Saturday 5 December, 2020

6 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching[a] you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. 9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” 11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.

Recently I watched a movie “On Wings of Eagles” which was based on the true story of Eric Liddell’s missionary work in China. Liddell was famous for winning gold for Britain in the 1924 Olympics which was famously depicted in the movie “Chariots of Fire”. Liddell returned to China after the Olympics and served as a school teacher and missionary. The film details Liddell’s time when he became a prisoner of war (POW) during the Japanese invasion of 1937 and was held at an internment camp. Liddell selflessly devotes his life to serve others in the camp, through teaching and ministry. He refuses a pardon to leave the camp that was arranged by Winston Churchill at the time, so that a pregnant woman could leave instead. Liddell died soon after at the camp.

Verse 13 “And for you brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good” reminded me of what Liddell did for others and what an example he was of hope and service.

Are there inspirational people that are in your world that remind you to serve and never tire of doing God’s work? 

Dear God, thank you for your servant Eric Liddell. Thank you that his story has been emulated in book and film so that many may be encouraged. Thank you for providing encouragement through the Bible so that we can be determined in this life to do the work that you have set for us. Help us never to tire of doing your service.

Amen

Written by Susannah Ware