Such Sweet Words

"We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us." 1Thessalonians 2:8

Would you please read these words as if they were written to you? They are, you know. There is a love between Christians that is very special, unique and dear. The 'agape' love that believers share that emanates from the Spirit in us because we are family in Christ is unconditional, free and sincere. When I think that through the Lord, I am related by the Spirit to millions and millions, if not billions of brothers and sisters around the world, I am simply overwhelmed. Literally, I feel this kinship with all who know Him and call Him Savior. This love in my heart, just as this verse says, is delightful. It gives me joy, pleasure and encouragement.

In the middle part of verse eight two things are suggested. One, that this love causes us to share in the gospel (The Good News about Jesus) AND.... not only that, but the sharing of our lives as well. Words and deeds. Faith and action. Not just talk or lip-service, but actual follow-through. That is part of the delightfulness, the way we share in each other's lives. Without fellowship that actually means spending time together, we are just members of one another in name only. We must be the family of God and not just claim to be.

The last part of the verse speaks of something that is very special, and that is how dear you are to me. When I stand at the gate on Sunday mornings, as each one of you comes to Grace Harbor, my heart is always so glad that you have come. Those of you who are not part of Grace Harbor, but get these devotionals, every remembrance of you generates that same feeling. Read the verse again and let the love and sincerity of Paul's words wash over you anew. Think of yourself as part of that Thessalonian church. It is the same today. How wonderful it is that we have not only home churches, but a sense of fellowship with all the people we have met in life through Him, plus all believers around the world. For me, this is very empowering to consider.

Hope it blesses you too,
Pastor Fred

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