HOLD TO THE TRADITIONS WHICH YOU WERE TAUGHT BY US

Among the communities Paul founded, the Christians in Thessalonica were promising. They loved the gospel and followed the teachings very well. There were very few conflicts in Thessalonica. It seemed like many were anxiously waiting for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. This anxiety made the Christians start believing any word that was spoken about the coming of the Lord.

The text we have today shows us Saint Paul trying to correct this situation. “God has called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, then brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us…” (2 Thessalonians 2:2). Paul is saying that Christianity is a vocation to be lived and not a mere short passage to heaven. Through Baptism we become not only children of God, but of the Church as well. The church is a family of pilgrims here on earth. Let us embrace our life on earth with the virtues of the gospel. For the glory of God is a living person.

This attitude could help us be of purpose in the world. Participate in healthy politics. Construct our societies with strong Christian values. Build strong families with children who respect life and protect the environment. Let us build our local churches by participating in services such as teaching catechism, joining the choir, serving as Eucharistic ministers, serving on the parish council, becoming an Aggregate of the Blessed Sacrament, and participating in acts of charity for the growth of other local communities. All of these will help us be co-creators with God on earth while constructing a more just community, as we yearn for heaven.

Let us pray:

Almighty God, as we yearn for eternal life, may we strive to live the life of the gospel here on earth. May our lives help others know you, the one true God. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.