A Blessed Thanksgiving

“O Give Thanks to the Lord for He is good and His mercy endures forever.”

Psalm 118:1

Thanksgiving is a uniquely American Holiday.  Though most churches celebrate the day with a worship service of some kind, Thanksgiving in America is a national, not a religious holiday. It is a day set aside for us to stop and remember something we should remember every day – all the things we have to be thankful for!  For we who believe – that means giving thanks to the good and merciful God who gives every good and perfect gift.

Today marks the first time Linda and I are celebrating Thanksgiving in America since 2013.  That doesn’t mean we haven’t celebrated these past 4 years.  Though American Thanksgiving is a work day in Germany, we celebrated every year – inviting our colleagues from the Trinity staff to join us for a traditional thanksgiving feast.  In addition, every year, the members of Trinity, from all over the world, would gather for a Thanksgiving Feast at Church on the Saturday before or after.  We would feast on Turkey yes, but also on Curry Chicken from India, on gluten free and vegetarian dishes, among other great dishes. 

Over there, the same things were important – family, friends, good food and grateful hearts!  We will treasure those thanksgivings in Germany.

Now we are back in America, celebrating this year with Beth and Jason, John and Robert. We are so grateful to be close to Ben's family and Steven.  Of course we miss Jon and Dora and Kellan. Once again, God has blessed us with a great congregation to serve and wonderful staff to serve alongside.   I think back over our lives so far – all the places he has taken us too, all the churches we have served, the 4 wonderful children, 3 in-laws, sisters, brother, 6 grandchildren (soon to be 7) and the list goes on.  But the truth is, what really makes for a great heart is faith – living in the assurance that no matter what He has loved us with an everlasting love… He will never leave us or forsake us. 

So for all our family and friends, now around the world (literally) Lind and I wish all of you a blessed Thanksgiving.