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“And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all...”
My Two Cents….
The book of Thessalonians contains some of the earliest Christian writings that we have in the New Testament. Paul writes this letter years before Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John pick up their writing quils.
In a style that is classic to Paul, he provides words of encouragement to a group of Christians in transition. They were convinced that Jesus was returning at some point in their lifetime. But what should they do in the meantime? How should they live their lives? Should they take the time to develop relationships and serve in the outside world -OR- should they isolate themselves and pray without ceasing?
Trying to figure out how to be faithful in changing times continues to be our struggle. There is so much uncertainty in this rapidly transitional moment in history. What ought we do as Christians, both as individual believers and as a Church? Should we cling to the structures and belief systems of the past - double down and insist on rigid adherence to what ‘once was?’ Or, should we abandon all practices so as to be able to fully embrace the new? Perhaps we can find a place inbetween extremes?
Paul encourages Christians in the tumult of his day to be about love. Thanks to the “time-machine quality of writing,” Paul speaks to us in our struggles as well. Be about love. Love one another. Love the stranger. Love the planet. Love. Love. Love.
It is more than something we can do, it is THE thing for Christians to do.
May God strengthen you in your loving this week.
In Christ’s Light,
Walt
Starting November 4, I will be offering a new daily devotional called WELCOME; Sharing in God’s Greeting. It is a four-week series on Christian hospitality. Stay tuned for more information about how you can subscribe.
If you subscribe before November 4, there is a discount of 40%. The cost of 28 days of daily devotions is only $2.99. After November 4, the cost is $4.99 - which is still a good deal - for less than 18 cents a day, you will receive inspiration that will refresh your spirit.
Permission granted to share today's content with family and friends. Copyrighted 2019. Walt Lichtenberger