1 Thessalonians 2/ Live for the Biggest Moment
What is the biggest moment we will ever experience? I am sure you can think of major moments in your life, but there is one that will exceed them all. Paul gives us a clue in 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20:
[19] For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? [20] For you are our glory and joy. 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20
Here's your biggest moment: when you are "before our Lord Jesus…" The King of the world who breathed all life into existence and held every atom together by the power of his word for millennia will stand before you one day. This will be the biggest moment in your life. Faithful people live for this. Just like in business or personal growth, it is wise to start with the end in mind. And in the end, we will all stand before Jesus—whether He comes back or we die.
What will matter in the biggest moment of your life? What will you be proud of? Of course, I'm not talking about our righteousness in the eyes of Christ, we know that comes from faith in Jesus where we receive His righteousness. But more like a son aiming to make a Father proud, what will you be joyful to share about your life when you meet Jesus?
Paul answers this question: "is it not you? For you are our glory and joy." You will be excited to share about the people you loved in His name. Look at the "you" Paul is referring to from earlier in the chapter:
[8] So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us. [9] For you remember, brothers, our labor and toil: we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. 1 Thessalonians 2:8-9
Paul gave his life for the "you" from verse 20. He shared the Gospel with the "you." He served the "you" by working so as to not be a burden on them. And to Paul, the "you" will be his glory and joy before our Lord Jesus.
Make Jesus proud with your love and service to others in His name. Spend your life blessing the people around you. These will be your "you" when you stand before Jesus. And Lord willing, we will hear the precious words, "well done good and faithful servant."
If you want to dig deeper into this, need help, need prayer, or have questions—please reach out to us here: Roots Help & Prayer Form (https://www.rootscc.com/covid-19-help)
In Christ,
Pastor Kevin