Different things probably come to mind when thinking about the word devotion: loyalty, great love and admiration, commitment, dedication, passion and even worship.

The early Christian community was unambiguously devoted to the Holy Scriptures (apostles teachings), the faith community (communal life), the Holy Eucharist (breaking of bread) and to liturgical worship (prayers). It is the second devotion listed that speaks most directly to one of the clear issues addressed in the Gospel for today: Devotion to the Community! Why?

The apostle Thomas left the faith community in despair. His choice to leave came at the price of missing out on the most amazing experience of meeting the risen Christ in person! “…Many wonders and signs were done through the apostles” (Acts 2:43). The apostles were always to be found in the midst of the community of believers in Christ. Only upon his return a week later did Thomas experience this real and physical encounter with the risen Lord. In God’s plan, his Church, the community of believers would be the place where people could see and hear and touch Jesus in the flesh! This is why “everyday the Lord added to their number those who were being saved”.

For the first Christians, “devotion to the communal life” is described this way: “All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their property and possessions and divide them among all according to each one’s need. Everyday, they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area” (Acts 2:44-46). Now that is serious devotion! They cared about and for each other in a way that left the world around them either confused or in awe!

After experiencing the self-less love and devotion of the believing community, people are supposed to walk away exclaiming: Truly He is Risen!