Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” vss. 16-18
1 Thessalonians 5:16-22
At first glance it appears that Paul is giving the Thessalonians a new set of impossible rules for their new life in Christ, that it would be their duty to rejoice, pray, and give thanks continually. That would be a grim set of directives indeed, a whole new series of things to feel guilty about at the end of the day. But that’s not what he has in mind. He’s simply describing what it’s like to be in Christ, that it’s a total transformation of our manner of living. And he’s right! No longer will an onslaught of tears rob us of joy, no longer will prayers be confined to a fixed time of day, and always we will find occasion to give thanks to God for the great privilege of life in this spectacular world. And we live this way, not because we’re following rules, but because the Holy Spirit has touched our spirits with serenity and incomprehensible peace. At this time of year, as we see the secular world joining our spiritual celebration, we are having a multitude of opportunities for exultant rejoicing, fervent prayers, and effusive thanksgiving. We can behave as though we haven’t a care in the world, because by God’s standards, we really don’t! We don’t even need that old Christmas movie to remind us that it really is a wonderful life!
Thought for the Day: How would I describe my wonderful life?
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