21st Week in Ord. Time, Wednesday – 30thAugust 2023 – 1 Thess 2,9-13; Mt 23,27-32
Dedicated and Affectionate Apostle
In the first reading, St.Paul continues to praise the people of Thessalonika for living lives that manifest, they have not only heard the Word of God but have put it into action in their lives. The Thessalonians have responded in a very positive way to the teachings of Paul. Paul also realizes that the faith that they have received from his preaching is the work of God, not just the mere work of the human agent, even though he worked in extreme diligence for the new community of believers. He speaks to the faithful Thessalonians as a loving parent to the children, urging them, encouraging them and appealing to them to live a life worthy of the God who calls them to share his kingdom and his glory. He is proud of the example he has set for others. It was a work combining both dedication and affection. The Thessalonians themselves have seen how Paul’s behaviour among them has always been impeccable and upright.
