November 15, 2015
Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
17But, brothers and sisters, when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. 18For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, did, again and again—but Satan blocked our way.19For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? 20Indeed, you are our glory and joy.
Questions for Reflection:
Paul has communicated throughout chapter 2 how much he loves and cares for the church. Earlier, he said he cared about them like a nursing mother. Later he said that he was like their father. In this passage, he continues the idea of family. How does he reference the church at Thessalonica in this passage? The phrase translated “we were orphaned” continues that same idea. The original Greek word carries the idea of parents separated unwillingly from their children. When Paul and his team were forced to flee, it broke their heart. How did he respond to those frustrations?
For Paul, the church at Thessalonica represented his legacy. They were his hope, his joy, his glory, his crown. Because he had lived life with them, because he had encouraged and taught them, because he had poured himself fully into them, he wanted them to continue to live out what they knew. They were his legacy. What or who is your legacy? Where are you investing your time, energy, talents in a way that will outlive you? Take a moment to consider that question as you watch the video below.