To my college grandchildren…
Grammy and I have watched much of the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s
assassination. I didn’t know much of him, wish I had. I’ve been thinking about
the end of First Thessalonians with its final words concerning God’s will for
us. Here it is:
1 Thessalonians 5:12–28
Final Exhortations,
Greetings, and Benediction
12 But we appeal to you, brothers and sisters, to respect
those who labor among you, and have charge of you in the Lord and admonish you;
13 esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at
peace among yourselves. 14 And we urge you, beloved, to
admonish the idlers, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with
all of them. 15 See that none of you repays evil for evil, but
always seek to do good to one another and to all. 16 Rejoice
always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks
in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do
not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise the words of prophets,
21 but question everything; hold fast to what is good; 22 abstain
from every form of evil.
23 May the God of peace sanctify you entirely; and may
your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our
Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and he
will do this.
25 Beloved, pray for us.
26 Greet all the brothers and sisters with a holy kiss. 27 I
solemnly command you by the Lord that this letter be read to all of them.
28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
What do you think?
PAPA
