Brothers and sisters, pray for us. Greet all God’s people with a holy kiss. I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers and sisters. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

In his parting comments in this letter, Paul makes some very important statements. 1) He called the Thessalonians brothers and sisters. This is a family term, indicating he sees them as a part of his family. This connotes loyalty, love, a strong bond, and sticking up for each other. 2) He asks them to pray for them. Compared to Paul, Silas, and Timothy, some of these new Christians may not feel qualified to pray for these leaders. They may have thought these leaders were so holy they did not need prayer. But in asking them, he not only recognizes his own weakness in the flesh, but he conveys his confidence in the power of their prayers in the Spirit of God. 3) He asks them to greet all of God’s people.  Be hospitable. The holy kiss, I imagine, is the kiss of a brother or sister in Christ; the sign of true spiritual affection. 4) He charges them to read it to everyone. There will be no favoritism or societal ranking in the church. All are brothers and sisters. All share in the edification Paul sends. Slave is equal to wealthy landowner in God’s kingdom. 5) And finally, he sends the grace of Jesus to them. This grace is a cure for any spiritual wounds they may have, any disagreement or bitterness that has risen in their ranks.  Jesus’ grace covers over a multitude of sins!

Lord, thank you for these admonishments by Paul. Help me to live by them, as well.  Help me also to communicate with the spiritual intention Paul had, to edify and encourage others.