1. As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. 2 And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 4 We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.”
When I read the above verses, my mind went to the churches in Ukraine and Russia. They are part of two countries, but as believers in Jesus are part of the same kingdom. The war is not political, it is spiritual. Because I led a couple of classes in Russia, I wished I knew how the church was doing. How are they handling the unraveling events when their officials are invading a neighboring country.
We heard from our pastor in Ukraine and how these events allow them to service and witness in times of turmoil. Their acts of love in times of suffering are speaking loud and clear.
I was reading about Mother Teresa, the head of the Missionaries of Charity for 30 years. She said, “Everything is a problem. Why not use the word gift?” Items that presented disappointment or difficulties would be introduced with "We have a small gift here." or "Today we have an especially big gift." What an opportunity to look then at growth and patience. What a chance to look to God who is working in all or situations.
She was given the peace prize in 1979 for her work in bringing help the suffering. This award gave her an international voice. Even Mother Teresa held beliefs that required her to confront the highest leaders in our government. Because of her love for the poor and reputation for great charity she was invited to speak at the White House in 2012 at the National Prayer Breakfast. In his humble, yet bold manner she confronted President Clinton and political leaders in this way in her speech. “And where does this love begin? In our own family. How does it begin? By praying together.”
Later she adds, “I feel that the greatest destroyer of peace today is abortion, because Jesus said, "If you receive a little child, you receive me." So, every abortion is the denial of receiving Jesus -- is the neglect of receiving Jesus.
We saw last week Paul corrects the wrong views about the Lord’s coming and reassures them of the truths about God’s love. Later in this chapter he confronts them about sin. Just as Mother Teresa exhibited, the church has a job to stand for truth, love for our neighbors, and care for those in need.
Application: Pray to have the Courage so speak the truth in love and gain the right to be heard. (Paul demonstrates this in his life and love for this church plant as they seek to thrive in an unchristian world)
Lord, give me the courage and the right words to speak your truth in a loving way.
