Tuesday of the Second Week of Easter
In today’s first reading, the first Christian community is described as having “one heart and mind” (Acts 4:32). This is seen in their sharing of their possessions and taking care of each other. They were living out what Jesus told them to do: to sell what they have and give to the poor. In doing so, they find their treasure in heaven and get rid of obstacles that hinder them from following Jesus (Matthew 19:21; Mark 10:21; Luke 12:33).
As a religious Sister, I take a vow of poverty and this Scripture reading is our inspiration for this vow. I share my possessions with the Marianist Sisters including the house I live in, the car I drive, and even a bank account. In this way, we take care of each other. This vow challenges me to reflect on what earthy possessions prevent me from following God completely and allows me to see how I am interconnected with the Sisters. I understand that being a vowed Religious is not everyone’s call. However, this first reading calls us to let go of what stops us from fully following Jesus Christ and living in the Spirit. This letting go enabled the first Christian community to be united, generous, and loving. What is it that you hold onto that makes you a less loving person? How is the Spirit leading you at this time in your life?
—Sr. Emily Sandoval, FMI