What Makes the Leaders in Thessalonica Heroes?
It's perhaps a depressing thought, but most of us will be forgotten in a couple of generations! Our names won't conjure up heroics or be plastered on the side of a building for posterity. We will simply fade, rather quickly, into obscurity.
But take heart! Some of the most compelling leaders in the early church remain unnamed, as in today's passage. We have no idea who they were exactly, but we do know how they carried themselves in doing their part to fulfill the mission of Jesus. As Paul clarified, "They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance," and he calls the whole church to "show them great respect and wholehearted love because of their work."
There's a challenge here for how we respond to our leaders. Their names will soon be forgotten, but for now, we can encourage them in the hard work of leading!
Takeaway:
Who is a leader in your life that would benefit from your encouragement and support at this time? Come up with a specific plan to overwhelm that person with your "wholehearted love because of their work"!