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To Be the Glory and Joy of God’s Love

December 4, 2024

Isaiah 2:1-11   |   1 Thessalonians 2: 13-20   |   Luke 20:19-26

So often I read passages such as today’s and am reminded of Martin Luther King’s ‘Beloved Community’. In his 1956 speech in Green Lake, Wisconsin, he spoke to the end of nonviolent action   (read the way of the Lord) as reconciliation…

”the end is redemption, the end is the creation of the Beloved Community. It is this type of spirit and this type of love that can transform opponents into friends. It is this type of understanding goodwill that will transform the deep gloom of the old age into the exuberant gladness of the new age. It is this love which will bring about miracles in the hearts of men.” 

God’s love is creative and redemptive while hate, greed, and arrogance tears apart and destroys  – sounds much like what Isaiah was trying to tell his people back in the seventh century. It’s a message that continues to speak to us.

Paul continues this message in his letter to the Thessalonians. Acknowledging the challenges or struggles in  remaining faithful, Paul is moved by their understanding and acceptance of the good news as truly being God’s word. They are not following Paul – they believe! Paul has simply made the connection, tapped that place in their hearts where God lives. Such conviction enabled them and will ultimately enable us to better share the Gospel with others, to better walk in the way of love. Isn’t it exciting that we have  that capacity to be the glory and joy that opens hearts to God’s love!?!

Deborah Collins