For the relief of the brethren.

Acts 11:29-30, And in the proportion that any of the disciples had means, each of them determined to send a contribution for the relief of the brethren living in Judea. And this they did, sending it in charge of Barnabas and Saul to the elders.

The church of Gentile believers in Antioch responded to the need of the Jewish brethren in Judea by supplying, in proportion to their means, relief from the famine. They did not stop when they came to the Lord; they recognized His great mercy in making the sun to shine and the rain to fall, for His grace at work in every aspect of their lives. Even though the early believers in Judea were reluctant to see the gospel go out to the Gentiles, they responded with the grace of God in a physical way!

Thank You for Your great mercy in caring for us when we have not cared for you; help us to be good stewards with all that You have given us.