Many in Thessalonica were worried. Jesus had not returned, and some community members had died. Would they miss out on being with the Lord when he returned? Paul had to assure them that no one would be left behind.

The dead would be raised first, and then together with the living, they would all meet the Lord in the air. There is no need to stand in line in God's kingdom, take a number, or book a reservation. Let us strive to trust in God's love and fidelity to us.

In his first public appearance in his hometown synagogue, Jesus amazed his listeners. Jesus claimed that the prophecy from Isaiah was fulfilled in him, but the crowd was not pleased. They knew him and his family and had watched him grow up. It is more difficult to see greatness in those with whom we are most familiar. He also shocked them by insisting that God showed mercy and blessings to those outside Israel, and he cited two examples from the Old Testament. Like many people of all religions, including our own, they were possessive of God. No one owns God, and God does not have favourites or show partiality. We should rejoice at God's kindness and mercy to those outside the fold - it is further proof of God's greatness.