7 And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere.Therefore we do not need to say anything about it,9 for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.REFLECTIONSWritten by Hannah PhungIf someone were to describe what you are best known for, what do you think they would say? Would they say something about your career, your house or just even being a nice person? I think it can be easy to get lost in this world and so often forget that we are here for the work of the gospel. As I was reading today's passage, what stuck out to me was the reputation that the Thessalonians had because of their belief in Jesus (v7). It was so exemplary that it was known to surrounding regions (Macedonia and Achaia) and beyond (v8).What were the Thessalonians known for? They were known for the transforming work of Jesus - they turned from idols to serve the living God, and were now waiting for the second coming of his Son Jesus. This was a huge encouragement to churches in surrounding regions and set an example for other churches to follow.So, what do you think you’re known for? What do you think St Barnabas is known for?Together, the Thessalonians stood out as an example to their neighbours because of the transforming work of the Gospel. Sometimes it is easy to become distracted by the little details at church, but even though there are many distractions day to day, there's an encouragement in these verses for us to live as transformed people by God together.Some points to consider:How do we live, while we wait for Heaven? How can our church seek to do the same amongst the pandemic? Pray for our church, that we be known for the transformative work of the Gospel.ABOUT THE AUTHORHannah is part of our Bossley Park Morning Church.