These Three Verbs Remain

Scripture: We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3

Observation: This is not the famous "faith, hope and love" passage of Paul, but it reflects the same three elements of our walk with Jesus. In this case, he ascribes to them active elements as well. Faith is a 'work', love is a 'labor', and hope is a 'steadfastness'.

In this way, Paul is delineating a Christian walk that is not about words or thoughts or emotions. Love isn't about an emotion toward others, it is about working for others. Faith isn't about praying and believing something will happen, it is about going out and doing that something knowing it pleases God. And hope isn't about sitting in the dark wishing on a star, it is about actively and visibly placing your hope with Jesus.

Application: The other night, Laurie and I were talking about service in the church, and wondering why more people didn't "do" stuff. Paul clearly teaches that Christians act in accordance with their faith, love, and hope. I learned that this is part of knowing God - that sitting around reading and praying limits our understanding of God to just the voice of the Holy Spirit, but doing God's work brings us into a relationship with God and his creation.

Paul said as much to the Thessalonians, pointing out that they were well known throughout Asia Minor for their faith primarily due to their outward pouring of that faith. I would like to be known for my faith and love and hope through my actions. At the same time, I would like my actions to not be honored by men, but to please God. May I continue to find work that glorifies God, expresses my faith, practices love, and strengthens my hope in Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Father, abba, I have nothing you want except for myself. This I give you. I am here, send me, be it across the world, or across the room. Amen.