The Attitude of Gratitude

Dear Crosswalkers,

This Sunday we begin a new series of three messages entitled, “Three Powerful Blessings”. In these messages, we will look at three blessings God has given us that will enable us to live with his power and purpose in the face of life’s challenges. We begin this Sunday with “The Power of Thanksgiving.” It is more than just a national holiday featuring Turkey and football. In the Bible, thanksgiving is a lifestyle. The attitude of gratitude is a hallmark of those who follow Jesus. And this Sunday, we’ll discover its power in our lives!

The Bible says,

Let them praise the Lord for his great love and for the wonderful things he has done for them. Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and sing joyfully about his glorious acts. – Psalm 107:21-22 (NLT) What were the “sacrifices of thanksgiving” that were offered because of the great and glorious things God had done? Interestingly, they were offerings, usually of animals (but it could be a monetary offering); and a portion of the animal was dedicated to God and the rest was used as a meal of thanksgiving! I wonder if this isn’t an appropriate model for us to follow as well. So I invite you to give an offering of thanksgiving for the way God has blessed your life in 2009, and then celebrate with a wonderful dinner next Thursday.

As I look at our church finances, I am extremely grateful to God for the generosity of our church family. Through the month of October, we were only $610.00 in the red for our General Fund. In times of economic recession and high unemployment, this is a wonderful testimony about the dedication our church family. However, as we look to our end of year expenses, if you could bless your church family with a thanksgiving offering it would be greatly appreciated. In fact, we would return tremendous thanks to God! Simply designate your special offering with the word “Thanksgiving” so we can join you in praising God about his glorious acts. Has God blessed your life? Have you experienced his grace and truth during our 40 Days of Love spiritual growth journey? Then please consider a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and join us Sunday as we sing joyfully about his glorious acts.

On Monday, Leanna and I travel to Paraguay for family time and some wonderful ministry opportunities with the Hernandez family. Please pray for us. I plan to send you this memo from the field, so we will keep in touch.

Affectionately in the Lord,

Pastor John