We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3
“There is much emphasis on notoriety and fame in our society. Our newspapers and television keep giving us the message: What counts is to be known, praised, and admired, whether you are a writer, an actor, a musician, or a politician. Still, real greatness is often hidden, humble, simple, and unobtrusive. It is not easy to trust ourselves and our actions without public affirmation. We must have strong self-confidence combined with deep humility. Some of the greatest works of art and the most important works of peace were created by people who had no need for the limelight. They knew that what they were doing was their call, and they did it with great patience, perseverance, and love.”
Henri Nouwen (1932-1996) in “Hidden Greatness” in Bread for the Journey (New York: HarperCollins) Reading for 25 February.
Moving along in Paul’s letters chronologically, we come to 1 Thessalonians. In this letter, Paul, Silas, and Timothy remind the Thessalonians that they remembered their “work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Or in Nouwen’s works, as they pursued their calling, God saw their “hidden greatness” though maybe it would not make them famous in the view of the world. I find that so much of our generous service for God goes unnoticed. Much of what we do is not glamorous. It’s actually quite monotonous.
We can do it generously, however, not for others, but for God who is watching. Afresh today, let us resolve to chose generosity that not only does not make the limelight, but has no need for it because we serve an audience of One. God, be glorified through our patience, perseverance, and love. Amen.