1 Thess Paul's desire for the body of Christ!!

December 13th, 1 Thessalonians,

       So many of the letters that Paul is writing are written to new churches with new believers. The idea that Christianity is a completely new idea at the time of these writings is mostly missed by me. These letters are all filled with encouragement about this new journey of faith. A little correction or reminder about important things that should not be forgotten. A little vision for what ought to be. As you read through all of these books imagine Paul caring for your journey with Christ and calling these people and us to love Christ with all our hearts and follow Him.
       3:11-13 Almost like a prayer… here's what I want for you…"Now may our God and Father Himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you, and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, so that he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of the Lord Jesus with all the saints."
       Guidance into what is really, really, really important. In the end of this letter to this group of new believers, there is an encouragement to live a certain way. Imagine what churches, our families, our workplaces would look like if we lived out this invitation… 5:14-18 "Be at peace among yourselves, we urge you brothers to admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. See that no one repays evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."