Proper 28: Epistle, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11                           

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

I have written just recently that the promised (sure) return of our Lord Jesus Christ for His saints should color our lives. And what struck me most recently about that assertion, is that first and foremost, we should long for that return. I’ve written about that, too. But just this morning I had the privilege of hearing a faithful Christian pastor speak on the issue of fear in the culture. He was correct in saying that Christians are not immune from fear, but that we have the answer. And I appreciate that he said it without coming off as trite or lacking compassion for those struggling with fear and anxiety. He just gave the right prescription: trust in the promises of Christ.

I want that for all my readers. I want and need to cling to that myself. And in the midst of holding to those sure promises, let’s ask the Lord to strengthen us to share those truths with others. With those who are fearful and anxious without the hope of the gospel. No matter what happens in the society around us our message is not changed.  As one of the great ancient liturgies of the church declares: “Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.” God be praised!