Constantly give thanks

04Dec
We also constantly give thanks to God for this, that when you received the word of God that you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word but as what it really is, God’s word, which is also at work in you believers.
-1 Thessalonians 2:13-20


Though Paul could not be in Thessalonica, due to his own struggles and trial in Corinth, he sent word to the people of that city thanking them for their steadfast work in believing the word of God through their actions. Jews and Gentiles alike were converted and were noted for their strong faith and hope, serving as a model for other communities, even amidst their own persecutions.  


Giving thanks, as modeled by Paul, is core to our faith. Even in times of struggle, finding ways to give thanks helps to give us hope and keeps us putting one foot in front of the other.  


I could not help but think of Trinity Church as I read this passage. Thinking of myself as a strong, healthy person during my life, the last two years have humbled me to accept that four different surgeries were needed to keep this active life going. Without the support from our church, I could not have recovered so well. People drove me to doctors’ appointments when I needed support OR when I could not drive.  The food provided by Helping Hands was truly lifesaving. Three of those surgeries limited the use of my right arm and I am right-handed. I was helpless, and the food was a lifesaver and always delicious.


In the middle of the night, when problems seem larger than life, and larger than they seem in the morning, I have found going down my gratitude list, and adding to it, helps me refocus my thoughts; I fall back to sleep more easily. Daytime thankfulness is soul soothing, as well. There is a reason why Paul says he gives thanks constantly.


For me, Trinity Church has been like the community at Thessalonica. You receive and understand the word of God, and you, through your actions, are models of your faith. Thank you Trinity Church for being the hands and feet of Jesus for me, our fellow parishioners, and the larger community that we serve.  


Musical Reflection - Let us Be Known - The Porter's Gate


Holy One, let us be known by our love and let us follow Paul's example in our gratitude for the love that comes to us through the inspiration of Christ Jesus. Amen

GratitudeCommunityUnderstanding

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