“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” – Exodus 13:21 NIV
During the Thanksgiving season, pastors often encourage the congregation to think about their blessings and to give thanks. This is not one of those messages. Instead, I want to use this letter to say how thankful I am for all of you and your partnership in the gospel work.
I’m thinking of all of you who have volunteered to help with our Community Thanksgiving meal. So many have been willing to help we’ve had to turn volunteers away or direct them to help in another way. I am thinking about your responses to the young homeless couple who visited the church every day this fall, and about your gracious hospitality to provide a free memorial celebration for Bob, a formerly homeless person who was with us last fall, and died of cancer this fall.
I remember your ministry with the children at VBS and each week at rezKIDS. I remember your excitement to study God’s Word with me. I remember all the people who have prayed for me with my eye issue and head numbness. The cards of sympathy, encouragement, or uplift that I have received. I remember the greetings you gave on Sunday morning and the sound of your voices raised in singing praise to God. I remember your generosity that pays my salary and supports our ministries.
I remember. And I thank God for you every time. How blessed I am to be able to partner in the gospel with you. Have a happy Thanksgiving!
Pastor Mark