In today’s first reading we see how the community of Thessalonians was an example to other local churches because of their zeal for God. Paul also tells them that God judges them so that they may be found worthy to live with him in the kingdom of heaven. Paul’s main encouragement to them was that while they had the basics, they needed to push ahead to “love more and more.” Regardless of where we are or what we are doing, we are called to stand up for God and to stand together as one. This love is what God expects from us. The place where we gather for worship and the altar on which the sacrifice is offered are far more important than their material make-up. All of us have a “Pharisee” within us! Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we “practiced what we preached?” However, we often fail to do this. So we should be understanding and compassionate when others fail. We are human after all. Let us pray for the grace to forgive ourselves when we fail.

PRAYER: Abba Father, may we grow together in your humble service. Amen.