Devotion- The Mission Intended

1 Thessalonians 5:1-13 The house church in Corinth Begun through Paul’s efforts Had become conflicted Mistrustful divisions abounded Paul’s response does not begin With a torrent of criticism But by reciting the litany of blessings God had provided for them Grace, gifts, calling and hope None of these were earned But had been freely given Through God’s divine generosity These were the things  Paul wanted them to focus on So that they might faithfully fulfill The mission God intended Our congregations may be struggling now As was the one in Corinth In this restlessly divisive time Disagreements are many Since it is always easier to tear down Than to build up We sometimes lose sight  Of what unites us as Christians The outstretched hands   Of an outstandingly gracious God Have likewise presented us with Grace, gifts, calling and hope These things likewise shape our faith Moving us beyond division Toward unity in serving A higher purpose than our own Living as God’s Advent people We are encouraged by grace So that we may use what God has richly provided To present a lively hope to the world A Devotion By Rev. Donald Shaefer, Northern Region Mission Engagement Facilitator