“Encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” 1 Thess. 5:11
Heavenly Father, what a destiny we have, what a God you are, what a Gospel we treasure. Because of Jesus’ finished work our forever will be full of unfiltered intimacy with you, 100% all-things-new, no sin in us or around us, and only perfect relationships… just to name a few things in the awesomeness column of your generosity.
We will soon realize that whatever we thought “heaven” would be, our bar was too low, our hopes were too tiny, and our all-by-grace inheritance is simply incalculable. Eternity will be bodacious, beautiful, and bountiful beyond our wildest and best dreams.
So, Father, until the perfectly timed Day you will send Jesus back, free us to live as out-encouragers, “builder-uppers,” and mercy-friends to each other. Why would we choose otherwise?
All this Thanksgiving week—and throughout Advent, may we speak words of life and kindness to each other. May we catch each other “doing it right” and honor one another above ourselves. Free us to overlook stuff that irritates in the moment, but will be forgotten forever.
Father, thank you… whether we die before Jesus returns or live to see that blessed Day, we are presently and forever your beloved children. Nothing can separate us from your love, derail your plans, or exhaust your grace. In Jesus’ name and for your glory we offer our, So Very Amen.