Thankful Heart

Truly, there is so much to be grateful for, this Thanksgiving day.

Quite simply, that we are breathing should suffice.

As I shared in special mid-week Thanksgiving service, the other night; this has been a difficult and challenging year, spotted by a number of circumstances that could have worked out to much more worse than what they did. Only be the sovereign hand of God's grace.

My incredible family. Great friends. God's provision and protection over our lives. Indeed the list is long.

Yet, once again... as I reflected on this day of gratitude the pastoral perspective, the list took a turn.

I am thankful for the 1500+ pastors, who every month this year, chose to remain in ministry.
I am thankful for the 500+ missionaries who have stayed on the mission field this year.
I am thankful for churches that, despite difficulty and troubled times have kept their doors open.

For the salvations that have occurred as a result.
For the healings.
For the restorations.
For the break-throughs.
For wisdom and revelation

As my friend shared the other night, that God had moved upon his heart, to step into areas of ministry, that made him pause and think, "I'm not the person for that position". Yet, he and many more like him, have responded and stepped out in faith and God has honored them. New friendships have been formed, people's faith have been strengthened and visitors have been welcomed and loved by the body of Christ into the presence of God.

I thank God for granting and imparting wisdom to pastors in knowing and seeking the face of God as to who should serve with them in ministry, for their church and community.

Conversely, I thank God for the body of Christ, that steps up to serve along side pastors and give countless hours, whether they be on staff or simply answer the call of God on their lives to contribute to the church in order than ministry may happen.

For those who pray.
For those who give.
For those who contribute.

Indeed, one member of the body should never look at another, and say, "I have no need of you."
We need each other. We need Christ at the top.

Thus, pray, this #deaconThursday, that God would strengthen those who come along-side, to stand and serve with pastors. May God honor their faith and their faithfulness to the church and community, as they set aside other activities and priorities, that ministry may proceed. Pray God's protection and provision over their own homes and families and they work to help and improve the lives of others. May their faith be fortified, their hearts and encouraged and their spirits revived.
Most importantly, on this Thanksgiving Day, may we be people of gratitude.

That we would know God.
That we would love others.
For we have been blessed by His Hand
We should extend ours in return.
For the glory of God and the cause of Christ.

- PNC