Acts 6:1-7

In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word."

 

This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.

 

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.

 

Father, thank You for showing us that people’s physical needs are important. At the same time, thank You for making it clear that it would be wrong for us to serve people’s physical needs while neglecting of Your words. As Your people protected the apostles’ ability to serve out Your words and to pray, Your words were able to spread. And because Your words spread, more and more people in Jerusalem became disciples of Jesus Christ – even the priests were turning to Jesus! Forgive us for ever exalting our physical services so highly that we excuse ourselves for neglecting to serve Your words to people. May we understand – because You teach us rightly – that we must serve people both by Your words and by deeds. And may we understand – because You teach us rightly – that only as we continue to serve Your words will more people become Jesus’ disciples. Forgive me for ever speaking as though people’s actions are more important than Your words. Your words give life! Help me and all Jesus’ disciples to share life with those around us.