3 So when we couldn’t stand it any longer, we thought it was a good idea to stay on in Athens by ourselves, 2 and we sent you Timothy, who is our brother and God’s coworker in the good news about Christ. We sent him to strengthen and encourage you in your faithfulness. 3 We didn’t want any of you to be shaken by these problems. You know very well that we were meant to go through this. 4 In fact, when we were with you, we kept on predicting that we were going to face problems exactly like what happened, as you know. 5 That’s why I sent Timothy to find out about your faithfulness when I couldn’t stand it anymore. I was worried that the tempter might have tempted you so that our work would have been a waste of time.
Reflection
Today’s scripture is from one of the Letters from Paul. According to the CEB Study Bible, this is a corporate letter composed by Paul, Timothy who is identified in Paul’s letters as Paul’s companion, and Silvanus (aka Silas) whom we learn the most about from the book of Acts. Many scholars believe that 1 Thessalonians is among the earliest of Paul’s letters written in 51 CE, just two decades after Jesus’ death and resurrection, making it the earliest book in the New Testament.
This letter is addressed to the Gentile Christians of Thessalonica. Ancient letters often served as a stand-in for a visit from “the Boss” who in this scripture is Paul, formerly known as Saul. Shortly after Paul left Thessalonica and arrived in Athens, he became anxious that their troubles would cause the Thessalonian Christians to leave the church. Timothy visited them for news, and Paul wrote this letter after hearing Timothy’s report.
The current United Methodist Church reminds me a lot of the ancient Church. I believe that, while it may feel like an antiquated process, its structure affords Bishops, District Superintendents, and specialized clergy or laity to do their administrative and personnel work in a timely and efficient manner. It is all about TEAM WORK.
Today’s scripture reminded me of the United Methodist Team that works throughout the years to be confident that every ministry location is equipped with the best leader for the work that God calls it to do. Even in the ancient church congregation there were challenges and the leaders wrestled with the most effective way to handle them. “We sent you Timothy who is our brother and coworker in the good news about Christ.” … “I sent Timothy to find out about your faithfulness when I couldn’t stand it anymore. I was worried that the tempter might have tempted you so that our work would have been a waste of time.”
by Kathleen Stolz
For Pondering and Prayer
Now that I am retired and live in Maryland, I take advantage of the Medford UMC Live Worship. Last Sunday I was watching when the announcement was made that Pastor Joe would be receiving a new appointment with the United Methodist Team. Having worked alongside Joe for seven years before I retired, I know that he will do a fantastic job in his
new appointment on the greater United Methodist Team.
One of the mottos I learned from my time in ministry is “Team work makes the dream work.” I first heard it when Medford UMC worked with Urban Promise in Camden. Their website proclaims that “The work of Urban Promise is made possible by the support of many caring donors and volunteers, who find a place to belong, a place to live out their purpose and
faith by sharing their time, talents and gifts.”
Team work makes the dream work, my friends. I love Medford UMC and continue to support it with prayers and presents even when my presence is no longer in person. At heart I am still
a team player and support the work of the MUMC youth service projects. I pray that you find ways to support MUMC or other Christian organizations too.
Prayer: Generous God, thank you for inviting us every day to be a player on your dream team. May we seek and find ways to contribute our gifts and talents to your world. Amen.
