Overcoming Inequities

I would think living in a commune could be hard.

Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need. There was a Levite, a native of Cyprus, Joseph, to whom the apostles gave the name Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”). He sold a field that belonged to him, then brought the money, and laid it at the apostles’ feet. - Acts 4:32-37

If everyone buys in with the same amount, or if all members contribute the same, then there would be less concern that people would compare and complain.

But it is human nature to judge, isn't it?  Whether we belong to a club or a community, sit on a board or join a group of investors, we all want equity.  We want to know that the amount of influence we have reflects the amount we contribute.

Who will offer more than his or her fair share?

But the principal behind communal living is sharing.  Each brings something unique, some talent or ability that the others may not have and may desperately need.  One is a builder, another a farmer, etc..

It is expected that those who have more to give, bring more, while those who have less, bring less. 

In the kingdom of God, we don't judge one another, nor do we exalt ourselves over others.  We just contribute what we can, and accept that there will be inequities, not in outcomes, but in incomes.

Perhaps we should think of our contributions to the cause differently, sharing in the joy of the outcomes, rather than claiming responsibility for them.

For example, when we donate to a program that benefits the poor or the hungry, we can celebrate the successes whether we contributed thousands of dollars or just a few.  We all have a share in that success.

So it is with the kingdom.  We all make it happen, and our contribution is vital, regardless of its size.

Can we do that?  Can we be joyful and not judgmental?

It is the experiment Jesus calls us to join.  Maybe we should try.

More to come...