Stories that we find ourselve in have a way of shaping us. After my grandfather Wright died, we shared stories about my grandfather. My grandfather was usually a very calm man -- I don't know if I ever saw him angry. But that day my father told me a story of how grandpa Wright had driven his family to his father's farm. Upon return the had a big bowl of apple butter in the middle of the front seat between my grandmother and grandfather, with my dad, his sister, and the family dog in the middle of the back seat in the old 40's car. For some reason, my grandfather had to step suddenly on the brakes. The dog flew out of the backseat and landed in the midst of the apple butter and then proceeded to shake itself all over the car. My dad laughed deeply as he told that grandpa got down right mad at the situation -- the most upset he ever saw him. Through the story I found out what it was to be a Wright, and how to laugh at things that at the time seem like a disaster, but really aren't.

With whom have you most identified in Acts? When have you experienced the continuation of this story? What virtues does one need to continue this story?

Spend some extra time in prayer this week, as well as sharing your experiences of engaging in the works of mercy. What is the greatest obstacle from engaging in such works?

Next week we'll continue into chapter 5 of Acts, a summary of the continued growth of these Jewish messianic believers and maybe dip into chapter 6, the response of the authorities to the practices of the believers.