Expressions of Gratitude

“Your sermons have meant so much to my husband since he lost his mind.” Those words were shared with a former Seminary student of mine from one of his church members. In my laughter, I remembered a statement shared with me in the early days of my ministry. Following the morning worship service, I was told, “Every sermon you preach is better than the next one.” Think about it. Not good. What do you say to one who ministers to you? One critic said to their pastor, “Next time you have a weak sermon, yell louder.” Thanksgiving is coming soon. How will you express your feelings for your minister? Hopefully with none of the above. I assure you, the words you choose will mean less than the attitude with which you share them. God-called ministers deserve expressions of gratitude every day, but Thanksgiving affords you an opportunity to say something special to them. Think about it. Surely the encouragement to “be thankful” in Colossians 3:15 includes being thankful for those who minister to you. How will you express your gratitude this year?

Join with me in remembering the following global prayer requests:
• Pray for those affected by the August flooding in Pakistan. More folks have been affected than the 2004 tsunami and the Haiti and Pakistan earthquakes combined.
• Join with workers in Berlin who are praying for a believer who attends the immigrant fellowship.
• Pray for Eric and Tricia as their city in Thailand is under 5 to 10 feet of water due to recent flooding.
• Pray for follow-up to Passion Vancouver, held last week-end.