People who believe in Christ have hope. This is Paul's message to the people in Thessalonica. Yes, Jesus will come a second time. This is encouraging, because when he comes, he will unite us to himself forever. Life can sometimes be extremely painful, there is no denying this. Jesus is inviting us to persevere because there is something greater ahead. The best is yet to come. Jesus desires that this truth will affect the way we live today.

In the Gospel Jesus comes home to Nazareth. He proclaims a message of hope for people who are poor, hungry, outcast or suffering. He announces God's blessing not just for the Jewish people, but for people outside of Israel as well. The crowd does not like this message and they become hostile.

Yet, Jesus does not tone down his mission in the face of this threat. He goes on to preach, to feed and to heal...because his eyes are set on something greater. He has the courage to stand with the poor even amidst hostility, because he knows one day he will be with the Father.

Have I ever felt Christ calling me to act with courage or persevere? Do I believe that the best is yet to come?