Mar 1st, 2024
By Ann L. Schultz
The theme for our ACG this year is from 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3: “We always thank God for all of you when we mention you constantly in our prayers. This is because we remember your work that comes from faith, your effort that comes from love, and your perseverance that comes from hope in our Lord Jesus Christ….”
In this passage, Paul describes the good things he has heard about the churches of the region and he is grateful to the Thessalonians who have faced challenges in their beliefs, yet stood strong in their commitment to Jesus. I am inspired by the attitude and resilience of the Thessalonians, meeting these challenges with such grace, purpose and hope.
Like the believers in Thessalonica, the church today is facing its own challenges including decline in attendance and engagement, aging congregations and changing worship experiences to name a few. And while at times, this has left us feeling unsure and maybe even afraid of the future of the church, I believe, just as the Thessalonians believed, God is at work in us, through us and around us!