Grateful For One Another

“I woke today with gratitude for those who share me in their lives. I am thankful for those who are part of my journey.”

- Millie Mestril

“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, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

- The Apostle Paul, Philippians 1:3-6

With Thanksgiving Day just a few days away, I am reminded of the valuable role we play in one another’s lives. We were not designed by our Creator to do life alone. We need one another, and we are definitely better together. Albert Schweitzer put it this way:

At times, our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.

The Apostle Paul was a dynamic witness for Jesus, a force to be reckoned with, yet he recognized the value of those who were in partnership with him, and every time he thought of them, it filled his heart with joy.

Even Jesus, the very Son of God, who had legions of angels at his disposal, recognized the value of relationships and called twelve men to go on the journey with Him. He knew the value of having others around Him… of doing life together.

I cannot even begin to express what all of you mean to me. Having been a part of this church family for over 25 years, every one of you has touched my life in one way or another and have been a valuable part of my journey. So, like Paul, I simply want to say, “I thank my God every time I remember you.”

This Thanksgiving, take some time to think about all the people who play a valuable role in your life.

But, don’t just think about them; acknowledge them personally. As John F. Kennedy said, “We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.”

If we will just take a moment to appreciate the valuable people in our lives, not only will it bless them, but it will also remind us of how blessed we are… how God has placed people around us who enrich us and enhance our lives.

And as we do this, we will find ourselves taking less for granted, appreciating people more, and living out each day with an attitude of gratitude.

Pastor Ken

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