Image source: GraceBaptistChurch
The letters to the Thessalonians were the first letters Paul wrote to his converts, but they are somewhat overshadowed by other letters of Paul. We are often more knowledgeable of Paul’s letters to the Corinthians and to the Galatians. Perhaps, this is because these other Churches had congregational problems similar to what we have in our Churches today. Nevertheless, the message in Thessalonians about strong faith, enduring hope, practical love, speaks to us all in the Churches today.
Studying First and Second Thessalonians has made me to look in the mirror. Paul’s high praise in both his letters to them – a congregation experiencing persecution, has made me to ask myself, do I have strong faith? Do I have enduring hope in Christ, a hope that passes the test of time? Am I thinking – Jesus has not returned and therefore will not return, so lets burn the Bible and live like there is no hope. Thirdly, how do I express love for the Church, for humanity?
Paul ends his message in 2 Thess. 3:16 (NIV) with: “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”
As we embrace the message to the Thessalonians, may the Lord give us peace, grace and joy to live it. We all need this empowerment as we live in a global culture that is sometimes uncaring and cruel, magnified in our times by social media. May our faith, hope, and love remain strong and bright wherever and whenever!
To God be the glory, Amen!
Jesus, our redeemer, healing the world... 