Love that Longs, Rejoices and Grows - May 18 2025

Series: Encouragement for Pilgrims on the WayScripture: 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13Speaker: Pastor David HallettHave you ever been separated from someone you love deeply—maybe a child, a close friend, or a fellow believer—and found yourself anxiously wondering how they’re doing? That’s the kind of love Paul expresses for the Thessalonian believers in today’s passage. His heart is like that of a parent torn away from a beloved child. He longs to see them, worries about their spiritual well-being, and even fears that his ministry among them might have been in vain. But then comes the good news: Timothy returns with a joyful report of their steadfast faith and love. Paul’s anxious heart overflows with thanksgiving and relief. Yet Paul doesn’t stop there. He prays earnestly that their love for one another would increase, and that their holiness would deepen—so they would be ready to stand blameless before Jesus at His return. This is love that longs, rejoices, and grows. We, too, need to ask God to shape our hearts with the same Christlike love for one another, to be ready for the day Jesus comes again.