26 August 2021

 For this reason, brothers and sisters, during all our distress and persecution we have been encouraged about you through your faith. For we now live, if you continue to stand firm in the Lord. How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because of you? Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith.

1 Thessalonians 3:7-13, NRSV

Paul continues his expression of gratitude for all that has been accomplished in the early church community in Thessalonika. He lets them know that their faith has inspired and strengthened his own at times of difficulty and persecution. However, he also acknowledges that there is a need for him to come and see them again in person. He had only been able to spend a few weeks with them on his first visit and had been hampered from returning. It was likely that opponents of Paul would have stirred up some uncertainty about his lack of attention. Timothy had visited and brought Paul the good news of the progress being made by this community. However, like a parent, Paul wants to be the one who returns to nourish and strengthen the church which he helped to establish.

• • Why do you think it was important for Paul to return to Thessalonika?
  • Who are the people who have been instrumental in nourishing your faith?

Give thanks for those whose example of faith has inspired you.