What Kind of Kind?

      The English language is full of interesting overlapping pronunciations and meanings, which when mixed with senseless spellings can make understanding a challenge. Take the word "kind" for example. we see in the text the connection between two main meanings, which in this passage are positive. We also, though, know how kind can be used in a negative. "They are of a different kind." "That kind of people belongs somewhere else." The Old English meaning of "kind" derives from natural/nature and the grouping of people that are kin. "Good natured" can be reflected in knowing how to be well-mannered and properly cultured. Followers of Jesus would do well to avoid such false distinctions and pay attention to the way "kind" is used in this text.

     Kindness of disciples are marked by generosity, goodness, and love in the face of great persecution. Identifying another's "kind" means paying attention to the extent that they repeat or imitate the practices and teachings of Jesus. We are a people of one kind. Our kindness is one kind. We are all rescued by the same Savior. (Who gives us the two kinds of his body and blood to nourish our bodies and spirits!)

1 Thessalonians 1:2-10

We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. For we know, brothers and sisters beloved by God, that he has chosen you, because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of persons we proved to be among you for your sake.

And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for in spite of persecution you received the word with joy inspired by the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place your faith in God has become known, so that we have no need to speak about it. For the people of those regions report about us what kind of welcome we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the wrath that is coming.

Lord Jesus, be with us until you come and teach us to be more and more like you in every way. Amen.