RELATIONSHIP

Today's reading: 1 Thessalonians 1-3

"We loved you so much that we gave you not only God's Good News but our own lives, too." 1 Thessalonians 2:8 NLT

I heard the most poignant reminder yesterday about our Christian service...

Ministry is one sided--you give to give, not to receive.

Relationship is two sided--you give, you get, you give again, to get again.

Jesus had a large ministry--giving what couldn't possibly be returned to Him.

Jesus had a small number of people with which He had a relationship. The disciples. Mary, Martha and Lazarus. People who poured into Him. People who refreshed Him. People who cared for His heart as much as He cared for theirs.

Isn't that an example for us?

Minister all we can. To all we can. With all we have.

But also choose relationships. Live life with people who better you, fill you, speak life into you--and return the favor.