Day 60: Spiritual Food in Quarantine

We ask that you respect those who labor among you and have charge of you; esteem them very highly in love because of their work.

God makes the sun to shine and the rain to fall on the evil and the good alike. This is contrary to what some believe, that certain things are earned, like respect and kindness. As sons of God, we are to be like our Father who blesses people without making them work for it. That’s what grace means - undeserved favor. In today’s reading, St. Paul asks the Thessalonians to “overwhelm with appreciation and love” those who have spiritual charge over them. He wasn’t referring to those who deserve it, which is another topic, but those with responsibility as leaders. Love all men. But don’t forget to honor those whom God put in authority over you because of their calling. Do good not because people are worthy, but because you are gracious.