Finding comfort in the communion of saints
In 1 Thessalonians, we are reminded that the Christian life was never promised to be a gentle stroll through a pristine garden of peace, harmony and well-being, and the Thessalonian church certainly understood the harsh reality of facing sudden affliction. In the third chapter of his letter, Paul expresses his immense relief upon hearing that this young and fervent congregation has remained firm in the face of severe trials from the city folk who still clung to the pagan religions of the time and saw everyone who didn't adhere as being an outsider and a risk to the security and stability offered by the Romans.
