Leviticus 25:24-31

The Law permitted the re-purchase of land that was sold by the owner or by his relatives (to keep it in the family).  However, redemption of houses inside walled cities had an expiration date.   Why do you think there is a difference in how “urban” land and “farm” land is treated?  What social benefits would a community experience if this law were practiced.  What social and ecological ills might be prevented?

For Further Reflection

In December 2011, 65 homes (one out of every 1037 homes) in Lancaster, PA, received a foreclosure notice. In Chicago, the rate was one out of every 351 homes—a total of 3,406 homes.   Foreclosure not only affects owners.  Renters in foreclosed multi-unit buildings are often displaced when the property is taken by a bank, putting them at higher risk of homelessness.

Could a “land redemption” law like the one you read today help to stabilize a community?  Who do you think would oppose such a law?  Why?

Leviticus 25:13-19

In the year of Jubilee, there is a redistribution of land to its original family.  What possible social benefits would a community experience if this law were practiced?  What social ills might be prevented?

Acts 4:32-37

Why do you think the believers had a change in their view of possessions?  How might testifying to the resurrection relate to their new view of property ownership?  Some commentators have suggested that the early church was living out the Jubilee with a voluntary redistribution of wealth (the Jubilee year in Leviticus 25 returned land to its original family).

Who takes the lead in this new economy? What could this passage say to us about reducing wealth inequity today?

During our “fast” from unnecessary home decor and furnishing purchases, what items have you refrained from purchasing to date so you have something to share?  With whom have you shared the savings?

Leviticus 25:23; Psalm 24:1

The land belongs to God.  What does that statement imply about property ownership? Why do you think God wants us to think of ourselves as tenants and not owners?  Does God’s ownership over the land make you feel more or less secure?  Why?

How does God’s ownership change the way you think about your property?  Does it change the way you make decisions about home improvement projects or property purchases?  If so, how?

You’ve heard the word “stewardship” as we’ve entered the Compact.  Write a short paragraph about what stewardship means in relationship to your home or property.  Consider posting your paragraph as a “Comment”.

Jeremiah 32:1-15

Jerusalem was under attack by the Babylonian army.  Though this would not seem to be a good time to buy land, Jeremiah publically purchased a field from his cousin, keeping it in the family. Why do you think God lead him to do that?  What does Jeremiah’s action communicate to the rest of the Jews?

What action could people of faith take today that would give people hope in the midst of a housing crisis?  With so many communities “under attack” with bank foreclosures and “short sales”, how could the church become a stabilizing agent?

Joshua 14:1-5

Each tribal clan of Israel, with the exception of the tribe of Levi, received an allotment of land, distributed by Eleazar the priest, Joshua and a leader from each tribe.  Each allotment was further divided among the families of the clan.  In the end, every family of every clan received a share of property as their “inheritance.”

What do you think would happen if every family in your community were given a plot of land and that they were told it would remain in their family for all generations?  How do you think this equality would change relationships?

How would you respond if someone suggested this kind of land distribution in your community?  How would your neighbors respond?  What does the response reveal about our understanding of ownership and property?

Micah 4:1-4 

What words does the image of sitting under a vine or a fig tree bring to your mind?  God, through Micah, envisions a time when conflict and war will be over and everyone will be at peace.

Many people are displaced because of international war or internal civil conflicts.  These people are forced to live in camps.  We are all familiar with the terrible conditions in Darfur, Sudan, and other refugee camps around the world.

If peace and resulting secure housing are a part of God’s vision, what, if anything, might God’s people do to end war and the need for refugee camps?  What, if anything, might God’s people do to help people return to the security of home?

Today, pray for the people of Iraq, Afganistan, Syria, Burma, Sudan and other nations at war who have lost their homes or been displaced a a result of war.    

For Further Prayer and Reflection

On May 20-21, 2012, leaders of over 50 nations will gather in Chicago for the 2012 NATO summit.  According to NATO’s website, the main focus of the meetings will be to set strategy for maintaining security in Afganistan once NATO forces are withdrawn.  These strategic meetings will result in real policies for our government that will guide decisions and actions of the Defense Department, the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security.  Pray that these leaders will be guided by the principles of justice rather than the myth of redemptive violence.

Isaiah 32:15-20

What is the effect of the presence of the Spirit on the earth?  There is a picture of abundance in vs. 15-17.  What does this universal abundance mean for people’s housing situations?

People facing housing instability or homelessness experience physical sickness, mental illness, stress, domestic violence and shorter life expectancy.   They are not experiencing peace, security or undisturbed rest—the very environment God promises.  What can you do this week to help others experience a secure home?

Romans 12:9-13

We often think of “hospitality” as a spiritual gift—some have it, others do not. And we often think of it as a “feminine” gift.  Yet, this passage commands all believers to practice hospitality.

What do you think Biblical hospitality looks like for those who don’t have the “gift”?  Is it only something we do inside our homes?  Where else can we practice it?  How can we get away from the gendered view of hospitality?