Our congregation continues to grow, which can only be a problem if we cease to grow in love. Paul tells the Thessalonians that their love for the brethren throughout Macedonia was highly spoken of. But this, for Paul, was inadequate. He wanted them to love “more and more.”
You are loving congregation, but far from making you complacent, this should terrify you. What could be easier than to start grading on curves, resting on laurels, and all the rest of it. You have shown great kindnesses to one another — so continue to do so, more and more. This will adorn everything we learn — from the proclamation of the Word, to the faithful use of the sacraments. This love for one another is the aroma of our worship.
Our congregation contains medical crises of various kinds. Love one another, more and more. Some families must deal with the heartache of wayward children. Love one another, more and more. Some struggle with vocational and financial difficulties. Love one another, more and more.
But many of you cannot believe how greatly God has blessed you, and your greatest trial is the occasional weariness that comes from loving one another. But the race is not over. Lift up your hands. Strengthen your knees. Love one another, more and more.