The Enduring Hope Edition
The Christian life does not equate to comfort.
Consider Jason, whose decision to follow Jesus was shadowed by strife and intimidation. Chased by a mob and called before the authorities, he and his friends faced “severe suffering”. We read of them in Acts 17 and 1 Thessalonians 1.
While Christian students in Australian schools rarely face physical violence for their faith, many know of being mocked and ostracised. Many others feel pressure not to speak of their faith, or even question whether it is worth continuing because it is such hard work to keep pushing against what feels like an overwhelming tide.
“Hope itself endures because it is embedded in the central theme of the gospel – that God’s love endures.”
In writing to the Thessalonian believers, Paul, Silas and Timothy report that “We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers. We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labour prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thess 1:2-3).
Amongst the triad of faith, hope and love we see a hope which inspires endurance. Indeed, the hope itself endures because it is embedded in the central theme of the gospel – that God’s love endures. Despite opposition, this hope brings peace and joy.
I cannot tell you how often I meet older people who share with me that they came to trust in God when they were involved in Crusader activities as school children. Some will share how their faith, hope and love has continued and even grown through various confrontations and challenges. It is something that prompts me to thank God for His ongoing work in their lives. And I am so thankful too that this work is continuing among a new generation in 2022.
Please continue to support this work in prayer. You will find our latest prayer guide within this issue of CRUview along with stories of how God is at work in various ways.
“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thess 5:16-18).