By Shannon McAdam, Council of Twelve Apostles
So deeply do we care for you that we are determined to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you have become very dear to us.
When is the last time someone took really good care of you? In reading this letter to the Thessalonians, two things stand out for me—the word courage, and the last verse about Paul and his companions caring so deeply that they wanted to share their own selves with the church in Thessalonica.
This reminded me of a time when I was not doing so well because my sibling was in the hospital, and we were not sure how much time was left. I needed to travel to fulfill my role as a mission centre president team member, and while I knew people would understand if I didn’t go, I decided I would go anyway. It took courage, but I often find it is when I step out in courage that God is right there with me.
When I arrived at my destination, I was so warmly welcomed and taken care of by the members of the host congregation—as Paul says “like a nurse tenderly caring for her own children”—that I knew I was in the right place at the right time. The food, the smiles, and the genuinely curious questions all made me feel at home. And of course, as happens so many times in the upside-down world of Jesus, it was not just me caring for them, but them caring for me.
I often find it hard to receive hospitality because I so enjoy giving hospitality. But in that instance, there was a mutual giving of ourselves that provided ministry in both directions. Today’s theme asks, “How deeply do we care?” I would answer that we care very deeply, and ask a second question, “How widely can we offer that care?” I know our people care, so who in the world beyond the walls of our church is waiting to receive that care? Who beyond the walls of our church can offer us care? I believe that if we step out in courage, with God at our side, we will give and receive deep care.
Prayer Phrase
“I am about to do a new thing” (Isaiah 43:18).
Embrace Abundance
Take a slow breath and open your hands. Consider one thing you have received—love, grace, time, resources, or opportunity. Now ask: “What has been given to me that I can share with someone else?” Hold that thought for a moment. As you breathe in, say: “I receive with gratitude.” As you breathe out: “I give faithfully with generosity.” Pray: “May I trust there is enough when I choose to share what I have for the welfare of all.”
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.