“We ought always to give thanks to God for you” – 2 Thessalonians 1:3
Alright, church! I am so glad to be back. Man, have I ever missed you all. As we jump in and kick off 2 Thessalonians, I am captivated by what Paul includes in his greeting to the church when he writes, “We ought to always give thanks to God for you.”

Responding to that opening phrase might make this the simplest and most straightforward pastor’s note I’ve written to date. I read that and immediately sympathize and relate to the Apostle Paul. He missed the church. He longed to be with his people. He wanted to be in their presence. He longed to worship with them, open the Word, and proclaim the excellencies of God. But as we’ve learned, while he had to be away, the time apart caused him to be all the more grateful for the people he loved. And his gratefulness was expressed in open thanksgiving to God.  What was Paul thankful for? The rest of the passage this week will reveal that he was thankful for the Lord’s work in the church’s life. He was thankful that the Lord was strengthening them in a difficult time. He was growing their faith and increasing their love for one another; and he was hearing how their confidence had grown despite the oppressive and difficult circumstances they were enduring.

Have I mentioned that I missed you? Well, let me say it again, because I have. And in saying that, let me also say, “I thank God for you!” I thank God for our church. I thank God for our incredible leadership team who faithfully serves.  And I’m especially thankful for our pastors who all can handle the Word of God so faithfully. It’s been a pleasure to be fed and encouraged these past two weeks as Pastor Nate and Pastor Brett finished up 1 Thessalonians. But now it’s time to begin the second letter. Take some time and read through it. 2 Thessalonians is only three chapters long. You’ll get the big picture and for sure get fired up for the weeks of study that lay ahead.
Let me say one last time, “I thank God for you!”  See you Sunday!

Be sure to listen to the worship set as you prepare for worship.

Love you, Church.


Jerry Lingenfelter
Senior Pastor

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