“We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers.” (1 Thessalonians 1:2) Paul on several occasions encourages the churches he is writing too, that he is thankful to God for them. Paul could have been overwhelmed with the persecution, with the weight of his calling or even with the “thorn of the flesh”. Those things were always there, but Paul chose to be thankful for those God had given him in relationship.
I am so thankful for the relationships that I have been given—my wife, my daughters, my friends, my family, and this church family. Do I “always” treasure you all as much as I should? No. Do I let distractions, trials and the weight of family and ministry take the “always” out of my thanks and appreciation? Yes.
I pray that I continually grow in my thankfulness for all the relationships that God has blessed me with. I hope you join me today in thanking God for all the relationship you have been given. They are truly a gift and may we treasure them all. I pray you have a blessed Thanksgiving with those you are thankful for.
*I would like to personally thank the individual or group that greatly blessed me and my family with an anonymous gift. May God bless you in return with “a good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over”. The Center Family has been more than thoughtful and more than generous to us over the past 7 years. We love you all and are overflowing with gratitude for your kindness and love.
In the heart of thanksgiving, I wanted to offer my personal gratitude to two specific groups. I wish I had more space to share gratitude to several more groups or ministries here at Center for my heart is full of thanksgiving for so many.
I would like to first thank our “Encouragers Ministry”. The pumpkin pie that they make with such love for the residents at Millers Merry Manor every year for our Thanksgiving Services throughout November just warms my heart. It means so much to the residents and it is done with such joy and love that you can feel the presence of God moving through this simple act of kindness. Thank you Encouragers!
I would also like to thank our “Quilt Ladies” for the skillful and spiritual work that you do to bless those from Center in nursing homes, hospitals and at home battling a variety of health issues. I know the prayer, time, talent and love that is poured into each of those quilts and I have personally seen the impact on the recipients of those beautiful quilts. Every time, the Scriptures are exactly what the family needs and the color and design have some personal meaning. God is comforting and encouraging those in need through this ministry. Thank you ladies for your meaningful gifts of love and hope!