And for our second service this morning, I would invite you to join me in the book of First Thessalonians.

Chapter 1, we'll begin reading at verse 2.

And for those who are able, I will ask that you would indeed stand for the reading of the scriptures this morning, followed by a word of prayer.

Again, First Thessalonians, chapter 1, beginning in verse 2.

The Word of God reads, we give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you

in our prayers, remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience

of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of God and Father.

Knowing, beloved brethren, verse 4, your election by God, for our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power,

and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you

for your sake. And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction

with joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Akaya who

believe. For from you, the Word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Akaya, but also

in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out so that we do not need to say anything.

For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you and how you

turn to God from idols to

serve the living and true God. And verse 10, and to wait for his son from heaven whom he raised

from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.

Why don't we pray and ask for the Lord's blessing upon the teaching this morning.

Father in heaven, we're so thankful for this day, this Father's Day, and we're so glad that

you're our Father every day

and every day is your day. So Lord, with the time that you have given us this morning, we give

it back to you freely, looking for a blessing for your namesake that you may receive all the

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