Children of the light
As Paul brings his letter to a close he encourages the Thessalonians that they are children of the light. There's been a thread running through this letter about the way in which the Christian community lived being an example to those outside of it. This culminates in this section about light and darkness: a stark reminder of the way in which we live our lives. Paul writes this:
'You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.' 1 Thessalonians 5:5 [NIV]
It reminded me of the prayer we pray during our baptism services when the lighted candle is given: 'God has delivered us from darkness and has given us a place with the saints in light. You have received the light of Christ; walk in this light all the days of your life. Shine as a light in the world to the glory of God the Father. Amen.'
What does it mean to be a child of the light? To be self-controlled, loving, encourage others, respect others, live in peace, help the weak, be patient with everyone, be joyful, pray continually and be thankful (5:8-18)! This may seem like an impossible list but hopefully we've learnt from the community in Thessalonica that we do this because God is at work in us:
'May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through.'
1 Thessalonians 5:23 [NIV]
And because we do this together in community:
'Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.'
1 Thessalonians 5:11 [NIV]).
We are not alone!
'The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.'
1 Thessalonians 5:24 [NIV]
Amen!
Emma Higgins | |
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