20 Dec January 19th Daily Devotion

A SERIES OF DEVOTIONS BASED ON PAUL’S FIRST LETTER TO THE  CHURCH AT THESSALONICA

WHAT ABOUT YOU CAUSES YOUR PASTOR TO GIVE THANKS TO GOD?

1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 “We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”

It is good to that someone thinks well of you, isn’t it?  There are many reasons that someone may do so.  A kindness shown, a special gift given, a thoughtful word spoken, a prayer said can evoke good thoughts in someone who has been the recipient of such special gifts.

St. Paul’s words of thanks today, directed toward the Thessalonians, were prompted by three special characteristics of the members of this congregation.  They were the work produced by their faith, their labor prompted by love, and their endurance inspired by hope in their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

If your pastor or fellow Christian prayed to God a prayer of thanks for you and your life, what would be the basis for their prayer?  Paul’s list is a pretty good one, isn’t it?  But, what would be stated concerning you and your life?

Jesus said that on the last day as you stand before Him as your judge, as one who received His love and in turn passed on His love to others through your thoughts, words, and actions toward them, He will say to you, “‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me.’” (Matthew 25:40) C. T. Studd, a British Anglican missionary to China, coined the oft quoted saying, “Only what’s done for Christ will last.”  Jesus’ words and those of Studd emphasize that the life of a Christian is one that is lived doing God’s will and serving Him by serving others with heartfelt humility and dedication.  All that you do out of faith in Jesus is done to the Glory of God.

Prayer:  O Lord, fill me with the knowledge of and commitment to do those things that are good and right and bring glory and honor to Your holy name.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen.

Fruitful trees, the Spirit’s sowing, May we ripen and increase,

Fruit to life eternal growing, Rich in love and joy and peace.

Laden branches freely bearing Gifts the Giver loves to bless;

Here is fruit that grows by sharing, Patience, kindness, gentleness.

Rooted deep in Christ our Master, Christ our pattern and our goal.

Teach us, as the years fly faster, Goodness, faith, and self-control.

Fruitful trees, the Spirit’s tending, May we grow till harvests cease;

Till we taste in life unending, Heaven’s love and joy and peace.

(LSB 691)