Placing a Special Emphasis on Being Thankful
As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving with family and friends this week, let us take a moment to remember those who will not have a place at the table and might be dining alone, if they are able to dine at all.
It’s amazing how we can live in the same community but actually be part of two different worlds — those who have adequate resources and those who don’t. There are many people who struggle with poverty, and so much has been done to try to break the cycle, but it seems to continue day after day, week after week, month after month, year after year.
For those of us who are blessed, it’s hard not to consider the plight of others, but there is only so much we can do. We have a well-stocked pantry at Oak Chapel, which is available 24/7/365. We have a Helping Hands Fund to provide assistance to those in dire need. We have kind, caring, and compassionate people willing to help in whatever way they can…but it often doesn’t seem to be enough.
Perhaps we need to be more reliant on and fervent about prayer. God can do all things, and we know that he listens to our pleas, especially when we lift up others. So, as we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving and enter into Advent, consider this passage from Colossians (3:15-17)…
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”
May your Thanksgiving be bountiful and your Christmas be merry and bright!
Until We Meet Again, Be Blessed! – Pastor John