I Thessalonians 5:18 says “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (NRSV) How do you feel about that admonition?
It’s important to read and hear it within the context of Paul’s final words to the church at Thessalonica. He has spent some time offering them encouragement, commending their faith and faith practices, and speaking about coming days. It’s a very pastoral letter in tone and content, sent to a group of Christ followers whom Paul obviously loves. He’s just received a report of them from Timothy and he wants to speak into their lives as a spiritual father and guide.
In his final exhortations, from which the aforementioned verse 18 appears, Paul speaks to this community of faith with strong words of guidance: “respect those who labor among you”, “admonish the idlers, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all of them” . . . . “always seek to do good to one another and to all.” “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing” – then comes “give thanks in all circumstances”. This is quite a list of encouragements, is it not?
I cannot help but read and hear these words in the context of our own day. Here in the post-election postmortem, when some are giddy and happy, and some are completely deflated and discouraged; Paul’s words ring to me like a clarion call to the Church and it’s members. We can be reminded that we are a “fellowship of differents” (to quote Scot McKnight) who are called to put aside our different opinions and perspectives for the common good of gospel news and mission, among which is living as a thankful people.
Wouldn’t you agree that society finds itself in need of those who’s song of the heart is thanksgiving? Living, serving, engaging with others from a place of gratitude (graciousness, generosity, kindness) is akin to bringing the refreshment of a cold cup of water to the dry, thirsty, parched climate of today’s culture. Just as Paul knew that the Christ followers of Thessalonica would more greatly effect change and draw others to Christ’s mission from a posture of thanksgiving, it seems the same is still likely.
In my ministry conversations these days I encounter people who are weary of negativity and finger pointing. Sure, there are plenty who share their agreement or disagreement with the loudly proffered dictates of political leaders. And God bless them for having faith in politics! But I find the more genuine expressions of hope are wrapped not in bluster or anger, revenge or exclusion – no they are packaged in something that feels more like what Paul advises: continuous prayer, constant thanksgiving, pointed encouragement and persevering faith. Faith, not in the powers and principalities of this world, but faith in the Prince of Peace and God of Creation – and re-creation.
In it’s best iterations the Church has known how to function as a bigger tent, welcoming those of differing opinions and expressions of faith; while somehow encompassing the capacity to “do good” and “speak truth in love” and “be thankful”. My opinion is that we could really use the Church getting back to that place, once again finding it’s voice and it’s capacity to both love and embrace people who come in such complex and varied wrappings.
So here’s to both thinking and living “thankful” thoughts, in all circumstances. Searching, seeking and finding a reason to offer gratitude, generosity, kindness, compassion, empathy, hope and promise rooted in a life-changing faith in Christ Jesus to a hurting and, yes, sometimes hurtful world.
Happy Thanksgiving 2024!
danielcash 