Knowing God - 1 Thessalonians 5:13

(from Pastor)

give thanks in all circumstances;

for this is the will of God

in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:13

 

"Thank you."

 

Aren't those two of the most powerful words in the English language?! It makes a hard job joyful to know that the person appreciates your time, effort, and generosity.

 

Some of the most sincere means of thanksgiving are tears of appreciation. We can't begin to say all that is in us; nevertheless, our heart rises to our throat and love pours out of our eyes. On our mission trip, our group received thanks -- in words and in tears --- from our homeowners.

 

But a strange thing happened at another site. During our second week of the trip, we worked with another church from Arlington, Virginia. One of their home owners was angry, surly, and went to great lengths to avoid them.

 

It robbed these Virginians of much of their joy. And yet it was a powerful teaching tool.

 

Why do we give? Why do we serve? Yes, it's nice to be appreciated, but isn't that an added bonus rather than the point?

 

We serve because Christ calls us to serve. Period. Sometimes our actions will be received with joy -- as, indeed, many of Jesus' miracles were received. Other times the thankless louts may nail you to a cross. Nevertheless, we keep on serving because -- with Jesus -- we have a more eternal perspective: In this sinful world, too many people are broken and sometimes they need to see grace to discover faith.

 

In Christ's Love,

a guy who probably needs

to tell you thank you for something!

Thanks, friend.

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Thanks. In ALL circumstances.  Not just when what you are doing is unappreciated.  But when others hurt you?  I need more time to ponder this one ... and talk it out.