There is something special about November. Even in Texas, we are firmly into the Fall season. Leaves have or are turning, and sweaters have been brought out of retirement. It’s finally cool enough to have chili and gumbo and homemade soups. The stores have traded Jak-o-lanterns, goblins, and skeletons for Santa, reindeer, and snowmen. It’s Holiday time!
Thanksgiving is perhaps my favorite holiday. It brings with it memories of home and family. The annual Thanksgiving dinner at my grandparent’s house was a full family affair. Aunts and uncles and cousins and long-time family friends would all gather on Thanksgiving Day for football, Turkey dinner (with rutabaga, of course!), and Pinochle (a card game). You could count on it.
Rites of passage were lived out at those gatherings. The day one was moved from the kid's table to another table (not necessarily the adult's table) was huge! Being allowed to drink coffee was another big milestone! If my grandmother allowed you to help her clean the dishes and kitchen you were officially “in.” Gerda met most of my family for the first time at one of these gatherings…and was allowed to help with the dishes!
The church is our extended family. We are connected with each of one you through the blood of Jesus! The Bible calls us “brothers and sisters,” “one body,” the “Body of Christ,” “Joint Heirs” and even “Pilgrims.” We also gather for Thanksgiving on the Tuesday before the Holiday. This year it is November 21st at 6:30 p.m. There is always an abundance of food and great fellowship. Everyone is invited and consider bringing friends or family. And, you might even get to help in the kitchen!!!! This is always a very special day for the church. You can count on it!
You can also count on our annual Thanksgiving basket ministry. A sign-up list for donations towards putting together Thanksgiving meals for families in need has been placed on the bulletin board. Please take a look and see where you might be able to help.
Thanksgiving also marks, in my heart and mind, the beginning of the Christmas season! We will begin our Christmas observance on the 1st Sunday of Advent which is on December 3rd. We will conclude our Christmas services with the Candlelight Service on Sunday the 24th (Christmas Eve) at 7 p.m. The Choir will be leading the worship service on December 17th.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18… Rejoice always, pray without ceasing; give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
We have much to be Thankful for as a church. God is doing amazing things in our church, and I am very thankful to be part of what He is doing.
Gerda and I are very thankful for you. We have felt your prayers and support as we walk the path set out for us. We definitely do not feel alone. We know that we have a church family who is walking with us every step of the way. We are rejoicing. We are Praying. And we are thankful! God is good and God is faithful.
You can count on it.
God bless, Pastor Rob