As we celebrate a national day of giving thanks, we are reminded that we give thanks to a God who has given us every good and perfect gift. We deserve only hell, but in Christ we have received Heaven. Our response to such grace is to give back as God has given us. Paul put it like this:
“Therefore, brothers and sisters, in view of the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship.”
Romans 12:1 CSB
The old hymn puts it, “Jesus paid it all; all to Him I owe.” His grace and our gratitude walk hand in hand. Freely we have received and now we should freely give!
If you have a house in which to gather and a family with which to sit this Thanksgiving Day, you should be very thankful. Many children do not. The ministry of Baptist Children’s Homes, however, provides a loving environment for such children. Support this ministry with your giving and prayers. For a touching reminder watch this video:
Jeremy Canipe will share in our Pastors’ conference this Monday morning at 10 about how we can partner in ministry with the children’s home at Broyhill.
Another major emphasis will be the State Convention’s goal to end homelessness among children in North Carolina. It is called, “The Every Child Initiative,” and you can read about it here:
Mark Smith, our state representative will join us at the Pastors’ Conference on Dec.13 to tell us more.
Happy Thanksgiving,
Dennis Thurman, Haywood AMS
