Pastor Ryan's Jumbled Thoughts:

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, we are reminded that gratitude should be more than a once-a-year tradition. It should be part of our everyday lives. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, Paul encourages us to, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances.” There is so much to be thankful for: our faith, our families, our church family, and the community God has blessed us with. We are especially thankful for the people who encourage us, support us, and help us grow in our relationship with God.

Life is not always easy. We experience hardships, disappointments, sickness, and loss. But even in difficult times, we can be thankful, knowing that God has not abandoned us. He walks beside us, loves us, and reminds us that we are His children. Sometimes, we become so accustomed to our everyday blessings that we forget they are gifts. We take for granted our homes, electricity, clean water, and the many comforts of life. It often takes losing something, even temporarily, for us to appreciate just how much we truly have!

Paul also reminds us of the importance of encouraging one another, being patient, showing kindness, and building each other up. A thankful heart should be reflected in the way we treat others. As we enter this Thanksgiving season, let's remember to count our blessings, encourage someone who needs it, and make gratitude a daily habit. Thanksgiving isn't just a holiday on the calendar; it is an attitude we should carry with us every day. Let's not just celebrate Thanksgiving this year. Let's live Thanksgiving every day!

When I think about gratitude, I realize that I have a lot to be thankful for, not just at Thanksgiving, but every single week. Sometimes, I forget just how much my life has changed over the past 12 years. During that time, I entered full-time ministry, Emerson was born, I graduated from seminary, and I was ordained as an Elder. That is a lot of life-changing events packed into 12 years!

Not too long ago, someone asked me if I would go back to the life I lived before becoming a full-time pastor. I didn't even have to think before answering, "No." Sometimes, the unexpected changes in life are exactly what we need to reinvigorate us and help us see life from a different perspective. Looking back, I am thankful for the curveball’s life has thrown my way. I am thankful that God kept reaching out to me, even when I kept saying no. It is amazing how God can work in our lives, sometimes in ways we never expected or even imagined.

So, this Thanksgiving, I hope you will find something a little unorthodox to be thankful for. Maybe it is an unexpected change, a challenge you have overcome, a new direction in life, or even a curveball that turned out to be a blessing. Whatever it may be, remember that Thanksgiving is not just a one-day event; it is a way of life. Let us find ways to remain thankful, even when life throws us curveballs, trusting that God is walking with us through every season.

Have a blessed week,

Ryan