All of us are in this together

“For even when we were with you, we gave you this command: Anyone unwilling to work should not eat. For we hear that some of you are living in idleness, mere busybodies, not doing any work. Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living. Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right.” (II Thessalonians 3:10-13)  The Apostle Paul has some strong closing words for the Thessalonian Christians in this week’s Epistle lesson.  Our life together in the church is founded and empowered by God’s gracious activity.  We would be no where if not for the Lord’s work in our lives.  At the same time, we who have been touched by grace are now called into lives of activity, of service, of work.  All of us are in this together.  All of us are important.  All of us need to work in order that Christ’s glory may show forth to the world which needs to know him.  Let us not grow “weary” in doing God’s work.  Let us not become discouraged as we continue to follow Christ.