Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

November is here and that means one thing.  The Christmas season (just kidding, the stores have been in Christmas mode long before Halloween).  Thanksgiving is coming.  I love Thanksgiving and honestly it has become my favorite holiday over the past few years.  I get up, start breakfast and then start the feast.  My wife and daughter get up, we eat then put on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. 

During the parade, I get the turkey in the oven and make the stuffing.  Throughout the morning, I am busy in the kitchen, but not so busy that I cannot watch the parade with my family.  Whether it is just the three of us, or we have other family members, I take great care and pleasure in the meal.  Cooking it is a way of giving thanks for all I have.

I probably do not say this enough but I am grateful for my family.

Paul tells us to rejoice always, pray always and be thankful always, no matter what is going on.  Believe me, I know how hard this is, especially after some difficult years.  Yet if we stop for a moment and really consider things, we do have a lot to be thankful for.

As you travel through this month, take time to give thanks, take time to pray, take time to rejoice.

Peace,

Pastor Bill

Thanks be to you, our Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits which you have given us, for all the pains and insults which you have borne for us. Most merciful Redeemer, Friend and Brother, may we know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, day by day.

Prayer of Saint Richard