Some things this week have made me think: what is faith, really?
I have been meeting with a retired ministry woman, Charlene, who has agreed to mentor/pray with me. She had mentioned a book she had just received and been encouraged to read on prayer: Transforming Prayer by Daniel Henderson. It has rocked our worlds about how we've been taught to pray, about approaching God in worship and the Word to pray, rather than the more traditional prayer lists. That's a very general overview. But we've both been challenged as to our attitude, our formats, our desire to pray as God wills.
This week, we read some about praying with faith. For several weeks, we have wrestled with the prayers we've prayed for those who are suffering, those who cannot have children or have lost precious children and they seem to go unanswered. We want to get past the pat answers and seek how to pray for such situations. What do we pray? How do we have faith when we're not sure of the content of the prayers we bring to God? Is the faith blind?
Hebrews 11:1 had me thinking about the Bible's definition of faith.
"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."
Being assured of the things hoped for assumes we are asking for things we are certain God will bring about. Whoah! That's where the unanswered prayers come in. We must have prayed for things that weren't in God's plan. So faith isn't just wishful thinking; it is a conviction!
Another friend was sharing a difficult and emotional family circumstance. Her daughter and son-in-law had prepared and awaited the arrival of an adopted newborn boy. As the mother waited to give birth and went overdue, she changed her mind and backed out of the adoption. In keeping her son, she left the adoptive couple childless and grieving!
As the family was grieving together, they began praying again for another birth mother to choose them, but my friend admitted how hard it was to pray! "Am I praying in faith?" she asked herself. Because if we ask and doubt, James declares we are double-minded.
Somehow, in reading the book on prayer, looking up some Scriptures and talking about real-life journeys in prayer. I think I had an epiphany.
Prayer is surrender.
Ultimately, when we bring requests to our Father, we are surrendering our own ideas, ways, plans, strategies and desires to Him.
So faith is placing ourselves, our complete trust in God's answers, whatever that may be, in His hands.
It doesn't mean we don't ask questions, process our feelings, cry out and communicate our longings! God invites us to do just that and the psalmists recorded those exact expressions. But, in the end, submitting all to the Lord and believing His will is best will be the final cry of our heart.
"Not my will but Yours be done." (Garden of Gethsemane)
"Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done..."(The Lord's Prayer)
The example of such a yearning and heartfelt prayer was that of David when the baby boy - born out of the adulterous relationship he had with Bathsheba - became ill. David put on sackcloth and ashes, seeking God in fasting and prayer. He refused food and drink and sleep. Finally, when the news was brought to him that the child died, then David washed his face, dressed and took a meal. Did he know the outcome of his prayers as he prayed? Did he rant and rave when the answer to spare the baby was "No" from God? It would seem, David knew of God's mercy and dared to pray with faith in that aspect of God's character. But when God did not answer as David had hoped, he accepted God's way. He continued to worship and serve his Lord.
Faith is being sure of God. It is total trust in the unchanging, faithful, unfailing nature of God. It really has nothing to do with what we are praying about...the requests and results are NOT the point.
I hope I am getting closer to understanding what prayer and faith are...
Lord, teach me!
Thursday 29 October 2015
Sunday 25 October 2015
Never thought sitting on the couch in our family room would feel so wonderful!
I feel tired - a good tired after the busy weekend at Silver Heights Bible Church in Weyburn. We set up our Healing Hearts display, complete with free pens and candy to give away. The encouraging conversations we had with old and new friends was so worthwhile.
The speaker was Brian Hopfe, director of the Youth for Christ drop-in centre in Weyburn. His messages on the theme verse were deep and challenging.
I Peter 3:15 ~ "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect..."
Brian unpacked the verse, phrase by phrase, highlighting that Jesus Christ is the "Truth" and He came to testify to the truth. With so many philosophies and religions and belief systems competing in the world, we as Christian believers have tremendous responsibility to testify of this truth, Jesus. We need to be prepared to share the reason we believe, the reason we have hope. And our attitude in sharing is to be with gentleness and respect, not condemning those who do not yet believe.
Brian brought a chunk of concrete to show us all, calling it his "But for the grace of God" rock! He illustrated that a few years ago, the drop in centre windows had been broken and he had to deal with the police and all that is involved with the mess and hassle of a break-in! And he was angry! The frustration he experienced of trying to help youth and "they" pay back his efforts with such a violation! He held the concrete/rock up and said the police brought it to him for whatever reason, and Brian decided to keep it in his office. It reminded him of what God spoke to him in the midst of his anger, that if not for God's grace to change him, Brian himself could have been one who lived a violent and delinquent life. We are to share the Gospel of Jesus with such love and humility to those who may seem "unlovable" and undeserving of grace.
Walter spoke to the adult Sunday School class about the direction we aim for in our ministry: to value all people because we are all created in the image of God and are purchased with the blood of Jesus Christ; to recognize each person has a job in the kingdom of God; to empower and equip each one as they are willing for serving in the kingdom. A few folks spoke up and asked very insightful and sometimes difficult questions about our ministry. The interaction was great as the work we do is slow and difficult and we don't always have simple answers or ANY answers. Walter tries to be as honest and transparent as possible so others will know and pray for us more effectively!
The weekend also involved music and I was given several opportunities to sing solos, play and sing with the worship team and lead in some choruses before Walter shared in the Sunday School class! I had prepared one song for sure "My Lighthouse" by Rend Collective...and it was a fun number. I botched it a bit because I was still just learning it and lost my place on the page; keeps me humble!And no church event is complete without food! The missions committee had prepared a chili supper for us Saturday and then a potluck on Sunday. It was great to connect with people a bit more over the meal times. Many in the church are involved in Club D.J., leading services and most other aspects of church life as they are without a pastor. We were so impressed with how folks had stepped up and fulfilled many roles that stretched them...and how they were keeping their vision to learn about and support missions.We drove home this afternoon with the autumn sunshine warming us and the harvest haze hanging in the air. As tired as we are after a busy and stimulating weekend, we count it an awesome privilege to share about our ministry and hear of others' stories of changed lives and God's answers to prayer!
I feel tired - a good tired after the busy weekend at Silver Heights Bible Church in Weyburn. We set up our Healing Hearts display, complete with free pens and candy to give away. The encouraging conversations we had with old and new friends was so worthwhile.
The speaker was Brian Hopfe, director of the Youth for Christ drop-in centre in Weyburn. His messages on the theme verse were deep and challenging.
I Peter 3:15 ~ "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect..."
Brian unpacked the verse, phrase by phrase, highlighting that Jesus Christ is the "Truth" and He came to testify to the truth. With so many philosophies and religions and belief systems competing in the world, we as Christian believers have tremendous responsibility to testify of this truth, Jesus. We need to be prepared to share the reason we believe, the reason we have hope. And our attitude in sharing is to be with gentleness and respect, not condemning those who do not yet believe.
Brian brought a chunk of concrete to show us all, calling it his "But for the grace of God" rock! He illustrated that a few years ago, the drop in centre windows had been broken and he had to deal with the police and all that is involved with the mess and hassle of a break-in! And he was angry! The frustration he experienced of trying to help youth and "they" pay back his efforts with such a violation! He held the concrete/rock up and said the police brought it to him for whatever reason, and Brian decided to keep it in his office. It reminded him of what God spoke to him in the midst of his anger, that if not for God's grace to change him, Brian himself could have been one who lived a violent and delinquent life. We are to share the Gospel of Jesus with such love and humility to those who may seem "unlovable" and undeserving of grace.
Walter spoke to the adult Sunday School class about the direction we aim for in our ministry: to value all people because we are all created in the image of God and are purchased with the blood of Jesus Christ; to recognize each person has a job in the kingdom of God; to empower and equip each one as they are willing for serving in the kingdom. A few folks spoke up and asked very insightful and sometimes difficult questions about our ministry. The interaction was great as the work we do is slow and difficult and we don't always have simple answers or ANY answers. Walter tries to be as honest and transparent as possible so others will know and pray for us more effectively!
The weekend also involved music and I was given several opportunities to sing solos, play and sing with the worship team and lead in some choruses before Walter shared in the Sunday School class! I had prepared one song for sure "My Lighthouse" by Rend Collective...and it was a fun number. I botched it a bit because I was still just learning it and lost my place on the page; keeps me humble!And no church event is complete without food! The missions committee had prepared a chili supper for us Saturday and then a potluck on Sunday. It was great to connect with people a bit more over the meal times. Many in the church are involved in Club D.J., leading services and most other aspects of church life as they are without a pastor. We were so impressed with how folks had stepped up and fulfilled many roles that stretched them...and how they were keeping their vision to learn about and support missions.We drove home this afternoon with the autumn sunshine warming us and the harvest haze hanging in the air. As tired as we are after a busy and stimulating weekend, we count it an awesome privilege to share about our ministry and hear of others' stories of changed lives and God's answers to prayer!
Tomorrow: day off! Have a great week, friends!
Friday 23 October 2015
Highlights of the week so far...
Basking in the warm sun of October while walking to get the mail...crunching through the leaves and smelling the earthy aroma of the pale green lawn at the park.
Enjoying Daniel coming home for supper and helping himself to milk & cookies first!
Texts from Caylea including a picture of her latest football injury!
A birthday present arriving from Mark & Amy through Mark's favourite shopping company, Amazon.com.
A cup of coffee, my Bible and journal and hymnbook
Praying with my husband each night before we go to sleep, knowing God hears and is already at work in the things we were praying about.
Playing catch at the park with Daniel today - memories of my Dad playing with me!
Word that Mark, Amy & the Encounter students & teammates arrived safely in Quebec City.
Finding black running shoes after a month of searching...and then adding a fun pair of flats for only $3.50 ~ and two tops for $25 (Spent some early birthday money I got this week!)
The weekend will be another busy one for us ~ a Missions Conference in Weyburn Saturday and Sunday where we set up a booth, present, share special music and engage in conversations with folks. Every weekend this month we have been involved in Missions conferences in Saskatchewan and we are so blessed to have these opportunities.
Missions is our life. We are still as passionate as when we were fresh Bible School graduates, when we were armed with God's Word and a vision to reach the lost...26+ years later, we are more convinced than ever that God's plan to bring salvation through the Gospel of Jesus Christ His Son, is STILL the only plan. Acts 4:12 says there is NO OTHER name under heaven by which we are saved. John 14:6 clearly declares that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Making disciples, teaching and training them to share Jesus with others is still our commission from the Father, the Lord of the Harvest.
But cross-cultural ministry looks a little different these days...working part or full time and ministering on the side is becoming a common trend. God is opening doors in different ways. Church planting is still happening. But church may not be a building with pews and a podium...it may be in homes, community centre or schools. It may be outdoors, in tents or sharing facilities with other congregations. The Holy Spirit is not limited to one way or one strategy to reach people and gather them for worship.
As Walter and I shift focus to leader training and member care of our staff, and have other administrative responsibilities, we don't ever want to lose sight of Matthew 28:18-20. We are not special. We were called as ordinary, regular people to serve the Lord. So we want to keep sharing that vision: God is still calling ordinary, regular people to be active in His Great Commission.
Stay tuned to this blog as to how the Silver Heights Bible Church missions weekend turns out...
Basking in the warm sun of October while walking to get the mail...crunching through the leaves and smelling the earthy aroma of the pale green lawn at the park.
Enjoying Daniel coming home for supper and helping himself to milk & cookies first!
Texts from Caylea including a picture of her latest football injury!
A birthday present arriving from Mark & Amy through Mark's favourite shopping company, Amazon.com.
A cup of coffee, my Bible and journal and hymnbook
Praying with my husband each night before we go to sleep, knowing God hears and is already at work in the things we were praying about.
Playing catch at the park with Daniel today - memories of my Dad playing with me!
Word that Mark, Amy & the Encounter students & teammates arrived safely in Quebec City.
Finding black running shoes after a month of searching...and then adding a fun pair of flats for only $3.50 ~ and two tops for $25 (Spent some early birthday money I got this week!)
The weekend will be another busy one for us ~ a Missions Conference in Weyburn Saturday and Sunday where we set up a booth, present, share special music and engage in conversations with folks. Every weekend this month we have been involved in Missions conferences in Saskatchewan and we are so blessed to have these opportunities.
Missions is our life. We are still as passionate as when we were fresh Bible School graduates, when we were armed with God's Word and a vision to reach the lost...26+ years later, we are more convinced than ever that God's plan to bring salvation through the Gospel of Jesus Christ His Son, is STILL the only plan. Acts 4:12 says there is NO OTHER name under heaven by which we are saved. John 14:6 clearly declares that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Making disciples, teaching and training them to share Jesus with others is still our commission from the Father, the Lord of the Harvest.
But cross-cultural ministry looks a little different these days...working part or full time and ministering on the side is becoming a common trend. God is opening doors in different ways. Church planting is still happening. But church may not be a building with pews and a podium...it may be in homes, community centre or schools. It may be outdoors, in tents or sharing facilities with other congregations. The Holy Spirit is not limited to one way or one strategy to reach people and gather them for worship.
As Walter and I shift focus to leader training and member care of our staff, and have other administrative responsibilities, we don't ever want to lose sight of Matthew 28:18-20. We are not special. We were called as ordinary, regular people to serve the Lord. So we want to keep sharing that vision: God is still calling ordinary, regular people to be active in His Great Commission.
Stay tuned to this blog as to how the Silver Heights Bible Church missions weekend turns out...
Wednesday 21 October 2015
I was dreading Tuesday...with all the hype before the election, I didn't dare turn on my laptop and log in to Facebook. With the propaganda against Stephen Harper and the criticisms of Justin Trudeau and the campaign promises of all the parties, I truly dreaded the posts I would see after the election results were final.
One by one, I saw posts of thankfulness for Stephen Harper's service to Canada. I saw people sharing posts of a Prayer for the new Prime Minister with the immense responsibility of his new vocation. I was filled with joy and inspiration as I read many of my friends' commitments to keep the new leader of our nation in their prayers, regardless of their personal opinion and vote in the election!
Canada is an amazingly beautiful country, and I am blessed to have children traveling from the east coast to the west this year. My family has had access to education, medical care and options for their futures. The freedom we have had to worship and to serve in ministry in Jesus' Name has been a gift from God.
I trust that "God will keep our land, glorious and free"...but if things change, I know God will carry us by His grace no matter what the future holds.
In fact, I am not dreading the days ahead; I am on the edge of my seat, wondering what the Lord will do! Let's keep praying, friends. God is not finished with Canada or with us, His children!
One by one, I saw posts of thankfulness for Stephen Harper's service to Canada. I saw people sharing posts of a Prayer for the new Prime Minister with the immense responsibility of his new vocation. I was filled with joy and inspiration as I read many of my friends' commitments to keep the new leader of our nation in their prayers, regardless of their personal opinion and vote in the election!
Canada is an amazingly beautiful country, and I am blessed to have children traveling from the east coast to the west this year. My family has had access to education, medical care and options for their futures. The freedom we have had to worship and to serve in ministry in Jesus' Name has been a gift from God.
I trust that "God will keep our land, glorious and free"...but if things change, I know God will carry us by His grace no matter what the future holds.
In fact, I am not dreading the days ahead; I am on the edge of my seat, wondering what the Lord will do! Let's keep praying, friends. God is not finished with Canada or with us, His children!
Monday 12 October 2015
TEN DAY OF THANKSGIVING ~ Day 9
I got off track and should have been on Day 10 today. Sigh! But I can still blog an extra later...its not like there is an expiry date on thankfulness!
So, today was our family celebration.
Reasons I am thankful on this day as I ponder my family...
*God said that it was "not good for man to be alone" and so created a woman (and God led me to meet and marry a wonderful man over 26 years ago!)
*God sets the lonely in families (He gave Walter and I three children to cure any loneliness we may have had!)
*God can work all things for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (our home has not been perfect and we have had to learn about marriage, parenting and now almost empty-nesting through His wisdom and the role models He has provided)
*God gives us opportunities through these holidays where families gather and eat together to say "Grace" at the meals and bring Jesus into the occasions.
*Although our family is scattered this year, our time with extended family was fun and memorable. We played catch outside on a glorious fall afternoon, we watched the Toronto Blue Jays win a play off game to keep them in the running and we enjoyed a delicious meal that had been collectively prepared.
*Mark and Amy are thousands of miles away celebrating Thanksgiving with 13 students and their co-labourers with "One Hope Canada". (We enjoyed a 1 hour chat on the phone today!)
*Caylea is a couple hundred miles away, on a drama tour ministry called "Upside Down Productions" (saw her briefly on FaceTime until the call was disconnected!)
*Daniel was home and part of the fun and feasting with us today (he suggested bringing ball gloves and even brought brownies to contribute to the dinner!)
*Psalm 128 was my devotional reading this morning and it basically spoke to me of all the blessings I enjoy because I am in relationship with my Heavenly Father. I am blessed with family, all that I need, and the promises for a future with Him. I am rich. God is so good!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING, EVERYONE! May you find joy in the Word of God and in prayer and in giving thanks in all circumstances.
Day 9 - How has God blessed you and your family?
I got off track and should have been on Day 10 today. Sigh! But I can still blog an extra later...its not like there is an expiry date on thankfulness!
So, today was our family celebration.
Reasons I am thankful on this day as I ponder my family...
*God said that it was "not good for man to be alone" and so created a woman (and God led me to meet and marry a wonderful man over 26 years ago!)
*God sets the lonely in families (He gave Walter and I three children to cure any loneliness we may have had!)
*God can work all things for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (our home has not been perfect and we have had to learn about marriage, parenting and now almost empty-nesting through His wisdom and the role models He has provided)
*God gives us opportunities through these holidays where families gather and eat together to say "Grace" at the meals and bring Jesus into the occasions.
*Although our family is scattered this year, our time with extended family was fun and memorable. We played catch outside on a glorious fall afternoon, we watched the Toronto Blue Jays win a play off game to keep them in the running and we enjoyed a delicious meal that had been collectively prepared.
*Mark and Amy are thousands of miles away celebrating Thanksgiving with 13 students and their co-labourers with "One Hope Canada". (We enjoyed a 1 hour chat on the phone today!)
*Caylea is a couple hundred miles away, on a drama tour ministry called "Upside Down Productions" (saw her briefly on FaceTime until the call was disconnected!)
*Daniel was home and part of the fun and feasting with us today (he suggested bringing ball gloves and even brought brownies to contribute to the dinner!)
*Psalm 128 was my devotional reading this morning and it basically spoke to me of all the blessings I enjoy because I am in relationship with my Heavenly Father. I am blessed with family, all that I need, and the promises for a future with Him. I am rich. God is so good!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING, EVERYONE! May you find joy in the Word of God and in prayer and in giving thanks in all circumstances.
Day 9 - How has God blessed you and your family?
Sunday 11 October 2015
TEN DAYS OF THANKSGIVING ~ Day 8
I remember reading Philippians 4:6 many years ago, and being fascinated by thankfulness in relation to prayer.
"...do not be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God."
How could I possibly be thankful for the things I was praying about before God had answered them?
That is the beauty of God's Word. It is pure wisdom. It may not make sense at first, but in time and with experience, His Word is the only path to the follow.
First of all, Paul begins with the need that probably every human has struggled with: anxiety! When life is not going our way, we worry. Worry is quite the opposite of trust. So in approaching God with our prayer requests, we need to stop the anxiousness and come to Him with trust.
Another aspect of prayer is the broad scope in which we can pray. "...but in everything..." literally means every need can be a valid prayer request. Paul also writes to the Ephesian believers to "...pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests..."(Ephesians 6:18a). There is no limit to when, where and what we pray about. The promise is that as we pray in the Spirit, He guides us to ask with right motives and ask for the right requests.
Again, the key part of this verse is the phrase "with thanksgiving", which is our focus. With that positive attitude of gratitude, our faith is already set on the Lord. If we can be thankful in advance for God's answers, then we are trusting Him to provide or intervene as He wills. What if His answer is no? What if there seems to be no response from heaven at all? Again, we can trust God's wisdom and sovereignty to work things out according to His best.
I am learning to be praying on every occasion, even if it is a simple word or two. I hear an ambulance and pray for the emergency. I think of a person and bring them before the Lord. I get annoyed or stressed about a situation, mulling over possible solutions, and remember to cover it in prayer. The main thing is to PRAY and let those requests be made known to God.
If we cannot find anything to be thankful about, at the very least we have that privilege of coming before God's throne of grace and having that outlet of prayer. What a hope we have in Jesus, making that way open to the presence of the Father.
Day 8 - What is God saying to you about thankfulness in prayer?
I remember reading Philippians 4:6 many years ago, and being fascinated by thankfulness in relation to prayer.
"...do not be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God."
How could I possibly be thankful for the things I was praying about before God had answered them?
That is the beauty of God's Word. It is pure wisdom. It may not make sense at first, but in time and with experience, His Word is the only path to the follow.
First of all, Paul begins with the need that probably every human has struggled with: anxiety! When life is not going our way, we worry. Worry is quite the opposite of trust. So in approaching God with our prayer requests, we need to stop the anxiousness and come to Him with trust.
Another aspect of prayer is the broad scope in which we can pray. "...but in everything..." literally means every need can be a valid prayer request. Paul also writes to the Ephesian believers to "...pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests..."(Ephesians 6:18a). There is no limit to when, where and what we pray about. The promise is that as we pray in the Spirit, He guides us to ask with right motives and ask for the right requests.
Again, the key part of this verse is the phrase "with thanksgiving", which is our focus. With that positive attitude of gratitude, our faith is already set on the Lord. If we can be thankful in advance for God's answers, then we are trusting Him to provide or intervene as He wills. What if His answer is no? What if there seems to be no response from heaven at all? Again, we can trust God's wisdom and sovereignty to work things out according to His best.
I am learning to be praying on every occasion, even if it is a simple word or two. I hear an ambulance and pray for the emergency. I think of a person and bring them before the Lord. I get annoyed or stressed about a situation, mulling over possible solutions, and remember to cover it in prayer. The main thing is to PRAY and let those requests be made known to God.
If we cannot find anything to be thankful about, at the very least we have that privilege of coming before God's throne of grace and having that outlet of prayer. What a hope we have in Jesus, making that way open to the presence of the Father.
Day 8 - What is God saying to you about thankfulness in prayer?
Saturday 10 October 2015
TEN DAYS OF THANKSGIVING ~ Day 7
Wikipedia: the source of random facts or at least fairly accurate information!
I wanted to research the history of our Canadian Thanksgiving Day celebration and was surprised by what I found through Google and Wikipedia...
The first thanksgiving feast was initiated by Martin Frobisher, when he and his remaining ships and crew located a spot on Baffin Island (in Frobisher Bay!) to set up a settlement. He was on his third voyage to find that elusive Northwest passage for England but the weather and ice conditions proved too extreme and the establishment of a settlement did not proceed. The year of their thanksgiving celebration? 1578! But they all returned to England in the end.
Later on, in 1604 and following, the French settlers in Quebec held feasts of thanksgiving where they and their First Nations neighbours would share food together.
After Canadian Confederation in 1867, several occasions of thanksgiving were held, for various reasons. Following World War I, the celebrations of Armistice Day and Thanksgiving were set for the end of October and beginning of November, by proclamation each year.
Finally, by 1957, the Canadian Parliament "fixed Thanksgiving to the second Monday of October".
[All of the above information taken from the Wikipedia article "Thanksgiving (Canada)"]
Not nearly as dramatic or romantic as the American story of pilgrims and First Nations and turkey and pumpkin. Or is it?
With the English and French explorers vying for Canada's vast and rich resources and the harshness of our land and climate, is it any wonder these early folks stopped to thank God, yes, GOD, for safety and provision? We have so much to be thankful for in our great country. It is not perfect. Our history has not been pure and just to all those who have called this nation "home". But it IS our home and we have such abundance and relative freedom and peace.
The official proclamation of our government is worded thus:
"A Day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed."[1]
As we are about to partake in church services, turkey dinners and CFL football games on television, I am moved to celebrate with a heart of praise for our Canadian history and precedent to take time to 'give thanks' to the Almighty God. And as we are on the eve of a federal election on October 19, I am all the more motivated to pray for God's will and His choice for the government who will rule over us. "God keep our land glorious and free..." ~ from our National Anthem, O Canada.
Day 7 - How do your traditions for Thanksgiving reflect your cultural/family history?
Wikipedia: the source of random facts or at least fairly accurate information!
I wanted to research the history of our Canadian Thanksgiving Day celebration and was surprised by what I found through Google and Wikipedia...
The first thanksgiving feast was initiated by Martin Frobisher, when he and his remaining ships and crew located a spot on Baffin Island (in Frobisher Bay!) to set up a settlement. He was on his third voyage to find that elusive Northwest passage for England but the weather and ice conditions proved too extreme and the establishment of a settlement did not proceed. The year of their thanksgiving celebration? 1578! But they all returned to England in the end.
Later on, in 1604 and following, the French settlers in Quebec held feasts of thanksgiving where they and their First Nations neighbours would share food together.
After Canadian Confederation in 1867, several occasions of thanksgiving were held, for various reasons. Following World War I, the celebrations of Armistice Day and Thanksgiving were set for the end of October and beginning of November, by proclamation each year.
Finally, by 1957, the Canadian Parliament "fixed Thanksgiving to the second Monday of October".
[All of the above information taken from the Wikipedia article "Thanksgiving (Canada)"]
Not nearly as dramatic or romantic as the American story of pilgrims and First Nations and turkey and pumpkin. Or is it?
With the English and French explorers vying for Canada's vast and rich resources and the harshness of our land and climate, is it any wonder these early folks stopped to thank God, yes, GOD, for safety and provision? We have so much to be thankful for in our great country. It is not perfect. Our history has not been pure and just to all those who have called this nation "home". But it IS our home and we have such abundance and relative freedom and peace.
The official proclamation of our government is worded thus:
"A Day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed."[1]
As we are about to partake in church services, turkey dinners and CFL football games on television, I am moved to celebrate with a heart of praise for our Canadian history and precedent to take time to 'give thanks' to the Almighty God. And as we are on the eve of a federal election on October 19, I am all the more motivated to pray for God's will and His choice for the government who will rule over us. "God keep our land glorious and free..." ~ from our National Anthem, O Canada.
Day 7 - How do your traditions for Thanksgiving reflect your cultural/family history?
TEN DAYS OF THANKSGIVING ~ Day 6
The Apostle Paul was an example of being thankful. Many of his letters to the churches begins with "We always thank God, the Father...when we pray for you..." (Colossians 1:2) and other similar greetings. Paul expressed his joy and gratefulness for their faith and their partnership in the gospel (Philippians 1:3-5).
On a personal level, Paul was also able to give thanks for his lot in life. As a Pharisee and a Roman citizen, he had been fairly well off financially. His social standing and economic status were very respectable. But when he encountered Christ on the Road to Damascus, his life and financial circumstance changed dramatically!
In Philippians 4:11 & 12, Paul shared his "attitude of gratitude" to the believers in Philippi.
"Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content....I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need." Paul's secret to his life on the road spreading the gospel was "to be content".
A couple verses later, Paul acknowledges the support of the Philippian church for his ministry. "Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble" (verse 14). He explains the relationship these believers have had with him in the past, "no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only" (verse 15b). He is careful not to emphasis the gifts, but the blessing on the giver by the Lord.
In the next month, Walter and I are visiting various churches who have partnered with us and our ministry of Healing Hearts. We will give reports of the ministry. We will share praise items and also some of the burdens and areas that we would appreciate prayer. And we will take the opportunity to "give thanks" for their financial support that enables us to serve in the ministry full time.
Are there any words that capture how we feel, as recipients of such generosity and kindness? I know for Walter especially as man and provider for our family, it is humbling to have others supply our monthly income, to know the sacrifice of so many who give to the work of the Lord. But it is about "partnership" and God ordains that many missions are established by faith and gifts of the "giver and the goer". His Kingdom works that way so no one but Himself can receive the glory!
God has shown us how to live in plenty and how to trust in seasons of need. Our children also have witnessed how in those times of want, we have prayed and God has provided, often miraculously! This life as faith missionaries has been rich for us and I wouldn't trade the experiences for anything.
For those who are reading this blog, who have been supporters of Walter and myself and our family over the years, THANK YOU! May God "supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (verse 19).
Day 6 - How has God taught you the "secret" to being content as a part of thankfulness?
The Apostle Paul was an example of being thankful. Many of his letters to the churches begins with "We always thank God, the Father...when we pray for you..." (Colossians 1:2) and other similar greetings. Paul expressed his joy and gratefulness for their faith and their partnership in the gospel (Philippians 1:3-5).
On a personal level, Paul was also able to give thanks for his lot in life. As a Pharisee and a Roman citizen, he had been fairly well off financially. His social standing and economic status were very respectable. But when he encountered Christ on the Road to Damascus, his life and financial circumstance changed dramatically!
In Philippians 4:11 & 12, Paul shared his "attitude of gratitude" to the believers in Philippi.
"Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content....I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need." Paul's secret to his life on the road spreading the gospel was "to be content".
A couple verses later, Paul acknowledges the support of the Philippian church for his ministry. "Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble" (verse 14). He explains the relationship these believers have had with him in the past, "no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only" (verse 15b). He is careful not to emphasis the gifts, but the blessing on the giver by the Lord.
In the next month, Walter and I are visiting various churches who have partnered with us and our ministry of Healing Hearts. We will give reports of the ministry. We will share praise items and also some of the burdens and areas that we would appreciate prayer. And we will take the opportunity to "give thanks" for their financial support that enables us to serve in the ministry full time.
Are there any words that capture how we feel, as recipients of such generosity and kindness? I know for Walter especially as man and provider for our family, it is humbling to have others supply our monthly income, to know the sacrifice of so many who give to the work of the Lord. But it is about "partnership" and God ordains that many missions are established by faith and gifts of the "giver and the goer". His Kingdom works that way so no one but Himself can receive the glory!
God has shown us how to live in plenty and how to trust in seasons of need. Our children also have witnessed how in those times of want, we have prayed and God has provided, often miraculously! This life as faith missionaries has been rich for us and I wouldn't trade the experiences for anything.
For those who are reading this blog, who have been supporters of Walter and myself and our family over the years, THANK YOU! May God "supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (verse 19).
Day 6 - How has God taught you the "secret" to being content as a part of thankfulness?
Thursday 8 October 2015
TEN DAY OF THANKSGIVING ~ Day 5
Recently I have been reading from the English Standard Version, a change from the NIV that I have used for study and devotion for the past 30 years. The new wording gives me a fresh perspective on familiar passages.
But one thing I noticed in both versions of the Bible is that Psalm 100 has the subtitle "A Psalm for Giving Thanks". The purpose of the psalmist was specifically to use for offering a tribute of thankfulness to the Lord. Just what I've been focused on these past days before our Canadian statutory holiday! So let's unpack Psalm 100...
"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!"
Coming before God in worship is to be a joyful experience! Be noisy! Be exuberant! The invitation is to "all the earth". The Lord is to be worshiped by all His creation.
"Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into His presence with singing!"
Coming before God in worship is an act of serving. I always thought of service as "work", doing something practical or profitable somehow. But we are serving, obeying, being purposeful in spending time in worship of the Most High.
What is our attitude to be? "..with gladness and singing!" It seems this psalmist was setting forth a spirit of excitement not a spirit of dread or solemn duty.
"Know that the Lord, He is God! It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture."
Coming before God in worship is all about relationship. He is God. No mistaking who our Father and Maker and Lord is! And we are in relationship by virtue of our adoption into His family through faith in the blood of Jesus Christ. We belong. His love and care extends to us as sheep in His safe pasture. We are worshiping Someone we know and are getting to know more and more.
"Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise!"
We lose the powerful image of the worshipers entering the Temple in Jerusalem as we cruise up to our churches in our vehicles and rush in. Those who came into the courts of God did enter literal gates on foot and as the crowds of people arrived, a growing buzz must have grown in anticipation. I'm sure they must have had their challenges and obstacles to worship; I don't want to idealize the Old Testament worship experience...but I want to stand where the psalmist stood to picture the people of God coming to offer God praise. They were able to take time to prepare and to greet one another and let the joy and gladness stir up among each other.
"Give thanks to Him; bless His name!"
Here is the climax of the psalm-the verse where the readers can "give thanks" to the Lord and offer their sacrifice of praise. We are not told to count our blessings or itemize the things God has done. This isn't just a mental exercise. We are exhorted to give Him thanks and bless His name. From our hearts in response to Him.
Just because...
"For the Lord is good; His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations."
Why give thanks then? Because He is good. His love is steadfast. He is faithful to all generations. He is awesome and wonderful and deserves our hearts' expressions of gratitude just because of who He is!
Day 5-What has this psalm for giving thanks taught you about thanksgiving?
Recently I have been reading from the English Standard Version, a change from the NIV that I have used for study and devotion for the past 30 years. The new wording gives me a fresh perspective on familiar passages.
But one thing I noticed in both versions of the Bible is that Psalm 100 has the subtitle "A Psalm for Giving Thanks". The purpose of the psalmist was specifically to use for offering a tribute of thankfulness to the Lord. Just what I've been focused on these past days before our Canadian statutory holiday! So let's unpack Psalm 100...
"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!"
Coming before God in worship is to be a joyful experience! Be noisy! Be exuberant! The invitation is to "all the earth". The Lord is to be worshiped by all His creation.
"Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into His presence with singing!"
Coming before God in worship is an act of serving. I always thought of service as "work", doing something practical or profitable somehow. But we are serving, obeying, being purposeful in spending time in worship of the Most High.
What is our attitude to be? "..with gladness and singing!" It seems this psalmist was setting forth a spirit of excitement not a spirit of dread or solemn duty.
"Know that the Lord, He is God! It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture."
Coming before God in worship is all about relationship. He is God. No mistaking who our Father and Maker and Lord is! And we are in relationship by virtue of our adoption into His family through faith in the blood of Jesus Christ. We belong. His love and care extends to us as sheep in His safe pasture. We are worshiping Someone we know and are getting to know more and more.
"Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise!"
We lose the powerful image of the worshipers entering the Temple in Jerusalem as we cruise up to our churches in our vehicles and rush in. Those who came into the courts of God did enter literal gates on foot and as the crowds of people arrived, a growing buzz must have grown in anticipation. I'm sure they must have had their challenges and obstacles to worship; I don't want to idealize the Old Testament worship experience...but I want to stand where the psalmist stood to picture the people of God coming to offer God praise. They were able to take time to prepare and to greet one another and let the joy and gladness stir up among each other.
"Give thanks to Him; bless His name!"
Here is the climax of the psalm-the verse where the readers can "give thanks" to the Lord and offer their sacrifice of praise. We are not told to count our blessings or itemize the things God has done. This isn't just a mental exercise. We are exhorted to give Him thanks and bless His name. From our hearts in response to Him.
"For the Lord is good; His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations."
Why give thanks then? Because He is good. His love is steadfast. He is faithful to all generations. He is awesome and wonderful and deserves our hearts' expressions of gratitude just because of who He is!
Day 5-What has this psalm for giving thanks taught you about thanksgiving?
Tuesday 6 October 2015
I opened the blinds of our bedroom window. Early morning sunlight streamed in and bathed our room in warmth and brilliance.
Isn't it easy to be thankful when the sun is shining and life is good?
Later on in my day, I strolled down the sidewalk of our street, through rustling leaves and pleasant fall breezes. As I put the key into our mailbox and opened the small door, I reached in to grab a handful of flyers and a couple letters for fundraisers. Kind of disappointing to receive junk mail. Then my eye caught the white envelope and actual handwritten address on the front. A personal letter? I quickened my pace back to the house so I could open the mail. After sorting through and disposing of the unwanted stuff, I sat down to savour real mail, carefully opening the seal and drawing out a nice card. Inside was a note of appreciation and encouragement for Walter and me. And out dropped a neatly folded cheque, "to take a holiday or pay a bill", just for us!
Isn't it easy to be thankful when the mail brings good news?
Tonight we have been invited out for supper by friends from out of town. I look forward to not cooking, but also to dressing up a bit and being on the receiving end of friendship and blessing. This is something special, a treat, and I plan on enjoying the night out.
Isn't it easy to be thankful when friends want to spend time with us?
Job 1:21b is a verse that is often quoted when life is hard and unfair. Job had been blessed of the Lord and had a family and prosperity. He worshiped God and made sacrifice for his family. And then when tragedy struck, he lost it all. We read this verse in the context of loss and grief and suffering. We learn to give thanks even when God takes away?
But today, I read the second half of verse 21 and can genuinely say that the Lord has given to me. I am blessed; I am provided for beyond my needs and wants. I will not take for granted the good gifts I have received this day.
"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord."
I will take time today - NOW - to say thank You to my Father God for the sunshine, the generous gift and the evening out with friends.
Day 4 ~ Can you count your blessings today?
Isn't it easy to be thankful when the sun is shining and life is good?
Later on in my day, I strolled down the sidewalk of our street, through rustling leaves and pleasant fall breezes. As I put the key into our mailbox and opened the small door, I reached in to grab a handful of flyers and a couple letters for fundraisers. Kind of disappointing to receive junk mail. Then my eye caught the white envelope and actual handwritten address on the front. A personal letter? I quickened my pace back to the house so I could open the mail. After sorting through and disposing of the unwanted stuff, I sat down to savour real mail, carefully opening the seal and drawing out a nice card. Inside was a note of appreciation and encouragement for Walter and me. And out dropped a neatly folded cheque, "to take a holiday or pay a bill", just for us!
Isn't it easy to be thankful when the mail brings good news?
Tonight we have been invited out for supper by friends from out of town. I look forward to not cooking, but also to dressing up a bit and being on the receiving end of friendship and blessing. This is something special, a treat, and I plan on enjoying the night out.
Isn't it easy to be thankful when friends want to spend time with us?
Job 1:21b is a verse that is often quoted when life is hard and unfair. Job had been blessed of the Lord and had a family and prosperity. He worshiped God and made sacrifice for his family. And then when tragedy struck, he lost it all. We read this verse in the context of loss and grief and suffering. We learn to give thanks even when God takes away?
But today, I read the second half of verse 21 and can genuinely say that the Lord has given to me. I am blessed; I am provided for beyond my needs and wants. I will not take for granted the good gifts I have received this day.
"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord."
I will take time today - NOW - to say thank You to my Father God for the sunshine, the generous gift and the evening out with friends.
Day 4 ~ Can you count your blessings today?
Monday 5 October 2015
TEN DAYS OF THANKSGIVING ~ Day 3
I don't want to be like the other nine.
There were ten men suffering from the horrific skin disease known in the Bible as leprosy.
According to Luke, the gospel writer who was a physician and would therefore be deeply interested in the accounts of Jesus' healing ministry, these ten men approached Jesus as He passed through a particular village. They kept their prescribed distance as they were "unclean", but they called out to Jesus. "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." (Luke 17:13)
When He saw them, He responded by telling the men to go show themselves to the priests. This was a normal practice and I am sure they had done this before. Without argument or hesitation, the lepers turned to go and "as they went they were cleansed" (verse 14b).
Here is the point of this true story: only one of the men came back to give thanks.
Isn't that tragic?
Jesus noticed.
His healing gift restored to each one of the ten men their social standing, their opportunity to earn a living, their return to their homes and families in addition to physical health. They were made clean and whole again. Jesus had given back to them their very lives.
And only one man "turned back, praised God with a loud voice and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving Him thanks..." (verse 15 & 16).
Out of sheer joy and relief and humility, the one leper came back to acknowledge the Healer.
"Where are the other nine?"
Jesus noticed the absence of the nine other healthy men and also noted that the one who gave thanks was a foreigner, a Samaritan. Hmmm... Assuming the other nine were Israelites, would they not be the first ones to thank God and recognize His Servant, Jesus?
****** ****** ******
Lord Jesus, THANK YOU for all You have done for me! I have been saved, called, adopted, healed, restored, blessed, favoured by Your gracious and loving kindness. I have so much more than I ever dreamed and have received more than I could never earn or deserve!
Forgive me for any ungratefulness, whether through my forgetfulness or my selfish focus. I want to be like the one former leper, who instantly and immediately knew he had been touched and blessed, and fell at Your feet in pure praise!
"O, You've done so much for me that I cannot tell it all,
I cannot tell it all, no I cannot tell it all!
O, You've done so much for me that I cannot tell it all;
You have taken all my sins away!
Praise God! Praise God! Praise God! Praise God!" ~ author unknown
Day 3 ~ What have we neglected to be grateful for, to God first and foremost? Is there anyone in our lives we need to express appreciation to who has done big or little kindnesses for us?
I don't want to be like the other nine.
There were ten men suffering from the horrific skin disease known in the Bible as leprosy.
According to Luke, the gospel writer who was a physician and would therefore be deeply interested in the accounts of Jesus' healing ministry, these ten men approached Jesus as He passed through a particular village. They kept their prescribed distance as they were "unclean", but they called out to Jesus. "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." (Luke 17:13)
When He saw them, He responded by telling the men to go show themselves to the priests. This was a normal practice and I am sure they had done this before. Without argument or hesitation, the lepers turned to go and "as they went they were cleansed" (verse 14b).
Here is the point of this true story: only one of the men came back to give thanks.
Isn't that tragic?
Jesus noticed.
His healing gift restored to each one of the ten men their social standing, their opportunity to earn a living, their return to their homes and families in addition to physical health. They were made clean and whole again. Jesus had given back to them their very lives.
And only one man "turned back, praised God with a loud voice and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving Him thanks..." (verse 15 & 16).
Out of sheer joy and relief and humility, the one leper came back to acknowledge the Healer.
"Where are the other nine?"
Jesus noticed the absence of the nine other healthy men and also noted that the one who gave thanks was a foreigner, a Samaritan. Hmmm... Assuming the other nine were Israelites, would they not be the first ones to thank God and recognize His Servant, Jesus?
****** ****** ******
Lord Jesus, THANK YOU for all You have done for me! I have been saved, called, adopted, healed, restored, blessed, favoured by Your gracious and loving kindness. I have so much more than I ever dreamed and have received more than I could never earn or deserve!
Forgive me for any ungratefulness, whether through my forgetfulness or my selfish focus. I want to be like the one former leper, who instantly and immediately knew he had been touched and blessed, and fell at Your feet in pure praise!
"O, You've done so much for me that I cannot tell it all,
I cannot tell it all, no I cannot tell it all!
O, You've done so much for me that I cannot tell it all;
You have taken all my sins away!
Praise God! Praise God! Praise God! Praise God!" ~ author unknown
Day 3 ~ What have we neglected to be grateful for, to God first and foremost? Is there anyone in our lives we need to express appreciation to who has done big or little kindnesses for us?
Sunday 4 October 2015
TEN DAYS OF THANKSGIVING~Day 2
Today Walter and I drove out to Jacob Bear Church, a little gathering of believers from the First Nations communities in the Qu'Appelle Valley east of Regina. The sky was gray. The drive took longer than we thought. I could feel some tension as we realized we would be a bit late and didn't want to be disrespectful to the folks there. As we turned off the Trans-Canada, we knew we wouldn't make up time on the narrow secondary road. A half-ton pulled out in front of us and kept a very moderate pace ahead of us, dodging potholes and puddles.
We then turned onto the grid road leading to the Jacob Bear church and slowed down even more as it became slick with the morning's rain. Then we turned carefully into the parking lot, all mud and a slight smattering of gravel. Several muddy vehicles lined up next to the little country church and we made our way into the building.
A steady guitar strum greeted us as we slid quietly into a wooden pew in the brightly lit sanctuary. About a dozen worshipers sat scattered in the rows, singing quietly to the old gospel chorus. A few nodded and smiled at us as we made our entrance.
The worship service was simple. With the regular pastor and his wife away to visit family and friends in the United States, various members of the small congregation took turns leading the music, making announcements and sharing a message. To many church-goers, the lack of formality would have been a distraction and a cause for criticism. Was this really "church"?
But to Walter and myself, after spending 26+ years in First Nations church-planting ministry, this was the most genuine and heartfelt worship service we could experience!
On this Lord's day, I am thankful for God's faithful followers continuing to meet in spite of rain, mud and no pastor.
I am thankful for the simplicity of praise, prayer, the Word of God and the testimony of Jesus working in lives.
I am thankful for God stirring in a tiny body of believers, who long for their family and others to know the peace and joy they know in Christ.
I am thankful for the warm fellowship we were shown and the prayers offered when I shared a prayer request.
"Give thanks in all circumstances..." I Thessalonians 5:18
What could have been a dreary day with pressure to be perfect and perform as the "missionaries", turned out to be a day full of joy and many reasons to be thankful!
Day 2~ What can you give thanks for in your circumstances today?
Saturday 3 October 2015
TEN DAYS OF THANKSGIVING ~ by Cindy M. Selke
I finished reading a devotional book called "31 Days of Praise" that has inspired me to write on a very related and inter-connected topic: Thanksgiving. As this coming week unfolds leading up to our Canadian Thanksgiving celebration, my inspiration will be poured into blogging what God helps me discover through His Word. I hope God brings you, dear Reader, along on this journey of discovery, as well.
***** ***** *****
Genesis 4:3 & 4 "In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering..."
Parents often teach their children the polite terms "please" and "thank you" in Vocabulary 101. Initially it is an instruction for proper social behaviour.
As we get older, one of our first responses to receiving something is to give back. An offering. An action to show gratitude for the thing given.
So whether from a natural heart attitude or a family's teaching, we learn to "give thanks" at a very early age. We learn to say it verbally, and later to give in return.
The first biblical account of thanksgiving is the story of Cain and Abel. Although tragic in its outcome for the brothers, this is what I see in the passage for us today.
Thanksgiving is about "giving". Without going into the theology behind why Cain's offering was rejected and Abel's was accepted by the Lord God, I see they both gave something. They gave out of what God had provided for them. Cain offered from his crops; Abel offered from his flocks.
In Psalm 136 the writer expresses thankfulness for twenty-six verses!
"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever."
Expressing thanks to the Lord is both an action and an attitude, as well. Knowing what I know about my Lord, He desires the heart of thanksgiving first and foremost, and longs for us to give back to Him and to others out of a heart of appreciation and generosity and love. Not out of duty or obligation, nor out of guilt or manipulation.
I knew someone who, as a teenager and brand new Christian, saw an advertisement for child sponsorship in a third world country. Moved by the need, he gave. It cost most of his allowance. Not consciously thinking the action through, it was purely a response to Jesus having touched his life and giving him so much. His gratitude took the form of a physical and emotional offering.
Day 1 ~ What am I "giving" this Thanksgiving? What can I offer to the Lord?
I finished reading a devotional book called "31 Days of Praise" that has inspired me to write on a very related and inter-connected topic: Thanksgiving. As this coming week unfolds leading up to our Canadian Thanksgiving celebration, my inspiration will be poured into blogging what God helps me discover through His Word. I hope God brings you, dear Reader, along on this journey of discovery, as well.
***** ***** *****
Genesis 4:3 & 4 "In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering..."
Parents often teach their children the polite terms "please" and "thank you" in Vocabulary 101. Initially it is an instruction for proper social behaviour.
As we get older, one of our first responses to receiving something is to give back. An offering. An action to show gratitude for the thing given.
So whether from a natural heart attitude or a family's teaching, we learn to "give thanks" at a very early age. We learn to say it verbally, and later to give in return.
The first biblical account of thanksgiving is the story of Cain and Abel. Although tragic in its outcome for the brothers, this is what I see in the passage for us today.
Thanksgiving is about "giving". Without going into the theology behind why Cain's offering was rejected and Abel's was accepted by the Lord God, I see they both gave something. They gave out of what God had provided for them. Cain offered from his crops; Abel offered from his flocks.
In Psalm 136 the writer expresses thankfulness for twenty-six verses!
"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever."
Expressing thanks to the Lord is both an action and an attitude, as well. Knowing what I know about my Lord, He desires the heart of thanksgiving first and foremost, and longs for us to give back to Him and to others out of a heart of appreciation and generosity and love. Not out of duty or obligation, nor out of guilt or manipulation.
I knew someone who, as a teenager and brand new Christian, saw an advertisement for child sponsorship in a third world country. Moved by the need, he gave. It cost most of his allowance. Not consciously thinking the action through, it was purely a response to Jesus having touched his life and giving him so much. His gratitude took the form of a physical and emotional offering.
Day 1 ~ What am I "giving" this Thanksgiving? What can I offer to the Lord?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)