“ I Am THANKFUL…”

As we approach this Thanksgiving and in reflection after our Thanks Living sermon series, I have discovered so many things to be thankful for. Like many of you, I am in awe sometimes of all the blessings God has placed in my life. Yes, my life has its challenges, difficulties, and painful moments, but I marvel at the joy I have when I view the totality of my life. So I would like to take this opportunity to share a few, praying that it may help you find that same joy in your life. I am grateful God called me to serve an awesome congregation that works diligently to connect others to the love of Jesus Christ. I am grateful for everyone who accepts me as I am and shares in my passion to exhibit Christ’s love to those around us. I am so thankful for an understanding wife and children when ministry calls me away. I am grateful to watch my children grow in their faith and develop a burning desire to show Christ love by helping others. I am thankful for a wife who loves me, even when I stink and is my best friend. I am thankful God has placed so many cool friends and family members in my life.  I am thankful for the compassionate way those in all communities who  respond every time someone is hurting, sick, or in need. I am grateful for ever person who helps others over come addictions, protects children, and helps others heal from the pains in life. I thank God for everyone who chooses to worship with us and the abundance of children who have descended upon us lately. I am grateful for a patient and kind congregation who has endured as after ten years of ministry I have began to learn a new preaching style. I thank God for I get to be apart of Centralia Group Workcamp. I praise God for diligent dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to teach the faith to the next generation. I thank God for those who go the extra mile to visit, call, and stay connected with our home bound members. I am thankful for the Soldiers. I am thankful for the outrageous generosity of the people in our faith family. With giving of their money, time, and resources, in an era of decline we have managed unprecedented growth. For that I am thankful. I am thankful for all the people who work so hard behind the scenes to do the ministry. I am thankful God placed great examples in my life of Christian service and taught me what true faith really is.I am appreciative for all the individuals that I get to lead worship with each week. I am grateful something greater than myself is active in growing in my life. I am grateful for my health. I am thankful that I still have a lot of room for growth in my life. I am grateful I still have a lot to learn about being a good husband, father, and minister. I am thankful I don’t have it all figured out and that God is still active in my life. I am grateful for the forgiveness of others when I mess up. Last but not least, I am eternally grateful and find joy in the fact that I am loved, accepted, and validated by my Savior Jesus Christ and by so many wonderful people. I feel blessed and thankful that each day I get to do what I am called to do.  I also thank God for you, that our paths in life have crossed, as you are a blessing to me.
With all our love from our family to yours.
Happy Thanks LIVING….
Tommy