TODAY IN THE WORD
Archaeologists in Syria recently unearthed what is believed to be one of the largest ancient Christian churches ever discovered there. At a dig in Palmyra, northeast of Damascus, they found the remains of a church building dating back 1,500 years. It included a small amphitheater and courtyard that may have been used for baptisms and other ceremonies. “Christianity came to Palmyra in the year 312, at a time when Christians had begun to build churches,” a local museum director told the press. “And this one is huge—the biggest ever found in Syria.”

As exciting as this piece of history is, it’s important to remember that the “church” is not a building. It’s people. In today’s reading, the Thessalonian church was a source of joy for the apostle Paul (2:19-20; 3:9; cf. Phil. 4:1). He had planted the church, and the believers there represented the fruit of his ministry (Acts 17:1-9). He was running his race in such a way as to win, and in a sense they were his victory “crown”—not for an ego trip but for one day glorying in the presence of Jesus (cf. 1 Cor. 9:24-27). Their Christian witness was his proof to present that he was a faithful and obedient servant, and knowing that brought joy and gladness to his heart.

Paul’s joy meant that he longed for them and hoped to visit them. There was an emotional warmth to their relationship. He also sent Timothy to check on their spiritual condition. He was to find out how they were doing and to encourage them, then bring news back to Paul. When Paul learned of their spiritual growth, he said, “Now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord” (3:8). He also prayed for them to grow in faith, love, and holiness (3:11-13). His joy in them focused not on what is temporal, such as trials and persecution, but on what is eternal.

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TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Paul had a close and joy-filled relationship with the churches he planted. He took a strong personal interest in their spiritual well being and growth in the Lord. Other relationships are also often characterized by this kind of mentoring care and joy, including teachers and students, pastors and congregations, and parents and children. When we have the privilege of being involved in one or more such relationships, we would do well to invest in them as part of God’s gift of joy to us.

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