Right before New Year’s Eve, I suggested a resolution to focus in on our daily reading of God’s Word, and keep it with us throughout the day. Together, we have considered turning away from an abundance of possessions, and toward a life where Christ dwells richly and armors you as you remain in His Word.
Acts 2:42 records that the apostles and first Christians understood that a life in the Word was essential: “They continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine, in connectedness, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers.” God’s Word regenerates our souls so that we are genuinely family at the core of our being. The common regeneration of our souls and our life in the Word keep us connected with each other. Our connectedness is enhanced, confirmed, and celebrated in the Lord’s Supper. When we gather for the Lord’s Supper, we join our concerns together in the prayers. Notice the definite article, the prayers. Consider the model Jesus gave us—the short version recorded in Matthew and Luke and the long version in John 17.