I Kings 19: 12,13
And after the fire the sound of a low whisper.[a] 13 And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. ESV
A great and strong wind. An earthquake. A fire. The sound of a low whisper.
Elijah recognized the Lord in the whisper.
1 Thessalonians 2:7,8; 11,12; 19
7 But we were gentle[c] among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. 8 So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.
11 For you know how, like a father with his children, 12 we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory. ESV
19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? 20 For you are our glory and joy.ESV
The language of family; of close, intimate relationships resounds in 1 Thessalonians 2. The verses instruct me as a parent as much as they instruct me in life. I ponder this chapter in relationship to my children and I also ponder it in relationship to my church life. This past week my family experienced the body of Christ come round us as family. We were loved on and dear. I think of my ministry to my children. I want it to be that I share the gospel and I share my very self. My life. -with those who are so very dear to me.
Psalm 105
Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name;
make known his deeds among the peoples!
2 Sing to him, sing praises to him;
tell of all his wondrous works!
3 Glory in his holy name;
let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice!
4 Seek the Lord and his strength;
seek his presence continually! ESV
The Lord is a very present help in time of trouble. His strength is a shield and bulwark.
I am grateful for His sustaining work in the life of my family and this week, especially, in the life of my son, Asher.
Lord, ignite my heart and mind to the life in Your Word. Help me praise Your Name and tell of Your wondrous works. Thank you for all the people who cared for us during a specific time of trial and bore us up through Your power in their prayers. Thank You that the body of Christ is a community and we don’t have to go through trials without life and without hope. Let the rich language of 1 Thessalonians 2 inform my life.
Rebecca (OfferingsBecca)
Sixty-six books in a year 