? Is there a stronger, saner, international community?

These readings can be interpreted in ways that encourage understanding, tolerance and community. But they can also be used to justify exclusiveness: only Zionist Jews to receive the Lord's blessing in Psalm 133; only members of the Church to receive their share of goods in Acts 4; only privileged disciples to have a special relationship with Jesus in John 20; and only the beloved children to know forgiveness of sins in I John1.

Every scripture is open to abuse.

A PRAYER

Triune God, your Divine community inspires our yearning for true intimacy. Heal the fractures in our families and in our church.
Enable us to rebuild a community where trust and respect are real.
May our faith community nurture and equip us to be agents of community, reconciliation and justice in our world, beginning at home, extending into our town, and joining hands with others around the world.
Then we may see your Kingdom come. AMEN