Scripture
9 Now about your love for one another we do not need to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other. 10 And in fact, you do love all of God’s family throughout Macedonia. Yet we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more,
Reflection
On his second missionary journey, Paul ended up in Thessalonica, the capital city of Macedonia, a Roman Province. Through his preaching many came to faith in Christ, but because of persecution he was forced to flee from the city.
After hearing positive reports from Timothy, of how the believers in Thessalonica were keeping the faith even under the heavy persecution, Paul writes to them. This letter is filled with encouragement, instruction and the acknowledgment that they are remaining faithful, and becoming a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia (1 Thes 1:7). Paul reminds them of their own testimony, of how they turned away from their old idols to follow Jesus and over and over Paul mention how he longs to see them and vice-versa.
Even though he is physically away – he acknowledges that God is at work in their lives. (…) “for you yourselves have been taught by God to love each other.”
What they heard, what was modeled and what God has showed them to do is now being put to practice and lived out not only in their own community, but also extended to “all of God’s family throughout Macedonia”.
Thoughts for the day
- How has God taught you how to love within the church community?
- How have these relationships impacted your life? How do they reflect God?
Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 1 John 4:7
Prayer
Today, take a moment, wherever you are, to ASK God to move in your life: Share what’s on your heart, asking God to provide, protect and encourage you.
