A Few Words On "The Word"

March 30, 2008
2nd Sunday in Easter, Year A
Acts 2:42-47 & John 20:19-31

A Real Utopia

Have you ever thought about what a perfect world might look like?  You’re vision hopefully includes peace and equality, love and justice.  A place where all people are able to meet their most basic needs.  In fact, your picture of a utopian world would probably involve a great deal of sharing and selflessness on the part of the people living in it.  In essence, any vision of a perfect society is impossible without a strong community.

Community – it’s more important than you might think.  Contrary to what our culture tries to tell us, we are not entirely independent beings.  We need those around us just to meet even our most basic needs such as food, water, and security.  I don’t know about you but I go to a store or market of some type to buy just about everything.  Living in some kind of community or society is essential.  Just think for a moment where you would be without the support and sustenance your family community offers you?

Unfortunately, as you and I both know, achieving a perfect world is no easy task.  In fact, most people immediately assume it’s impossible.  However, if we’re truly being real about our faith we must realize that the Easter experience changes everything.  Jesus’ worldview was all about equality, justice, and loving others.  He was so convinced his vision was possible that he willingly gave up his life for it.  However, Jesus took it one step further, conquering death to show us that what was once impossible is indeed possible.

Today’s readings are excellent examples of what true community is.  The first reading, from the Acts of the Apostles, especially reinforces the possibility of living in true community.  It says that after Jesus’ death, his followers “would sell their property and possessions and divide them among all according to each one’s need.”  They took Jesus’ call to love one another extremely seriously.  They were able to overcome their selfish tendencies as human beings to truly share all that they had with others.  It wasn’t about how much money they had anymore.  It was about helping all those in need and building the Kingdom of God together.

Thinking about a perfect world or a utopian society truly is idealistic.  In fact, it probably won’t become a reality until Jesus comes back at the end of time.  However, that doesn’t mean we get off the hook in working to build a more just world.  We need communities of support and strength that share all they have with one another.  Essentially, we need to start thinking more about those around us and stop worrying about how much we personally have in the bank.

Peacebuilding is not possible if we don’t have a strong sense of community.  Working for justice and peace requires that we share with one another.  We must respect others and seek too lift up those in need.  Jesus’ resurrection makes it a possibility.  It’s time to start believing that things can get better!

Reflection Question

In what ways do you try to build a better world by supporting your own local community?

Join us in our Forum to discuss these questions!