Here "heart" represents thoughts and emotions. Though Paul and those traveling with him were not present physically in Thessalonica, they continued to care and think about the believers there. AT: "in person, but we continued to think about you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
Paul uses questions to emphasize the reasons he wants to come see the Thessalonian believers. AT: "For you, as much as the other believers, are our confidence for the future, and joy, and crown of pride in front of our Lord Jesus at his coming." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
By "hope" Paul means the assurance he has that God will reward him for his work. The Thessalonian Christians are the reason for his hope. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
The Thessalonians are the reason for his joy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
# crown of pride
Here "crown" refers to a laurel wreath awarded to victorious athletes. The expression "crown of pride" means a reward for victory, or having done well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])