November 2006
WITH GRATEFUL HEARTS . . .
When I think of November, three things instantly come
to mind: Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Deer Season.
November is a time where we traditionally reflect on
those things that we are thankful for.
Veteran’s Day is the anniversary of my first date
with my lovely wife, (for which I am eternally
thankful). But it also reminds us of the sacrifice
laid down by all those who have taken a stand to
defend our country and our way of life – the freedoms
that we so often take for granted. It’s a time for us
to stop and reflect on the sacrifice that our veterans
have made; some through taking time out from their
lives to be in service to their country, and so many
others that have paid the ultimate price to ensure
that the freedom and hope that’s offered through this
great country will remain for generations to come; and
to be an example of hope for others around the world
who wish to be free and reach the full potential of
what and who God created them to be.
With Thanksgiving, we think of turkey and sweet
potatoes and pumpkin pie. We think of food, family,
friends, fellowship and of course – Lions football.
But we also need to take the time to think of all the
blessings that we receive and give thanks for all that
God has done and continues to do for each and every
one of us. God is continually faithful and God
provides – not always what we want but always what we
need.
Deer Season may seem a little out of place with our
theme of thanks, and it may be for those of us that
don’t hunt or don’t like venison. But for those who
do, I’m sure that a deer or two in the freezer is
something to be thankful for. And I’m sure that most
hunters, on occasion, have been taken back by the
wonder of all that God has created: the awe of the
early morning sky filled with stars too numerous to
count; the overwhelming beauty of a blazing sunrise;
the sounds and smells of nature that heighten our
awareness. It can be, and often is, a very humbling
experience.
And ultimately, all the things that we’re thankful
for, remind us of how much God loves us; each and
every one of us – enough to send His Son so that we
could be freed from power and bondage of sin; enough
to actively pursue us so that we can be in the
fullness of relationship with him that we were created
for. How could we be anything but wholly thankful for
all that God has done and faithfully continues to do
for us? No words can describe the fullness and joy
that can be ours through Jesus Christ; but a hymn of
praise does come to mind . . .
“Give thanks with a grateful heart,
give thanks to the Holy One,
Give thanks because he’s given
Jesus Christ his only Son . . .”
Grace and Peace, The Rev. Rob Hughes
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O For A Thousand Tongues To Sing