The other day while in line at the grocery store I overheard several people behind me discussing the Thanksgiving holiday. I listened intently as they all shared the many struggles and difficulties they all have faced this past year. I heard one woman even announce that there was not one thing lto be thankful for this year.

I was saddened by her statement. Was there not anything in her life that she could be grateful for? Was there not one blessing in her life that she could be thankful for?

This made me ask the question What about me? Did I have things in my life this year that I could be thankful for? Have I done a good enough job being thankful to the Lord for all He has done for me?

I can be thankful for so many things. I am thankful for my beautiful wife who loves me and who is an unbelievable ministry partner. I am thankful for three wonderful kids who love God and who love me. I am thankful that Jesus found me and saved me. I am thankful that God has placed me as pastor in an amazing church full of amazing people. I am thankful for my family. I am thankful for the material blessings in my life. I may not have the biggest and nicest house but love makes it a perfect home.I am thankful for friends in my life who pray for me and make my life better with their friendships. The list could go on and on. I could fill several pages with the many blessings I have received this year.

This reminded me of Pauls words to the Thessalonian church in 1 Thessalonian 5:18"In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." or how about Psalms 105:1"Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done."

As Thanksgiving approaches let me urge you to be thankful. Be thankful when things are good and learn to be thankful even in the midst of difficult or challenging days. In EVERYTHING have a grateful heart and let the whole world know about i

Living Thankful!

Pastor B