It’s clear in Paul’s greeting to the fledgling Thessalonian church that he was optimistic about their faith. They had a long way to go yet and their faith faced many threats, but Paul cheered them on, focusing not on what they didn’t have but on what they did have; not on what they were still to become, but on who they already were.
Living in hope
28 November 2021 • Pastor Michael Dutschke • for the 1st Sunday in Advent
Bible Passage: 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13
+ expand9 How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you? 10 Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.
11 Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us to come to you. 12 May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 13 May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.
New International Version (NIV) - for other versions see BibleGateway.com
