Three Little Words

1 Thessalonians 1:3
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.

Faith, hope, love—three little words with huge impact.

On my journey as a writer, I meet a lot of interesting people. Some of my favorites are the folks who have dwelled on this earth for many years. On a recent trip to meet a group of senior citizens, (yes, I am one, too) I chatted with a couple of women in their nineties. Their sweet smiles and friendly voices drew me in. We talked about crocheting, knitting, and books. One lovely lady invited me to their crochet group. They had no idea the impact they had on me. I wasn't feeling well and had awakened that morning in a grumpy mood. Yet, these women, older than me, most likely with aches and pains of age, cheered me up.

Through their faith, love, and hope they gave me a reason to examine my heart. I thought I had come to brighten their day, but the opposite took place. They gave me more reasons to be thankful and praise God.

The church in Thessalonica was young, barely a year old, but they already had faith, love, and hope. Apostle Paul, the author of Thessalonians, acknowledged the faith they held onto in their work to increase the church, the love they showed others in the community, and the hope they held onto as they endured opposition. The Thessalonians knew Jesus promised to return in His glory. Until that time, they labored with love and worked in faith.

As a believer in Jesus, I know He will return for His followers. One of these days, the trumpets will sound and the angels will rejoice when we see Jesus. In the meantime, I'll work in faith and labor in love, as I hold on to hope.

Are you ready to meet Jesus?

So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. -Matthew 24:44

*This devotion was inspired by Aaron Adams' sermon on Sunday. Thank you Aaron.