Day 3 — Together at Home
1 Thes 2.17-20
17 But, brothers and sisters, when we were orphaned by being separated from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you. 18 For we wanted to come to you—certainly I, Paul, did, again and again—but Satan blocked our way. 19 For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? 20 Indeed, you are our glory and joy.
We were not created to be on our own. God knew that we would need one another and that true human flourishing only comes from existing in community. A community centred around Him.
The situation with the virus enforces us to be physically separate from one another as a church community. However, one of the things to do as a follower of Jesus when hardship comes is to look for the traces of God’s goodness and grace. The existence of the internet, the invention of the smart phone, and the presence of 4G enabling us to connect through video is one of those hidden traces of God at work. For such a time as this, God has enabled us to be a people connected even though apart.
Why is this so important to your spiritual health? Paul writes to the Thessalonians that he feels ‘orphaned’ because he is separate from them. He is feeling the anguish of being apart and chooses to use a word to do with being family.
Family is to do with identity, to do with a sense of ‘home’. The family of God is where you are forever known and loved. This is where we flourish. This is where we find true health.
Gas Street Church, we are a family. We need to stay connected for our spiritual health. Commit to turning up at your GS Group weekly Zoom (if you haven’t joined one yet, we’ve opened 10 new groups to ensure everyone can). If you’ve got kids at home why not join Worship For Everyone live at 4pm today on Facebook. Tomorrow, stay up for prayer at 9pm on GS Instagram Live.
Paul says that there is ‘glory’ to be found in these moments; a heavenly crown is being woven as we gather, as we care for one another. How can you play your part in the church family today? Who can you connect with? Who can you encourage amidst this unprecedented crises? Get your crown on.
Dr Nick Drake
Associate Pastor