2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17 (NRSV)
Read 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 2As to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we beg you, brothers and sisters, Verse 2not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as though from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord is already here.
Verse 3Let no one deceive you in any way; for that day will not come unless the rebellion comes first and the lawless one is revealed, the one destined for destruction. Verse 4He opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, declaring himself to be God. Verse 5Do you not remember that I told you these things when I was still with you?
Verse 13But we must always give thanks to God for you, brothers and sisters beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the first fruits for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and through belief in the truth. Verse 14For this purpose he called you through our proclamation of the good news, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Verse 15So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by our letter.
Verse 16Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and through grace gave us eternal comfort and good hope, Verse 17comfort your hearts and strengthen them in every good work and word.
Devotion
Not long ago the cars ahead of me shared their theology on their bumpers. On one car: “In the case of the rapture, this car will be driverless.” On the other: “In the case of the rapture, can I have your car?”
The believers at Thessalonica were anxious about Christ’s return. Some were so sure it was imminent that they had quit their jobs. They were starting to get caught up in rumors and hysteria. Paul wrote to remind them that only the Father knows when Christ is returning – and in the meantime, they had work to do.
His advice still fits today: The best way to prepare for Christ’s coming is by doing the work we've been given to do. How? Staying in touch with God through prayer, worship and Bible reading. Reaching out to our neighbors. Righting a wrong. Sharing what we have been given with those who have less. Being compassionate.
I don’t know if that kind of theology fits on a bumper sticker. But it sure might send a message to a world in need.
Prayer
Holy God, I’m waiting for you today. Let me see your face in the people I meet. Let me feel your love in the friendships I share. Let me hear your voice in my own as I strive to be your messenger. Amen.