But, brothers, when we were torn away from you…out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you.
We strongly desire to be with those we love. Something is missing when we are separated from them. That’s how Paul feels about the students of Jesus in Thessalonica.
When he was forced to leave the city under extreme duress, he missed them. He wanted to return to be with them, because he grew to love them.
Paul had another relationship. A personal connection with the Teacher, Jesus Christ! It changed his life!
Being a student of Jesus filled his heart with such love and joy. He wanted to share this relationship with those who didn’t have it. That’s what led him from his home in Tarsus to the city of Thessalonica in the first place.
There, he found men and women who – through his life and teaching – entered into a relationship with Jesus also.
The relationship Paul enjoyed with his new brothers and sisters was the creation of Jesus. A bond second in intensity only to his relationship with the Teacher!
It is Jesus who creates relationships. He came to earth to bring people into a relationship with God, through Him. And everyone who comes into relationship with Jesus enjoys a connection with every other believer.
For what is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? Indeed, you are our glory and joy.
This is the unique and amazing thing about a relationship with Jesus and those who follow Him – There is no final parting, no end!
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