I Thessalonians 2:19-20

“After all, what gives us hope and joy, and what will be our proud reward and crown as we stand before our Lord Jesus when he returns? It is you! Yes, you are our pride and joy.”

There are several ‘crowns’ described in Scripture and investing in people is one that brings a crown. The big reason for this is that people are made in the image of God and are eternal. People last forever. So what does this mean to me?

Might it mean something like this:

• every intercessory prayer that I make for people;
• every financial gift that I give to reach and disciple people;
• every word of encouragement that I give to strengthen people to live for Christ;
• every item of food and piece of clothing that I share with people in Jesus Name
• every listening ear when a person is struggling and hurting is an ‘eternal investment’ – because people last forever. The reward is both joy and an eternal crown.

Some ministry to people is on the front lines and some ministry to people might be supporting the front-line ministers – but all faithful ministry to people, direct and indirect, brings a crown and an eternal reward.

Question

How do you see people?